Who Invented Cheerleading?

Cheerleading began with Johnny Campbell, who led the first organized cheer at a University of Minnesota football game in November 1898.

The timeline follows the sport as women joined the squads in the 1920s, the founding of the National Cheerleaders Association in 1948, the first NFL squads and the competitive era of the 1970s and 1980s. Facts and a FAQ answer when and where cheerleading started.

For an in-depth exploration of cheerleading’s fascinating history, be sure to check out our comprehensive Cheerleading History article!

Cheerleading Invention Timeline

• 1898: Johnny Campbell leads first organized cheer, marking the birth of cheerleading.
• 1920s: Women join cheerleading squads; focus on gymnastics and dance emerges.
• 1948: Lawrence “Herkie” Herkimer founds National Cheerleaders Association (NCA).
• 1960s: Professional cheerleading teams forming in National Football League (NFL).
• 1970s – 1980s: Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) and American Cheerleading Association (ACA) establish competitive cheerleading.
• 1990s: International growth of cheerleading; emergence of all-star cheerleading teams.
• 2000s – 2010s: Increased exposure through ESPN broadcasts; International Cheer Union (ICU) joins International Olympic Committee.

Facts known about Cheerleading Invention

1. College Beginnings: Cheerleading started at the University of Minnesota to support college sports teams.
2. Johnny Campbell: The first organized cheer was led by student Johnny Campbell in 1898.
3. Women’s Involvement: Cheerleading squads integrated women in the 1920s, transforming the sport’s dynamics.
4. Herkie’s Contributions: Lawrence Herkimer founded the NCA, standardized cheerleading, and invented popular cheer essentials.
5. Global Recognition: Cheerleading spread internationally, with numerous countries adopting the sport in schools and competitive leagues.

FAQ