We spoke to Leicester Panthers about cheerleading becoming a recognised sport

The news has confirmed what cheerleaders have known for years


Whenever I tell someone I do cheerleading they always look a bit confused and ask if it’s even a sport. Obviously lifting the bodyweight of another person above your head is pretty difficult and skilled, but it’s taken until now for me to finally be able answer this question.

This week the International Olympic Committee has finally endorsed cheerleading, which means the International Cheer Union will receive funding for cheer around the world. The news has only confirmed what cheerleaders have known for years.

How was this ever made out to be easy?

The image of scantily dressed females chanting on the sidelines in American films has become the stereotype for cheerleaders everywhere, even though neither pom-poms or chants are a big part of competitive cheerleading.  We train intensely six hours a week along with competitions and extra practice. Competitive cheer encompasses stunts, tumbling, jumps, and dancing. It is not only physically demanding but athletes have to possess the stamina to perform with smiles for a solid two and a half minute routine.

Competitors are also marked on transitions between positions, timings and music used. The risk and danger involved also warrants its inclusion as a sport. Throwing and catching people whilst also performing complex floor routines not only requires skill, but also dedicated athleticism.

Now, with official recognition, cheerleading can continue to progress in schools and universities as it becomes more popular for women and men, especially across the UK.

Leicester Panthers Captain Lydia Palmer said: “I think the news is fantastic and much needed after many years of hard work by the ICU. I am really excited for cheerleading to finally be recognised by the world for what it is, a difficult, skilful and demanding sport.”

Leicester Panthers coach Georgia Meakes said she thought it was “Great but long overdue,” saying that “It’s good that people will finally be able to understand how dangerous and strenuous the sport is.”

Although we will not see cheerleading in the 2020 Olympics, what is certain is cheer is now acknowledged as a sport and its recognition to those outside the cheerleading world has made this recent news a double victory for cheerleaders globally.

So, next time someone tells you they’re a cheerleader, remember the skill and athleticism that goes into the sport and give it the respect it deserves.