📚 The truth about Sport-Studies (S2.28)
- janie724
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
Updated: 4 hours ago
Episode of March 31, 2025
With Danny Plante
In the world of cheerleading, many athletes dream of being part of a sports-study program. But what does that really mean? Are all programs recognized? And what distinguishes a "true" sports-study program from a concentration or a private program? The Kick's Cheer Podcast took a deep dive into the subject to help us understand more.
🤔 Sports studies or concentration: what’s the difference?
Many clubs offer what are commonly called sports-study programs. However, not all of them are officially recognized by the Quebec Ministry of Education or their sports federation. A true sports-study program is a structured program, with strict rules and official recognition. Cheerleading, to date, does not yet have this recognition. This means that the programs offered are often concentrations or local agreements with schools .
🎯 Remember : The concentration is a local initiative between a school and a club. It can offer many hours of training, but does not have the same official benefits as a recognized sport-study program.
🚧 Why is cheerleading not yet a recognized sport-study?
The path to recognition is complex. For a sport to become eligible, it must:
Be part of the Canada Games or be in the process of being integrated into the Olympic Games.
Being supervised by a solid provincial federation, which cheer in Quebec already has.
Join a development plan towards excellence.
Unfortunately, since cheer often stops at the provincial scene and the current world championships are not yet officially recognized by an international federation, there are steps missing to go further .
💡 Does that mean it's not worth it?
Not at all! Concentrations offer several advantages similar to sports studies:
10 to 15 hours of training per week, often in the afternoon.
Adapted school supervision.
A better balance between sport and studies.
Follow-up in the event of difficulties (academic or behavioral).
Athletes therefore have the opportunity to improve, flourish, and even reach a high level, without being in an officially recognized program. What really matters is the quality of the club, the school, and the coaching offered.
🔄 Can we change sport or discipline?
An athlete can change sports… but not in the middle of the year. You have to wait until the next school year, for planning, budgetary and organizational reasons. This also encourages young people to commit to the end of their season, even during periods of doubt or loss of motivation.
🤸♂️ Multisport: an important new trend
The Ministry is increasingly encouraging multisport, that is, practicing several disciplines throughout the year. Why? Because it allows young people to develop more physical, mental, and social skills. It is also a good way to avoid the mental and physical fatigue associated with practicing only one sport.
📝 In summary
Today, cheerleading does not yet have the status of an official sport-study in Quebec, but it is not behind. Clubs and schools are showing initiative by setting up quality concentrations. Athletes can continue to strive for excellence thanks to well-supervised programs. What is needed is to be well informed and choose the right school and sports partner.
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