Cheerleading has undergone dramatic changes in the past decade. For the first time, those who have traditionally cheered on and supported athletes are themselves being considered athletes. Performing increasingly rigorous stunts, cheerleaders must now meet higher qualifications and follow stricter safety precautions. With more than 700 all-new photographs, this handbook offers the latest information and instruction on: Qualifications, Conditioning, Tryouts, Cheers, Chants, Jumps, Gymnastics, Double Stunts, Pyramids, Pompom Routines, Leadership, Fund-raising Ideas, Pep Rally and Spirit Ideas. With a detailed history of cheerleading and the role of cheerleaders in school life, and a discussion of the basic principles for understanding sports, The Official Cheerleader's Handbook is a book worth shouting about.