Author Archives: Steve Pawlyk

Coaching, Featured, Finance/Money, News

Lake Zurich Cheer Coach Theft Case

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Lake Zurich Cheer Coach Theft Case
20
Mar

By Steve Pawlyk

Published March 20, 2025

In March 2025, two former Lake Zurich High School cheerleading coaches – head coach Kaylin Dietrich and assistant coach Gabriele N. Kelly – were charged with felony theft and money laundering after an investigation found they diverted approximately $38,000 of school funds for personal use.

Both coaches had been involved in the school’s cheer program prior to these charges. Lets take a look at each coach’s background, achievements, reputation before this incident, and how you can ensure nothing like this occurs in your program.

Kaylin Dietrich Cheer Coach Fraud

Kaylin Dietrich

  • Coaching History: Kaylin Dietrich served as the head cheerleading coach at Lake Zurich High School from 2020 until her departure in 2025
  • She brought extensive cheer experience to the role: Dietrich cheered in college at Southeastern Louisiana University and even competed at the UCA College Nationals during her collegiate years
  • After college, she worked for Varsity’s Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA), where she was the Illinois/Wisconsin State Director in 2019–2020 
  • In October 2020, Lake Zurich High introduced Dietrich as the new head coach, praising her “wealth of knowledge, experience and passion” for cheerleading
  • Accolades and Achievements: Under Dietrich’s leadership, the Lake Zurich cheer team remained a strong competitor in Illinois. The squad consistently qualified for the IHSA state cheerleading finals (Large Team division) during her tenure

  • For example, Lake Zurich’s cheer team reached the state final competition in 2021, 2022, and 2023 with Dietrich as head coach

  • While they did not capture a state title in those years, the program’s regular state qualification and past success (Lake Zurich was the 2011 IHSA State Champion and a multi-time sectional champion) highlighted the team’s competitiveness. Dietrich’s arrival was met with optimism that her expertise would continue this tradition of excellence

  • Prior Allegations or Legal Issues: There are no known prior misconduct allegations or legal issues involving Dietrich before the 2025 case. Reports of the theft investigation did not reference any earlier incidents, suggesting this was the first time she faced such accusations. Authorities focused on the 2025 financial case, and nothing in the public record indicates Dietrich had any past disciplinary problems or criminal history before this incident.

  • Reputation: In the cheerleading community, Dietrich was generally well-regarded prior to the scandal. Her background with college cheer and UCA gave her credibility as a knowledgeable coach. Locally, she was seen as an enthusiastic leader for the Lake Zurich program – the school’s athletic department openly welcomed her expertise in 2020

  • Fellow coaches and cheer participants knew her as someone with a strong skill set and passion for the sport. Prior to the financial misconduct case, her reputation in Lake Zurich was that of a dedicated and accomplished cheer coach, with no hint of the troubles to come.

Gabriele N. Kelly

  • Coaching History: Gabriele “Gabby” N. Kelly (26) was an assistant coach with the Lake Zurich High School cheer program leading up to the 2025 incident
  • Unlike Dietrich, Kelly was not a full-time employee of Lake Zurich High outside of coaching. She worked as an English teacher at Grayslake Central High School while coaching cheer at Lake Zurich on the side 
  • A Grayslake Central student newspaper in October 2023 identified Kelly as a teacher of English II and III who also served as a cheerleading coach at Lake Zurich High School
  • Kelly is a resident of Algonquin, Illinois, and joined the Lake Zurich cheer staff sometime before or during the 2023–24 school year
  • Accolades and Achievements: Kelly’s individual accolades in cheerleading are not widely documented. As a relatively new coach, her contributions were primarily as part of the Lake Zurich coaching staff rather than as a head coach. During the 2023–24 season, while she was assisting Dietrich, the Lake Zurich team maintained its competitive standing – including qualifying for the state finals along with other top teams in their division
  • However, no specific awards or recognitions are attributed to Kelly personally in the cheer community prior to the misconduct case. Her role was supportive in nature, helping the head coach and athletes, so any team successes (such as competition placements) were shared as part of the program.
Gabriele N Kelly Cheer Coach Fraud
  • Prior Allegations or Legal Issues: There are no reports of any prior allegations or legal issues involving Gabriele Kelly before this incident. She was an early-career teacher and coach with no known history of misconduct until the 2025 theft and money laundering charges surfaced. Neither school officials nor news sources have indicated any previous problems in her record. Kelly’s criminal charges in March 2025 – two counts of theft and two counts of money laundering – appear to be an isolated development, without any earlier similar accusations
  • Reputation: Prior to the financial scandal, Kelly did not have a particularly high-profile reputation in the cheerleading world. She was essentially known as a young educator and assistant coach in the local area. Colleagues and students likely saw her as a normal member of the faculty and coaching staff, and there was no public controversy attached to her name before 2025. In the Lake Zurich cheer community, her presence was overshadowed by the head coach’s leadership; she was a supporter and mentor for the team rather than a prominent figure. By all accounts, Kelly’s reputation was clean and unremarkable (in a positive way) prior to this case – there were no suspicions or negative reports about her until the allegations of financial misconduct emerged.
Lake Zurich

Financial misconduct within educational athletic programs (or all-star programs) not only undermines the integrity of the institutions but also adversely affects the students and communities they serve.

This type of misconduct is especially troubling because it can be perpetrated by coaches who, on the surface, appear professional, dedicated, and highly reputable. Individuals entrusted with leading and guiding young athletes might exploit their respected status, leveraging the trust of their community to mask unethical behavior.

The case involving former Lake Zurich High School coaches Gabriele N. Kelly and Kaylin Dietrich highlights that even seemingly trustworthy individuals are capable of stealing from their programs. Therefore, constant vigilance and proactive measures are essential to safeguard against financial wrongdoing and protect the program’s reputation and resources.

To prevent stuff like this happening in your program, consider implementing the following measures:

  1. Implement Comprehensive Financial Policies
    Establish clear financial protocols detailing procedures for handling funds, including budgeting, expenditures, and reimbursements. These policies should be documented and accessible to all relevant personnel.
    – Establish clear budgeting guidelines, specifying approval processes and limitations.
    – Define and document reimbursement procedures clearly, requiring itemized receipts and detailed explanations for expenses.
    – Create protocols for cash handling, bank deposits, and payment processes.
    – Ensure that financial policies are easily accessible and reviewed regularly with all staff involved.
  2. Conduct Regular Audits
    Schedule periodic internal and external audits to review financial records. Regular audits can identify discrepancies early and deter potential misconduct.
    – Schedule quarterly internal audits conducted by personnel separate from those handling financial transactions.
    – Arrange annual external audits by certified accounting professionals.
    – Investigate promptly any anomalies or inconsistencies uncovered during audits.
    – Publicly document audit findings to promote transparency.
  3. Segregate Financial Duties
    Divide financial responsibilities among multiple individuals to reduce the risk of misappropriation. For example, the person authorizing expenses should not be the same individual managing the accounts.
    – Assign distinct individuals to handle tasks such as expense authorization, bookkeeping, and financial reporting.
    – Avoid overlap of responsibilities, ensuring no single person controls all financial activities.
    – Rotate financial responsibilities periodically among qualified personnel to avoid familiarity leading to potential abuses.
  4. Provide Financial Training
    Offer training sessions for coaches and staff on ethical financial practices and the importance of adhering to established protocols. Educated staff are more likely to recognize and avoid unethical behaviors.
    – Conduct regular workshops and training sessions focused on ethical financial management.
    – Train coaches and staff on recognizing and reporting unethical behaviors or financial misconduct.
    – Offer resources and educational materials that highlight best practices and potential risks.
  5. Establish a Whistleblower Policy
    Create a safe and anonymous reporting system for staff, students, and parents to report suspected financial misconduct without fear of retaliation. This encourages transparency and accountability.
    – Implement an anonymous and secure reporting system for staff, students, and parents.
    – Clearly communicate the process for reporting concerns and guarantee protection from retaliation.
    – Regularly reinforce the importance of reporting unethical behavior through meetings or communications.
  6. Perform Background Checks
    Conduct thorough background checks on all coaching staff and volunteers to identify any past financial misconduct. This proactive step can prevent individuals with a history of unethical behavior from handling program funds.
    – Conduct thorough criminal and financial background checks on all coaching staff and volunteers.
    – Update checks regularly to ensure continued suitability and trustworthiness of personnel.
    – Follow up immediately on any flagged concerns identified through these checks.
  7. Foster a Culture of Accountability
    Promote an environment where ethical behavior is expected and valued. Encourage open discussions about financial integrity and make it clear that misconduct will not be tolerated.
    – Encourage open and honest conversations about ethical behavior and financial integrity.
    – Clearly outline expectations regarding ethical behavior, emphasizing zero tolerance for misconduct.
    – Publicly commend and recognize staff members demonstrating exemplary financial transparency and integrity.

By implementing these measures, cheerleading programs can safeguard their financial resources, maintain trust within the community, and ensure that funds are used to enhance the athletes’ experiences and development.

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Australia, Coaching, Featured

The Gold Coast Steps Up

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
adaptive cheerleading Gold Coast
12
Mar

By Steve Pawlyk

Published March 12, 2025

Cheer has long been celebrated for its dynamic energy, teamwork, and athleticism. Recently, the sport has taken significant strides toward inclusivity by integrating adaptive abilities, ensuring that athletes of all backgrounds and capabilities can participate & shine. This is a movement that really enriches the cheer community. And Australia has really stepped up in this regard.

Understanding Adaptive Abilities in Cheerleading

Adaptive abilities in cheerleading refer to modifications and accommodations made to include athletes with physical, intellectual, or sensory impairments. This inclusivity ensures that cheerleading is accessible to a broader range of participants, allowing everyone to experience the joy and camaraderie the sport offers.

inclusive cheer teams

Global Initiatives and Milestones

Several countries have pioneered the integration of adaptive abilities in cheerleading:

  • Australia: In 2011, Australian event producers introduced the CheerABILITY division, providing inclusive opportunities for athletes of all abilities. This division offers two main structures:
  • Notably, athletes like Zoe Chattin and Madison Allen from the Gold Coast are set to compete in Australia’s first adaptive abilities cheerleading teams at the 2025 World Cheerleading Championships in Orlando. Their participation underscores the nation’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity in the sport.
  • United Kingdom: The International Cheer Union (ICU) introduced a division for physically disabled athletes in 2016, following collaboration with English athlete Rick Rodgers and ParaCheer International. Team England’s Adaptive Abilities team performed a showcase at the ICU World Championships in 2016 and won the first gold medal in ParaCheer in 2017, marking a significant milestone in adaptive cheerleading.

Benefits of Integrating Adaptive Abilities

The inclusion of adaptive abilities in cheerleading brings numerous advantages:

  • Empowerment: Athletes with disabilities gain confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
  • Skill Development: Participants enhance their physical abilities, coordination, and teamwork skills.
  • Community Building: Fosters a sense of belonging and mutual respect among all athletes.

Implementing Adaptive Cheerleading Programs

For coaches and organizations aiming to develop adaptive cheerleading programs, consider the following steps:

  1. Education and Training: Provide specialized training for coaches to understand the unique needs of adaptive athletes.
  2. Collaboration: Work with healthcare professionals, therapists, and adaptive sports organizations to design appropriate training regimens.
  3. Customized Equipment: Utilize adaptive equipment to accommodate various physical needs.
  4. Flexible Routines: Design routines that highlight the strengths of all team members, ensuring safety and inclusivity.
  5. Community Engagement: Promote awareness and support within the community to foster an inclusive environment.

Challenges and Considerations

While the integration of adaptive abilities in cheerleading is rewarding, it comes with challenges:

  • Resource Allocation: Securing funding for specialized equipment and training can be challenging.
  • Awareness: Overcoming societal misconceptions about the capabilities of athletes with disabilities requires ongoing education.
  • Safety: Ensuring the safety of all participants necessitates meticulous planning and adherence to guidelines.
special needs cheer teams

Forget all the ‘inclusivity’ bla-bla auto-speak; embracing adaptive abilities in cheer is awesome. By integrating kids of all abilities, cheer not only broadens its reach but also enriches the experiences of literally everybody.

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Events, Featured, Safety, Tips

Lessons from the NCA Dallas Incident

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Lessons from the NCA Dallas Fighting Shooting Incident
07
Mar

By Steve Pawlyk

Published March 7, 2025

In light of the recent incident at the National Cheerleading Association (NCA) All-Star National Championship in Dallas, where a false alarm led to mass panic and injuries among attendees, it’s imperative for cheerleading coaches and event organizers to re-evaluate and enhance security protocols. Competitive cheerleading events bring together thousands of athletes, coaches, and spectators, making safety and emergency preparedness a top priority.

Let’s break down the Dallas incident, explores why it happened, and outlines seven key strategies to improve safety at cheer events.

The NCA Dallas Incident: What Happened?

On March 2, 2025, chaos erupted at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, when a false report of an active shooter at the venue triggered mass panic during one of the biggest cheerleading competitions in the country.

kay bailey hutchison convention center nca cheerleader fight

How It Unfolded:

  • Around 9:00 PM, a loud noise, believed to be the sound of someone dropping a heavy object or slamming a door, echoed through the venue.
  • Rumors spread like wildfire among the crowd, with some mistaking the noise for gunshots.
  • Panic quickly escalated, causing a stampede as spectators and athletes rushed to escape.
  • Hundreds of people ran towards exits, many falling and getting trampled in the chaos.
  • Multiple injuries were reported, with victims suffering from broken bones, cuts, bruises, and panic attacks.
  • Law enforcement arrived on-site and confirmed there was no actual shooter, but the damage was already done.

Why Did This Happen?

  • Lack of Clear Communication – There was no official announcement or venue-wide alert system to clarify the situation immediately.
  • Crowd Psychology and Fear Response – In large gatherings, fear can spread rapidly, leading to mass hysteria.
  • No Pre-Planned Safety Protocols for False Alarms – Event staff and security were not trained to handle a situation where fear spread due to misinformation.
  • Inadequate Exit Management – The layout of the convention center led to bottlenecks, increasing the risk of injuries during the rush to escape.

The Aftermath

Following the incident, many attendees criticized the lack of emergency preparedness. Some parents and coaches called for stricter security measures, while others questioned why there were no clear protocols for handling mass panic situations. The incident highlighted the urgent need for better safety planning at cheerleading competitions.

7 Key Strategies to Improve Safety at Cheer Events

The Dallas scare exposed vulnerabilities in how major cheerleading events handle security. Here’s how event organizers and coaches can prevent similar incidents in the future.

1. Implement Comprehensive Emergency Action Plans (EAPs)

A well-structured Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is crucial for managing crises effectively.

  • Develop Detailed EAPs: Outline procedures for evacuations, medical emergencies, false alarms, and security threats.
  • Assign Clear Roles: Make sure staff, volunteers, and coaches know who is responsible for what during an emergency.
  • Regularly Review and Update Plans: Safety plans should be reviewed annually and adjusted based on recent incidents.

2. Enhance Security Measures at Venues

To prevent mass panic and security threats, cheer event organizers should consider upgrading security at these events.

  • Increase Visible Security Presence: Have uniformed officers and security teams stationed at key areas.
  • Use Metal Detectors and Bag Checks: Screen attendees at entrances to prevent weapons or hazardous items from entering.
  • Limit Access to Competition Areas: Ensure only authorized personnel have access to backstage and performance areas.

3. Conduct Regular Emergency Drills

Practicing emergency response drills ensures that staff, coaches, and athletes are prepared for unexpected situations.

  • Schedule Routine Evacuation Drills: Rehearse orderly evacuations at practice facilities and before competitions.
  • Simulate Various Scenarios: Include drills for medical emergencies, security threats, and false alarms.
  • Debrief and Improve: After each drill, analyze performance and refine response strategies.

4. Improve Communication During Emergencies

Lack of clear communication was a major problem in the Dallas incident. Having real-time updates can prevent chaos.

  • Implement an Alert System: Use venue-wide PA systems, text alerts, or push notifications to inform attendees immediately.
  • Designate a Crisis Communication Team: Assign specific staff members to relay verified information.
  • Coordinate with Law Enforcement: Have direct lines of communication between event organizers, security, and police.

