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High school EssayMany people would like to become a cheerleader, however, they ar afraid of being stereotyped, and in turn, these stereotypes may affect ones chances of successfully becoming a cheerleader. Stereotyping is so common in our society that when you meet somewhatone for the first time you are lots stereotyped before you even reach, hello. The way people perceive us can have a profound effect on how we see ourselves (Mega Essays, 2008). Cheerleading has one-third common stereotypes as this edition gains in popularity. The first stereotype of cheerleading is a controversy that rages on about whether or not it is a sport. Next, cheerleaders are a great deal times compared to people with unflattering and unintelligent personalities. Finally, there have alike been questions about the inclusion of males upon cheerleading teams. Though many examples exist, the three examples listed above seem to be the most challenging stereotypes which keep many afraid of joining the sport of cheerleading.Cheerleading is very popular in middle schools all the way up to the university genteelness level, but unfortunately, several observers oft question a cheerleaders athletic ability. Cheerleaders put in hard work by lifting weights, working up a sweat, and even facing possible injury. These athletes have a strong drive for determination and dedication by practicing at all hours of the day both with their team, and also individually. Some cheerleaders may often say they practice more than the teams they cheer for. So the question arises, why not give them the title and respect they powerfully deserve?Independent cheerleaders also compete nationally in addition to high school and college cheer teams however, many cheerleaders are left pondering whether or not they can gain the attention and recognition they need to officially declare cheerleading as a sport (Ninemire, 2008). Besides the questions of cheerleading as a sport, cheerleaders are often stereotyped fr om the moment they are met and identified as uneducated ditzy blondes. Shes dumb, Shes ditzy, Hes feminine, and Theyre snobs are just some of the stereotypes that are often used.Many people who have been a cheerleader, met one, or have even watched a cheerleading team, have experienced these stereotypes. As stated by Mega Essays, (2008) Stereotyping is most often someones perception of an individual or a group based on social status, education level, race or even looks. Therefore, why do they constantly defend their sport and themselves? One of the stronger stereotypes within the cheerleading world is the placement of men on the cheer team. As males embark the world of cheerleading they are immediately labeled as being effeminate.They are faced with societys overcoming stereotype of a male Barbie figure (Bluestein, 1994). Unfortunately, these qualities often lead to males defending their sexuality. Against popular belief, females where sic not the founders behind the sport of chee rleading instead males who were so eager to cheer while watching sporting events created this sport. In the 1890s the first pep club was organized at Princeton University and it was there where the first organized yell was recorded (Bluestein, 1994).In many high schools around the world, out-of-pocket to the stereotypes, very few males participate on a cheer squad. There are more then sic 3,000 high school and college cheerleaders in the United States. 97% of all cheerleaders are female however, approximately 50% of collegiate cheerleaders are male (Bluestein, 1994). Over the years, there have been many stereotypes which have agonized and affected the cheerleading world. Some stereotypes of cheerleaders include the comparison of cheerleaders with uneducated ditzy blondes, the assumption that cheerleading is not an actual sport, and should males cheer on a team.Furthermore, one should be cautious when joining this sport because of the amount of rumors, whether true or not. Accordin g to About. com (2008), Cheerleading has expanded from pom-poms and pep rallies into big business an estimated half-billion dollar industry. In addition to college cheerleaders who joke that they practice more than their football teams, there are also independent cheerleading groups not affiliated with schools, which compete nationally. Cheerleading has been around since the first pep club in the1890s and continues to grow and build up each day.References About. com (2008). Cheerleading controversy and competition. Retrieved sublime 22, 2008, from http//cheerleading. about. com/od/cheerinjuries/l/aa103102a. htm Bluestein S, (1994). Male Cheerleading is a sport Serendip. Retrieved August 22, 2008, from http//serendip. brynmawr. edu/exchange/node/1685 Mega Essays. (2008) Cheerleading stereotypes. Retrieved August 22, 2008, from http//www. megaessays. com/viewpaper/78441. html Ninemire V, (2008). Stop the stereotyping of cheerleaders. About. com. Retrieved August 22, 2008, from htt ps//cheerleading. about. com.