Florida High Schools Accept Cheerleading?!

http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/sep/19/na-athletes-want-off-the-sidelines/


    "At the high school level, Florida is a national leader in recognizing cheerleading as a sport." It's strange to see an article contain a statement such as this, considering Judge Underhill's decision. Yet, it's a relieving feeling to hear that an entire state recognizes cheerleading as a legitimate sport. But the downside to this situation can be found at Newsome High School located in Lithia, Florida. Although it is recognized as a sport, the cheerleaders aren't treated with equality when compared to other athletics at the school.
    An overhead projector and small ceilings hinder the cheerleaders from practicing.. in a cafeteria? Yes, a cafeteria. The gym is reserved for the volleyball team, so the squad is pushed to the side, left to practice in the lunchroom. The school doesn't provide funds for the team's mats, which protect the cheerleaders from landing on the hard tile. And, the squad doesn't even have a real coach! They have to rely on volunteers who are willing to give these girls an opportunity to "play their sport" and enjoy it at the same time. Sounds like a disadvantaged team, to me.
    Parents of the girls also notice the unfairness. One parent even mentioned the fact that the team receives no scholarships, whereas every other team at Newsome does. To help with this situation, one mother is helping to create DVDs to highlight the talents of girls who wish to be recruited by national colleges. At least they're getting the support they need!
    Although it is disappointing to see the girls on this team work hard, play hard and sweat hard just be to recognized by their peers and still not receive the equality they deserve, it's great to hear that Florida does indeed find cheerleading to be a sport at all high schools in the state!