The International Cheer Union (ICU) is the international governing body for world cheerleading. Founded in 2004, ICU currently encompasses 103 member National Federations / 3.5 million athletes on all continents, hosts World Championships consistently welcoming over 70 nations, and continues to grow as a unified voice for all those who are dedicated to the positive advancement of cheerleading throughout the world.
Fully applied to both SportAccord, and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), ICU has received the SportAccord's 2013 positive recommend for SportAccord membership. The ICU is also WADA Code complaint.
Many individuals and organizations from a large number of countries have contributed to the principles and ideals embodied in the International Cheer Union. The ICU is structured to provide balanced input and governance based on the various stages of development in which cheerleading finds itself across the globe. It serves as a powerful advocate for those who are truly dedicated to the advancement of cheerleading, and especially for the young athletes who participate, and with this mission- has trained athletes, coaches and judges in over 85 nations to date.
The ICU is a non-profit international governing entity, and it has been properly and legally registered as such. Its mission and purpose are strictly to advance the sport. No corporations or individuals will benefit financially from it. ICU’s statutes are approved by SportAccord, adopted by the ICU General Assembly, and ICU is a fully democratic International Sports Federation.
A Governing Council of the ICU represents the various geographic areas where cheerleading exists. Individuals who represent specific countries and who have experience in our sport are eligible for positions on the Council, as well as to be considered for assignment to various committees that are currently being formed.
The ICU continues to accept membership applications from National Cheer Federations (also known as National Governing Bodies for Sport Cheer) from all countries around the World. Countries that do not have an established National Cheer Federation, the ICU may provide general recommendations and assist with the process as much as possible. However, each nation generally has some of its own specific requirements to be officially recognized.
The ICU appreciates very much the contributions all international organizations and federations have made to the development of cheerleading in their countries. The ICU works closely with them all on this exciting endeavor.