5. Educate Athletes, Coaches, and Spectators on Safety Protocols

  • Pre-Event Safety Briefings: Inform teams and attendees about emergency exits, safe areas, and evacuation procedures.
  • Safety Posters and Announcements: Post clear safety instructions throughout the venue.
  • Encourage Situational Awareness: Teach athletes and coaches to stay calm, verify information, and follow official instructions.
nca all star national championship

6. Work with Professional Security Consultants

Consulting with security experts can help identify vulnerabilities and develop stronger safety plans.

  • Conduct Security Risk Assessments: Evaluate potential threats and weaknesses at each venue.
  • Develop Venue-Specific Security Plans: Create customized safety protocols based on event size and location.
  • Train Staff in Emergency Response: Ensure event staff, volunteers, and coaches are trained in handling security threats.

7. Improve Medical Preparedness at Events

Medical response teams should be on-site and ready to handle injuries.

  • Have On-Site Medical Personnel: Station EMTs and first responders at high-traffic areas.
  • Stock Emergency Medical Supplies: Ensure first aid kits, defibrillators (AEDs), and stretchers are easily accessible.
  • Develop Hospital Transport Protocols: Establish fast-track routes for ambulances in case of serious injuries.

Alcohol Use at Cheer Competitions: What’s Happening?

In recent years, incidents of cheerleaders consuming alcohol between performances have surfaced, raising concerns from coaches, parents, and event organizers. The issue is particularly alarming because of the sport’s physically demanding nature, the presence of minors, and the potential safety risks involved in stunting, tumbling, and performing under the influence.

nca dallas incident

How It Unfolds:

  • Some athletes bring alcohol into competition venues, either concealed in personal bottles or by using outside food and drink containers.
  • Cheerleaders who are of legal drinking age may consume alcohol between performances, believing it “relaxes” nerves or enhances team bonding.
  • In some cases, underage drinking occurs, with athletes gaining access to alcohol through older teammates or attendees.
  • Alcohol consumption before or between performances impairs balance, coordination, reaction time, and cognitive function, significantly increasing the risk of injuries.
  • The lack of strict enforcement of alcohol policies at certain competitions allows drinking to continue unchecked.

Why Does This Happen?

  • High-Pressure Environment – Cheerleading competitions are intense, and some athletes may turn to alcohol to calm nerves before performances.
  • Lack of Strict Venue Regulations – Some events have inadequate checks on bags and personal items, allowing alcohol to be smuggled in.
  • Cultural Normalization – At some competitions, there is an “afterparty” mentality, where alcohol use is seen as part of the experience.
  • Poor Supervision – Some teams lack direct oversight from coaches or responsible adults at all times.
  • Lack of Awareness of Consequences – Many athletes do not realize the dangers of consuming alcohol while performing high-risk stunts.

Creating a Safer Future for Cheerleading Events

The false alarm at NCA Dallas was a wake-up call for the cheerleading community. Coaches, event organizers, and venue staff must work together to ensure that athletes, spectators, and staff feel safe and protected.

By implementing stronger security measures, improving emergency communication, and training teams on safety protocols, we can prevent mass panic and injuries at future events.

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Coaching, Featured, Tips

Coach’s Guide to Daytona: Preparing for the 2025 NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Coachs Guide to Daytona Preparing for the 2025 NCA NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship
25
Feb

By Steve Pawlyk

Published February 25, 2025

Preparing for the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship in Daytona Beach is a monumental task that requires strategic planning, rigorous training, and meticulous attention to detail. As a coach, your role is pivotal in guiding your team to success. Below are comprehensive strategies and insights to help you and your athletes excel at this prestigious event.

Understand the Championship Structure and Schedule

If you want your team to feel confident and prepared, now’s the time to get familiar with every detail of the competition setup. The more you know about the event’s layout, schedule, and performance logistics, the better you can plan ahead and avoid last-minute surprises.

preparing for NCA NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship

1. Competition Venues
This event takes over multiple locations in Daytona, and each performance space has its own vibe, challenges, and logistical factors to consider. Here’s what you need to know about the two major venues:

  • 🏟 The Ocean Center (Indoor Venue)
    This is where Prelims and Finals for many divisions take place. It’s a fully enclosed arena, so lighting, acoustics, and crowd noise will feel different from an outdoor setting.
    The mat placement and spectator seating layout can impact how your routine is perceived, so try to review past performances in this space to see what works best.
    Expect strong air-conditioning—something to consider for warm-ups if your athletes are used to practicing in a warmer gym.
  • 🌊 The Daytona Beach Bandshell (Outdoor Venue)
    This is one of the most iconic performance stages in cheerleading, where top teams compete with the ocean as their backdrop.
    Weather plays a role here—humidity, wind, and bright sunlight can all impact your routine. Be prepared for adjustments!
    The sound carries differently outdoors, so your team should practice projecting their voices and energy more than they would in an enclosed space.
  • 💡 Pro Tip: If your team is competing in multiple locations, plan for extra transition time between venues. The walk from the Ocean Center to the Bandshell isn’t far, but moving a large group through the crowds can take longer than expected.

2. Stay on Top of the Event Schedule

  • Knowing when and where your team performs is just as important as perfecting the routine. Here’s what to do:
  • 📅 Check the Preliminary and Final Performance Orders Early
    The official schedule and performance order are usually released closer to the event date. Keep checking the NCA & NDA website (Varsity.com) and your coach’s email for updates.
  • Double-check call times and warm-up slots so you can create a competition-day timeline that keeps your team on track.
  • ⏳ Build in Extra Time for Everything
    Between staging areas, warm-up zones, and travel time, things always take longer than expected.
    Account for extra minutes when moving between practice areas and performance spaces to avoid rushing or missing a crucial warm-up moment.
  • 📢 Know the Awards Schedule
    Awards ceremonies can feel chaotic if you don’t know where to go and when.
    If your team is competing in multiple divisions, make sure you know which award announcements they need to be present for so nobody misses their moment on stage.

3. Monitor Official Updates

  • 🏆 Follow the NCA & NDA Website & Socials
  • Schedules can change, and last-minute updates about weather, venue shifts, or rule clarifications might be posted online.
  • Follow Varsity and NCA & NDA on social media for real-time updates—especially if you’re competing at the Bandshell where weather can be unpredictable.
  • 📱 Set Up a Team Communication System
  •  Use a group chat or app like BAND or GroupMe to instantly relay any changes to your team, parents, and staff.
  • If your schedule changes, make sure everyone knows where to be and when—especially for warm-ups and performance times.

2. Make Small Tweaks to Maximize Crowd Engagement

Daytona is coming up fast, there’s no time for massive overhauls—but small, strategic changes can make a huge difference in how the crowd reacts to your routine. Here are some last-minute adjustments that can take your performance from great to unforgettable:

1. Play to the Crowd—Literally

  • Find moments in your routine where your team can make eye contact, point, or interact with the audience. Even a well-placed smirk, wink, or fist pump can make the crowd feel like they’re part of the performance.
  • If you’ve got a signature chant, dial it up—encourage teammates on the sidelines to echo key words, making it feel bigger and more powerful.

2. Add a Quick Hit of Showmanship

  • Fight song-style moments—where the whole team claps or motions together—can amplify energy without changing choreography.
  • If your routine has a quick pause, try adding a synchronized head snap, chest pop, or pose to emphasize the moment and give the audience a second to react.
  • Use facials intentionally—a well-timed “WOW” face after a big trick makes it look even more impressive.

3. Adjust Your Formation for Maximum Impact

  • If your pyramid or dance section looks a little flat, consider tightening the spacing slightly so the effect reads bigger from the audience’s perspective.
  • Keep front-facing athletes aware of where the cameras are so your routine translates well for livestream and judges’ views.
cheerleading competition preparation

4. Pump Up the Sideline Energy

  • Even when they’re not performing, your non-competing athletes should stay animated, clap, and react to big moments. This keeps the energy up and helps influence the crowd to get involved.
  • Assign a few teammates to lead claps, call out hype words, or react to big stunts to keep the momentum building.

5. Test a Crowd Cue

  • If you have a moment in your routine where the crowd could shout something back, start practicing it now! Even a simple “LET’S GO!” or “HEY!” at the right time can turn the crowd into part of the show.
  • Have the team practice performing with full-out energy, imagining the crowd roaring behind them. The more confident they are in getting a response, the better it will land.

6. Fine-Tune Your Music Timing

  • Double-check that key beats in your music align with power moves, transitions, and final poses to get maximum audience reaction.
  • If there’s a hype section, make sure athletes emphasize their movements there—even an extra arm snap or high-energy bounce can make a difference.

It’s About the Feeling

At this stage, it’s not about perfecting every single motion—it’s about maximizing connection with the crowd and judges. The more engaged and excited your team is, the more the audience will feed off their energy. Make small tweaks like these, and you’ll turn heads 🔥🏆

top college cheer teams 2025

3. Scout and Learn from Top Competitors

Looking back at previous NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championships can really help you understand the competition and see the high standards top teams set. By studying what these programs have achieved, you can find inspiration and set benchmarks for your own team’s preparation.

Notable Champions from Recent Years:

  • University of Louisville All-Girl Cheer Squad: Demonstrating consistent excellence, the University of Louisville’s All-Girl Cheer Squad secured their tenth consecutive national championship in 2024, edging out competitors by a margin of just over 0.02 points. Go Cards
  • Weber State University: In 2023, Weber State University clinched the Large Coed Grand National Championship with an impressive score of 98.0833, showcasing their superior skills and synchronization.
    Cheer Updates
  • Brigham Young University (BYU) Cougarettes: BYU’s dance team, known as the Cougarettes, has a storied history of success, amassing 26 national championships as of 2024. Their dominance spans multiple categories, including Jazz and Hip Hop divisions.
    Wikipedia
  • Navarro College: Under the guidance of coach Monica Aldama, Navarro College’s cheerleading team has achieved remarkable success, securing 16 NCA National Championships in the Advanced Large Coed division since 2000.
    Wikipedia
  • Davenport University: Davenport’s cheerleading program has demonstrated consistent excellence, winning multiple NCA National Championships across various divisions, including titles in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017.
    Wikipedia

4. Plan Logistically for a Smooth Experience

The last thing you want is avoidable stress throwing off your team’s rhythm. A little extra planning on the logistics side can keep everyone calm, focused, and ready to perform at their best. Here’s how to tighten things up in the final stretch.

1. Lock in Your Travel Game Plan

You probably already have flights, buses, or carpool plans set in stone, but now’s the time to double-check everything:
✔ Confirm departure times and ensure everyone knows when and where to meet. If you’re flying, remind the team about baggage policies (nobody wants to be THAT person holding up security).
✔ Have a backup plan—delays happen, so make sure you have a cushion in your schedule, especially if you’re flying into Orlando and driving to Daytona.
✔ Keep the team fueled and hydrated—if you have long travel days, pack easy-to-eat snacks (protein bars, fruit, and electrolyte drinks are lifesavers).

2. Make Sure Your Hotel Setup Works for Your Team

Your hotel is more than just a place to sleep—it’s your team’s home base for the competition, so a few small tweaks can make the experience smoother:
🏨 Room Assignments Matter—Pair athletes strategically so they actually get some rest (avoid the “up-till-3 AM giggling” combo).
🏨 Stock Up on Essentials—Plan a quick grocery run for bottled water, light snacks, and whatever small things keep your team comfortable.
🏨 Transportation to the Venue—If you’re not within walking distance, figure out the best way to get to the competition site ahead of time. Delays from waiting on Ubers or traffic can throw off your timeline.

3. Plan Out Your Practice & Warm-Up Time in Daytona

The competition floor feels totally different from your home gym, so the more familiar your team gets with it, the better they’ll perform. Here’s how to maximize your practice time:
📅 Know your assigned practice slot—Check and re-check the schedule so you don’t miss your chance to run full-outs before hitting the mat.
📅 Scout nearby practice spaces—Not all teams will get as much official warm-up time as they’d like, so some coaches arrange for off-site practices at local gyms, hotel ballrooms, or even open spaces on the beach.
📅 Simulate the performance environment—Have your team practice with full-out energy, facials, and crowd engagement just like they’ll need to on competition day.

4. Keep the Team Organized & Stress-Free

The more structure and predictability you provide, the less stress your athletes will feel:
✅ Create a daily itinerary—Lay out everything from wake-up times to practice sessions to meal breaks, so nobody has to guess what’s next.
✅ Pack smart—Encourage athletes to do a “full-dress rehearsal” at home so they don’t forget anything (nothing worse than realizing you left your cheer shoes behind).
✅ Assign roles—Designate someone to handle last-minute runs for forgotten items and another person to keep everyone on schedule during competition day.

5. Encourage Community and Family Involvement

Building a support network enhances the experience:

  • Communication: Keep families informed about schedules, expectations, and ways they can support the team.
  • Appreciation Events: Host gatherings to thank supporters and build a sense of community around your program.

By implementing these strategies, you can lead your team to a successful and enriching experience at the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship. Remember, thorough preparation, adaptability, and a positive mindset are key components of competitive excellence.

cheer coach tips NCA 2025 Daytona

By examining the routines, training methods, and performance strategies of top programs, you can gain valuable insights. Incorporating innovative choreography, rigorous conditioning, and fostering team unity can elevate your team’s performance. Understanding the judging criteria and tailoring successful techniques to your team’s strengths can also give you a competitive edge. Learning from these successful programs allows you to refine your coaching strategies and better prepare your team for the challenges of the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship.

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Coaching, Info, News, Spain, Tips

Las Mejores Competencias de Cheerleading en España: Una Guía para Equipos y Entrenadores

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Las Mejores Competencias de Cheerleading en Espana Una Guia para Equipos y Entrenadores
07
Feb

By Steve Pawlyk

Published February 7, 2025

¡Hola, entrenadores y entrenadoras! Si estáis metidos en el mundo del cheerleading en España, sabéis que este deporte se está poniendo cada vez más en la mira. Desde los entrenamientos intensos hasta esos momentos mágicos en el escenario, cada competición es una experiencia única. Hoy vamos a hablar de los mejores concursos de animadoras de España, compartiendo algunas cosas que sólo los que vivimos esta vida entenderemos. ¡Vamos a ello!

guia cheerleadingentrenadores cheerleading

1. Evolución del cheerleading en España

En España, el cheerleading ha pasado de ser una curiosidad importada a contar con equipos consolidados y con una estructura de competiciones cada vez más sólida. Aunque sigue siendo un deporte en crecimiento, cada vez hay más entrenadores formados, gimnasios especializados y eventos anuales que atraen a equipos nacionales e internacionales.

Equipos españoles más destacados

  • Barcelona Cheer: Son pioneros en la región catalana. Han logrado varios podios en competiciones locales y han participado en torneos internacionales representando a España.
  • Madrid Flyers: Con sede en la capital, este equipo ha destacado por su alto nivel de stunts y rutinas dinámicas, logrando posicionarse bien en campeonatos a nivel nacional.
  • Tenerife Storm Cheer: Representan a las Islas Canarias y se han dado a conocer por su originalidad coreográfica. Han conseguido varios premios en los últimos años.
  • Vipers Cheerleading Sevilla: Famosos por su energía en los saltos y la coordinación de grupo, han participado en torneos regionales y cuentan con un número creciente de seguidores.
  • CheerXperience (Valencia): Destacan por sus sólidas formaciones y por llevar a cabo campamentos de entrenamiento especializados que reciben a animadores de toda España.

Estos equipos han conseguido medallas y reconocimientos en competiciones nacionales, y algunos de ellos incluso han representado a nuestro país en eventos internacionales de gran prestigio. Siguiendo sus pasos, cada vez surgen más conjuntos dispuestos a entrenar duro y a competir en la escena europea.

El Escenario Competitivo en España

1. Campeonato de España de Cheerleading

Este es, sin duda, uno de los eventos que todos seguimos con mucha expectación. El Campeonato de España reúne a equipos de todo el país, desde las escuelas de base hasta los grupos All-Star.

  • Qué esperar:
    • Categorías para distintos niveles, lo que permite que equipos con diferentes experiencias se luzcan.
    • Un ambiente cargado de adrenalina y, claro, esos nervios que te hacen querer darlo todo en el escenario
  • Dato curioso: Muchos entrenadores recuerdan cómo algunas de las rutinas más creativas nacieron en los ensayos previos a este campeonato. ¡Una auténtica fábrica de ideas!

