When people first think of a sport, what usually first comes to mind are physical contact sports like football, soccer or basketball. Although what most people don’t recognize as a sport is the world of cheerleading.

Over the past couple of decades, every coming-of-age movie with cheerleaders has depicted and portrayed them as “bullies” who take part in activities that are not recognized as a sport.

In today’s world, that stereotype is less prevalent, and SHS cheerleaders believe the nature behind this sport has allowed them to preserve the blessings cheerleading has brought to them long term.

“It was the one place I always felt like I could be myself,” assistant cheer coach Amber Tudor said.

The Council of Europe’s European Sports Charter refers to a sport as “all forms of physical activity which, through casual or organized participation, aim at expressing or improving physical fitness and mental well-being, forming social relationships or obtaining results in competition at all levels.”

With that being said, SHS cheerleaders spend up to six hours per week on the mat practicing stunts that, at times, cause major injuries as serious as contact sports.

During this football season, junior Norah Seawood was out for three weeks due to a finger injury from attempting a stunt called a full up extension. 

Her finger was cut open to be examined and then stitched back up to heal. 

Just like any other athlete, this showcases the same probable injuries cheerleaders may also face within their sport.

Cheerleaders perform to their highest abilities, even if that’s cheering on the sidelines. Their capabilities are equal if not greater than those on the field, court or mat. 

“We could do just the same amount of work anybody else does,” junior Meadow Warfield said.

After spending two seasons with the same people, the bonds between cheerleaders grow and strengthen as they spend more time together.

It allows for a greater opportunity to know more people on a deeper level while creating new friendships within the team.

Not only is cheerleading a sport, but it’s a hidden blessing. It brings athletes together and shows their dedication to their sport. They represent pride whether it’s through  throwing a ball or holding a pom. 

“It’s more of a sisterhood rather than a sport,” Seawood said.