http://active.typepad.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2007/04/04/cheerlead.jpgAll right, I know the debate of whether or not cheerleading is a sport has plenty of people who support both views. I???ve seen cheerleaders participate and compete all the way up through the collegiate level and I think the twists and flips they perform while flying through the air can demand many of the same skills that are used in gymnastics.
The American Heritage Dictionary defines sport as, ???Physical activity that is governed by a set of rules or customs and often engaged in competitively.??? I realize cheerleading isn???t as fast-paced as basketball or hard-hitting as football, but I do contend that it falls within the definition of what constitutes a sport.
If more states recognized cheerleading as a high school sport, perhaps they would receive more funding, better-trained coaches, and the resources squads need to become more competitive.
Do you think cheerleading is a sport?
(Photo provided by Getty Images/David Stluka)