Cheerleading Finally Gets Olympic Recognition

This is probably the best news JJJ‘s heard so far today — Cheerleading is finally being recognized as a sport by the IOC!

According to the New York Times, while the International Olympic Committee is recognizing cheerleading, that doesn’t mean that we’ll see actual competitions at the Olympics any time soon. Bummer!

However, the recognition means that cheerleading’s governing body, the International Cheer Union, will receive at least $25,000 every year and have the opportunity to apply for additional grants. Which is a major fete!

This period of recognition lasts for three years, and at any point during this time, IOC execs can vote to fully recognize the sport. After that, the ICU can petition to be included in the Games.

JJJ is pretty sure cheerleading has always been a sport though — have you seen the injuries they endure?! No pads people!