Posted by Jim Lord on February 04, 1999 at 00:49:55:
In Reply to: Stunting posted by Lindsey Folger on February 03, 1999 at 22:14:11:
: Posted on January 02, 1999 at 20:02:20:
: Our school cheerleading squads have been "grounded" so that we are no longer able to do stunts. I am wondering what you would suggest so that I could get my school to allow stunting again. Is there some good points that we could run by the School Board so we could change their minds?
: A couple years back, a girl fell and broke her ankle and since then, stunting has been banned from our school. Our cheerleaders get mocked by our peers because we are "not a sport" and people don't consider cheerleading a sport unless you do stunting. We would like to gain that respect from our community and show them we are, indeed, a sport. We are most likely giving a presentation to the school board and I am looking for some advice to help us bring back stunting. Thanks!
: Lindsey Folger ( linz_3@hotmail.com)
Posted on January 03, 1999 at 10:48:35:
First, understand the position that the administration is in. It is easier for them to not deal with cheerleading. Unfortunately, the only time most administrators hear about cheerleading is when there is a problem. Their experience with cheerleading is probably from the days of "blondes with poms" (no offense blondes - I was one).
Second, realize that they want some kind of assurance they can give to the people they answer to - the community. If you have your coach trained in several of the available training courses at camp or at conventions, they have something to support increasing the risk. From a liability standpoint, AACCA certification can help demonstrate a legally recognized standard of care has been met. I will be glad to assist your coach, principal or school board members with any questions about this.
Third, start with a compromise. See if they will allow a certain level, like shoulder height, for a trial period. After demonstrting safety, they can allow you to build to nationally recognized safe heights - which do have limitations! Many School Boards are not familiar with guidelines for cheerleading, and may think that the cheerleaders can do anything they want.
Fourth, insurance coverage may be the problem. If it is, see if the restrictions from the providing group can be lifted if certain requirements (i.e., certification) can be met. Some states now recognize cheerleaders as student athletes and therefore cover them under catastrophic insurance coverage.
Last, ask (tactfully) what difference is there in an injury to a cheerleading athlete and a volleyball or football athlete? You and your parents recognize the risk, just like other athletics, and you choose to participate in cheerleading.
I'm working on this for an upcoming CHEERonline
article.
You can find CHEERonline in the dTe Directory of Spirit Shopping & Services in the Books & Magazines category. You can find out more about AACCA certification in the dTe Directory of Spirit Shopping & Services in the Organizations category.
Jim Lord
jimlord@uca.com