We’ve got spirit, yes we do!
We’ve got spirit
How ‘bout YOU?!

The team responsible for keeping the spirit of sports alive is none other than the peppy and proud members of a cheerleading squad. At every game, they’re right there on the sidelines getting the crowd pumped and passionate for a home-team win. 

As we get pumped and passionate for the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience®, we can’t help but wonder about one of the shiniest accessories of a squad: pom-poms. 

What are pom poms?

Pom poms are a novelty item used by cheerleaders and fans often at sports games. They date back to the 30s—can you believe it?! The first pom poms were created by tissue paper, and became tattered easily. Fast forward to the mid-`60s, and there was innovation to the pom pom. Instead of paper, pom-pom producers switched to plastic! 

Why do cheerleaders use pom-poms?

Cheerleaders use pom-poms as a prop to improve showmanship. Pom-poms tend to be shiny or glittery to get the attention of the crowd. They are used to emphasize movement and sometimes to spell out words or letters like “Colts” or “Go!” In partnership with the spirited chants of a cheer team, pom-poms can’t be ignored!

There are different types of pom-poms, too! The ones most-used by cheerleaders have a hidden handle in the middle of them, but sometimes fans use long-stemmed, stringy pom-poms to wave high in the stands. 

Whether you plan to be the cheerleader or chant along with them, you can be a super fan with a pom-pom in-hand!