👩🦽➡️Paracheer: an inclusive sport for all in the world of cheerleading (S2.13)
- janie724
- Jul 24
- 3 min read
Episode of November 25, 2024
Cheerleading is a sport that is constantly evolving, and recently, a new division is gaining more and more attention in Quebec: Paracheer. This term covers adapted cheerleading for athletes with disabilities, whether physical, intellectual, or neuroatypical. Whether you are a parent, athlete, or coach, it is important to better understand what paracheer represents and how it fits into the larger cheerleading family.
What is paracheer? 🧐
Paracheering is, above all, inclusive cheerleading. It allows athletes with diverse abilities to participate in this exciting sport, whether recreationally or competitively. In Quebec, paracheering is often divided into two branches:
Adapted Cheer : For athletes with a physical disability, such as those in wheelchairs or with an amputee.
Specialized Cheer : For athletes with an intellectual disability or neurodiversity, such as autism.
This division allows us to offer opportunities tailored to each individual, while emphasizing competition, performance and the pride of belonging to a team.
🌎 An internationally recognized discipline
Paracheering isn't just a local initiative. Dedicated competitions exist worldwide, including the ICU (International Cheer Union) World Championships, where paracheer teams compete with pride and passion. England, the United States, and Canada are among the countries active in this discipline.
Thanks to pioneers like Rick Rogers, who himself uses a wheelchair, cheerleading has been able to structure itself with adapted rules and serious supervision. In Quebec, the Cheerleading Federation is actively working to develop this program, including training judges and coaches.
👩🦽➡️ How does paracheer work in Quebec?
In Quebec, paracheer is integrated into the regular competition categories, with adapted levels (level 1, level 2, etc.). The Federation ensures that the scoresheets and rules take into account the specificities of the athletes, while maintaining a high level of competition.
One of the great strengths of paracheer is its flexibility: it is possible to have teams composed of 100% disabled athletes , or so-called "unified" teams, where some athletes have a disability and others do not. This facilitates inclusion in clubs and allows more people to participate.
💡 Logistical and human challenges
Organizing paracheer competitions also requires certain logistics, such as ensuring wheelchair accessibility and providing quiet spaces for athletes requiring less stimulation. The Federation works closely with clubs to adjust events to create a welcoming environment.
On a human level, inclusion also involves understanding, respect, and good communication. Coaches are encouraged to ask questions, educate themselves, and adjust their vocabulary to better support athletes and their families. The key is to be open and caring, so that everyone feels they belong.
How to get involved or get started?
If you are the parent of a child with a disability who would like to participate in cheerleading, the best course of action is to contact a club near you to see if they offer a cheerleading section or if they would be willing to start one. Many clubs in Quebec are open to this opportunity, and the Federation offers technical and administrative support to help launch teams.
For coaches and clubs, online training courses are available to better understand the specific needs of parachuting athletes. You don't need to be a disability expert to get started, but a willingness to learn and adapt your coaching is essential.
💞 A growing and inspiring community
Paracheer continues to grow in Quebec and around the world. Each time a team takes to the mat, it creates a unique energy that can bring the entire room together. It's a moment of pride, emotion, and celebration of each team's diversity and talent.
With several regional competitions now incorporating cheerleading, we can expect to see more and more teams and athletes embarking on this exciting adventure. The message is clear: no matter the challenges, cheerleading is for everyone.
To learn more, don't hesitate to consult the resources offered by the Quebec Cheerleading Federation and to follow the Kick's Cheer Podcast, which highlights these great initiatives.
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