National Cheer And Dance Day

Happy people in colorful cheerleading and dance outfits, high energy dance moves, vibrant stage backdrop and a cheering crowd.. — National cheer and dance day illustration

Welcome to National Cheer and Dance Day! Get ready to shake your pom-poms and bust out your best dance moves, because today is all about celebrating the spirit and athleticism of cheerleading and dance. Whether you're a sideline supporter or a dance floor diva, this day is for you! So grab your team, turn up the music, and let's get ready to cheer and dance like nobody's watching.

When is Cheer And Dance Day?

It's national cheer and dance day on the 12th September.

The Origins of National Cheer and Dance Day

National Cheer and Dance Day has become an annual celebration of the vibrant and energetic world of cheerleading and dance. It was established to honor the hard work and dedication of the thousands of athletes who participate in these sports, both at the amateur and professional levels.

The origins of National Cheer and Dance Day trace back to 1986 when the United States Congress proclaimed the first ever National Dance Week. This dedicated week was created to promote dance education, recognize the achievements of dancers, and raise awareness about the art form itself. As cheerleading became more popular and recognized as a sport in its own right, National Dance Week evolved into National Cheer and Dance Day.

Celebrating Cheerleading and Dance Online

In the age of the internet, National Cheer and Dance Day has found a whole new stage to shine on. Social media platforms are flooded with videos of jaw-dropping stunts, stunning choreography, and impressive displays of synchronization. From viral dance challenges to cheerleading squads showcasing their skills, the online world has become a hub for celebrating the spirit and talent of cheer and dance.

Every year, on National Cheer and Dance Day, people take to the web to show off their moves and cheer on their favorite teams. Whether it's through YouTube videos, Instagram stories, or TikTok dances, the online community comes together to share their love for cheer and dance.

Fun Ways to Celebrate National Cheer and Dance Day

1. Organize a cheer or dance performance: Gather your friends, family, or teammates and put on a special performance to showcase your skills. You can create a routine, incorporate props, or even choreograph a flash mob – the possibilities are endless!

2. Watch a cheer or dance competition: Attend a local cheer or dance competition and witness the incredible talent and athleticism on display. Cheer on the participants and enjoy an action-packed day of stunts, jumps, and high-energy routines.

3. Share your moves online: Film a dance routine or cheerleading performance and share it on your favorite social media platform. Use hashtags like #NationalCheerAndDanceDay to connect with fellow enthusiasts and spread the cheer far and wide.

Did You Know?

Did you know that cheerleading has its origins in the late 19th century at the University of Minnesota? It started as an all-male activity and was primarily focused on promoting school spirit. Over the years, it evolved into a predominantly female sport and has gained recognition as a competitive and highly skilled discipline.

History behind the term 'Cheer And Dance'

1880

Emergence of Cheerleading

In 1880, cheerleading as a concept emerged at Princeton University. A Princeton graduate named Thomas Peebles organized a group of six male students to lead cheers at football games. The purpose of these cheers was to inspire and support the players on the field, fostering a sense of unity and enthusiasm among spectators.

1898

Emergence of cheerleading

Cheerleading, as we know it today, originated in 1898 at the University of Minnesota. Johnny Campbell, a student at the university, led the crowd in cheering on the football team. This marked the first organized cheer in history and laid the foundation for the development of cheerleading as a sport.

1865

Emergence of organized cheers

In the year 1865, organized cheers began to take form. They originated primarily in American colleges and universities as a way to support and rally their sports teams. These early cheers involved rhythmic shouting and chanting, often accompanied by elaborate hand gestures.

1898

The Rise of Collegiate Cheerleading

In 1898, the University of Minnesota organized the first ever collegiate football game cheer. It was led by student Johnny Campbell, who encouraged the crowd to chant, 'Rah, Rah, Rah! Ski-U-Mah, Hoo-Rah! Hoo-Rah! Varsity! Varsity! Minn-e-So-Tah!'. This marked the birth of organized cheerleading and set the stage for the future of cheer and dance.

