Fighting for a Spot
The world of cheerleading has long been burdened with psychological and visual stereotypes. All-star cheer gyms and athletes are trying to change these, ditching the pom-poms, hair bows, and even the skirts. The New York Icons are just one of the many gyms fighting for recognition as a sport. Official recognition has been a long time coming, and in 2021, it finally came. In July, the International Olympic Committee officially recognized the International Cheer Union, making cheer an official sport. After decades of battling stereotypes, organizing gyms, and evolving the sport, cheer will be eligible for the 2024 Olympic Games.
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“Persistence
can change failure into
extraordinary achievement.”
-Coach Savanna, Couture Tiny L1 Coach
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