November 2, 2026 — As cheerleading celebrates its 128th birthday, two more states are officially recognizing the occasion.
North Dakota and Wisconsin have proclaimed November 2, 2026, as Cheerleading Day, following an advocacy effort by the Midwest Cheer Association (MCA). The declarations come one year after Minnesota issued a similar proclamation in 2025, marking a growing movement to recognize cheerleading and its impact on athletes, schools and communities.
The three proclamations connect an important date in cheerleading history with the sport's continued growth across the Midwest.
Two More States Recognize Cheerleading Day
North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers issued separate proclamations recognizing November 2 as Cheerleading Day in their respective states.
The official declarations recognize cheerleading and the athletes, coaches and communities who contribute to the sport's growth.
The North Dakota proclamation and Wisconsin proclamation are available through their respective governors' offices.
The Midwest Cheer Association, which coordinated the recognition efforts, sees the proclamations as an opportunity to build greater awareness and support for cheerleading throughout the region.
“The Midwest Cheer Association (MCA) is proud to advocate for the sport of cheerleading and the athletes, coaches and communities who make it so special. Last year, we initiated the effort to have November 2 recognized as Cheerleading Day in Minnesota, and this year we’re excited to see North Dakota and Wisconsin join in. We’re grateful to the governors and their offices for supporting this effort and helping bring greater recognition to the sport.”
— Krista Wigen, MCA Vice President, and Ashton Johnson, MCA Director
A Celebration That Started in Minnesota
The November 2 date carries particular significance in Minnesota, where cheerleading traces one of its most celebrated historical milestones.
On November 2, 1898, University of Minnesota student Johnny Campbell led an organized cheer during a football game against Northwestern University. The moment became widely recognized as the birth of modern organized cheerleading.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz officially proclaimed November 2, 2025, as Cheerleading Day, recognizing the state's place in the sport's history.