2. Principales competiciones de cheerleading en España

Aunque el calendario de competiciones se actualiza cada año, existen algunos certámenes que se han convertido en referencia para la comunidad de animación deportiva:

  1. Campeonato Nacional de Animación Deportiva
    Organizado por federaciones y asociaciones de ámbito nacional, reúne a equipos de distintas categorías (All Girl, Coed, Pom, etc.). Suele celebrarse en primavera y es una cita ineludible para cualquier club que desee medirse con los mejores.

  2. Copas Regionales (Autonómicas)
    En comunidades como Madrid, Cataluña, Andalucía y Valencia se organizan torneos clasificatorios que permiten a los equipos locales competir entre sí y prepararse para campeonatos de mayor envergadura. Son excelentes oportunidades para rodar nuevas rutinas.

  3. Campeonatos Internacionales en España
    En los últimos años, España ha sido sede de varios eventos internacionales de cheerleading auspiciados por organizaciones europeas. Estas competiciones atraen a equipos de todo el continente, ofreciendo un altísimo nivel y la posibilidad de exponer el talento local frente a un público global.

3. Preparación para la temporada de competición

Ya sea que estéis entrenando en un gran gimnasio o en un pabellón municipal, una buena preparación es clave para destacar en cualquier campeonato de cheerleading:

  • Planificación de la temporada: Marcad objetivos claros desde el inicio: ¿queréis clasificaros para un certamen nacional o internacional? ¿Buscáis experimentar en categorías específicas (All Girl, Coed, etc.)?
  • Rutinas adaptadas al reglamento: Cada competición sigue normas concretas. Es fundamental que vuestros saltos, stunts y pirámides se ajusten a los límites de dificultad y seguridad establecidos por la organización.
  • Entrenamiento físico y técnico: Combinad sesiones de fuerza, flexibilidad y trabajo cardiovascular con la práctica de técnicas de stunts y baile. Cuantos más ensayos de “run-through” (pases completos de rutina) hagáis, más seguros estaréis bajo presión.
  • Formación de entrenadores y jueces: En España hay cursos y seminarios impartidos por profesionales acreditados. Manteneros al día en técnicas, reglamento y tendencias internacionales os dará ventaja competitiva.
  • Apoyo nutricional y psicológico: Dado que el cheerleading exige explosividad, sincronización y resistencia, cuidar la alimentación y gestionar el estrés de la competición son aspectos cruciales para rendir al máximo.
competiciones cheerleading Espana

4. Importancia de la música personalizada

  • El cheerleading en España, al igual que en otros países, se apoya enormemente en la música para marcar el ritmo de las rutinas. Por eso, adquirir música personalizada o incluso optar por un premade mix personalizable de IPP Music es una excelente manera de lograr una coreografía impecable y sorprender a los jueces con un gran efecto “wow”. Con la música adecuada, conseguiréis:
  • Resaltar los puntos fuertes: Al incorporar efectos de sonido que subrayen vuestros stunts y transiciones importantes, la rutina ganará fluidez y profesionalidad.
  • Crear una identidad única: Un mix original, adaptado a la esencia de vuestro equipo, os diferenciará ante el jurado y el público.
  • Enganchar a la afición: Una melodía pegadiza o una mezcla cuidadosamente enlazada motiva a vuestros animadores y atrae la atención de quienes os ven por primera vez.
  •  

Consejos Prácticos para Brillar en Competición

Planifica Tus Entrenamientos con Creatividad

  • Organiza Sesiones Específicas: Divide el entrenamiento en bloques: técnica, fuerza, flexibilidad y, por supuesto, creatividad. Así, cada área tiene su momento y el equipo se mantiene motivado.
  • Ensayos con Público: A veces es útil simular la competición con amigos o familiares como espectadores. Esto ayuda a que el equipo se acostumbre al ambiente y a los nervios del gran día.
  • Revisa y Aprende: Graba los ensayos y revísalos en grupo. Un buen feedback entre compañeros puede ser la clave para descubrir esos pequeños detalles que marcan la diferencia.
guia cheerleadingentrenadores cheerleading

5. Consejos para entrenadores y equipos

  • Asistid a workshops y clinics: Varias ciudades españolas organizan jornadas de entrenamiento impartidas por entrenadores de prestigio, donde se practican técnicas avanzadas y se intercambian experiencias con otros equipos.
  • Seguid a los referentes nacionales: Observar vídeos y rutinas de los equipos punteros (como los mencionados Barcelona Cheer, Madrid Flyers, Tenerife Storm Cheer, Vipers Cheerleading Sevilla o CheerXperience) puede inspiraros y ayudaros a pulir vuestra propia ejecución.
  • Buscad patrocinios y colaboraciones: El cheerleading está creciendo en España, pero aún es minoritario frente a deportes más tradicionales. Contactad con empresas locales y aprovechad redes sociales para mostrar vuestro progreso y atraer apoyos.
  • Mantened el espíritu de equipo: Más allá de la competición, el compañerismo y la motivación son pilares fundamentales en el cheerleading. Un grupo cohesionado se refleja en rutinas más limpias y energéticas.

6. ¿Por qué competir en España?

España combina un ambiente deportivo en expansión con escenarios inmejorables. De un tiempo a esta parte, nuestras competiciones han ganado reconocimiento internacional gracias al profesionalismo de los organizadores y al incremento constante de equipos de alto nivel. Además, la cultura deportiva española es abierta y participativa, lo que hace que las gradas se llenen de aficionados entusiastas, generando un ambiente único en cada campeonato.

Steve Pawlyk Signature Full

Need Competition Music Blue

IPP's Premade Mixes are USA Cheer Compliant and customizable!  Add Sound FX, swap songs, & more!  Add your Team Name to the mix for only $10! 

Brazil, Coaching, Tips

Guia Completo das Competições de Cheerleading no Brasil

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Guia Completo das Competicoes de Cheerleading no Brasil
06
Feb

By Steve Pawlyk

Published February 6, 2025

E aí, coach! Se você curte cheerleading e quer dar aquele up na sua equipe, chegou a hora de conhecer melhor o cenário de competições no Brasil. Aqui a gente vai bater um papo descontraído sobre as principais competições, as tendências que estão bombando e umas dicas práticas pra você levar seu time ao próximo nível. Bora conferir?

competicoes cheerleading brasil

Por Que Competir?

Competir vai muito além de simplesmente mostrar as coreografias. É uma oportunidade massa para:

  • Aprimorar Habilidades: No calor da competição, a galera se desafia e aprende a executar os movimentos com mais precisão.
  • Ganhar Confiança: Ver a evolução da equipe no palco aumenta a autoestima e fortalece o espírito de grupo.
  • Trocar Ideias: É a chance de conversar com outros coaches e equipes, trocar experiências e descobrir novas tendências.
  • Abrir Portas: Competições bacanas podem chamar a atenção de patrocinadores e abrir várias oportunidades para a sua equipe.

O Cenário das Competições no Brasil

1. Competições Nacionais

Por aqui, as competições nacionais são verdadeiros palcos onde os melhores times se encontram. Geralmente, elas reúnem equipes de diversas regiões e categorias, como:

  • Escolares: Equipes de escolas e colégios que já estão fazendo bonito no cenário local.
  • Universitárias: Times que representam as universidades e trazem muita energia e criatividade.
  • All-Star: Equipes independentes que se reúnem para competir com muita técnica e inovação.

Nessas competições, o clima é de festa, mas também de super aprendizado, onde cada performance é uma chance de melhorar e se inspirar nos outros.

2. Competições Regionais

Além das grandes competições nacionais, tem as regionais, que são perfeitas para quem está começando ou quer ganhar experiência em um ambiente mais intimista:

  • Cenário Local: Essas competições acontecem em várias regiões do Brasil, proporcionando uma ótima oportunidade para as equipes se destacarem e, quem sabe, dar o salto para as competições nacionais.
  • Ambiente Descontraído: Geralmente, o clima é mais relax, mas a vontade de vencer continua lá, fazendo de cada evento uma experiência única.

Tendências e Inovações

O mundo do cheerleading no Brasil está sempre se reinventando, e algumas tendências estão fazendo sucesso:

  • Incorporação da Cultura Brasileira: Muitos times estão usando elementos da nossa cultura – seja na escolha da música, nos figurinos ou até mesmo nos movimentos – para criar uma identidade única.
  • Tecnologia na Ponta dos Pés: O uso de efeitos de luz, som e até projeções visuais está cada vez mais presente nas competições, deixando a apresentação ainda mais impactante.
  • Aprendizado Coletivo: Gravar as apresentações e assistir juntos é uma prática comum para identificar pontos fortes e melhorar os detalhes da performance.

Dicas Práticas para os Coaches

Organize o Treino de Forma Descolada

  • Planejamento Divertido: Divida os treinos em blocos – técnica, força, flexibilidade e, claro, muita diversão! Isso mantém a equipe motivada e focada.
  • Feedback em Grupo: Grave os treinos e reveja com a equipe. Essa troca de ideias ajuda a identificar o que pode ser melhorado e também a celebrar os acertos.
  • Simulação de Competição: Crie momentos de “mini competição” durante os treinos, com cronômetro e até alguns amigos como plateia, para que o time se acostume com a adrenalina do dia da competição.

Música e Figurino: Deixe o Time com a Sua Cara

  • Escolha da Música: A música certa pode transformar a apresentação. Procure aquelas que combinam com a energia e o estilo da sua equipe.
  • Figurinos Criativos: Invista em uniformes que representem a identidade do seu time. Pode ser legal trazer elementos da cultura brasileira – cores vibrantes, estampas exclusivas – para dar aquele toque especial.

Fortaleça o Espírito de Equipe

  • Atividades Fora do Treino: Organize encontros descontraídos para o time se conhecer melhor. Isso cria um ambiente de confiança e ajuda a fortalecer o grupo.
  • Preparação Mental: Incentive a prática de técnicas de relaxamento ou até uma roda de conversa antes das competições. Um time tranquilo e confiante vai longe!
guia competicoes cheerleading

Troque Ideias com Outros Coaches

  • Aprenda com Quem Já Faz: Assista a apresentações de times que você admira e discuta com outros coaches. Cada conversa pode trazer uma ideia nova que vai dar aquele gás na sua equipe.
  • Participe de Workshops e Seminários: Esses eventos são ótimos para ficar por dentro das novidades e das melhores práticas do mundo do cheerleading.

Olhando para o Futuro

O cenário do cheerleading no Brasil está cada vez mais vibrante e cheio de oportunidades. Com o crescimento das competições, tanto nacionais quanto regionais, seu time tem a chance de brilhar e evoluir constantemente. Além disso, com a inovação tecnológica e a criatividade que cada equipe traz, o futuro promete ser ainda mais emocionante e cheio de surpresas.

Competir é muito mais do que vencer troféus – é sobre aprender, crescer e se divertir junto com sua equipe. Esperamos que este guia ajude você a encontrar novas ideias, inspirar seus treinos e transformar cada apresentação em uma experiência inesquecível. Então, coach, bora colocar a mão na massa, treinar com garra e fazer a diferença no mundo do cheerleading brasileiro!

E lembre-se: cada passo dado é uma vitória rumo a um futuro cheio de conquistas. Vamos juntos fazer o cheerleading no Brasil brilhar cada vez mais!

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Coaching, Events, Thailand, Tips

คู่มือการแข่งขันเชียร์ลีดดิ้งในประเทศไทย: เทรนด์และโอกาส

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
คู่มือการแข่งขันเชียร์ลีดดิ้งในประเทศไทย เทรนด์และโอกาส
05
Feb

By Steve Pawlyk

Published February 5, 2025

สวัสดีครับโค้ชทุกท่าน! เชียร์ลีดดิ้งในไทยกำลังฮิตขึ้นทุกที ไม่ว่าจะเป็นในโรงเรียน มหาวิทยาลัย หรือคลับกีฬา เรามาดูกันว่าการแข่งขันในประเทศไทยตอนนี้เป็นยังไง มีเทรนด์ใหม่ ๆ อะไรน่าสนใจ และโอกาสที่คุณกับทีมจะได้ลองไปพัฒนาศักยภาพอย่างไรบ้าง

Competitive cheerleading in Thailand

ทีมจะได้ลองไปพัฒนาศักยภาพอย่างไรบ้าง

ทำไมต้องลงแข่งขัน?

การลงสนามแข่งขันไม่ใช่แค่การโชว์ทักษะหรือความสวยงามของการแสดงเท่านั้นนะครับ มันยังช่วยให้:

  • พัฒนาทักษะจริง ๆ: ในสนามแข่งขัน เราจะได้ลองแสดงท่าทาง เคลื่อนไหว และทักษะต่าง ๆ ภายใต้บรรยากาศที่คึกคัก ซึ่งจะช่วยให้ทีมของคุณเก่งขึ้น
  • สร้างความมั่นใจ: เมื่อได้ลงแข่งขันและเห็นผลลัพธ์ ทีมจะรู้สึกภูมิใจและมีกำลังใจมากขึ้น
  • แลกเปลี่ยนประสบการณ์: เป็นโอกาสดีที่จะได้พูดคุย แลกเปลี่ยนไอเดียกับโค้ชและทีมอื่น ๆ ที่มีความชื่นชอบเชียร์ลีดดิ้งเหมือนกัน
  • เปิดโอกาสใหม่ ๆ: การแข่งขันที่มีชื่อเสียงอาจช่วยให้ทีมของคุณได้รู้จักกับสปอนเซอร์ หรือแม้กระทั่งได้รับข้อเสนอพิเศษในอนาคต

แนวโน้มการแข่งขันในไทยตอนนี้

1. การแข่งขันทั้งระดับชาติและท้องถิ่น

ในไทยเรามีการแข่งขันเชียร์ลีดดิ้งทั้งในระดับประเทศและระดับภูมิภาค:

  • ระดับชาติ: เช่นการแข่งขันชิงแชมป์ที่รวบรวมทีมเก่ง ๆ จากทั่วประเทศ มีทั้งการแข่งขันสำหรับโรงเรียน มหาวิทยาลัย หรือทีมอิสระที่มีฝีมือ
  • ระดับท้องถิ่น: สำหรับทีมในแต่ละภูมิภาคที่อยากแสดงฝีมือในเวทีที่เป็นกันเองและอบอุ่น ซึ่งเป็นจุดเริ่มต้นที่ดีในการก้าวสู่ระดับชาติในอนาคต

2. เทรนด์และความคิดสร้างสรรค์ในการแสดง

ตอนนี้เราเห็นเทรนด์ใหม่ ๆ ที่น่าสนใจในวงการเชียร์ลีดดิ้งของไทย:

  • ผสมผสานวัฒนธรรมไทย: หลายทีมได้นำเอาเพลงพื้นบ้าน ลวดลายไทย หรือแม้แต่ท่าเต้นที่บอกเล่าเรื่องราวไทยเข้ามาใช้ในการแสดง ทำให้ดูมีเอกลักษณ์และโดดเด่น
  • เทคโนโลยีเข้ามาช่วย: ไม่ว่าจะเป็นการใช้แสง สี หรือเสียงที่ออกแบบมาเฉพาะเจาะจง ช่วยเพิ่มสีสันและความน่าตื่นเต้นให้กับการแสดง
  • ดูวิดีโอแล้วเรียนรู้: ทีมที่ประสบความสำเร็จมักจะบันทึกวิดีโอการแสดงแล้วมาดูและปรับปรุงกันเอง เป็นเทคนิคง่าย ๆ ที่ช่วยให้ทุกคนเห็นข้อผิดพลาดและแก้ไขได้ทันที

