WEEK 8

The main theme that I see that is present in my research is that I am emphasizing the intensity of Ball State cheerleading. Most of my research consists of sources that cover the physical fitness that is needed for cheerleading and the recommended nutrition that you should have to remain healthy while being a part of a cheerleading squad. The other main theme that I see in my research is that I am really trying to get the point across that cheerleading really is a sport. After visiting my fieldsite, I see that this theme is strongly stringed through it. 

Eight weeks into this project, I am just as strongly a member in this subculture as I was at the beginning considering that I am a member of the cheerleading squad. However, I do feel that I notice things and see things more clearly since I was paying attention to things that I would otherwise not notice if I was not to be doing this project. The thing that has changed the most is that I have gotten to know what some of the cheerleaders thoughts on are how the program is ran and how they feel about the 'sport' in general. I feel that I now have a better grasp on what the Ball State University cheerleading program is about now that I am more deeply informed about the program.