Exciting times ahead for the cheerleading community!
In a landmark decision at the Annual General Meeting in Esslingen, Germany, the International Cheer Union (ICU) has been officially welcomed into The World Games family. This vote marks a significant recognition of cheerleading as a sport, alongside the inclusion of flag football, showcasing the growing diversity of The World Games.
The decision followed meticulous reviews of the applications by the IWGA members, culminating in a vote that officially recognized cheerleading and flag football as part of the upcoming Chengdu 2025 sports program. While Flag Football returns after its invitational appearance at Birmingham in 2022, the upcoming event will mark cheerleading’s inaugural competition at this level, spotlighting its dynamic blend of dance, acrobatics, and spirited teamwork.
Cheerleading, fully recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2021, has seen exponential growth, governed globally by the ICU. The sport combines elements of dance and acrobatics with spirited chants to boost team morale and entertain spectators. Its acceptance into The World Games is a testament to the dedication of millions of cheer athletes, coaches, officials, national federations, and enthusiasts worldwide.
IWGA President José Perurena expressed enthusiasm for the new additions, stating, “Flag Football and Cheerleading are two popular sports that will further enhance the appeal of The World Games sports program and contribute to the extraordinary growth of our event. We are delighted that IFAF and ICU have been granted membership status.”
ICU President Jeff Webb highlighted the significance of this milestone, “ICU’s acceptance into the IWGA family as full members is an incredible achievement for the global cheer community. We are committed to delivering an incredible event in Chengdu and in future editions of The World Games for years to come.”
Flag Football, known for its accessibility and inclusivity, is the most popular non-contact form of American football. Its inclusion in the Olympic Games at Los Angeles in 2028 underscores its growing global appeal, with an estimated 20 million players in over 100 countries.
The anticipation for Chengdu 2025 will build quickly within the cheerleading community. This opportunity will allow cheer athletes to showcase their skills on an international platform, promoting the sport’s athleticism and complex choreographies to a global audience. As cheerleading prepares for its debut at The World Games, it not only celebrates this achievement but also looks forward to future opportunities for growth and recognition.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to cover this exciting journey towards Chengdu 2025. This is truly a momentous time for cheerleading as it leaps into a new chapter of international sports acclaim.
Stay tuned to Cheer Daily for updates and stories as we follow our teams’ journey to The World Games!
For more details on this exciting development, check out the full article here.