Cheerleading History

February 2 marks the day the modern cheer pom-pom was patented, formalizing a design that remains standard on sidelines and spirit teams today.

Launched in January 1995, American Cheerleader became the first magazine devoted exclusively to cheerleading. Its history, competition, and eventual closure reflect broader shifts in media, economics, and the sport itself.

Learn how cheerleading evolved from a single chant in 1898 to an IOC-recognized sport, driven by generations of athletes, creativity, and athletic excellence.

On November 2, we celebrate 127 years of cheerleading—from Johnny Campbell's first organized cheer to today's global competitions. Here's how it all began.

Updated Uniforms That Fit the Moment—Not Just the Body Cheerleading is a sport built on skill, not appearance. But for years, narrow visual standards have influenced how athletes—especially girls—view their bodies. That mindset is starting to shift. In 2025, USA...

From no body doubles to behind-the-scenes truths, Tony Gonzalez reflects on Bring It On’s legacy 25 years later. No doubles. No shortcuts. Just real cheer.Tony Gonzalez helped raise the bar on cheerleading in film—not with the original Bring It On,...

Twenty-five years ago, a modest high school cheer movie hit theaters and unexpectedly changed the way we see the sport. What began as Jessica Bendinger’s offbeat script about rival squads became a cultural phenomenon—sparking conversations about representation and appropriation while...

The Spirit Stick, one of cheerleading’s most cherished and iconic traditions, originated from the visionary mind of cheerleading pioneer Lawrence "Herkie" Herkimer. Herkimer, often regarded as the father of modern cheerleading, profoundly influenced the sport, introducing numerous innovations, including the...

In 2016, ESPN Wide World of Sports and Varsity Spirit announced plans for the first venue in the world designed exclusively for cheerleading and dance competitions, marking a major moment for the sport.