Torrey Smith, a former NFL player, expressed strong support for including male cheerleaders in the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders 2025 squad amidst public backlash. The controversy arose following the announcement of Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn as new members. Smith emphasized his commitment to inclusion in cheerleading, sharing his experience running a youth football program in Baltimore. Despite opposition from some fans, he asserted that individuals should be free to pursue cheerleading regardless of gender. The presence of male cheerleaders is becoming more common in the NFL and collegiate cheerleading teams.
"I started a youth football program in West Baltimore a few months ago. It's been extremely time consuming and expensive! We added cheer and I was asked if I would have a problem with a boy cheering. If he wants to cheer, let him cheer."
"Although the Vikings are the latest team that far-right supporters are vowing to boycott, the idea of having male cheerleaders on a squad is hardly a new one."
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