เคล็ดลับสำหรับโค้ชที่อยากให้ทีมประสบความสำเร็จ

การวางแผนฝึกซ้อมแบบครบวงจร

  • จัดโปรแกรมฝึกซ้อมที่ชัดเจน: ควรแบ่งการฝึกออกเป็นส่วนๆ ไม่ว่าจะเป็นการฝึกความแข็งแรง ยืดหยุ่น และทักษะเฉพาะด้านอย่างสเต็ป กระโดด หรือยกทีม
  • รีวิวผลงานกันเอง: บันทึกวิดีโอแล้วนั่งดูร่วมกันในทีม ช่วยให้ทุกคนรู้ว่าจุดไหนที่ต้องปรับปรุงและอะไรที่ทำได้ดี
  •  ฝึกซ้อมแบบมีบรรยากาศแข่งขัน: ลองจัดซ้อมในรูปแบบที่เลียนแบบการแข่งขันจริง เช่น ให้มีการจับเวลา หรือจัดให้มีผู้ชมเล็ก ๆ เพื่อให้ทีมชินกับความรู้สึกของสนามจริง

ดนตรีและการออกแบบชุดที่ใช่

  • เลือกเพลงที่เข้ากับจังหวะ: เพลงที่ดีจะช่วยกระตุ้นพลังและจังหวะการแสดงให้ราบรื่น เลือกเพลงที่เข้ากับสไตล์ของทีมและสามารถสร้างความตื่นเต้นให้กับผู้ชมได้
  • ออกแบบชุดให้มีเอกลักษณ์: ลองนำลวดลายไทยหรือสีสันที่เป็นเอกลักษณ์ของทีมมาใช้ในการออกแบบชุด เพื่อให้ทุกการแสดงดูจดจำและแตกต่างจากทีมอื่น

สร้างความเข้มแข็งให้กับทีม

  • ทำกิจกรรมร่วมกัน: นอกเหนือจากการฝึกซ้อม ลองจัดกิจกรรมสันทนาการ หรือพบปะพูดคุยในบรรยากาศสบาย ๆ เพื่อให้สมาชิกในทีมรู้จักกันและสร้างความสัมพันธ์ที่ดี
  • เตรียมจิตใจให้พร้อม: ฝึกเทคนิคการทำสมาธิ หรือวิธีการ visualize ช่วยให้ทีมมั่นใจและพร้อมรับสถานการณ์ในวันแข่งขันจริง

แลกเปลี่ยนประสบการณ์กับเพื่อนร่วมวงการ

  • ศึกษาผลงานจากทีมที่ประสบความสำเร็จ: ดูการแสดงของทีมเก่ง ๆ ที่เคยลงแข่งขันมาก่อน แล้วเอาไอเดียดี ๆ มาปรับใช้กับทีมของเรา
  • เข้าร่วมเวิร์กช็อปหรือกิจกรรมต่าง ๆ: ไม่ว่าจะเป็นสัมมนา หรือเวิร์กช็อปเกี่ยวกับเชียร์ลีดดิ้ง ก็สามารถให้ความรู้ใหม่ ๆ และแนวคิดที่สดใส
  • พูดคุยแลกเปลี่ยนกับโค้ชท้องถิ่น: การเปิดใจแลกเปลี่ยนความคิดเห็นกับโค้ชคนอื่น ๆ จะช่วยให้เราได้ไอเดียใหม่ ๆ และรู้จักวิธีแก้ปัญหาที่หลากหลาย
Thailand Cheerleading

มองไปข้างหน้ากับโอกาสในวงการ

การแข่งขันเชียร์ลีดดิ้งในไทยยังมีแนวโน้มที่จะเติบโตและเปลี่ยนแปลงไปในทางที่ดีขึ้น:

  • การแข่งขันใหม่ ๆ กำลังเกิดขึ้น: ทั้งในระดับชาติและท้องถิ่น ยิ่งมีการแข่งขันมากเท่าไหร่ ก็ยิ่งมีโอกาสให้ทีมของคุณได้แสดงฝีมือและพัฒนาความสามารถ
  • เทคโนโลยีและนวัตกรรมใหม่ ๆ เข้ามาเพิ่มสีสัน: ทีมที่กล้าใช้เทคโนโลยีเข้ามาช่วยในงานแสดงจะดูทันสมัยและน่าจดจำมากขึ้น
  • การสนับสนุนจากภาคธุรกิจและสปอนเซอร์: เมื่อวงการเติบโต โอกาสในการได้รับการสนับสนุนจากสปอนเซอร์ก็จะเพิ่มขึ้น ทำให้ทีมมีทรัพยากรในการพัฒนามากขึ้น

สรุป

การแข่งขันเชียร์ลีดดิ้งในประเทศไทยเป็นเวทีที่เต็มไปด้วยความสนุกและโอกาสในการพัฒนา ไม่ว่าคุณจะเป็นโค้ชที่มีประสบการณ์หรือเพิ่งเริ่มต้น การเข้าใจแนวโน้มและเทรนด์ในตอนนี้จะช่วยให้คุณสามารถพัฒนาทีมให้ก้าวไกลและโดดเด่นในทุกการแข่งขันได้

ลองใช้เคล็ดลับที่เราแนะนำไป แล้วมาสร้างสีสันให้กับการแสดงของทีมคุณกันดูนะครับ และอย่าลืมแบ่งปันประสบการณ์กับเพื่อน ๆ ในวงการเชียร์ลีดดิ้ง เพราะทุกไอเดียที่ดีเริ่มต้นจากการแลกเปลี่ยนความรู้กันเอง

หวังว่าบทความนี้จะช่วยให้คุณมีมุมมองใหม่ ๆ ในการเตรียมทีมและเข้าแข่งขันได้อย่างมั่นใจ พร้อมก้าวไปสู่ความสำเร็จในทุกเวทีที่ลงแข่งขันครับ!

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Coaching, Rules, Tips

IPP’s 2025 Annual 2025 Cheer Answers

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
IPPs 2025 Annual Cheer Answers FAQ
20
Jan

By Steve Pawlyk

Published January 20, 2025

Hey cheer fam! It’s that time of year again—our biggest FAQ on all things cheer music. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or a brand-new athlete, we’ve pulled together the most common questions that pop up about mixing, licensing, and bringing your routine to life. Dive in to find answers, pro tips, and helpful resources—all in one place. Enjoy our Annual Cheer Answers FAQ!

Table of Contents

  1. What is custom cheer music?
  2. How do you create a cheer mix for competitions?
  3. Is cheerleading music copyrighted?
  4. How long should cheer music be for a competition routine?
  5. What is the best BPM (beats per minute) for cheer routines?
  6. How do you incorporate voice-overs into cheer music?
  7. Why is licensing important for cheer music?
  8. Can you use any song for a cheerleading routine?
  9. How do you remove vocals from a track for cheer mixes?
  10. What are the penalties for using unlicensed music at competitions?
  11. How many 8-counts are typically in a 2:30 cheer routine?
  12. What software do professionals use to mix cheer music?
  13. How do you pick a theme or style for your cheer music?
  14. Where can I find legal cheer music online?
  15. How do you blend multiple songs into one cheer mix?
  16. Should a cheer routine use clean or explicit versions of songs?
  17. How do you time stunts to match the music beats?
  18. Why do cheer mixes often feature sound effects and voice-overs?
  19. How do you make sure your cheer music stands out at competitions?
  20. What’s the difference between regular cheer music and competition cheer mixes?
  21. Can you reuse last season’s cheer music?
  22. How do you edit cheer music to fit the exact routine length?
  23. Is it better to hire a professional for custom cheer music or do it yourself?
  24. How do you choose the right tempo for your cheer routine?
  25. How do you get crowd engagement with cheer music?
  26. What’s the process for licensing pop songs for cheerleading routines?
  27. How do you ensure cheer music meets competition guidelines?
  28. Do teams typically pay royalties for cheer music?
  29. How do voice-overs add impact to a cheer routine?
  30. What are common mistakes to avoid when mixing cheer music?

1. What is custom cheer music?

  • Definition: Tailor-made tracks professionally produced and mixed specifically for a cheerleading routine.
  • Purpose: Aligns music tempo, style, and voice-overs with stunts, transitions, and the routine’s theme.
  • Advantage: Creates a unique performance identity and helps teams stand out in competitions.

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competition cheer mixes

2. How do you create a cheer mix for competitions?

  • Plan the Routine: Outline stunts, tumbling, and dance segments.
  • Select Tracks or Samples: Pick music that matches each section’s energy level.
  • Arrange and Layer: Blend chosen tracks, add transitional effects, and sync with 8-counts.
  • Voice-Overs and SFX: Insert team slogans or hype phrases and relevant sound effects.
  • Finalize Licensing: Ensure each snippet is licensed to comply with competition rules.

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3. Is cheerleading music copyrighted?

  • Yes: Most music is protected by copyright law.
  • Licensing Needed: You must secure the rights to use songs publicly.
  • Penalties: Using unlicensed tracks can result in disqualifications or fines.

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4. How long should cheer music be for a competition routine?

  • Typical Limit: Routines range from 0:30 all the way to 2:30 minutes.  These are the common duration times for cheer mixes
    • 0:30
    • 0:45
    • 1:00
    • 1:30
    • 1:45
    • 2:00
    • 2:15
    • 2:30
  • Check Rules: Different competitions have varying length restrictions.
  • Timing Tips: Keep a few seconds buffer for final poses or transitions.

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5. What is the best BPM (beats per minute) for cheer routines?

  • Common Range: 140–150 BPM for a high-energy atmosphere. The majority of cheer music is 146 bpm.

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6. How do you incorporate voice-overs into cheer music?

  • Script First: Write short, memorable chants or slogans.  Include your area code, your previous accomplishments, and try to think of a theme for each mix.
  • High Quality Recording: Ensuring your mix has a professional sound is why using a service like IPP Music is crucial.  Recording and mixing vocals is not easy and is likely to be better in the end using a cheer music company who has access to professional rappers and singers.
  • Blend and Layer: Position voice-overs during transitions or big stunts; keep them clear.

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7. Why is licensing important for cheer music?

  • Legal Compliance: Avoids copyright infringement issues.
  • Protects Teams: Prevents disqualification, fines, and negative publicity.
  • Industry Standard: Competitions now require proof of properly licensed mixes.

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8. Can you use any song for a cheerleading routine?

  • Technically Yes, If Licensed: Properly secure rights or use royalty-free options.
  • Restrictions: Competitions often ban explicit lyrics and have specific content rules.

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9. How do you remove vocals from a track for cheer mixes?

  • Audio Editing Software: Adobe Audition, Audacity, or vocal-removal plugins.
  • Results Vary: Full removal isn’t always perfect; some tracks resist clean isolation.
  • Licensing Still Applies: Even if instrumental, you need permission to use the track.

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10. What are the penalties for using unlicensed music at competitions?

  • Disqualification: Entire teams can be removed from the event.
  • Fines or Legal Action: Copyright holders may take legal steps for damages.
  • Reputation Damage: Reflects poorly on your program’s professionalism.

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cheer coaching tips

11. How many 8-counts are typically in a 2:30 cheer routine?

  • Average 8-Count Total: There are typically 45.5 – 46 8counts (depending if you start on 5 or a 1)
  • Tempo Variation: Faster music might squeeze in more counts; slower music may have fewer.

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12. What software do professionals use to mix cheer music?

  • Popular DAWs: Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Reaper
  • Specialized Tools: Some mixers use custom plugins designed for cheer music effects.

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13. How do you pick a theme or style for your cheer music?

  • Match Team Branding: Incorporate your team’s colors, mascot, or spirit.
  • Routine Focus: High-energy stunts call for bold, intense music; youth teams may favor pop.
  • Trend Savvy: Consider popular styles or seasonal elements for extra flair.

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cheer coaching questions and answers faq
  • Specialized Providers: IPP Music (Custom Mixes, customizable Premade Mixes, all licensed).
  • Royalty-Free Libraries: Sites like Songsforcheer.com, Artlist, Epidemic Sound, Storyblocks.  Though it’s worth mentioning that these are just libraries of songs that can be used in the mix. For it to sound like a real cheer mix, you will need a cheer music production company

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15. How do you blend multiple songs into one cheer mix?

  • Segment Planning: Decide where each song snippet fits.
  • Key & Tempo Matching: Adjust pitch and speed for smooth transitions.
  • Transitions & Effects: Use sweeps, drum fills, or voice-overs for seamless flow.

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16. Should a cheer routine use clean or explicit versions of songs?

  • Always Use Clean: Explicit content is generally not allowed in cheer comps.
  • Avoid Penalties: Using explicit lyrics may lead to point deductions or disqualification.

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17. How do you time stunts to match the music beats?

  • Practice with 8-Counts: Choreograph each major move to a count.
  • Sync Beats & Moves: Align big stunts with distinct musical cues.
  • Rehearse Often: Multiple run-throughs with final music ensure accuracy.

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18. Why do cheer mixes often feature sound effects and voice-overs?

  • Added Excitement: Effects amplify high-energy moments.
  • Branding & Hype: Voice-overs can feature team names or motivational phrases.
  • Routine Structure: Mark transitions and build anticipation for key stunts.

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19. How do you make sure your cheer music stands out at competitions?

  • Unique Sound: Use fresh, modern elements or creative mash-ups.
  • Production Quality: Crisp editing, balanced levels, and clear voice-overs.
  • Personalization: Incorporate custom chants, slogans, or team references.

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20. What’s the difference between regular cheer music and competition cheer mixes?

  • Regular Cheer Music: Simpler, often used for practice or sideline performances.
  • Competition Cheer Mixes: Precisely edited, fully licensed, and carefully arranged for advanced routines.

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21. Can you reuse last season’s cheer music?

  • Allowed If Re-Licensed: Confirm licenses are valid for the current season. Typically, Cheer Mixes are licensed for 365 days from purchase. IPP Music offers relicensing of mixes.
  • Fresh Factor: Competitions and audiences often respond better to new, updated mixes.

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22. How do you edit cheer music to fit the exact routine length?

  • Clip & Cut: Remove unnecessary portions to hit 2:30 or the required limit.
  • Tempo Adjustments: Slight speed changes can help fit time constraints.
  • Professional Help: IPP Music offers precise editing and licensing solutions.

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23. Is it better to hire a professional for custom cheer music or do it yourself?

  • DIY Pros: Cost-effective, full creative control.
  • DIY Cons: Firstly it’s time-consuming. But it will almost certainly lack professional polish. This especially includes cheer music maker web applications, which, though seem like a good way to control every aspect of your mix, are actually very restricting and do not sound like the mixes of championship teams.
  • Professional Pros: Expertise, licensing compliance, higher production quality.
  • Professional Cons: Depending on the style of mix you choose, there can be a higher upfront cost. The process of customization is still highly collaborative, putting you in the driver’s seat of your mix while not requiring you to have years of experience in audio production and engineering.

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licensed cheer music

24. How do you choose the right tempo for your cheer routine?

Most cheer routine music is at 146bpm.  Sometimes with younger division teams, the music’s tempo is decreased to make it easier for the team to perform the routine.

  • Match Routine Style: Fast for dynamic stunts, moderate for youth or less intense routines.
  • Experiment: Try short run-throughs at different BPMs to see what suits the team. Recording short practice runs to see which tempo feels the best and reviewing it later can be super helpful with this.
  • Ask the Experts: IPP Music can make tempo recommendations based on your skill level.

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25. How do you get crowd engagement with cheer music?

  • Familiar Hooks: Using songs (licensed) in your mix that have the feel of well-known tracks or exciting beats
  • Chantable Voice-Overs: Include easy call-and-response lines. This is an easy way to get the audience involved. Just remember to keep your voiceover instructions simple and take time to consider the syncopation of your lyrics (i.e., don’t stuff too many words into the voiceovers you request; if you keep it simple, the audience will remember the lyrics at the following events)
  • Strategic Editing: Insert hype points during big stunts or dance breaks.

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26. What’s the process for licensing pop songs for cheerleading routines?

  • Contact Licensing Agencies: ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, or music libraries handling pop tracks. Although these are reasonable avenues towards licensing popular songs, this is often a tedious and drawn out process vs simply getting a custom mix licensed for specifically for cheer performances.
  • Cheer Music Providers: IPP Music can handle licensing details for you.
  • Documentation: Competitions may require written proof of licenses.

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27. How do you ensure cheer music meets competition guidelines?

  • Follow Rulebooks: Check guidelines (USASF, Varsity, ICU) for time and content rules.
  • Verify Length & Content: No explicit lyrics; keep it under specified time limits.
  • Licensing Docs: Have proof ready in case event staff request it.

