Countless people participate in cheerleading in the United States, as the activity remains visible at many sporting events around the country. Since the late 1800s, cheerleading has evolved considerably to include acrobatics in addition cheers. With this evolution, however, has come significant danger, which governing bodies wish to limit.
Origins
The first recognized cheerleading occurred in 1884 at Princeton University, as the crowd made up a cheer in support of the team. The University of Minnesota lays claim to the first actual cheerleader, as Tom Peebles led the fans in a cheer in 1898. Five others later joined him, which started the tradition of cheerleading at the University of Minnesota and throughout the United States. Women did not participate in cheerleading until 1923, but their inclusion made it possible to include high-flying moves in the routines.
Today's Cheerleaders
Many college and professional teams in the United States have their own cheerleading squads. Every NFL team has a cheerleading or dance squad, as do most NBA teams. Most NCAA football and basketball teams also have squads made up of both men and women. You will notice these squads during most television broadcasts.
AACCA Regulations
Modern cheerleading has inherent danger due to the inclusion of jumps and throws. The American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators has attempted to lessen this danger by making its members follow some strict regulations during practices and events. All teams should have a qualified coach and that coach must limit the team's activities to maneuvers within its skill level. When completing inversions, the person on top must begin from a cradle or prone position below the shoulder level of the person holding her. Her hands also must support her weight while in this position and two bases must protect her head and neck throughout the process. During moves in which one cheerleader falls away from the base, she requires at least three spotters to catch her as she finishes the move. During a pyramid move, the person on top must move continually and cannot use the bracer to support her body weight if she stops.
Injuries and Deaths
Before you compete in cheerleading, you must gain awareness of the risks involved. During high school events between 1982 and 2006, 45 athletes suffered serious injuries, including two students who died. Paralysis and other permanent disabilities occurred in 14 cases. At the university level, one student died, with 13 suffering serious injuries and seven ending up disabled.
References
- "The Complete Guide to Cheerleading"; Christine Farina, et al.; 2011
- "101 Cheerleading Facts, Tips, and Drills"; Tinker Murray, et al.; 2007
- American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators: 2011-12 AACCA School Cheer Safety Rules
- "Cheerleading and the Law: Risk Management Strategies"; Herb Appenzeller; 2008
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