Don't call them grannies: Japan's silver-haired cheer-dancing squad Toggle share menu Advertisement Don't call them grannies: Japan's silver-haired cheer-dancing squad Eighty-nine-year-old Fumie Takino founded Japan Pom Pom more than 25 years ago and its members now average 72 years of age. Takino (centre) and other members pose for commemorative photos. (Photo: Reuters) 05 May 2021 08:10AM (Updated: 05 May 2021 03:17PM) Share this content Bookmark Pompoms rustle and silver shoes flash as "Japan Pom Pom" practises, moving to a lively cheer dance beat. With members aged 60 to 89, they're no ordinary squad. But don't you dare call them grannies. Advertisement Advertisement "Right at the start, we weren't very happy about being called 'granny cheer dancers,'" says Fumie Takino, the bubbly, energetic 89-year-old who founded Japan Pom Pom – average age, 72 years – more than 25 years ago.