1898

Birth of organized cheerleading

Cheerleading began in the late 19th century at the University of Minnesota. It started as a male-dominated activity known as 'yell leading' or 'cheering.' The purpose was to encourage school spirit and support their sports teams. The cheers consisted of simple chants and synchronized movements to engage and motivate the crowd.

1800s

Emergence of Cheerleading

Cheerleading originated in the late 1800s as a way to encourage school spirit and cheer on sports teams. It began as an all-male activity, and the first organized cheerleading squad was formed at Princeton University in 1884.

1800s

The Birth of Cheerleading

Cheerleading originated in the late 1800s as a combination of cheers and chants, performed to encourage school spirit at athletic events. It was first developed at Princeton University by a student named Thomas Peebles, who introduced organized cheers to support the university's football team. Initially, cheerleading was an all-male activity, with participants focusing on coordinating their voices and movements to engage the crowd.

1923

The birth of the megaphone

The invention of the megaphone by a cheerleader named Thomas Peebles revolutionized cheerleading. It allowed cheerleaders to amplify their voices and be heard across stadiums, making it easier to lead cheers and chants. Megaphones became a symbol of cheerleading, and their iconic shape is still associated with the activity today.

1923

Cheerleading Becomes a Popular Sport

By the 1920s, cheerleading had gained immense popularity and evolved into an organized activity. Women began participating in cheerleading and became an integral part of the sport. Cheerleading routines started incorporating synchronized moves, jumps, and gymnastics, showcasing athleticism and skill.

1920s

Pom-Poms and Chants

In the 1920s, cheerleading started to become more popular and began incorporating pom-poms. Cheerleaders would wave colorful pom-poms while performing synchronized routines. Chants and cheers were also introduced to engage the crowd and create a lively atmosphere.

1884

Introduction of the megaphone

In 1884, the megaphone was introduced to enhance the volume and projection of cheers. This simple yet ingenious device allowed cheerleaders to amplify their voices, making it easier for the crowd to participate and join in on the cheering.

1911

Introduction of organized dance routines

In 1911, Lawrence Herkimer, also known as the 'Grandfather of Cheerleading,' introduced the concept of organized dance routines to cheerleading. Herkimer added synchronized movements and precision dance elements to the traditional cheering, creating a more dynamic and visually appealing performance.

1898

First Organized Cheerleading Squad

In 1898, the University of Minnesota formed the first organized cheerleading squad. This squad consisted of six men who led cheers at football games. It marked a significant development in the history of cheerleading, as it showcased the growing popularity and recognition of cheerleading as an organized activity.

1898

The First Organized Cheer

The first official organized cheer, known as the 'MegaPhone,' was invented by Johnny Campbell, a student at the University of Minnesota. During a football game, Campbell led a spirited chant of 'Rah, Rah, Rah! Ski-U-Mah! Hoo-Rah! Hoo-Rah! Varsity! Varsity! Minn-e-so-tah!' This energetic chant gained popularity and became the foundation for modern-day cheerleading routines.

1948

Formation of the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA)

In 1948, Lawrence Herkimer, a former cheerleader, founded the National Cheerleaders Association. This organization worked to standardize cheerleading techniques and promote safety. The NCA introduced crowd-leading techniques, intricate formations, and pyramids, ushering in a new era of organized cheerleading.

1950s

Evolution of Dance in Cheerleading

During the 1950s, dance began to play a more significant role in cheerleading routines. This led to the fusion of cheer and dance, with cheerleaders incorporating more dance elements and choreography into their performances. The focus shifted from solely cheering for the team to incorporating entertaining and visually appealing dance moves.

1923

Cheerleading Becomes Co-ed

In 1923, the University of Minnesota once again played a pivotal role in the evolution of cheerleading by including women on their cheerleading squad. This move towards co-ed cheerleading marked a major shift in the dynamics of the activity, allowing both men and women to participate and contribute their unique skills and talents.

