Cheerleading remains a popular sport in America, as athletes of all ages cheer on their local teams and compete in cheerleading competitions. The advances in the sport have led to the formation of a regulating body called the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators, which keeps these athletes safe while performing risky maneuvers. You can join a cheerleading squad at nearly any age, as they exist in many forms.
Beginnings
Although organized cheering had occurred in previous years, Tom Peebles became the first recognized cheerleader during an 1898 game at the University of Minnesota. That same year, five other men joined Peebles to form the first cheerleading squad in America. Although we now consider female cheerleaders the norm, they did not join the cheerleading ranks until the early 1920s.
Restrictions
Because of the inherent danger involved with cheerleading, athletes must follow a set of regulations during practices and events. These regulations include the presence of a qualified coach, who must train everyone involved in a stunt before a squad can attempt it. You must use spotters on all high-flying moves, as this prevents the damage done by a fall. The regulations also call for you to maintain contact with other cheerleaders, called bases, during many maneuvers. Bases can prevent a serious fall by providing additional support to the cheerleaders who ascend to dangerous heights during a routine. Restrictions on many high-flying moves also exist at indoor venues like basketball courts and for those younger than high school age.
Dangers
Cheerleaders have suffered serious injuries at every level of cheerleading. At the high school level, 45 cheerleaders suffered serious injuries between 1982 and 2005. Two died from their injuries and an additional 14 ended up with permanent disabilities. During those same years, 13 university students suffered serious injuries from cheerleading, with one dying and seven ending up disabled.
Types of Squads
You will find cheerleading at all levels, as many schools begin in elementary school. Once you reach high school, you might see your squad compete in competitions and cheer on the school's sports teams. Universities also have cheerleading squads, giving students a chance to get involved in an extracurricular activity. Some areas have their own all-star teams, where the top cheerleaders from a region compete against those from other regions. Even many club and professional sports teams have cheerleading squads, so countless opportunities exist for cheerleaders of all ages.
References
- "The Complete Guide to Cheerleading"; Christine Farina, et al.; 2011
- American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators: 2011-12 AACCA School Cheer Safety Rules
- "Cheerleading and the Law: Risk Management Strategies"; Herb Appenzeller; 2008
- "The Ultimate Guide to Cheerleading: For Cheerleaders and Coaches"; Leslie Wilson; 2003
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