Men in cheerleading has always been an avoided topic; even women struggle to get the recognition they deserve for this difficult and grueling sport. However, according to CNN, history was made Sunday. Male cheerleaders are finally being given the chance to follow their dreams and perform at the SuperBowl. Quinton Peron and Napoleon Jinnies, who both cheer for the Los Angeles Rams, were the first two male cheerleaders making headlines this weekend. The two of them made the team last year in March of 2018, and will break the stereotype of a female fronted sport by showcasing their skills and determination.
In the 1800s, cheerleading came out as an all male sport that denied women the right to join, according to The Fresno Bee. The tables turned and it became an all female sport while the males helped with the stunts. However, in the modern day, cheerleading continues to be female led, even though it was once the opposite. Often times, men are harassed for their contribution for a cheer team, even though they typically are the ones supporting the female cheerleaders for their dedicated routines. Both genders work hard to make their performances entertaining and complex.
Los Angeles Times has made a huge effort in asserting their thrill during this time. The website mentions how exstatic the team is about making history. The two male cheerleaders feel as though they have already made a huge accomplishment before their performance. “‘You see this smile on my face?’ Peron said, grinning from Atlanta to Los Angeles. ‘You see this?’” This shows just how amazing it is to see our world evolving into a more accepting place. Before this big stance, men were only allowed to do the stunts, but were never seen dancing with the women. Since cheerleader is an everso common sport, it has become a sport for all genders and types of people. The surprise to not have males perform has been questioned for years as it excludes their gender.
Both of the male cheerleaders used to dance at Disneyland. Peron is currently a dance and choreography teacher, while Jinnies is a beauty blogger and make up artist. Among them, their friends pushed them to try out for the cheerleading team in order to follow their dreams. The two of them decided to pursue what meant a lot to them and it will now show on February 3rd, 2019. Their hard work has now paid off by being able to actually dance with the cheerleaders in a full routine during the halftime show. The teams practice for months at a time to ensure their performance will blow the crowd and viewers away.
Although this time in history is being made, it should have happened long ago. The time it took for male cheerleaders to be allowed to perform and dance during the show, proves that the world needs to evolve in a quicker manner. The decision was crucial, yet should have not been. Throughout all the halftime shows, the men were there to help the women do stunts, but were never able to dance. Many significant events have been making history in the recent years, which makes it a happy time for us all, however sad at the same time. This superbowl coming up, will be watched by all because of the performance with the male cheerleaders. This growth comes with critique and judgement from the world. Hopefully, it will prove how all communities can cultivate together into a better place.
