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The Daily

The Sunday Read: ‘How Cheerleading Became So Acrobatic, Dangerous and Popular’

Nov 17, 2024
David Gauvey Herbert, a New York Times Magazine contributor, dives into the complex world of competitive cheerleading. He discusses the staggering number of participants and the overwhelming control of Varsity Spirit over the industry. Herbert highlights the physical and emotional toll on young athletes, alongside the rising costs for families. With personal stories of resilience and safety concerns, he advocates for urgent regulatory changes. The conversation reveals a hidden world rife with challenges, from hazardous practices to the need for better support for cheerleaders.
01:10:02

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Cheerleading has transformed from a sideline activity into a highly competitive and commercialized sport dominated by Varsity Spirit.
  • The monopolistic practices of Varsity Spirit mirror those of tech giants, raising concerns over its influence on cheerleading culture and competition.

Deep dives

The Commercialization of Cheerleading

Cheerleading has evolved from a traditional sideline activity to a competitive and commercialized sport, with significant cultural impact in the U.S. Events are held year-round, culminating in high-stakes championships at venues like Disney World, which are broadcast on ESPN. The competitive scene boasts intense athleticism, echoed by dramatic media portrayals in works like 'Bring It On' and 'Cheer.' This transformation has created a lucrative market, supported predominantly by one major player, Varsity Spirit, which holds a commanding market share and significantly influences cheerleading culture.

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