New Jersey Senators Want Cheerleading Recognized As Varsity Sport
By Mike Dougherty
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (CBS) -- Cheerleading could soon be recognized as a varsity sport by the NJSIAA after a bill supported by a Burlington County senator passes a senate committee.
Tumbling, acrobatics, and teamwork. It's hard to argue against the preparation and athletic ability cheerleading requires.
Burlington County Republican Diane Allen is among a number of senators in the Garden State who want to see these athletes recognized for their efforts.
"It will be my hope that this legislation will go into law so that we can see actual varsity letters being given out to the young people that do such a great job."
Allen notes that cheerleading is a varsity sport in many other states.
"In Burlington County, New Jersey, we have a number of cheerleading squads that have competed on the regional and national level and done amazingly well."
She expects the bill to pass once it's up for a full vote.