My partner returned home buzzing with excitement, eager to introduce me to a docuseries he had discovered that he was certain I would enjoy. Initially, I was doubtful of his recommendation, but upon seeing the title, I thought perhaps he truly understood my interests.
Featuring some of the top cheerleaders across the United States and led by a coach who commands attention, Netflix’s docuseries Cheer is bound to leave viewers exhilarated.
Reflecting on my own experiences as a competitive cheerleader during my teenage years, I remember the grueling practices that often spanned seven days a week, sometimes involving multiple sessions in one day. Despite my dedication, I frequently encountered the dismissive statement, “Cheerleading isn’t a sport.”
Since its inception in the 1960s, cheerleading has evolved dramatically. What began as simple jumps accompanied by pom-poms has transformed into an athletic endeavor where cheerleaders execute complex stunts, such as tossing teammates into the air to perform flips and twists before catching them safely.
In Corsicana, Texas, Navarro Cheer stands as a testament to the evolution of cheerleading, shattering the stereotypes associated with the sport. With dynamic routines and impressive stunts, the series provides a platform for these cheerleaders to demonstrate that cheerleading involves much more than just cheering from the sidelines in short skirts.
The world of competitive cheerleading is demanding: intense practices, long hours, and fierce competition define the experience. With only two minutes and fifteen seconds to showcase a flawless routine, failing to perfect the performance means relinquishing the opportunity for victory after a year of preparation.
The physical toll on cheerleaders is significant. As reported by the National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research, collegiate cheerleading accounts for a staggering 70.5% of catastrophic injuries, with high school cheerleading following closely at 65.2%. These statistics underscore cheerleading’s reputation as one of the most hazardous sports.
Throughout the first season of Cheer, viewers witness the injuries that affect Navarro Cheer’s athletes, both male and female. This portrayal resonates deeply with me, as I recall numerous injuries I endured while competing. The physical damage I incurred in pursuit of this sport, which is fleeting, is both alarming and sobering.
Aspiring cheerleaders flock from around the world to compete under the guidance of coach Monica Aldama, many earning full scholarships at the two-year institution. Aldama’s role extends beyond coaching; she often takes on a maternal role, yet her tough-love approach sometimes leads to visible favoritism.
As the series unfolds, we see some of the flyers, the cheerleaders lifted into the air, expressing anxiety about weigh-ins — one even weighing under 100 pounds. Meanwhile, Aldama reportedly favors her male athletes to be more robust in stature. This raises significant concerns about body image and the pressures athletes face in a highly competitive environment.
It’s a stark reminder of the insecurities I felt when I was involved in competitive cheerleading. Though I was small, I often compared myself to the flyers I was tossing into the air, feeling inadequate. Fortunately, I was spared the pressure of weighing in during practices, unlike many in the cheer world today, which can be toxic.
Talent and skill are not confined to a particular body type. Many cheerleaders who don’t conform to conventional standards are just as capable of leading their teams to victory. Participation, effort, and teamwork should carry weight in this sport. Aldama has stated that judges consider appearance when awarding points, and some cheerleaders make the championship team simply because they fit a certain aesthetic.
Ultimately, Cheer reveals the multifaceted realities of competitive cheerleading, showcasing both its triumphs and trials. My hope is that this docuseries enlightens those unfamiliar with the cheerleading landscape, fostering discussions about its complexities and encouraging recognition of both its merits and shortcomings.
Cheerleading, like any sport, occupies a fleeting moment in one’s life. While the memories may linger, there are countless aspects of life that hold greater significance. Cheerleaders should remember: it’s not necessary to compromise your well-being for the sake of competition.
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Summary
The docuseries Cheer on Netflix exposes the rigorous and often dangerous realities of competitive cheerleading. It follows Navarro Cheer in Corsicana, Texas, highlighting the intense physical demands and the pressure athletes face regarding body image. The series aims to shed light on the sport’s complexities, emphasizing the need for broader recognition of the skills and dedication and advocating for a healthier perspective on participation in cheerleading.
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