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cheer music routine sound FX

28. Do teams typically pay royalties for cheer music?

  • Sometimes, but only if radio music (vs. a cheer specific mix) is used: Popular tracks require royalty payments to rights holders.
  • All-Inclusive Options: Some providers bundle licensing fees into their package.

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29. How do voice-overs add impact to a cheer routine?

  • Brand Recognition: Shoutouts to the team name, mascot, or favorite slogan. If selecting a custom mix for your routine, every aspect of it can be customized with team/mascot specific voiceovers throught the mix.  Premade mixes can also be customized in many ways here at IPP Music.
  • Engagement: Well-placed voice-overs grab audience attention.
  • Highlight Skills: Emphasize big stunts or tumbling passes with motivational phrases.

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30. What are common mistakes to avoid when mixing cheer music?

  • Poor Licensing: Ignoring proper rights can lead to disqualification.
  • Overcrowded Mix: Too many overlapping elements can sound chaotic.
  • Inconsistent Tempo: Abrupt changes can disrupt timing and choreography.
  • Ignoring Guidelines: Length or lyrical content violations risk penalties.

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Hopefully this FAQ clarifies some of the questions you had about cheer music, from licensing and mixing to timing and voice-overs. If you’re ready for custom cheer mixes or need professional help, be sure to visit
IPP Music for expert services and support. Here’s to a season filled with energy, precision, and you hitting zero!

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Coaching, Featured, Rules, Tips

The Top Rule Changes Coaches Need to Know for the Upcoming Season

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
The Top Rule Changes Coaches Need to Know for the Upcoming Season
15
Jan

By Steve Pawlyk

Published January 15, 2025

Cheerleading evolves every year, as governing bodies like the U.S. All Star Federation (USASF) and National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) refine rules to increase safety, fairness, and overall spectacle. While these updates may seem daunting at first, they can actually open doors for fresh choreography, innovative stunts, and advanced crowd engagement—if you know how to adapt. In this article, we’ll break down the most important rule changes you need to understand before your team takes the mat this season.

competitive cheer rules

1. Stunting & Pyramids

What’s Changed?

  • Height & Inversion Restrictions: Certain levels now face tighter guidelines on how high flyers can go in extended stunts and how many inversions are allowed. This is largely to ensure the difficulty remains age-appropriate and to prioritize athlete safety.
  • New Spotter Requirements: Some divisions may mandate additional spotters for high-risk transitions (especially inversions and twisting mounts). Coaches must be aware of how many spotters are needed and in what positions.

Why It Matters

  • Minimizing Injuries: Stricter rules encourage safer stunts, reducing the risk of falls and associated injuries.
  • Routine Adaptations: If you’ve been using complex stunts, you may need to rework parts of your routine to fit new guidelines—particularly in levels where advanced inversions are limited

Practical Example

  • Level 3 Inversions: Suppose your team relies on a forward roll from a prep-level stunt into a load-in. Check if updated rules still allow this inversion at your team’s level or if a spotter is now explicitly required.

2. Tumbling & Passes

What’s Changed?

  • Revised Skill Allowances: Each level has a specific range of permitted tumbling skills, such as back handsprings, tucks, and fulls. Some new rule sets might restrict (or expand) certain passes.
  • Focus on Progressions: Certain levels are emphasizing clear skill progressions—e.g., you cannot perform a front tuck if your team hasn’t demonstrated mastery of simpler skills.

Why It Matters

  • Score Sheet Implications: If a once-legal pass is now restricted, performing it may result in deductions. Conversely, if a skill was introduced into your allowed level, you can incorporate it to gain difficulty points.
  • Safety & Development: Encouraging coaches to stick to structured progressions helps prevent injuries and ensures athletes develop strong fundamentals.

Practical Example

  • No Jump Directly into Tuck: At some levels, new rules might prohibit jumping directly from a toe touch into a back tuck. This means your choreography must pivot to separate jumps from standing tucks.
cheer rule changes
usasf rules 2025

3. Music & Voice-Over Edits

What’s Changed?

  • Music Licensing: Rule updates often include clarifications on using licensed music versus royalty-free or custom mixes. Competitions may require proof of proper licensing to avoid disqualification.
  • Voice-Over Restrictions: Some leagues now have guidelines on how many voice-overs or sound effects can be used, preventing routines from becoming too cluttered with audio snippets.

Why It Matters

  • Legal Compliance: Failing to adhere to licensing requirements can result in major deductions or disqualification.
  • Routine Flow: With voice-over restrictions, coaches must be strategic. Instead of multiple quick phrases, consider fewer but more impactful voice-overs that guide transitions or highlight big stunts.

Practical Example

  • Custom Mix Adjustments: If you rely heavily on pop songs in your routine, you may need to work with a recognized music producer who can ensure the mix is licensed and meet competition guidelines.

4. Division & Age Grid Adjustments

What’s Changed?

  • Age Grid Shifts: The minimum or maximum ages for certain divisions may have been altered, affecting team rosters.
  • Coed vs. All-Girl Splits: Some organizations tweak the thresholds for coed divisions based on the number of male athletes. Double-check your division if you’re near the cutoff.

Why It Matters

  • Roster Planning: Even a small age-grid change can disqualify an athlete from a division, forcing you to reshuffle.
  • Team Composition: If you have male athletes, a shift in the coed rules can move you to a completely different competitive bracket.

Practical Example

  • 12 vs. 13 Age Requirement: If your junior athlete recently turned 13 and the division cutoff changed to 12, that athlete might need to move up to the next level or division earlier than you planned.
cheer coaching tips 2025

5. Safety Clarifications & Penalties

What’s Changed?

  • Spotter Positioning: Some recent clarifications detail exactly where a spotter must stand for certain stunts, and how actively they must engage with the stunt group.
  • Uniform & Equipment Rules: Updated guidelines may specify new restrictions on jewelry, nails, or hair accessories to reduce potential hazards.
  • Deductions for Unintentional Contact: If a flyer or base collides with another group on the mat, even unintentionally, more competitions are now imposing severity-based deductions.

Why It Matters

  • Fewer Surprises: Knowing these clarifications helps you avoid unexpected penalties.
  • Consistency Across Events: Many competition hosts adopt these clarifications to unify safety standards.

Practical Example

  • Disallowed Hair Accessory: A bow with stiff or metallic parts might violate new safety criteria. The result could be a penalty or an immediate request to remove the accessory.
cheer difficulty score

6. Scoring Emphasis on Execution

What’s Changed?

  • Technical Execution Weight: Across multiple competition brands, the percentage of your overall score for technique and synchronization might have increased.
  • Difficulty vs. Execution Balance: While difficulty remains key, a sloppy advanced skill might score lower than a clean intermediate skill.

Why It Matters

  • Coaching Focus: Coaches should spend more time perfecting timing, lines, and transitions.
  • Routine Strategy: Instead of squeezing in the hardest possible stunts, emphasize cleaner, well-executed elements for a more reliable score.

Practical Example

  • Double Down Deductions: If your team includes a double down from an extended stunt but consistently lands with bent knees or off counts, you’re better off sticking with a single down done perfectly.

How to Stay Ahead of Rule Changes

  1. Subscribe to Official Updates
    • Follow USASF, NFHS, and any regional competition circuit newsletters or social media.
  2. Attend Coaches’ Conferences
    • Many organizations host rule interpretation sessions—take advantage of these to ask questions and get clarifications.
  3. Leverage Experienced Choreographers
    • Professional choreographers often keep up with rule shifts. Collaborating with them ensures your routine meets the latest guidelines.
  4. Communicate with Parents & Athletes
    • If an athlete ages out of a division, or a new stunt is disallowed, inform everyone promptly to manage expectations.

Rule changes can feel overwhelming, but they’re ultimately designed to keep athletes safe and encourage continuous advancement in cheerleading. By staying informed, making proactive adjustments, and emphasizing clean execution, your team can transform new regulations into opportunities for growth—and deliver a winning routine that wows both judges and crowds.

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Featured

Choreographing for All Levels: Adapting Cheer Routines to Maximize Scores

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Choreographing for All Levels: Adapting Cheer Routines to Maximize Scores
03
Jan

By Steve Pawlyk

Published January 3, 2025

As a cheer choreographer, your goal is to create show-stopping routines that not only captivate audiences but also maximize scores at competitions. However, designing routines that align with the abilities of your team while meeting competition requirements can be challenging. This guide will provide you with actionable tips to choreograph routines for any level, ensuring clean execution, creativity, and high scores.

Understanding Scoring Sheets: Start with the End in Mind

To maximize scores, you must first understand what judges are looking for. Familiarize yourself with the scoring sheets for the competition you’re targeting. Here are some key areas to focus on:

cheer choreography ideas
  1. Difficulty: Each level has specific requirements for stunts, tumbling, and pyramids. Ensure your routine includes elements that are challenging but within the team’s capabilities.
  2. Execution: Clean, well-executed skills score higher than poorly performed advanced skills.
  3. Creativity: Judges reward unique choreography and innovative transitions. Check out Choreographing Cheer Routines That Stand Out for tips to enhance creativity.
  4. Formations and Transitions: Fluid movement and visually appealing formations keep routines engaging.
  5. Showmanship: Energy, facials, and crowd engagement add points in the performance category.

Pro Tip: Keep a checklist of these elements as you plan your routine to ensure you cover all scoring categories.

Breaking Down Routines by Level

Each level in competitive cheerleading has distinct rules and restrictions. Here’s how to adapt routines for different levels:

Level 1:

  • Stunts: Stick to basic preps and thigh stands. Avoid extensions or any one-legged stunts above waist level.
  • Tumbling: Focus on forward rolls, cartwheels, and back walkovers.
  • Pyramids: Use simple connections and build height creatively without exceeding level restrictions.
  • Tips: Emphasize clean execution and synchronized movements to impress judges despite simpler skills.

Level 2:

  • Stunts: Introduce shoulder-level extensions and single-leg stunts at waist level.
  • Tumbling: Include back handsprings and round-off back handspring combinations.
  • Pyramids: Incorporate more intricate connections and low-height transitions.
  • Tips: Add dynamic transitions to keep the routine exciting without compromising execution.

Level 3:

  • Stunts: Execute one-legged extensions and start introducing twisting dismounts.
  • Tumbling: Add aerials, punch fronts, and multiple back handsprings.
  • Pyramids: Use braced flips or rolls with proper spotting.
  • Tips: Focus on synchronization in stunts and tumbling to highlight team precision. For tips on ensuring synchronization, read Guide to Syncing Your Cheer Music with Your Choreography.

Level 4:

  • Stunts: Include extended one-legged stunts with single twisting transitions.
  • Tumbling: Incorporate layouts, standing tucks, and front handspring step-outs.
  • Pyramids: Add high-level braced flips and creative inversions.
  • Tips: Ensure safety by building strong bases and thorough progressions during training.

Level 5 & 6:

  • Stunts: Showcase elite-level stunts with double twisting dismounts and advanced transitions.
  • Tumbling: Add fulls, doubles, and standing back tucks.
  • Pyramids: Execute high-energy pyramids with multiple flipping and twisting elements.
  • Tips: Prioritize seamless transitions and unique choreography to stand out in a competitive field.
maximizing cheer scores

Creative Ideas for Routines

Here are some ways to make your routine stand out while maximizing scores:

  1. Unique Transitions:
    • Use tumbling passes to transition into stunts.
    • Incorporate roll-offs and ripple effects for visual interest.
  2. Layered Formations:
    • Create depth by layering flyers at different heights.
    • Use levels within formations (e.g., dancers on the ground, bases standing, flyers elevated).
  3. Music Synchronization:
  4. Themed Choreography:
    • Develop routines around a theme to enhance storytelling.
    • Match motions and stunts to the mood of the music.
  5. Visual Elements:
    • Include props like poms or signs for additional flair.
    • Use spacing and movement to create eye-catching visuals from every angle.

Tips for Balancing Difficulty and Execution

While ambitious routines can score well, poor execution can cost you. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

unique cheer formations
  1. Focus on Fundamentals:
    • Prioritize perfecting basic skills before adding difficulty.
    • Clean lines and tight motions are just as important as advanced stunts.
  2. Progressions:
    • Build up to more challenging skills gradually to ensure athlete safety.
    • Practice new skills in sections before integrating them into the full routine.
  3. Consistency:
  4. Adjust Based on Feedback:
    • Conduct mock performances and ask for feedback from experienced coaches.
    • Modify skills or transitions that frequently result in deductions.

Adapting your choreography to align with the skill level of your team while meeting competition requirements is a balancing act that requires creativity, precision, and strategic planning. By understanding scoring sheets, tailoring routines to the appropriate level, and emphasizing clean execution, you can ensure your team performs at their best and stands out to the judges.

Remember, the most memorable routines aren’t always the hardest ones—they’re the ones executed flawlessly with energy, passion, and a unique touch. For some  inspiration and trends you might want to stay on top of, check out Emerging Trends in Cheer Choreography and Music for 2024.

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The Secret Weapon Your Cheer Program Needs: Martial Arts Training

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
cheerleading martial arts training
23
Dec

By Steve Pawlyk

Published December 23, 2024

Competitive cheer is constantly evolving, and the most successful teams are those willing to embrace innovative approaches to training. While choreographers, tumbling coaches, and strength trainers are common resources for cheer teams, one often-overlooked addition is a martial arts instructor. Much like bringing in a choreographer for a couple days, hiring a martial arts expert for a 1–3 day training session could provide a unique edge by enhancing body control, precision, and explosiveness. Here’s why it could be a game-changer for your team.

cheer program martial arts

Why Martial Arts?

Martial arts training emphasizes mental discipline, body control, balance, and explosive movements—all of which translate seamlessly into cheerleading. Whether it’s perfecting a tumbling pass, sticking a stunt, or improving jumps, martial arts can give athletes a deeper understanding of their bodies and how to move efficiently under pressure.

Key benefits include:

  • Improved proprioception (awareness of body position).
  • Enhanced flexibility and mobility for cleaner, higher jumps and kicks.
  • Explosive power for tumbling and dynamic transitions.
  • Increased focus and mental resilience, vital for high-pressure competitions.

Step-by-Step Plan for a Martial Arts-Centered Training Session

Day 1: Building the Foundation—Body Awareness and Basics

On the first day, the martial arts instructor would introduce basic concepts that improve proprioception and coordination. The goal is to familiarize athletes with movements and principles that will directly enhance their cheer skills.

Example Activities:

  1. Dynamic Warm-Ups with Martial Arts Movements
    • High-Knee Kicks: Focus on height and control, engaging core and hip flexors.
    • Lunging Arm Swings: Mimic martial arts strikes to warm up shoulders and improve range of motion.
  2. Balance Drills
    • One-legged stances with slow, deliberate kicks to improve balance and stability.
    • Progression: Add a partner for light resistance to simulate dynamic stunting scenarios.
  3. Introduction to Martial Arts Stances
    • Teach low, stable stances (e.g., horse stance) to develop lower body strength and control.

Cheer Translation:

  • Improved balance translates to steadier bases and more controlled landings in tumbling and stunting.
  • Strengthened stances enhance pyramid stability and basket tosses.

Day 2: Explosive Power and Precision

With a foundation in place, the second day would focus on power and precise execution, both essential for cheerleading.

Example Activities:

  1. Kicking Drills for Explosiveness
    • Front Kicks: Emphasis on speed and height.
    • Side Kicks: Focus on core engagement and control.
    • Athletes practice “snapping” kicks with maximum power and clean lines.
  2. Strike Training for Arm Motions
    • Teach clean, sharp hand strikes (e.g., jabs or palm strikes) to mimic the precision of cheer arm motions.
    • Use resistance bands for added difficulty, building strength and control.
  3. Plyometric Martial Arts Movements
    • Jump-Knee Strikes: Engage explosive power similar to cheer jumps.
    • Bounding Drills with Spins: Mimic twisting tumbling passes.

Cheer Translation:

  • Kicking drills improve jump height and pointed toes, creating a more polished performance.
  • Precision strikes enhance the sharpness and clarity of motions during routines.
  • Plyometrics build the explosive power needed for tumbling and tosses.

Day 3: Dynamic Control Under Pressure

The final day focuses on combining balance, power, and precision with dynamic, high-pressure scenarios. The goal is to simulate the mental and physical demands of competition.

