When you watch American football, you probably notice the energetic cheerleaders on the sidelines. This classic combo has been exciting fans for generations.
How it all started
Believe it or not, cheerleading began with men, not women! The first official cheerleaders appeared at a University of Minnesota football game in 1898. Women started joining cheerleading squads during World War II when many men were serving in the military.
Professional cheerleading teams really took off in the 1950s and 60s. The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, created in 1972, changed the game completely. Their flashy uniforms, impressive dance routines, and TV appearances made cheerleading famous worldwide.
What cheerleaders do today
Cheerleaders do much more than entertain during halftime. They:
- Get the crowd excited during important game moments
- Keep fans happy and engaged during breaks
- Create a fun atmosphere with their energy
- Perform amazing dance routines and acrobatics
- Lead chants that support the team
Off the field, cheerleaders often work as team representatives. They visit hospitals, attend charity events, and help with community programs. Many balance cheerleading with studies or careers in fields like dance, teaching, or business.
Changing with the times
Cheerleading hasn’t been without challenges. People have questioned how cheerleaders are portrayed and treated, including concerns about appearance rules and low pay.
In response, many teams have made positive changes. NFL and college teams have improved their policies by offering better wages, creating mixed-gender squads, and designing more practical uniforms. Today’s cheerleaders are respected more for their athletic skills and professionalism.
Cheerleading going global
Cheerleading started in America but has spread worldwide. Countries like Japan, Australia, and Germany now have growing cheerleading communities. International competitions show how cheerleading has become a serious sport in its own right.
In 2016, the International Olympic Committee officially recognized cheerleading. Though it’s not yet an Olympic sport, it continues to gain respect globally.
Fun Facts About Cheerleading
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A U.S. President was a cheerleader: Before leading the country, both George W. Bush and Dwight D. Eisenhower were cheerleaders during their school years.
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Cheerleading is physically demanding: According to studies, cheerleading is one of the most physically intense sports, requiring strength, flexibility, endurance, and coordination — especially at competitive levels.
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There are professional cheerleading competitions: Beyond the sidelines, many cheerleading teams compete nationally and even internationally, with highly technical routines full of stunts, tumbling, and dance.
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It’s recognized as a sport: In several countries, including the United States, cheerleading is officially recognized as a sport. In fact, in 2021, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) granted cheerleading provisional Olympic recognition!
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Pop culture helped it grow: Movies like Bring It On (2000) made competitive cheerleading a pop culture phenomenon and helped spread its popularity worldwide.
More than just sideline support
Football and cheerleaders share a rich history that keeps evolving. Cheerleaders bring excitement and spirit to games while serving as important team ambassadors.
