Hellcats is a new CW show that debuts tonight and is set in the world of cheerleading.

But, no offense to those who partake in this activity, Aly Michalka says the series is "not about cheerleaders looking sexy and shaking pom-poms all the time." So, how would the actress describe the light-hearted drama?

"It's about the competitive aspect, how dangerous it is and the fact that these girls are counting on each other to bring it when they're out there on the field," she told TV Guide.

On the series premiere, Michalka's Marti loses her financial aid and is forced to try out for the cheerleading squad in order to earn a scholarship.

The character quickly discovers "this is a lot more than she bargained for and she respects that ... she knows that it's hard; it takes a lot of training and a lot of focus."

Read our exclusive interview with co-star Heather Hemmons NOW and then return to TV Fanatic after the Hellcats pilot airs for a thorough recap and review!

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.