Cheer at your own risk. (Short Stuff).

"We've got injuries. Yes, we do! We've got injuries! How 'bout you?" Traditionally thought of as a "girly" activity, cheerleading is quickly becoming more athletic, more competitive...and more dangerous. In fact, the latest statistics show that high school and college cheerleaders sustain more injuries that result in paralysis or death than any other sport! Because today's cheerleading is very high-impact, it can result in injuries from falls, dismounts and weight-bearing stunts. Cheerleaders usually don't have experienced coaches to lead stretches and body conditioning, aren't allowed in the training rooms used by other school athletes and get little medical attention. This is because cheerleading is not officially recognized as a sport, even though it clearly has become very competitive. Several national organizations have proposed deeming cheerleading as a sport and adopting uniform safety guidelines. Guidelines set by the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Advisors are available at www.aacca .org. With nearly 25,000 emergency room visits by cheerleaders last year, the activity needs the R-E-S-P-E-C-T it deserves.