Myth Busted: No Boys Allowed in Cheerleading

We’ve always found the myth that cheerleading is a “girl’s activity” very strange, considering that cheerleading was started by a man. We also know how much Lawrence Herkimer did for cheerleading, from starting cheer camps to developing many stunts, including, of course, the herkies. Cheerleading began in the 1890s but women really didn’t start participating until the 1920s – 30 years later. Also interesting to note is that, while more females and fewer males are seen in cheerleading uniforms in middle and high school, many college squads and All Star squads include a number of males. Holden Ray is an excellent example of a top male All Star cheerleader. He’s won numerous awards and medals and is considered a role model by many cheerleaders, both male and female! Just watch a YouTube video of him performing and you’ll see that males are also incredible cheerleaders. Holden is just one example of how male cheerleaders can add variety and make different stunts possible for cheer teams. Men have the strength and power to perform extreme tumbling passes and work well as bases and spotters for female flyers. Beyond Holden Ray, think of all the presidents, actors, and other famous males we’ve previously listed who were cheerleaders in their youth? There are a number of well-known males who have cheered on the sidelines in high school or college. A lot of people may be thinking, “Who cares if people don’t realize guys also cheer?” The problem is that many male cheerleaders, especially at the middle and high school levels, are bullied or teased for participating in a “girl’s sport.” Just earlier this year, a 13-year-old boy committed suicide after being bullied for being a cheerleader. He was constantly told, “If you’re a cheerleader, then you must be gay.” This stems from the ignorant belief that cheerleading is just for females and that a straight male wouldn’t be interested in participating. This myth is important to bust. If you hear someone say that cheerleading is only for girls, prove them wrong! Show them videos of male cheerleaders in action. If a male cheerleader is being bullied, stand up for him! In general, this has been a big year for fighting bullying and that goes for cheerleaders, too. Does your squad include any male cheerleaders? What are some of the amazing talents male cheerleaders bring to a team?