“Not Just Pom-Poms and Skirts…, We’re Actual Athletes” – California’s High School Cheerleaders Are Fighting to Bring Stunting to Their Team

How many times have you marveled at a team of cheerleading girls performing in high-profile matches? Well, if you look closely, you will get the fact that cheerleading is always a secondary sport. Cheerleaders are usually seen supporting their team in a variety of different games. However, that secondary tag is about to change as people are standing up for their game. And they are correct! 

Recent news has come to light about a cheerleader and her family questioning in favor of the game. This story of today will surely serve as an eye-opener and will give us a lot of resources to re-evaluate the perspective through which we see Cheerleading. 

From pom-poms to power moves

According to ksby.com, saddening news has dampened the morale of the entire cheerleading team of Mission College Preparatory Catholic High School. The institution is located near San Luis Obispo. The institution circulated a notice to the entire team on September 5, 2023, that stunting was no longer permitted. This was something that no one expected to happen. 

Immediately after this announcement, a senior member, Chloe Stuckey did not seem too pleased. She voiced out her opinion and made a clear statement, “We’re not just, like, pom-poms and skirts and a big smile. Like, there’s more to that. Like, we’re actual athletes.” She also stated that the move was in the best interest of the game as young girls should not be deprived of learning stunts. Chloe further said that after allowing the team to practice stunting for almost two years, the institute cannot simply shut the practice off. 

Chloe elaborated that each of the stunts performed by the team was well rehearsed. Everything was pre-planned and minute safety precautions were also followed diligently. Echoing the sentiments of his daughter, Chloe’s father, Neal Stuckey, also questioned in favor of stunting. He initially uploaded a backflip video of Chloe on social media. 

Mission prep athletes fight for stunting opportunities

The incident has escalated to an extent where Neal has forwarded a letter to the Diocese of Monterey, highlighting the issue. The letter explains the concerns in detail, even briefing the diocese about the basics of stunting. 

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The letter, which contains the seal of approval from 24 parents, also showcases stats from the USA Cheer and Consumer Products Safety Commission. The reports published by them state that in terms of the riskiness of the game, cheerleading stunt stands fifth. 

Thus, it now remains to be seen whether the letter will make the Diocese alter its decision or not. But one thing that we now know is certain, cheerleading is no more a secondary game. 

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