does ice hockey have cheerleaders ?

Introduction

Cheerleaders are a common sight at many sporting events, but what about ice hockey? Do NHL teams have cheerleaders?

The answer is yes, but not in the traditional sense. Instead of pom-poms and cheers, ice girls are responsible for clearing the ice between periods and assisting with promotions.

History of ice girls in the NHL

The first ice girls team appeared in the 2000-01 season, when the Dallas Stars introduced the Dallas Stars Ice Girls. The idea quickly caught on, and by the 2003-04 season, there were 17 NHL teams with ice girls programs.

The popularity of ice girls has waxed and waned over the years. In recent years, there has been some controversy over the role of ice girls, with some people arguing that they are sexist and degrading to women.

What do ice girls do?

The primary role of ice girls is to clear the ice between periods. They also assist with promotions, such as handing out promotional items and posing for photos with fans.

In addition to their on-ice duties, ice girls are often involved in community outreach programs. They may visit schools, hospitals, or other organizations to promote the sport of hockey.

The controversy over ice girls

The role of ice girls has been the subject of some controversy in recent years. Some people argue that ice girls are sexist and that their presence at hockey games objectifies women.

Others argue that ice girls are simply part of the tradition of hockey and that they do not objectify women. They point out that ice girls are often highly skilled athletes who are proud to represent their team.

The future of ice girls in the NHL

The future of ice girls in the NHL is uncertain. In recent years, some teams have dropped their ice girls programs, while others have modified them to make them more family-friendly.

It is possible that ice girls will eventually disappear from the NHL altogether. However, it is also possible that they will continue to be a part of the sport for many years to come.

Conclusion

Ice girls are a unique part of the NHL experience. They are skilled athletes who are proud to represent their team. However, the role of ice girls has been the subject of some controversy in recent years.