Example Activities:

  1. Partner Resistance Training
    • Partners lightly push or pull while the athlete maintains a stance or executes a motion.
    • Builds core strength and reaction time for stunting stability.
  2. Reaction Drills
    • Martial arts-inspired sparring drills where athletes must respond quickly to visual or verbal cues.
    • Example: Coach calls out a movement, and athletes perform it immediately.
  3. Dynamic Landing and Recovery Techniques
    • Teach athletes how to roll out of a fall or recover balance after a misstep.
    • Focus on soft landings to protect joints and minimize injury risks.

Cheer Translation:

  • Partner drills improve stability under dynamic pressure, perfect for stunting scenarios.
  • Reaction drills build mental focus and quick adjustments during routines.
  • Landing techniques reduce injury risk and create more controlled, visually appealing landings.
martial arts for cheerleaders

How Martial Arts Training Enhances the Entire Team

  1. Stronger Jumps and Kicks: Athletes develop the explosive power and flexibility to execute higher, cleaner jumps.
  2. Sharper Motions: Precision drills translate into sharper, more polished arm motions and choreography.
  3. Safer Landings: Proper landing mechanics reduce the risk of injuries, ensuring athletes stay competition-ready.
  4. Greater Stability in Stunts: Improved balance and core strength lead to steadier bases and more confident flyers.
  5. Mental Resilience: The discipline and focus cultivated through martial arts create athletes who thrive under pressure.

Implementing This in Your Gym

  • Hire a Qualified Martial Arts Instructor: Look for someone with experience in disciplines emphasizing body control, such as taekwondo, karate, or capoeira.
  • Tailor the Curriculum: Collaborate with the instructor to design a program that aligns with your team’s goals.
  • Incorporate Regularly: After the initial session, integrate martial arts-inspired drills into your weekly practices to maintain the benefits.

Martial arts training offers cheer teams a secret weapon by addressing critical aspects of performance often overlooked in traditional cheer practice. By hiring a martial arts instructor for a short but impactful training session, you can equip your athletes with the tools they need to excel in balance, power, and precision—all while reducing injury risk. This innovative approach could be the game-changer that takes your team’s performance to the next level.

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Beyond Conditioning: Neuromuscular Training for Injury Prevention in Cheerleading

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
neuromuscular training for cheerleading
19
Dec

By Steve Pawlyk

Published December 19, 2024

Cheer is one of the most physically demanding sports, requiring explosive power, balance, flexibility, and coordination. But these demands come with a high risk of injuries, particularly to the ankles, knees, and hips. Neuromuscular training, which focuses on improving proprioception and body control, is a powerful yet often overlooked tool for preventing these injuries. Below, we’ll explore what neuromuscular training entails, why it’s effective, and step-by-step methods you can implement with your team.

What is Neuromuscular Training?

Neuromuscular training involves exercises designed to improve communication between the brain and muscles. This training enhances an athlete’s ability to sense body position (proprioception), react to dynamic movements, and stabilize joints during high-impact activities.

Key benefits include:

  • Increased joint stability.
  • Improved coordination and balance.
  • Reduction in injury risk, particularly for common injuries like ankle sprains and ACL tears.

Common Cheer Injuries Neuromuscular Training Can Address

  • Ankle Sprains: Result from poor proprioception and unstable landings.
  • Knee Injuries (e.g., ACL tears): Often caused by poor knee alignment during jumps or stunts.
  • Hip and Core Instability: Leads to compensations that stress other joints.

Step-by-Step Neuromuscular Training Program

Step 1: Warm-Up with a Dynamic Routine

Before engaging in neuromuscular exercises, prepare the body with dynamic warm-ups to increase blood flow and joint mobility.

cheer conditioning tips

Example Warm-Up Routine (5–10 minutes):

  1. High Knees – 30 seconds.
  2. Butt Kicks – 30 seconds.
  3. Lateral Skaters – 10 reps each side.
  4. Arm Circles – 10 forward, 10 backward
  5. Hip Openers (Lateral Leg Swings) – 10 each leg

Step 2: Proprioception Training

Proprioception exercises train athletes to sense and control their joint positions, especially in unstable scenarios.

Exercises:

  1. Single-Leg Balance with Eyes Closed
    • Stand on one leg and hold for 30 seconds.
    • Progression: Add arm movements or have a teammate toss a ball to them.
    • Repeat 3 times on each leg.
  2. Balance Board Training
    • Use a wobble board or balance disc to practice standing, squatting, or catching a light ball.
    • Time: 1–2 minutes per activity.
  3. Tandem Stance on Foam Surface
    • Stand with one foot directly in front of the other on a foam pad for 30 seconds.
    • Progression: Close eyes or add light arm movements.

Step 3: Reactive Balance Training

These exercises teach athletes to quickly stabilize after dynamic movements.

Exercises:

  1. Drop-and-Stick Landing Drills
    • Stand on a box (12–18 inches high), drop down to the ground, and land softly in a squat.
    • Focus: Knees should stay aligned with the toes.
    • Reps: 10–12.
  2. Lateral Hop and Hold
    • Hop laterally from one foot to the other, holding each landing for 3 seconds.
    • Ensure hips and knees remain stable.
    • Reps: 8–10 each side.
  3. Dynamic Partner Pushes
    • Partner lightly pushes the athlete’s shoulders in random directions while they maintain balance in a semi-squat stance.
    • Time: 30 seconds per round, 2–3 rounds.

Step 4: Strength Training with Stability

Strengthening stabilizing muscles enhances joint control and reduces compensation patterns.

BOSU ball cheer exercises 2

Exercises:

  1. Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift
    • Hold a light dumbbell in one hand and hinge forward on one leg while keeping the other leg extended behind.
    • Focus: Controlled movement and balanced posture.
    • Reps: 8–10 per leg.
  2. Split Squats with BOSU Ball
    • Perform a split squat with the front foot on a BOSU ball to add instability.
    • Focus: Slow, controlled movement.
    • Reps: 10–12 each leg.
  3. Plank with Arm and Leg Lifts
    • From a plank position, lift one arm and the opposite leg simultaneously.
    • Hold for 3 seconds and switch sides.
    • Reps: 10 per side.
balance training for cheer

Step 5: Plyometrics with Neuromuscular Focus

Plyometric exercises improve explosive power while reinforcing proper joint alignment and control.

Exercises:

  1. Box Jumps with Stick Landing
    • Jump onto a box (18–24 inches high), focusing on soft, stable landings.
    • Reps: 8–10.
  2. Broad Jumps with Reactive Balance
    • Perform a broad jump forward and stick the landing for 3 seconds.
    • Ensure knees remain aligned.
    • Reps: 8–10.
  3. Bounding Drills
    • Hop forward on one leg, switching legs with each bound.
    • Focus on stability during each landing.
    • Reps: 8–10 bounds.

Step 6: Cool Down and Recovery

End each session with static stretching and foam rolling to improve flexibility and reduce soreness.

Example Cool-Down Routine (5–10 minutes):

  1. Hamstring Stretch – 30 seconds per leg.
  2. Quad Stretch – 30 seconds per leg.
  3. Cat-Cow Stretch – 10 reps.
  4. Foam Rolling: Focus on calves, hamstrings, and quads.

Tips for Implementation

  • Frequency: Include neuromuscular training 2–3 times per week for noticeable benefits.
  • Progression: Gradually increase difficulty by adding instability or complexity to exercises.
  • Integration: Pair with regular strength and conditioning programs to maximize results.

Success Stories

Many elite sports programs use neuromuscular training to reduce injury rates. For example, studies show that integrating balance and stability exercises can decrease the risk of ACL injuries by up to 50% in female athletes. Applying these principles to your cheer team’s training has the potential to significantly reduce injury risk while enhancing performance.

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The Art of Feedback: Giving Constructive Criticism to Cheerleaders

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
constructive criticism cheerleading coaching tips
16
Dec

By Steve Pawlyk

Published December 16, 2024

I gotta guess most of you already know that being a cheer coach isn’t just about teaching stunts and choreography—it’s also about helping your athletes grow as individuals and teammates. One of the most challenging yet vital aspects of coaching is giving constructive criticism. Delivered effectively, it can motivate athletes, build confidence, and improve performance. Poorly communicated feedback, however, can lead to frustration, low morale, and misunderstandings. In this article, we’ll explore strategies for giving constructive criticism that will elevate your team’s success while fostering a positive environment.

Why Constructive Criticism Matters in Cheerleading

Cheerleading is a high-pressure sport that demands precision, teamwork, and resilience. Athletes thrive when they understand what’s working well and what needs improvement. Constructive criticism allows you to:

  • Address mistakes and refine skills.
  • Encourage personal and team growth.
  • Build trust between athletes and coaches.
  • Keep practices focused and efficient.

The goal is to make feedback a tool for improvement, not a source of discouragement.

positive reinforcement cheerleading

1. Set the Stage for Feedback

Before delivering any critique, it’s essential to create a culture where feedback is viewed as a positive part of the learning process. Here’s how:

  • Establish a Feedback Routine: Let your team know that feedback is a regular part of practice and performance reviews. Normalize it as a way to improve, not punish.
  • Focus on Effort, Not Perfection: Make it clear that mistakes are an opportunity for learning and growth. Highlight effort and progress over immediate success.
  • Encourage Open Communication: Build trust by inviting athletes to ask questions or share concerns. When athletes feel heard, they’re more receptive to feedback.

2. Balance Praise and Critique

Constructive criticism works best when it’s balanced with positive reinforcement. A simple formula to follow is the “Sandwich Method”:

  • Start with a Positive: Begin with something the athlete is doing well. For example, “Your timing in the last stunt was perfect—great job staying sharp.”
  • Address the Issue: Move to the critique in a way that’s specific and actionable. Avoid general comments like “You need to work harder.” Instead, say, “When you lift your leg in the scorpion, focus on locking your knee to improve your line.”
  • End on a High Note: Finish with encouragement or optimism. For instance, “You’ve made so much progress this season, and I know you’ll nail this with practice.”

3. Be Specific and Actionable

Vague feedback can confuse athletes and leave them unsure of how to improve. To avoid this, make your feedback:

  • Clear: “Your toe touch needs work” is less helpful than, “Focus on snapping your legs together faster and pointing your toes.”
  • Actionable: Provide steps for improvement. For example, “Practice your jumps with ankle weights to build strength and improve height.”
  • Relevant: Tailor your feedback to the athlete’s role or skill level. A base, flyer, or spotter will each need different kinds of guidance.

4. Deliver Feedback in the Right Moment

Timing is everything when it comes to criticism. Consider these guidelines:

  • In Practice: Give immediate feedback for skill corrections, but keep it concise to maintain the flow of practice.
  • After Performances: Review routines during post-performance meetings. Allow the team to celebrate successes before diving into critiques.
  • Privately for Sensitive Issues: If the feedback is personal or might embarrass the athlete, pull them aside for a one-on-one discussion.

5. Use Visual and Hands-On Examples

Many cheerleaders are visual or kinesthetic learners, so pairing verbal feedback with demonstrations or physical adjustments can be highly effective. For example:

  • Demonstrations: Show athletes the correct way to perform a motion or stunt.
  • Video Reviews: Record routines and review them as a team, pointing out both strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Hands-On Corrections: Safely guide an athlete’s body into the correct position if appropriate.
cheer coaching advice

6. Empower Athletes to Self-Correct

One of the best ways to instill long-term improvement is to encourage self-awareness. Teach athletes to evaluate their own performance by asking questions like:

  • “What do you think went well in that stunt?”
  • “What could you have done differently?”
  • “How did the timing feel for you?”

By guiding athletes to assess their own performance, you create independent thinkers who take ownership of their improvement.

cheer practice tips for coaches

7. Foster a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is key to turning criticism into motivation. Reinforce the idea that improvement comes through effort and persistence. Share examples of team members who overcame challenges through hard work or show videos of professional teams that emphasize perseverance.

8. Follow Up and Track Progress

Feedback doesn’t end with critique. Be sure to:

  • Check In: Revisit the skill or behavior you addressed to see if progress has been made.
  • Acknowledge Improvement: Celebrate when athletes apply your feedback successfully.

• • Adjust as Needed: If an athlete isn’t improving, revisit your critique and offer new strategies.

Constructive criticism is a powerful tool that can help cheerleaders improve their skills, build confidence, and strengthen their commitment to the team. By creating a culture of feedback, balancing praise and critique, and delivering actionable advice, you can foster an environment where athletes thrive both on and off the mat.

Mastering the art of feedback is an ongoing process, but with patience and practice, you can turn every critique into a stepping stone for success. Start implementing these tips today, and watch your team soar to new heights.

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Planning for Perfection: A Cheer Coach’s Guide to Organizing Practice Sessions Effectively

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Cheer Coachs Guide to Organizing Practice Sessions Effectively
05
Nov

By Steve Pawlyk

Published November 5, 2024

Organizing a productive cheer practice requires careful planning to ensure every minute is used to advance the team’s skills, conditioning, and confidence. With the right structure, coaches can help their teams not only perform at their best but also keep athletes motivated and engaged. Below is a step-by-step guide to planning an efficient cheer practice session from start to finish, complete with practical examples.

Step 1: Pre-Practice Preparation

cheer practice guide

Set Clear Objectives: Before practice even begins, define specific goals for the session. These can range from mastering a specific stunt sequence to improving synchronization in a dance routine. For example, if today’s focus is perfecting a pyramid, make that your main objective and communicate it to your athletes. Clarity ensures everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goal.

Create a Detailed Practice Plan: Write down the agenda and break the practice into blocks of time. Having a clear plan minimizes wasted time and helps you stay on track. Consider using a whiteboard or a shared document app (like Google Docs) that both coaches and athletes can access, ensuring everyone knows what to expect. Here’s an example:

  • Warm-Up: 10 minutes
  • Stretching and Conditioning: 15 minutes
  • Tumbling Drills: 20 minutes
  • Stunt Rehearsal: 30 minutes
  • Routine Run-Throughs: 20 minutes
  • Cool-Down: 5 minutes

Being flexible is also key—having a 2-3 minute buffer for each section will help adapt if needed.

Step 2: Start with Warm-Ups (10-15 minutes)

Dynamic Warm-Up: Start with a warm-up that not only prepares athletes physically but also keeps them engaged. Consider incorporating games like relay races or “Follow the Leader” to make it interactive and fun.

Example Warm-Up Routine:

  • High Knees: 1 minute
  • Butt Kicks: 1 minute
  • Arm Circles and Swings: 1 minute
  • Relay Race: 2 minutes

Adding these elements makes the warm-up less repetitive and helps build team spirit, which is essential for a strong group dynamic.

Step 3: Stretching and Conditioning (15 minutes)

Stretching: Flexibility is crucial in cheerleading. Utilize a progression approach to stretching:

  • Beginner Stretch: Start with hamstring stretches while seated on the floor.
  • Advanced Stretch: Move on to partner-assisted splits to push flexibility further.

Conditioning: Conditioning builds the strength needed for stunts and tumbling. To make conditioning more fun, turn it into a game. For instance, do “Last Athlete Standing” for wall sits, where athletes challenge each other to hold the wall sit as long as possible. Example conditioning exercises include:

  • Progressive Planks: Start with regular planks, then progress to shoulder tap planks or one-arm planks.
  • Wall Sits: Turn them into a friendly competition to motivate everyone.

Step 4: Skill Drills (20-30 minutes)

Tumbling Drills: Break down tumbling into manageable progressions and set up multiple stations. For example:

  • Station 1: Spotted drills for back handsprings.
  • Station 2: Flexibility practice using resistance bands.
  • Station 3: Tumbling passes on mats.

Stunt Drills: Focus on the key components of each stunt. Break it down into entry, execution, and dismount:

  • Entry Practice: Use colored markers on the floor to indicate where each base and flyer should stand, making entries quick and precise.
  • Execution Practice: Ensure flyers hit sharp positions and bases maintain stability.
  • Dismount Practice: Focus on cradle drills to develop timing and proper catching technique.

Rotating through stations keeps athletes engaged and helps minimize downtime.

Step 5: Routine Run-Throughs (20 minutes)

Sectional Practices: Instead of running the entire routine repeatedly, focus on breaking it into sections and practice each part separately. Start at half-speed, then progress to full speed to ensure every athlete understands the timing and flow.

