Rumor and USA Today has it that Cheerleading is making a run for the Olympics.
Of course I am ecstatic. It is time these incredible athletes get recognized for the work that they do. The world, of course, is worried about injuries. While we definitely want to minimize the risk of injury, the current literature shows the risk is lower than all other sports combined.....As Varsity Founder, Jeff Webb reported...
"A study released in the January edition of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ journal, Pediatrics. Using the last five years of data compiled by the National High School Sports-Related Injury Surveillance Study, the researchers say cheerleading ranks 18th out of 22 sports. The study also says the concussion rates “were significantly lower in cheerleading (2.2 per 10,000 athletic exposures) than all other sports combined (3.8) and all other girls’ sports (2.7).”
My own research showed that most common cheer injury is an ankle sprain. We can definitely reduce these injuries, and help athletes to recover and be back on the cheer floor quickly.
The sport of cheerleading has come a long way since it's start. This NY Times article highlights some of our history. I still think we have a long way to go until we are recognized for the athletes we are. This possibility is an incredible start.
I am absolutely ready to help keep our athletes on the mat. More so, I will be cheering for all of you who have a chance to make history. #LetsGo
