Double Dutch as a competitive sport

March 22, 2007 (WLS) -- Double Dutch is not only popular on the playground, but also as a competitive sport.

Originally from Holland, Double Dutch uses two ropes and any number of jumpers. The Pink Panthers, a Double Dutch team based in Markham, was founded by Joyce Dickerson.

"All of the jumpers must maintain a 2.5 grade point average. They must not be on any disciplinary action in school or at home," said Dickerson.

The team began in 2004 with just four members. Today 60 youngsters are involved in the activities of the Pink Panthers.

"Everybody does cheerleading. Everybody does basket ball. It's a unique sport. Nobody knows about, so to be able to do it is fun," said Sharica Childs, team member.

Every jumper on the team is a girl -- with one exception. Terrence Jackson is the only boy and it doesn't bother him.

"No it's a lot of girls. Some people think it's an all girl sport, but when you go to competition you see plenty of boys," said Jackson.

In the past two years, the Pink Panthers have been placed within the top five Double Dutch teams in the world. The category includes teams from Japan, China and Germany.

"I've been on the team since 7th grade. It's nice going to new places like we've been to Florida, North Carolina and I like traveling a lot. So I like that I like doing shows and I like competition," said Tiffany Dickerson, team member.

In July the team will travel to Knoxville, Tennessee for world championship competition.

"This has just been a wonderful experience that I'm glad I had an opportunity to be a part of," said Dickerson.

For more information, visit pinkpanthersdoubledutch.com

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