why cheer is a sport

Cheerleading as a recognized sport

Cheerleading is a physically demanding activity that requires strength, flexibility, and coordination. Despite this, it has long been underestimated as a sport. However, in recent years, cheerleading has started to gain recognition as a sport in its own right.

• Cheerleading is now recognized as a sport by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
• In 2011, the Women’s Sports Foundation declared cheerleading as a sport due to its athleticism, competition aspect, and potential for injury.
• Many states have also recognized cheerleading as a sport, with some high schools and colleges offering cheerleading scholarships.

Moreover, cheerleading competitions have become increasingly popular and are now even televised. These competitions showcase the athleticism, teamwork, and dedication required in cheerleading, further solidifying its status as a sport. In fact, the cheerleading competition at the National High School Cheerleading and Dance Team Championships has been deemed the Super Bowl of cheerleading.

In addition to recognition as a sport, the safety of cheerleading has also been a topic of discussion. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that cheerleading be designated as a sport, as this would require schools to provide qualified coaches, appropriate training facilities, and emergency plans for injuries.

In conclusion, cheerleading has finally received the recognition it deserves as a sport. Its physical demands and competitive aspect make it well-suited for the sporting world, and its growing popularity is a testament to its legitimacy as a sport. As cheerleading continues to evolve and grow, it will undoubtedly become an even more respected and recognizable sport.