Wide Spread Abuse in Competitive Cheerleading
In September 2022, attorneys representing victims filed the first of many lawsuits alleging abuse from individual coaches, gyms, and top cheer organizations such as Varsity.
The lawsuits accuse coaches of sending and soliciting nude photos to minors, supplying underaged victims with drugs and alcohol, and forcing victims to engage in sexual acts. At least fifteen victims have filed lawsuits so far, according to reporting by NPR, with hundreds more expected to come forward. 1
While the lawsuits originated in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee, abuse in cheerleading goes beyond a few individual coaches and gyms in the south. Abuse in the cheer industry is widespread. For one, the interconnectedness of the industry complicates figuring out who to hold accountable for the continued abuse. NPR's Victoria Hansen points out that Varsity-affiliated gyms pay dues to the company. Yet, the U.S. All Star Federation, which charges dues to families using Varsity gyms, handles abuse claims. However, Varsity's involvement with the Federation is no secret. So it's not surprising that the Federation has neglected to take many abuse allegations seriously because of Varsity's involvement. 1
While figuring out the inner workings of the cheerleading industry is complex, we know that Varsity and the U.S. All Star Federation ignored abuse allegations and corruption for years at the expense of the safety of the young athletes and families who paid for their services.
