Beyond Pom-Poms: The evolution of Cheerleading

Cheerleading has transcended its conventional image as a mere sideline activity. Today, it’s a dynamic and integral part of the sports experience, fostering fan engagement and boosting team morale. From basketball to baseball and American football,cheerleaders create a vibrant atmosphere that enhances the overall game-day experience.

A Fresh Perspective: Cheerleading through the Eyes of an Expert

To truly appreciate the multifaceted world of cheer, we turn to insights from Suzuki Miyu, a former member of the B League Chiba Jets flight crew cheerleaders “STAR JETS.” Currently, Miyu is preparing for auditions with a professional American team, bringing a unique perspective on the dedication and skill required in professional cheerleading.

The core of Cheer: More Than Just Entertainment

Defining the Role of Cheer in Sports

Originating in the United States over a century ago,cheerleading initially focused on leading cheers and songs. Over time, it evolved to incorporate acrobatic elements, captivating audiences with increasingly complex routines. By the 1980s, cheerleading emerged as a competitive sport, emphasizing showmanship and audience engagement. Today, the role of “cheer” in sports is to add entertainment elements to encourage cheering together with the audience, and to raise motivation for players and teams through cheering.

Cheerleading Across Japanese Sports

In Japan, cheerleading has found a unique place across various sports, each with its distinct style and approach.

Professional Baseball (NPB): Performers Beyond Cheerleaders

In Japanese professional baseball, cheerleaders have evolved into integral “baseball team performers.” They contribute significantly to team identity, creating unique experiences for fans.Examples include the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters’ “Fox Dance” and the Yokohama DeNA Baystars’ relay competitions.

American Football (X League): Choreography and Spontaneity

Cheerleaders in the X League often create their own choreography, focusing on dynamic, game-day performances. Their constant engagement with the audience amplifies the excitement. Notably, X League cheerleaders often serve as MCs, supporting both home and away teams, offering a double dose of entertainment for dance enthusiasts.

Basketball (B League): Personality and Performance

Since its inception in 2016, the B League has highlighted the unique personalities and concepts of its cheerleading squads. For example, the Chiba Jets’ cheerleaders, known as the “flight crew,” embody the team’s jet plane theme. The B.LEAGUE AWARD even includes a “Best Performance Award,” recognizing cheerleaders’ contributions beyond traditional cheering.

Team Colors: A Spectrum of Cheer Styles

The beauty of cheerleading lies in its diversity. There are as many “cheerful colors” as there are teams, including teams that perform cool dance performances and teams that value unity with the audience. Each team brings its unique flavor to the sport, reflecting its identity and values. Fans are encouraged to explore the diverse performances of their favorite teams’ cheerleaders.

B League Insights: Enhancing Your Game-Day Experience

To fully appreciate the role of cheerleaders, consider their involvement throughout a B league game, using the Chiba Jets’ STAR JETS as an example.

Timing is Everything: When to Expect Cheer Performances

• Before the Match: Cheerleaders introduce match highlights and new merchandise on outdoor stages, enhancing the pre-game atmosphere.
• Opening (Approximately 1 hour Before): Performances introduce the team and align with its overall concept.
• Cheering Practice (approximately 20 Minutes Before): Cheerleaders guide fans on when and how to cheer effectively.
• Introducing the Starting 5 (Just Before the Match): Performances with lighting and special effects build excitement.
• Timeout (During the Match): Cheerleaders lead performances, sponsor promotions, and photo opportunities.
• Halftime Show: Seasonal and unique performances provide mid-game entertainment.

Beyond the Routine: The Cheerleader Mindset

Suzuki Miyu emphasizes that cheerleading is more than just dance; it’s about contributing to the team’s success.Cheerleaders possess a heat that rivals the players’ passion for victory.

There are many things that need to be done as a cheerleader besides dance performances, and I believe that it is crucial for cheerleaders to be able to do well in these things.

Suzuki Miyu, Former STAR JETS Member

Cheerleaders are thinking about how to make the team win.

suzuki Miyu, Former STAR JETS Member

Cheerleaders strive to create a home-court advantage by amplifying excitement and fostering a unified atmosphere. Their mission is to inspire everyone to rally behind the team.

Embrace the World of Cheer

The world of cheerleading is vast and varied. By understanding its nuances and appreciating the dedication of its performers, fans can elevate their sports-watching experience to a whole new level. so, next time you’re at a game, take a moment to recognize the vital role cheerleaders play in creating an unforgettable atmosphere.