Harvard University’s cheerleading program has a rich history dating back to 1869. Today, the program is a force to be reckoned with, competing at the highest levels of college cheerleading and consistently bringing home national championships.
History
The Harvard University cheerleading program was founded in 1869 by a group of students who wanted to show their support for the university’s football team. The first cheerleaders were all male, and they led the crowd in cheers and songs at football games. In 1923, the program was expanded to include women, and the cheerleaders began to perform more elaborate routines.
Over the years, the Harvard University cheerleading program has grown and evolved. Today, the program is one of the most successful in the country, and the cheerleaders are known for their athleticism, skill, and dedication.
The Cheerleaders
The Harvard University cheerleading team is made up of approximately 40 students from all over the country. The cheerleaders are selected through a tryout process that is held each spring. To be eligible for the team, students must be in good physical condition, have a positive attitude, and be able to work well with others.
The cheerleaders perform at all of Harvard’s home football and basketball games. They also travel to away games and compete in national championships. The cheerleaders are a vital part of the Harvard University athletic experience, and they help to create a fun and exciting atmosphere at games.
The Coaches
The Harvard University cheerleading team is led by two head coaches, Courtney Smith and Jessica Albertson. Smith is a two-time NCAA champion and a former member of the U.S. National Cheerleading Team. Albertson is a former cheerleader at the University of California, Berkeley. Both coaches have a passion for cheerleading and a commitment to helping their athletes succeed.
The Facilities
The Harvard University cheerleading team has access to state-of-the-art facilities. The team practices in the Malkin Athletic Center, which is a 142,000-square-foot facility that includes a full-size basketball court, a weight room, and a cheerleading gym.
The cheerleading gym is equipped with everything the team needs to train, including a sprung floor, a tumble track, and a full-size cheerleading mat. The gym is also home to the team’s lockers, showers, and laundry facilities.
The Championships
The Harvard University cheerleading team has won numerous national championships. The team has won the NCAA Championship four times, in 1982, 1984, 1986, and 2004. The team has also won the UCA College Cheerleading National Championship six times, in 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2006.
The cheerleading team’s success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the athletes, coaches, and staff. The team is a source of pride for the university and its fans.
The Future
The Harvard University cheerleading program is poised for continued success in the years to come. The team has a strong tradition of excellence, and the athletes, coaches, and staff are committed to building on that tradition.
The cheerleading team is a valuable part of the Harvard University community. The team helps to create a fun and exciting atmosphere at games, and the athletes serve as positive role models for the university’s students.
10 Things You Didn’t Know About Harvard University Cheerleading
- The first Harvard cheerleaders were all male.
- The cheerleading program was expanded to include women in 1923.
- The Harvard University cheerleading team has won four NCAA Championships.
- The team has also won six UCA College Cheerleading National Championships.
- The cheerleading team practices in the Malkin Athletic Center, which is a 142,000-square-foot facility.
- The cheerleading gym is equipped with a sprung floor, a tumble track, and a full-size cheerleading mat.
- The cheerleading team is led by two head coaches, Courtney Smith and Jessica Albertson.
- Smith is a two-time NCAA champion and a former member of the U.S. National Cheerleading Team.
- Albertson is a former cheerleader at the University of California, Berkeley.
- The cheerleading team is a valuable part of the Harvard University community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the tryouts like for the Harvard University cheerleading team?
A: The tryouts are very competitive. The judges look for athletes who are in good physical condition, have a positive attitude, and are able to work well with others.
Q: What is the time commitment for the Harvard University cheerleading team?
A: The time commitment is significant. The team practices three times per week and attends all home football and basketball games. The team also travels to away games and competes in national championships.
Q: What are the benefits of being a Harvard University cheerleader?
A: There are many benefits to being a Harvard University cheerleader. The cheerleaders get to represent their university, travel to different parts of the country, and compete for national championships. They also develop valuable skills such as teamwork, leadership, and time management.
Q: What is the future of the Harvard University cheerleading program?
A: The future of the Harvard University cheerleading program is bright. The team has a strong tradition of excellence, and the athletes, coaches, and staff are committed to building on that tradition. The team is a valuable part of the Harvard University community, and it will continue to play a vital role in the university’s athletic experience.
