Cheerleading accessories and cheerleaders pom poms
Cheerleading has evolved from simply yelling out to all male teams in the late 1800s, to include gymnastics and showmanship in the 1930’s and finally becoming a team sport of its own with cheerleading accessories and cheerleader pom poms.
The firs pom pom copyright was held by Lawrence ‘Herkie’ Herkimer, who also began the National Cheerleading Association; though, the credit usually goes to Jim Hazlewood for the first usable cheerleading pom pom.
The pom pom was one of the first cheerleading accessories developed and were first used in the 1930s. They were made of crepe paper and as the cheerleaders cheered the strands would fly everywhere. Additionally in rain or snow the colors of the crepe paper would run together making a mess.
This was simply the way it was until 1965 when the first vinyl pom pom was used. Cheerleading squads across the nation were introduced to vinyl pom poms through the International Cheerleading Foundation. These new pom poms were light weight and far easier to insert a handle into. Today the pom pom is still made with vinyl material which also makes the color possibilities endless and cheerleading squads can choose among a variety of styles. The smaller and less flashy cheerball is popular among squads and are available in any color.
The cheerball is handle-less and less expensive and are often used for practice so wear and tear is re-directed from the larger more expensive pom pom.
Finger or hand poms are cheerballs with elastic attached so that the cheerleader can attach the pom to her hand allowing dance routines to be done without easily dropping them. Rooter poms are designed for rooting at the game and are more ideal for the fan. Long pieces of vinyl are attached to the handle and because of the longer strands and being not as full they are not really meant for showmanship in a routine. Finally the traditional pom poms come in a variety of colors and styles and teams often order a set for cheering and a set for competition.
Though the pom pom is likely the most used and vital accessory next to the uniform there are other cheerleading accessories. An endless list of accessories is available in matching colors and styles for the team to wear during practices, competitions and just to support the team. Shirts, shorts, socks, shoes, jackets and bags can be ordered and customized with the team logo or name and colors presenting a full package for the cheerleading team.
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