1923

The birth of modern cheerleading

The term 'cheerleading' was coined in 1923 by Johnny Campbell, a University of Minnesota student. Campbell organized a group of male students to cheer for the football team, leading to the establishment of the first official cheerleading squad. This marked the beginning of cheerleading as a recognized activity with dedicated cheerleaders.

1948

The Formation of National Cheerleaders Association (NCA)

In 1948, Lawrence 'Herkie' Herkimer established the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA). This organization aimed to standardize cheerleading techniques, safety guidelines, and provide training for cheerleaders. NCA played a crucial role in shaping cheerleading as a recognized sport with competitions and championships.

1948

Formation of the National Cheerleaders Association

The National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) was formed in 1948 by Lawrence Herkimer. The NCA played a pivotal role in promoting and standardizing cheerleading across the United States. They introduced innovative techniques, developed safety guidelines, and organized nationwide cheerleading competitions, which further popularized the sport.

1930s

Transition to Dance

In the 1930s, dance began to be incorporated into cheerleading routines. This transition was influenced by the emergence of jazz dance as a popular form of entertainment and the desire to add more flair and creativity to performances. Dancers became an integral part of cheerleading squads, providing synchronized movements, formations, and expressive routines that showcased both athleticism and artistry.

1948

The advent of competitive cheerleading

In 1948, Lawrence 'Herkie' Herkimer revolutionized cheerleading by introducing the concept of competitive cheerleading. Herkimer, the founder of the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA), organized the first cheerleading competition, showcasing the talents and skills of cheerleaders from various schools. This event paved the way for cheerleading to become a competitive sport.

1960s

Introduction of Competitive Cheerleading

In the 1960s, competitive cheerleading emerged as a separate entity from traditional sideline cheerleading. This new form of cheerleading focused on intricate stunts, jumps, and tumbling, combined with dance elements. Competitions were organized, and teams started showcasing their skills in front of judges, further elevating the importance of both cheer and dance in the sport.

1982

Cheerleading becomes a recognized sport

In 1982, the United States Congress officially recognized cheerleading as a sport. This recognition was a significant milestone that helped elevate the status of cheerleading and provided opportunities for cheerleaders to compete at the collegiate and professional levels. Cheerleading evolved beyond sideline support and became a competitive athletic discipline.

1920s

Introduction of Dance Elements

During the 1920s, dance elements started being incorporated into cheerleading routines. The influence of popular dances such as the Charleston and the Jazz Age gave rise to more dynamic, rhythmic movements in cheerleading. This fusion of dance and cheering added flair and visual appeal to performances, enhancing the overall entertainment value.

1982

The Birth of Competitive Dance

In 1982, the Universal Dance Association (UDA) was founded. UDA introduced competitive dance into the cheerleading realm, allowing dancers to showcase their talent and creativity. Competitive dance encompassed various styles, such as jazz, hip-hop, pom, and lyrical, bringing a new dimension to cheer and dance performances.

1980s

Cheerleading evolves into a competitive sport

In the 1980s, cheerleading began to transform from a sideline activity into a competitive sport. Teams started competing against each other based on their skills, creativity, and athleticism. This shift led to the inclusion of gymnastics, acrobatics, and dance elements in routines, giving birth to modern-day competitive cheerleading.

1950s

Popularity of Pom-Poms

During the 1950s, the use of pom-poms became widespread in cheer and dance performances. Pom-poms, originally called 'Shakers,' were introduced as a way to enhance visual effects and add vibrant colors to routines. The lively movements of pom-poms provided a visually captivating element, further enhancing the overall appeal of cheer and dance routines.

1948

Birth of Modern Competitive Cheerleading

In 1948, the first modern competitive cheerleading event took place at the Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. This marked the formal recognition of cheerleading as a sport in its own right. Competitive cheerleading introduced a new dimension to the discipline, emphasizing athleticism, precision, and complex routines that blended cheer, dance, and acrobatics.

