Cheerleading Novelty - Modernization of Cheerleading

Herkimer enhanced the look and feel of cheerleading with his introduction of the Pom Pon (Pompon) in early 1950s. The first real Pompon was introduced in 1956, resulting in on-the-spot appeal and charm to cheerleading, which filled cheerleaders with energy and excitement.

In 1967, the International Cheerleading Foundation introduced an annual cheerleader ranking system known as "Top Ten College Cheer Squads." It also opened the "Cheerleader All America" awards.

Fred Gastoff, in the late 1960s, invented the modern vinyl pom. Cheerleaders got a feel of these Pom pons when the International Cheerleading Federation (now known as the World Cheerleading Association - WCA) made them available to cheerleaders.

With some remarkable innovations, the 1970s heralded the beginning of cheerleading as we experience it today. The Title IX was passed in 1972. This called for equal athletic opportunities for both men and women. Also, women athletes and women cheerleaders became eligible for scholarships.

Cheerleaders, who had till now limited their performance to football and basketball games, made their presence at other games too. These new avenues included swimming, athletics, and wrestling. Cheerleaders also made their way into the sidelines of women's sports and games.

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