In a surprising turn of events, a poster for cheerleading tryouts at the University of Washington was recently pulled down after it sparked national outrage. The poster presented an extensive list of beauty standards that seemed more suited for a beauty pageant than a competitive sport. Critics slammed the school for emphasizing over 20 superficial traits while neglecting the essential skills and athleticism that cheerleading demands.
Having once captained my middle school cheer squad, I can appreciate the importance of looking polished on game day—maybe a bit of blush or some fresh lipstick. But the specific demands, like wearing false eyelashes and achieving a “bronze, beachy glow,” are frankly absurd. What’s next? A requirement for perfectly manicured nails while executing a backflip? The poster was initially shared on the squad’s Facebook page but was swiftly deleted the following morning. According to the athletic department, a UW official recognized that the details contradicted the values of the university’s spirit program.
The backlash was swift, both on campus and online. The Associated Students of the University of Washington issued a statement condemning the poster for objectifying women and creating unnecessary barriers to participation. One former cheerleader, Jessica Thompson, expressed her embarrassment over the situation, recalling her time on the team when cheerleaders focused on skill and teamwork rather than looks. She described the tips as “sexist and inappropriate.”
However, not everyone was opposed to the poster. Some defended it, arguing that cheerleaders should embrace their appearance. A columnist even claimed that it was acceptable for cheerleaders to project a glamorous image. Yet, this viewpoint misses the essence of cheerleading—a sport that requires strength, coordination, and the ability to perform complex stunts.
As the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches & Administration points out, cheerleading blends the strength of football, the grace of dance, and the agility of gymnastics. Perhaps next year’s poster will focus less on aesthetic demands and more on the rigorous skills cheerleaders cultivate.
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In summary, while cheerleading encompasses elements of performance and presentation, it should never overshadow the athletic skills that are truly at the heart of the sport. Let’s hope future guidelines reflect that balance.
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