Fredonia cheerleading pronouncement creates equal rights controversy

CALEE PRINDLE
Special to The Leader

On the Fredonia Athletics Web page, students can find a complete list of the sports offered to both males and females. The link for cheerleading is placed under the category of female, despite sophomore Dan Kennedy's involvement in the team last year.

When Kennedy first came to Fredonia, he informed Head Coach Katie Pucci-Schaefer that he did not plan on cheering his freshman year. It was not until later that Kennedy changed his mind, assuming his privileges were equal among the roster.

All plans for upcoming national competitions were finalized in advance as Pucci-Schaefer registered her team under the all-girls division. Kennedy's contribution would have placed the Blue Devils cheerleading in a co-ed division, leaving Pucci-Schaefer the responsibility of cutting more girls than if they were placed in an all-girls group. Thus, the sacrifice was made and Kennedy did not participate.

"I do not think he is being denied anything here," said Athletic Director Greg Prechtl. "Perhaps it was a personal issue behind his decision not to participate this season."

Even though Kennedy is no longer an official Blue Devil cheerleader, he has still made an appearance in a variety of events so far this semester.

"Everyone on the team loves Dan," said senior cheerleader Carly Allen. "His personality brings a lot of energy to the squad. There is really nothing else to say."

Kennedy is currently waiting for the All-Star cheerleading team to start its season back up.

"Coach Pucci - Schaefer sent me to this new team last year that I am still affiliated with," said Kennedy. "I like it a lot more. So in the end, I'm pretty happy about the whole outcome of everything."

Co-ed cheerleading will continue to allow questions to be raised regarding strict labels placed on sports played by both genders.