Full Routine Run-Through: After sectional work, conduct a full routine run-through with music. Assign one athlete as the “spotlight” for each run-through, rotating this role to ensure everyone gets personalized feedback. Recording these run-throughs for later analysis helps athletes visualize where improvements are needed.

cheer conditioning tips

Step 6: Cool-Down (5-10 minutes)

Static Stretching: Use static stretches to relax muscles, prevent soreness, and improve flexibility. Hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds, focusing on key muscle groups used throughout practice.

Team Reflection: Use this time to reflect on the practice. Highlight successes, identify areas for improvement, and encourage athletes to share their thoughts. This helps build communication and keeps everyone motivated.

Step 7: Post-Practice Review

Coach’s Notes: After practice, jot down observations to tailor future sessions. For instance:

  • Goal Achieved: The pyramid sequence was performed with clean transitions.
  • Focus for Next Practice: Spend more time on tumbling synchronization and flyer body control during stunts.

Keeping these notes will help you adjust and create effective practices in the future.

Step 6: Cool-Down (5-10 minutes)

Static Stretching: Use static stretches to relax muscles, prevent soreness, and improve flexibility. Hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds, focusing on key muscle groups used throughout practice.

Team Reflection: Use this time to reflect on the practice. Highlight successes, identify areas for improvement, and encourage athletes to share their thoughts. This helps build communication and keeps everyone motivated.

cheer coach planning

Step 7: Post-Practice Review

Coach’s Notes: After practice, jot down observations to tailor future sessions. For instance:

  • Goal Achieved: The pyramid sequence was performed with clean transitions.
  • Focus for Next Practice: Spend more time on tumbling synchronization and flyer body control during stunts.

Keeping these notes will help you adjust and create effective practices in the future.

Practical Tips for Maximizing Practice Efficiency

  1. Use Timers: Keep a timer handy to stick to your schedule and maintain efficiency. Set a timer for each drill to prevent overspending time on one activity.
  2. Station Work: Set up stations for different drills—like tumbling, flexibility, and stunting—so that athletes can rotate every 10 minutes. This reduces waiting time and keeps everyone engaged.
  3. Assistant Coaches or Leaders: Utilize assistant coaches or experienced athletes as small group leaders. This allows for more individual attention and faster progression.
  4. Adapt Based on Energy Levels: If the team seems fatigued, spend more time on stretching or less intense skills to prevent injury and maintain morale.

Sample Practice Schedule

  • 5:00 – 5:10 PM: Warm-Up (Dynamic stretches and cardio)
  • 5:10 – 5:25 PM: Stretching and Conditioning (Static stretches, planks, wall sits)
  • 5:25 – 5:55 PM: Skill Drills (Tumbling and Stunt Progressions)
  • 5:55 – 6:15 PM: Routine Sectional Practice (Focus on transitions and timing)
  • 6:15 – 6:35 PM: Full Routine Run-Through and Video Review
  • 6:35 – 6:45 PM: Cool-Down and Team Reflection

Effective cheer practice planning is all about making sure each minute is used with purpose. By setting clear objectives, breaking down skills, utilizing drills, and ensuring proper pacing, coaches can help their athletes progress efficiently throughout the season. Remember that every practice builds towards competition day, so a well-structured practice plan can be the difference between a good routine and a great one. With the strategies above, your team will be ready to shine on the mat.

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Choreographing Cheer Routines That Stand Out

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Choreographing Cheer Routines That Stand Out
01
Nov

By Steve Pawlyk

Published November 1, 2024

Creating a cheer routine that captivates both the audience and judges takes more than technical skill; it requires creativity, smart use of transitions, and an understanding of how to maximize your team’s strengths. For example, the routine by Cheer Extreme Senior Elite at Worlds 2023 stood out due to its seamless transitions and creative use of musical cues, which kept the audience engaged from start to finish. Here are some actionable tips to help you design a standout cheer routine from beginning to end.

choreographing cheer

1. Prioritize Unique Transitions

Transitions can make or break the flow of your routine. The key is to keep movements seamless and visually engaging while transitioning between stunts, tumbling passes, or formations. For example, Cheer Athletics used a creative rolling transition to shift from a pyramid to a tumbling pass in their 2023 Nationals routine, which kept the movement dynamic and surprised the judges. Try integrating elements like cartwheels, spins, or even high-energy choreographed runs to shift athletes across the mat. Unexpected, smooth transitions make the entire routine feel polished and add another layer of sophistication.

2. Emphasize Visual Formations

The formation of your team at any point during the routine impacts how the entire performance looks to judges. Mix up your formations frequently, ensuring that there’s a dynamic visual effect for every big stunt or movement. Consider using video review during practice to identify gaps or inconsistencies in formations and make necessary adjustments to keep everything looking sharp. Create different levels by incorporating jumps or using flyers for height, which adds dimension to your routine and prevents any dull moments.

 

3. Musical Cues for Maximum Impact

Choreographing to the beat is expected, but choreographing to specific musical cues can elevate your performance. Use key lyrics, sound effects, or beat drops as cues for powerful moments, like throwing a basket toss or hitting a perfect stunt. For example, using a mix with a beat drop similar to the one in Beyoncé’s ‘Run the World (Girls)’ for a perfectly timed tumbling pass can create an impactful moment that energizes both the audience and judges. These connections make your routine feel in sync with the music and help the audience stay engaged.

4. Integrate Signature Stunts

Including a signature stunt that defines your team can help set you apart. To create a signature stunt, start by evaluating what makes your team unique—whether it’s their exceptional flexibility, strength, or speed. Identify your team’s standout qualities and design a stunt that highlights these attributes. You could begin by experimenting with different variations of existing stunts and adding unique twists that only your athletes can execute confidently. Once you’ve created a stunt that feels unique, practice it until it becomes second nature and consistently wows the judges. This could be a unique pyramid, a creative partner stunt, or a move that only your athletes can pull off with style. Think about what makes your team unique—maybe it’s their flexibility, their speed, or their strength—and design a stunt around those assets that the judges won’t forget.

5. Keep Pacing Varied

A great routine keeps the audience on their toes. Alternate between high-energy tumbling passes and slower, dramatic moments like a breathtaking pyramid. To ensure athletes are conditioned for these changes, practice pacing by running sections of the routine at full speed, then review video footage to identify moments where athletes need extra conditioning or adjustments to keep energy levels consistent. This ebb and flow in pacing keeps the judges’ attention and gives athletes a chance to catch their breath while still keeping the routine visually and emotionally impactful.

6. Leverage Unexpected Elements

The judges have seen thousands of routines. To stand out, try incorporating unexpected elements like partner work, tumbling passes initiated from stunts, or cheer-specific dance elements. Mixing in traditional cheer components with newer, more innovative twists can keep the judges guessing and make your routine one to remember. For example, incorporating a traditional pyramid structure but adding a twist where flyers perform a synchronized spin before transitioning into a basket toss can provide an unexpected wow factor that elevates the routine.

cheer coaching tips

7. Be Intentional with Every Move

Every single move should have a purpose—whether it’s setting up the next big element or showing off an athlete’s strength. Avoid filler movements just to kill time. Instead, each step should flow into the next with intention, creating a cohesive performance where all elements build upon one another for a final, showstopping impression. One effective drill is to video the entire routine and have athletes identify and eliminate any unnecessary movements, ensuring each move serves a purpose. Additionally, practicing short segments repeatedly with focused intention can help athletes become more aware of how every movement contributes to the overall routine.

8. Practice Timing to Perfection

The entire team hitting stunts and movements at exactly the same time is vital for that “wow” factor. Make timing a priority during practice by breaking down each section of the routine and using counts to ensure precision. A helpful timing exercise is to use an 8-count track and have athletes perform specific actions on each count, repeating until every movement is synchronized. Additionally, counting out loud as a team during stunts and tumbling passes can reinforce timing consistency. Synchronization is one of the key components that judges look for, and it’s an easy way to make your routine feel sharp and professional.

creative cheer stunts transitions

9. Involve the Whole Team in Creative Moments

Get creative input from your athletes! They may have unique stunt ideas or interesting transitions that can enhance the routine. For example, you could dedicate a ‘creative brainstorming’ session during practice where athletes work in small groups to develop new transitions or stunts. Involving them in the creative process can boost morale and ensure they feel personally invested in making the routine the best it can be.

10. Finish Strong with a Memorable End Pose

The end of your routine is your final chance to leave an impression. Make sure it’s visually strong and clearly punctuates the performance. Whether it’s a dramatic group pose, a held pyramid, or a coordinated tumble-out, the ending should leave the judges with a powerful last image of your team. For example, Top Gun All Stars ended their 2023 Nationals routine with a dynamic, multi-level pyramid combined with a tumbling-out sequence that featured perfectly timed flips and high-energy poses, creating a lasting impact. Consider using a mix of different levels, unique poses, or even a surprise element like a split or jump to finish on an exciting note.

Choreographing a cheer routine that stands out is all about maximizing what makes your team unique, using creative transitions, and making sure each part of your routine connects with the audience. Use these tips to help your team shine on the mat, and turn every performance into an unforgettable experience.

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Navarro vs. Blinn: NJCAA, the New Era of Competitive Cheer, & How to Coach Multiple Rounds

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Navarro vs. Blinn NJCAA the New Era of Competitive Cheer and How to Coach Multiple Rounds
25
Oct

By Steve Pawlyk

Published October 25, 2024

The first-ever NJCAA competitive cheerleading meet took place on October 19, 2024, marking a pivotal moment for junior college cheerleading. This historic meet featured two powerhouse programs, Navarro College and Blinn College, going head-to-head at the Kruse Center in Brenham, Texas. Traditionally known for their dominance at the National Cheer Association (NCA) competitions, both schools embraced the NJCAA’s shift to a structured, multi-round competition format, signaling a new era for collegiate cheer at the junior college level.

Meet Structure: A New Format for Cheer

This NJCAA meet differed from the typical one-shot routines seen at NCA championships. Instead, it featured a three-period format with multiple heats, offering more opportunities for athletes to showcase their skills in specific categories such as tumbling, stunt building, and creative tosses. The shift to this format reflects a growing emphasis on precision and consistency, requiring teams to sustain high energy and focus across multiple rounds rather than a single performance.

coaching multiple heats

Performance Breakdown: Key Highlights

  1. Compulsory Tumbling (Period 1):
    • Blinn secured early wins with impressive toe tucks and standing layouts.
    • Navarro answered back with victories in standing hand tucks and round-off tucks, resulting in a tightly contested start.
  2. Creative Building and Stunts (Period 2):
    • Both teams excelled in pyramid formations and stunt sequences, splitting wins across the heats.
    • The second period also featured basket tosses and creative elements, further challenging athletes to showcase both skill and artistry.
  3. Final Compulsory Routine (Period 3):
    • The competition culminated in a one-minute compulsory routine, with Navarro narrowly edging out Blinn, 50-45.

The meet ended with Navarro scoring 154 points over Blinn’s 150, underscoring just how evenly matched these teams were throughout the event.

What This Competition Means for Cheerleading

This meet represents more than just a rivalry—it highlights a new direction for NJCAA cheerleading. Historically, junior college programs like Blinn and Navarro balanced sideline performances with NCA competitions, where they had one chance to impress. With the NJCAA format, cheerleading now emphasizes multi-round strategy, offering athletes multiple opportunities to perform and adapt throughout the meet.

For cheer coaches and athletes nationwide, this shift offers new opportunities:

  • Development of Endurance and Versatility: Athletes must now maintain energy and composure over extended periods and adjust in real-time.
  • Increased Focus on Technique and Execution: The format rewards clean execution and strategic decision-making, fostering skill development across different areas of cheer.

• • Expanded Competitive Opportunities: Blinn’s coach expressed optimism about more NJCAA events being scheduled, opening the door for other programs to adopt the format and grow junior college cheer into a more structured sport.

Looking Ahead: A Growing Landscape

This first NJCAA meet sets a precedent for future competitions, potentially expanding the sport’s visibility and providing new pathways for student-athletes. Both Navarro and Blinn, with their storied NCA success, have proven that cheerleading at the junior college level can thrive in this evolving competitive landscape.

NJCAA cheer format

How to Coach Multiple Rounds: Lessons from NJCAA Cheer Meets

Coaching for multi-round cheer competitions, like those recently introduced by the NJCAA, requires a fresh approach compared to single-routine events. The Navarro vs. Blinn meet, which featured multiple heats across three periods, offers valuable insights into maintaining energy, focus, and strategy throughout these demanding events. Below is a breakdown of key coaching strategies to excel in multi-round competitions.

1. Strategic Energy Management Across Heats

In multi-round formats, it’s critical to pace your athletes to sustain energy. Unlike single-shot performances, multiple heats require athletes to perform at peak levels several times. Coaches can incorporate interval training into practice to simulate competition pacing. Rest and recovery periods should also be built between routines to ensure athletes are refreshed for each heat.

  • Tip: Rotate athletes in non-essential heats to prevent fatigue during crucial rounds, such as stunt or creative building heats later in the event.
  • Incorporate Conditioning: Endurance drills like circuit training and high-intensity interval workouts help athletes build the stamina needed to perform multiple routines successfully over extended periods.
coaching multiple heats 1

2. Building Versatility and Flexibility

Coaches should train athletes to handle multiple roles, such as switching between positions in pyramids and stunt sequences. Versatility ensures seamless transitions between heats and gives the team more flexibility to adapt to changes or injuries during competitions. Athletes performing as both bases and flyers can become key assets in ensuring smooth routine shifts.

  • Role Assignments: Use grid systems to track athlete participation across heats and avoid overloading individuals, ensuring they can perform optimally throughout the event.
  • Skill Assessments: Evaluate each athlete’s strengths in tumbling, stunts, and pyramids before the season, giving you a strategic advantage when assigning routines.

3. Maintaining Focus Through Mental Preparation

Multi-round competitions demand more mental stamina from athletes. Coaches can use visualization techniques and breathing exercises to help athletes stay focused and calm during breaks between heats. Group mindfulness sessions during practice can also foster mental resilience, keeping athletes sharp for every round.

  • Pre-Performance Rituals: Establish routines to reduce anxiety and ensure athletes remain focused between heats.
  • Visualization: Encourage athletes to mentally rehearse routines during downtime, envisioning each heat as a new opportunity to excel.

4. Using Strategic Adjustments Between Heats

The NJCAA’s multi-heat format offers the advantage of mid-competition adjustments. Coaches can review performance trends between heats, such as timing issues or minor form breaks, and provide immediate feedback. This adaptability allows teams to recover and correct mistakes in real time, potentially turning a competition in their favor.

  • Video Analysis: If possible, film heats and review them with the team between rounds to identify areas for quick improvement.
  • Adapt Strategies: Have backup plans for stunts or routines that prove inconsistent during early heats, focusing on cleaner execution to maximize later rounds.

5. Coaching Beyond the Routine: Building Team Chemistry

Cohesive teamwork is essential for multi-round success. Coaches can foster camaraderie with team-building exercises and ensure that athletes support each other through the highs and lows of competition. A supportive team culture ensures that athletes stay motivated across multiple heats.

  • Team Bonding Sessions: Activities like group dinners or team outings before competitions can build trust and communication among athletes.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate small victories after each heat to keep morale high, even if adjustments are needed for later rounds.

6. Looking Forward: NJCAA’s Impact on Competitive Cheer Coaching

The NJCAA’s adoption of multi-round formats brings a new dimension to cheerleading, providing athletes with more opportunities to showcase their skills and perform under varied conditions. This shift requires coaches to rethink traditional training methods, focusing on endurance, mental resilience, and strategic planning. As this format grows, coaches will need to emphasize flexibility and adaptability to remain competitive.

As the NJCAA aims to host more events like this, expect other programs to join in, creating a national circuit that could further elevate the sport at the collegiate level. This moment marks the beginning of a more inclusive and competitive cheer environment, where athletes have more chances to showcase their skills and teams can develop more comprehensive strategies to succeed.

