Apparently, there are over 20,000 girls-teenagers competing in cheerleading competitions accross Australia most weeks/weekends.

And the Australian Team came 3rd in the World Championships held recently in the USA. To come 3rd in the world is a huge achievement given the money $$ that the American teams have/put into it etc. Its a massive sport in the USA. Big prize money in competitions and people can even win cars plus $ contracts like sports players to become part of a professional team.  Every sports team has a cheer leading squad at school, college and professional levels. Elite cheerleaders earn big money etc. 

It is one of the fastest growing sports for teenagers in Australia apparently. Its huge in QLD and most other states have alot of cheer academys.
If it keeps kids out of trouble and fit/healthy, its a great idea. My 2 x 12 year old girls are part of a Gold Coast squad and just won in the State finals.
The uniforms are amazing. They have many different styles and types they all wear for different routines. Anyway, keeps the kids busy.