1997

The Growth of Professional Cheerleaders

The late 1990s witnessed the emergence of professional cheerleading squads associated with sports teams, particularly in American football. These squads, such as the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, became iconic and elevated cheer and dance into highly visible and celebrated aspects of sports entertainment.

1990s

Modernization and Diversification

The 1990s witnessed a significant modernization and diversification of cheer and dance. The introduction of new styles like hip hop, jazz, and contemporary dance brought fresh elements to routines. Cheerleaders began incorporating more complex acrobatic stunts, aerial moves, and tumbling passes, showcasing their athleticism and versatility.

20th century

Integration of dance styles into cheerleading

Throughout the 20th century, dance styles such as jazz, hip-hop, and pom-pom dance found their way into cheerleading routines. As cheerleading evolved, these dance elements became essential components, adding flair, rhythm, and artistic expression to the performances. Modern cheer and dance routines showcase a fusion of various dance styles and athleticism.

1974

The birth of modern competitive dance

In 1974, the first official competitive dance event, known as the National Dance Team Championship, was held in Orlando, Florida. This event brought together dance teams from across the United States to showcase their skills, choreography, and creativity. The popularity of competitive dance quickly grew, leading to the establishment of various dance organizations and competitions.

1990s

The rise of dance in cheerleading

In the 1990s, dance became an integral part of cheerleading routines. Cheerleaders started incorporating choreographed dances to add flair and visual appeal to their performances. The fusion of cheer and dance created a more dynamic and entertaining experience for both participants and spectators, leading to a significant cultural impact on the cheerleading community.

1970s

Evolution of Competitive Cheerleading

In the 1970s, cheerleading began to evolve into an increasingly competitive sport. The first cheerleading competitions took place, emphasizing athleticism, complex choreography, and stunts. This shift in focus led to the rise of cheerleading squads dedicated solely to competing against other teams. It marked a significant turning point in the perception of cheer and dance as a serious athletic discipline.

1970s

Explosion of Dance Styles

The 1970s witnessed an explosion of dance styles in cheerleading. The influence of popular dance genres like jazz, funk, and hip-hop became prevalent, shaping the choreography and movements in cheer routines. This era marked a significant shift towards more diverse and expressive dance movements within the cheerleading community.

1997

Inclusion of dance in cheerleading

In 1997, competitive dance was officially incorporated into cheerleading competitions. This development allowed cheerleaders to showcase their dance skills and creativity alongside their traditional cheering routines. The addition of dance elevated the artistic and expressive aspects of cheerleading, making it a more dynamic and visually captivating performance.

1980s

Influence of Street Dance and Hip-Hop

The 1980s witnessed an influx of street dance and hip-hop culture into cheer and dance routines. Influenced by breakdancing, popping, and locking, cheerleaders began incorporating urban dance styles into their performances. This fusion of different dance forms brought a fresh and dynamic energy to cheer and dance routines, captivating audiences with new movements and innovative choreography.

Present

Competitive Sport and Performance Art

Today, cheer and dance have evolved into separate entities, with competitive cheerleading recognized as an official sport. Cheerleaders and dancers train rigorously, mastering intricate routines, and pushing the boundaries of physical ability. These dynamic performances are not limited to sports events but can also be seen in professional dance competitions, halftime shows, and even professional dance teams.

2000s

Competitive Dance on the Rise

In the early 2000s, competitive dance gained significant popularity as a separate category within the broader cheer and dance realm. Dance teams showcasing various styles, such as ballet, contemporary, jazz, and hip-hop, started participating in their own competitions. This recognition allowed dancers to focus on their specific craft and facilitated the growth of diverse dance communities and opportunities.

2000s

Competitive Dance Emergence

In the 2000s, competitive dance gained prominence as a separate discipline alongside cheerleading. Many schools and organizations started offering separate dance teams and competitions, enabling dancers to exhibit their skills without the cheer element. This diversification provided more opportunities for dancers to showcase their talent and contributed to the growth of dance as an independent art form.