Myth Busted: People Hate Cheerleaders

Is this the worst cheer myth? It might just be. Perhaps from a combination of a lot of other myths we’ve discussed, there is the stereotype that people dislike cheerleaders. While we can’t promise that everyone loves cheerleaders, we do know that a lot of people don’t hate cheerleaders. First of all, we’ve busted the other myths that may lead people to hating cheerleaders. We’ve discussed how not all cheerleaders are snobs, popular, or discriminatory. Cheerleaders, like anyone else, all have unique personalities. Since we’ve shown that those other myths aren’t true, then there isn’t a logical reason for disliking cheerleaders. Second of all, and perhaps most importantly, is the fact that most cheerleading squads are involved in their community in some shape or form. Whether it’s for fundraising or charity, cheerleaders participate in a lot of local events, garnering appreciation from the community! Cheerleaders raise the spirits of a lot of people, so why would they be hated? It just doesn’t make sense. While a high school cheerleader broke a Guinness world record, a large crowd in the football stands cheered her on. Volunteers work with cheerleading programs to help special needs girls and boys participate in cheerleading. NFL cheerleaders hold clinics to inspire young girls, and cheerleaders promote anti-bullying campaigns and fight other social issues. Sarah Cronk founded the organization The Sparkle Effect, which helps special needs students get involved with cheerleading. The organization has received so much positive attention that Sarah was awarded a World of Children Award, which is considered to be the equivalent of a Nobel Prize for child advocates. Science Cheerleader, a group made up of current and former NFL and NBA cheerleaders with jobs in the science community, has for years attended science fairs and other community events. Many people recognize this group for making positive strides in showing the intelligent side of cheer. For these reasons and more, cheerleaders are admired for their inspirational attitudes and actions. As more cheer squads find ways to inspire and help others, they will continue to grow in receiving recognition. We hope that, as newspapers and blogs (like us!) publicize theses great actions, more people will see how wonderful cheerleaders are. What do you think is the worst cheerleading myth or stereotype? What are other ways to prove this myth wrong?