When my partner returned home bubbling with excitement about a new docuseries he thought I’d adore, I was initially dubious. However, once I saw the title on the screen, I felt a flicker of intrigue. Netflix’s ‘Cheer’ shines a spotlight on 40 of the nation’s top cheerleaders, led by a coach whose commanding presence could make anyone stand a little taller.
As someone who once juggled multiple competitive cheer teams, I can tell you that the exhilarating moments captured in this series are just the tip of the iceberg. Although I might sprain my ankle just walking up the stairs these days, I remember the thrill of those intense practices. Even back then, I frequently faced the dismissive comment, “Cheerleading isn’t a sport.”
In its early days during the 1960s, cheerleading consisted of simple jumps and pom-pom waving. Fast forward to today, and cheerleaders are executing jaw-dropping stunts—flipping, spinning, and catching teammates mid-air. The docuseries portrays Navarro Cheer from Corsicana, Texas, which redefines what it means to be a cheerleader. With their impressive routines, these athletes challenge stereotypes, proving that cheerleading is far more than just shouting “Go team!” from the sidelines.
Competitive cheerleading demands grueling hours and relentless practice. A single routine of two minutes and 15 seconds can make or break a year’s worth of effort. The statistics are staggering: the National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research reports that collegiate cheerleading accounts for 70.5% of catastrophic injuries, while high school cheerleading sits at 65.2%. With these alarming figures, it’s evident that cheerleading ranks among the most perilous sports.
Throughout the first season of ‘Cheer’, viewers witness numerous injuries, affecting both male and female cheerleaders. As a former cheer enthusiast, this struck a chord with me. I’ve experienced my share of injuries, and I know how they can lead to long-lasting damage for the sake of a beloved sport that ultimately lasts a fleeting moment. Athletes from around the country come to Navarro for a shot at competing under the watchful eye of coach Monica Aldama, who often becomes a second mother figure. However, her favoritism can sometimes be apparent.
As the series unfolds, we see some of the flyers anxiously weighing themselves, with one weighing in at less than 100 pounds. In contrast, Aldama appears to prefer her male athletes to be more robust. This emphasis on body type is troubling and resonates with the insecurities I felt as a young cheerleader. Although I was never pressured about my weight during my practices, the competitive cheerleading environment can be toxic. Cheerleaders of all body types possess the talent to shine, and shouldn’t we celebrate participation and effort just as much as winning?
Aldama acknowledges that judges often score based on appearance, contributing to the pressure athletes face regarding their looks. This Netflix docuseries vividly illustrates both the triumphs and tribulations of competitive cheerleading.
My hope is that ‘Cheer’ enlightens those unfamiliar with the cheer world about the physical and emotional toll of this demanding sport. We need to foster conversations about the advantages and drawbacks of competitive cheerleading, recognizing achievements while addressing flaws. Cheerleading is undeniably a sport, one that may only occupy a short chapter of our lives. Looking back, the memories may be bittersweet, but there are countless other passions that enrich our lives. Cheerleaders, please remember that your health shouldn’t be sacrificed for a sport.
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In summary, ‘Cheer’ offers a raw and captivating look into the world of competitive cheerleading, highlighting the passion, risks, and pressures that come with it. The series invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of the sport and the broader implications for the athletes involved.