By Michael R. Grigsby, Editor | Somerset-Pulaski Advocate
How a hometown world champion balances the spotlight, builds a local business, and prepares for the ultimate next chapter in Louisville.
Clarie Thompson, (C) 2026 All Rights Reserved.
Somerset, Kentucky (SPA)—On any given afternoon, you might spot her at Baxter’s Coffee, grabbing a mocha before heading down to Lake Cumberland to unwind. But don't let the quiet moments fool you—this hometown athlete is a fierce competitor with a World Championship under her belt, a rising digital influencer, and a young entrepreneur, Clarie Thomspon. As she prepares to trade the purple and gold of Somerset High for the red and black of the University of Louisville, we sat down to talk about teamwork, navigating the spotlight, and the village that raised a leader.
The Heart of Teamwork
Being a Briar Jumper taught me that success comes from trusting the people around you just as much as trusting yourself. As a backspot, I learned that everyone plays an important role, and if one person gives up, it affects the whole team. Cheerleading taught me resilience, discipline, and how to push through challenges together. Some of my closest friendships were built through overcoming obstacles as a team, and those lessons will stay with me for life.
Representing Somerset
Wearing purple and gold meant representing something much bigger than myself. Whether we were cheering on Friday nights, competing, or volunteering in the community, I knew younger students were watching. That responsibility taught me to lead by example, stay positive, and always represent Somerset with pride. It helped me become more confident and prepared me to be someone others could look up to.
A Favorite Memory
Without a doubt, my favorite memory is winning Worlds with my teammates. During our routine, I remember getting emotional because I could feel that we had given everything we had. In that moment, I truly believed we had done enough to win, and realizing we actually had was unforgettable. Sharing that accomplishment with the people who became my family is something I'll treasure forever.
The Voice of a Local Influencer
Authentic Influence
I've always wanted my platform to reflect who I truly am. I enjoy posting content that people can relate to rather than content that makes others feel like they have to compare themselves. Whether it's cheerleading, pageants, my business, or everyday life, I hope people see someone who is genuine, encouraging, and reminds them that it's okay to be yourself while chasing big goals.
Navigating the Spotlight
Balancing school, cheer, social media, and personal life isn't always easy, but I've learned the importance of staying true to myself. My faith, family, and closest friends help keep me grounded, and I remind myself that social media only shows part of someone's life. I've also learned that it's okay to keep some moments private and simply enjoy them without sharing everything online.
Spreading Positivity
If someone comes across my page on a hard day, I hope they leave feeling encouraged and reminded that they don't have to have everything figured out. I want people to know that it's okay to have setbacks, but they shouldn't stop believing in themselves. If my content can make someone smile or give them a little confidence, then I've done exactly what I hoped to do.
Quick Facts
Go-to pre-game song: Party Rock Anthem by LMFAO.
Describe your excitement for Louisville in exactly three words:
Grateful. Excited. Ready.
One comfort item you're definitely packing:
Printed photos of my family, friends, teammates, and favorite memories to remind me of home while I make new memories in Louisville.
Are you ready to trade your Briar Jumper spirit for Cardinal power?
Absolutely! I'll always be proud to call myself a Briar Jumper because Somerset has shaped who I am today. But I'm so excited to become a Cardinal and begin this next chapter. I'll always carry my hometown pride while embracing every opportunity Louisville has to offer.
Hometown Roots & Community Foundation
The Village Behind the Leader
I wouldn't be where I am today without my parents, family, coaches, teachers, teammates, and mentors. They've supported me through every challenge and celebrated every accomplishment. They've taught me the importance of hard work, humility, kindness, and believing in myself even when things get difficult. I'm incredibly grateful for each person who has helped shape me into who I am today.
Local Favorites
When I have a day off, one of my favorite things to do is grab a matcha from Baxter's Coffee and head down to Lake Cumberland. It's the perfect way to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and spend quiet time.
A Legacy of Impact
When I leave Somerset High, I hope people remember me as the teammate who made the room brighter whenever I was around. I want to be remembered for encouraging others, making everyone feel included, and bringing positive energy wherever I went. More than anything, I hope people remember that I was more than just a cheerleader—I was an athlete, a role model, a friend, and someone who genuinely cared about the people around me. If I helped make someone's day a little better, inspired a younger athlete to believe in themselves, or showed others the importance of kindness and hard work, then that's the legacy I'd be most proud of.
The Next Chapter: Trading the Briar Jumper for the Cardinal
Why Louisville?
Choosing the University of Louisville felt like the easiest decision after watching them practice. I saw the way these athletes carry themselves in the room, the level of discipline they bring every day, and even the best humor and energy they share as a team. In that moment, I just knew this was going to feel like home to me. The coaching staff believed in me, the team welcomed me, and I knew it was a place where I could continue growing both as an athlete and as a person. It immediately felt right, and I knew it was exactly where I wanted to begin my next chapter.
Expanding the Brand
I'm excited to take everything I've learned in Somerset and apply it to life at Louisville. I hope to continue growing as a cheerleader while expanding my business, creating relatable and positive content, meeting new people, and getting involved across campus. I want to build meaningful friendships, take advantage of new opportunities, and continue using my platform to encourage others.
Future Ambitions
My biggest goal is to earn my degree while continuing my cheerleading journey. Throughout college, I hope to grow through new friendships, academic experiences, and opportunities that prepare me for my future career. I also want to continue growing my business and using my platform to inspire others, show that hard work pays off, and make a positive impact wherever life takes me.
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(C) 2026 Somerset-Pulaski Advocate. All Rights Reserved
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