Athleticism aside, cheerleading is not a sport

The age-old argument of whether cheerleading is a sport was raised today by the opening arguments of a case in Bridgeport, Conn. where a judge will decide.

The problem was that the volleyball program at Quinnipiac University was cut in favor of cheerleading because of the cost and number of athletes impacted more students. Of course I’m not even considering the type of cheerleading that takes place on the sidelines of basketball and football games. That’s little more than rhythmic clapping.

I’ve never argued whether cheerleading, or gymnastics, is a form of athleticism. You only have to watch for a couple of minutes to determine that the backflips, jumps and twists require loads of athleticism and talent. The problem is the scoring system. Just like figure skating and skiing, to name a couple, the winner of a competition cannot be determined without an outside, and subjective, judge.

For example, two teams of sports that require goals or bases can play by themselves without a referee, umpire or official and still reach a conclusion. Cheerleading, figure skating and skiing can’t do that. That’s why cheerleading isn’t a sport. If somebody came up with some kind of unbiased scoring system, we’ll revisit it.

Because Quinnipiac receives federal funding, it is required to abide by Title IX, and therefore budgets and the number of athletes are compared with male sports. The decision that the judge makes is how to interpret a law that was passed in 1972, especially considering the advancements in cheerleading in the last 38 years.

The school’s argument is cheerleading is a competitive, athletic activity that creates more opportunities for women than volleyball, ABC News reported. It says it has adequately complied with the law.

"The university believes that it has complied with all aspects of Title IX legislation and will continue to do so. Given that this is a matter awaiting adjudication, we will not comment further," said Lynn Bushnell, vice president for public affairs, in a statement reported by ABC News.

This could easily turn into a case of sexism. I can’t see a similar situation involving male sports, especially a male cheerleading squad.

Most cheerleading supporters reach for the argument of training time and dedication. They belabor the point about endless hours of practice, strength training and fitness to throw each other, and tumble through the air. But just because a football, basketball or baseball player can’t do a back flip or somersault doesn’t somehow enhance the athleticism of cheerleading.

But if you say cheerleading is a sport, where do you draw the line after that? Is ballroom dancing a sport? Considering the hours of choreography and practice needed to compete in Dancing With the Stars, for example, you could make that argument.