Cheerleading a varsity sport – and more – at BG

Cheerleading is causing much debate across the country. To many, it’s a rigorous sport equivalent to any varsity sport available to a high school student. Others feel it’s merely a spirit squad present to increase enthusiasm at sporting events. For many years, cheerleaders have made a stance to secure their spot as a varsity sport. Those who actually participate in cheerleading, especially at Bishop Guertin High School, deem it a true sport because of its competitive nature, the need for athleticism, the dedication required, and the skills and work necessary to be a successful team. Dictionary.com defines cheerleading as “an athletic activity requiring skill or physical prowess and often of a competitive nature.” This defines Bishop Guertin cheerleading. “Cheerleaders are definitely varsity athletes,” said Krista Laliberte, the head varsity cheer coach at BG. “We try hard to succeed like every other team to get a title, and the sport is physically strenuous like any other varsity sport at BG. “Most sports have statistics based on 15 to 20 game performances. Cheer has a handful of competitions, and it’s make or break in the two to three minutes it takes to compete each season – no do-overs or ‘We’ll get them next time’ or fixing plays.