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Coaching, Featured, Mental Health, Practice Tips

Avoiding Burnout: How Top Cheer Programs Manage Intense Competition Seasons

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
How top cheer teams avoid burnout
21
Oct

By Steve Pawlyk

Published October 21, 2024

I think we all know competitive cheer is a demanding sport that requires relentless dedication, combining strength, flexibility, and endurance. With top-tier competitions like The Cheerleading Worlds and ICU Championships, athletes often face long seasons packed with intense training, travel, and pressure to perform. Leading cheer programs such as Top Gun All Stars, Cheer Extreme, and Brandon All-Stars have developed effective strategies to prevent athlete burnout, ensuring their teams perform at peak levels without compromising well-being.

burnout prevention in cheerleading

1. Balancing Training Volume and Rest Days

Top cheer programs understand the importance of balancing high-intensity practices with rest. Coaches from Cheer Extreme Raleigh, known for their meticulous routines, schedule mandatory rest days to allow athletes’ bodies to recover. This approach helps minimize the risk of overuse injuries, which are common in cheerleading due to repetitive tumbling and stunting sequences.

For programs competing in both national and international events, such as Top Gun All Stars (winners of L6 Senior Large Coed), the offseason serves as a critical time to reset physically and mentally. Coaches focus on lighter skill-building sessions rather than full choreography to maintain fitness while avoiding fatigue.

2. Mental Health Support and Stress Management Techniques

Competitive cheer involves intense psychological demands. Teams like Brandon All-Stars emphasize mental health by incorporating mindfulness practices and sports psychology workshops. Athletes learn relaxation techniques to manage competition-day anxiety and burnout associated with travel and rigorous training schedules.

Additionally, Cheer Athletics provides access to mental health professionals and peer-support networks. These initiatives encourage athletes to openly discuss stress and mental fatigue, promoting a healthy team environment where athletes feel supported through challenging seasons.

3. Smart Travel and Recovery Plans

Travel can disrupt athletes’ sleep and recovery, particularly when competing in multiple competitions within a short period. Programs like The Stingray Allstars, who regularly compete at large-scale events like The Cheerleading Worlds, use smart travel strategies. Teams arrive early at competition sites to adjust to time zone changes and avoid jet lag.

  • Arriving Early to Adjust and Prepare
    Teams often arrive at competition sites a day or more before the event begins. This early arrival helps athletes adjust to new environments, manage time zone changes, and minimize jet lag. It also provides time for pre-competition routines like light practice, stretching, and warm-ups without the stress of rushed travel.
  • Smart Travel Planning and Flexible Accommodations
    Many cheer programs utilize specialized travel services like Varsity Spirit’s Stay Smart program, which arranges flexible housing and transportation. This allows athletes to stay at nearby hotels, ensuring minimal commute time to venues and optimal rest between events. Flexible booking options also accommodate travel changes, reducing stress for athletes and staff during long seasons.
  • Nutrition and Active Recovery on Travel Days
    To maintain energy levels, teams prioritize proper nutrition throughout travel. They pack healthy snacks and focus on balanced meals, avoiding excessive sugar or caffeine that can disrupt sleep or cause energy crashes. Incorporating active recovery on travel days—such as light stretching, yoga, or walking—also helps athletes maintain mobility and reduce muscle stiffness.
  • Creating Buffer Time Between Events
    Successful programs carefully plan their schedules to allow for downtime between competitions. This includes days dedicated to rest and recovery post-event, where athletes can recharge physically and mentally. Managing post-competition “cheer hangovers,” a phenomenon where athletes experience emotional or physical exhaustion, is crucial to sustaining performance throughout the season.
  • Hydration and Sleep Hygiene
    Staying hydrated is essential, especially during travel and long competition days. Teams encourage frequent water breaks and sometimes use electrolyte drinks during intense events. Sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining consistent bedtime routines and limiting screen time, help athletes get quality sleep even in unfamiliar settings.

Additionally, many elite programs prioritize recovery on travel days, using tools like compression therapy and ice baths to reduce muscle soreness. Ensuring athletes have adequate downtime between competitions also plays a key role in preventing burnout.

4. Injury Prevention and Customized Training Programs

Injury prevention is paramount for cheer programs aiming to compete at the highest levels without burning out their athletes. Programs like Rain Athletics and ICE All Stars focus on injury prevention by tailoring individual training plans that account for athletes’ needs and physical limitations. Cross-training exercises, such as yoga and swimming, are incorporated to build strength without stressing overworked muscle groups.

Teams also limit the number of “full-out” practices to reduce the physical toll of repeatedly performing competition routines. Instead, practices may focus on sections of routines or visualization exercises to mentally rehearse the performance without risking fatigue.

5. Team Bonding and Social Support

The most successful cheer programs recognize that camaraderie is essential to long-term athlete well-being. Cheer Extreme SSX and South Coast Cheer’s Fearless have developed strong bonding practices to create cohesive, high-performing teams. These programs understand that beyond technical skill, fostering team unity is crucial for handling the pressures of competitive seasons like The Cheerleading Worlds and MAJORS.

competitive cheer mental health

Cheer Extreme SSX emphasizes structured team bonding activities, such as organized group outings and movie nights, which help athletes unwind and develop deeper interpersonal relationships outside of practice. These activities also promote better in-competition communication, which is crucial for executing precise stunts and choreography under pressure.

South Coast Cheer Fearless, known for their success in the L6 Senior XSmall division, similarly prioritizes team bonding. They regularly organize post-practice dinners and outings, creating opportunities for athletes to connect outside the competitive environment. This culture of camaraderie has been a key factor in their ability to maintain consistent high performance throughout their undefeated season, as they continue to win at major competitions like MAJORS and NCA Nationals.

Both programs demonstrate that by nurturing a supportive and close-knit environment, athletes become more resilient, motivated, and capable of performing under high-stakes conditions. The strong relationships within these teams not only foster morale but also provide essential emotional support, helping athletes manage stress and stay engaged throughout the season. These bonding practices contribute directly to their competitive success by ensuring that every member feels valued and connected to the team’s goals.

burnout prevention in cheerleading

Bonus Team Bulding Ideas:

  • World Cup Shooting Stars fosters a family-like atmosphere, emphasizing both competition and personal growth. Their success is attributed to a positive team environment that ensures each athlete feels valued. They engage in seasonal team bonding activities, such as themed parties, which help cultivate unity and allow members to relax and connect before high-pressure competitions
  • KC Cheer Fierce 5 is known for their strong culture of tradition and community. They prioritize bonding through structured choreography camps and regular team practices. This creates a rhythm where athletes learn to depend on each other, strengthening their on-mat chemistry during competitions
  • Twist & Shout Diamonds & GymTyme IL Fever tend to focus on building trust among teammates through consistent practice sessions and team outings. Trust is crucial for executing complex stunts and tumbling sequences safely under pressure. Off-mat bonding events also help athletes decompress and maintain mental well-being throughout the season
  • Woodlands Elite Black Ops‘s strategy is skill-building sessions with team-building exercises. Their bonding efforts go beyond practice, including fun activities like scavenger hunts or escape rooms, encouraging problem-solving and collaboration among athletes

Avoiding burnout is essential for elite cheer programs competing at the highest levels. Through smart training plans, mental health support, intentional recovery strategies, and fostering team cohesion, programs like Top Gun All Stars, Cheer Extreme, and Brandon All-Stars set a gold standard for balancing performance and well-being. These strategies not only keep athletes healthy but also help them maintain the passion and drive needed to excel during demanding seasons like The Cheerleading Worlds and ICU Championships.

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Coaching, Practice Tips, Tips

Showcase Season: A Comprehensive Guide for Cheer Coaches

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Showcase Season A Comprehensive Guide for Cheer Coaches
14
Oct

By Steve Pawlyk

Published October 14, 2024

As we approach one of the most thrilling times in the cheerleading calendar—Showcase Season—it’s crucial for coaches to prepare their teams both mentally and physically. Showcases provide the opportunity to perform in front of an audience without the pressure of competition scores, making them the perfect rehearsal for the upcoming competition season. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure your team shines during their showcase.

cheerleading showcase tips

1. Structured and Consistent Training

Creating a well-balanced training schedule is vital in the weeks leading up to your showcase. Regular practice is the key to achieving smooth transitions, timing precision, and confidence. Focus on:

  • Skill-building and Routine Refinement: Dedicate part of each practice to clean up any rough spots in the routine, emphasizing synchronization and stunt timing.
  • Strength and Stamina: Incorporate conditioning exercises like endurance drills, circuit training, and cardio to build the stamina necessary for a high-energy performance.
  • Full-Out Dress Rehearsals: Ensure your athletes are practicing the full routine in uniform, under conditions as close to showcase day as possible. This includes performing in front of a small audience to simulate the nerves and adrenaline rush they will experience during the real thing.

2. Mastering Presentation and Clean Execution

While showcases are less formal than competitions, the performance should still be sharp and clean to leave a lasting impression:

  • Showmanship Matters: Encourage athletes to maintain high energy, smile, and engage with the audience through eye contact. Performance quality can make a big difference in how your routine is perceived, even if you’re not executing the most complex stunts.
  • Technical Precision: Judges at future competitions will notice the smallest details. Use the showcase to refine tight formations, sharp motions, and clean transitions. Work on eliminating unnecessary movements that could result in deductions in competition.
  • Polish the Routine: If your team struggles with consistency on certain elements, consider simplifying those sections to prioritize clean execution over complexity. You want the audience to leave impressed by a flawless performance.

3. Mental and Emotional Preparedness

Physical preparation is only part of the equation—mental readiness is equally important. Here are some strategies to ensure your team is mentally focused:

  • Visualization: Encourage your athletes to use mental imagery. Have them visualize hitting their stunts, tumbling, and dance sequences perfectly. Studies show that visualizing success helps athletes perform better when the time comes.
  • Setting Intentions: Before each practice, guide your athletes to set a positive intention for the day. It could be something as simple as “I will stay focused and confident” or “I will support my teammates”. This not only keeps their mindset positive but also reinforces team unity.
  • Energy Management: Coaches should help athletes manage performance anxiety by teaching breathing techniques like box breathing. This helps athletes center themselves and turn nervous energy into focus.
cheer showcase season advice

4. Nutrition and Hydration

Fueling the body properly is crucial for peak performance:

  • Balanced Meals: Leading up to the showcase, ensure your athletes are eating balanced meals with a mix of complex carbohydrates (for energy) and protein (for muscle recovery). A good pre-performance snack could be oatmeal with eggs or a turkey sandwich.
  • Stay Hydrated: Encourage athletes to drink water consistently during practices and especially on showcase day. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and a lackluster performance.
cheer showcase strategy

5. Building Team Camaraderie

A cohesive team will always perform better under pressure. Use the showcase season to foster deeper connections among teammates:

  • Team Bonding: Organize activities like team dinners, movie nights, or even post-practice outings to strengthen the bond among your athletes. This sense of unity can translate to better communication and synchronization on the mat.
  • Positive Reinforcement: After each practice, highlight individual and group successes. This will boost confidence and help keep morale high leading up to showcase day.

6. Post-Performance Reflection

After the showcase, take the opportunity to reflect on what went well and what needs improvement:

  • Review the Performance: Record the showcase and review it with the team. Analyze the areas where the team excelled and where further refinement is needed before competition season.
  • Celebrate Achievements: Regardless of any mistakes, celebrate the team’s hard work and dedication. Showcase season is not just about nailing the routine, but also about enjoying the process and setting the stage for future success.

By incorporating these strategies, your team will not only perform their best at the showcase but also be well-prepared for the high-pressure environment of competition season. Showcase season is an invaluable opportunity for growth—both individually and as a team—so make the most of it!

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Coaching, Featured, Music, Practice Tips

Music and Movement: How the Right Soundtrack Can Transform Your Cheerleading Practice

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Music and Movement How the Right Soundtrack Can Transform Your Cheerleading Practice
09
Sep

By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 9, 2024

Cheerleading is a sport that thrives on energy, precision, and timing. Whether you’re preparing for a competitive routine or just working on your stunts and pyramids, the right soundtrack can make a world of difference. In this article, we’ll dive into how using the right music during practice can elevate your performance, improve coordination, and keep your team motivated from start to finish.

Why Music Matters in Cheerleading Practice

Music sets the tone for any performance, and cheerleading is no exception. Choosing the right soundtrack can influence everything from energy levels to synchronization. Here are a few reasons why incorporating the perfect music mix into your practices is crucial:

cheerleading practice music
  1. Boosts Energy and Motivation
    The tempo of your music can make or break a practice. Upbeat, fast-paced tracks create an energetic atmosphere that pushes athletes to give their all. Whether you’re working on tumbling passes or perfecting your dance section, the right music will keep your cheerleaders pumped and engaged throughout the practice.
  2. Enhances Timing and Coordination
    Music helps teams sync their movements. With specific beats to hit, cheerleaders can better understand the timing of their stunts, jumps, and transitions. This is particularly important for routines that involve intricate formations or pyramid structures, where timing is everything.
  3. Improves Focus
    The right soundtrack isn’t just about fun—it’s also about focus. Music with a steady rhythm and clear beats allows athletes to concentrate on their routine while staying in sync with the rest of the team. Having a consistent soundtrack helps eliminate distractions, keeping everyone focused on the task at hand.
  4. Sets the Mood for Performance
    Just as music sets the mood for movies, it can do the same for cheerleading. If your routine has a specific theme, like a fierce or dramatic vibe, playing music that complements that theme during practice helps cheerleaders get into character. The more they feel the routine’s energy, the better they’ll perform during competition.

5. Reduces Burnout
Long, intense practices can be mentally and physically exhausting. Having the right music mix can turn an exhausting practice into an enjoyable experience, allowing cheerleaders to push through fatigue. It creates a fun atmosphere that motivates the entire team to keep pushing through difficult sections of the routine.

How to Choose the Right Music for Practice

Now that we’ve established the benefits of music in cheer practice, how do you choose the right mix? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Match the Music to the Routine’s Style: If you’re working on a high-energy routine, opt for fast-paced tracks with plenty of beats per minute (BPM). Slower, more controlled routines benefit from music that has a strong rhythm but isn’t overwhelming.
  • Include Variety: Use different tracks for different sections of the routine. For example, choose one song for stunting practice and another for working on choreography. This helps break up practice while keeping the team engaged.
  • Use Custom Cheer Mixes: Custom cheer mixes are specifically designed for cheerleading routines and can be tailored to fit the exact timing and vibe of your performance. Investing in a professional mix for practice and performance ensures that the timing is flawless.

You can view options for IPP’s custom cheer music here

cheerleading performance music

The Power of Premade Mixes: Affordable, Customizable, and Ready to Go

If you’re looking for a way to maximize your budget without compromising on quality, premade mixes are an excellent option for cheerleading teams. These mixes are professionally produced and offer all the energy and structure of a custom mix, but at a fraction of the cost. Premade mixes are not only less expensive, but they also provide an incredible level of flexibility to suit your team’s needs.

cheer music

Customization Options

One of the biggest advantages of using a premade mix is that it’s highly customizable. You can add:

  • Voiceovers to highlight your team’s name or chant specific phrases
  • Sound effects to match the intensity of your stunts or dramatic moments in your routine
  • Additional editing or other customization elements that match the theme or timing of your routine

With these customizable features, your premade mix can feel almost as unique as a fully custom mix, allowing your team to stand out during performances.

Instant Access for Immediate Practice

The best part? You can download the base version of the mix immediately after purchase. This means that while you wait for your customizations to be added, you can start practicing with the uncustomized version right away. This feature is especially helpful for teams working on tight schedules. The uncustomized mix allows you to get a head start on mastering the routine’s timing and flow, ensuring that you’re prepared once the customized elements are added.

Whether you’re prepping for a major competition or fine-tuning your choreography, having access to a premade mix gives you the flexibility to start training immediately, keeping your team on track and ready to perform.

Adding premade mixes to your cheer music toolkit gives you the best of both worlds—cost-efficiency and customization—while keeping your team ready to practice without delay. It’s a smart option that ensures you never miss a beat.

Practicing to a Click Track for Precision and Focus

At the start of the season, many cheer teams prefer to practice with a click track. A click track provides a steady beat, allowing athletes to focus on timing and synchronization without the distraction of a full music mix. Coaches also love this approach because it allows their voices to be heard clearly as they work through choreography and fine-tune stunts. For some teams, it’s less distracting and offers a more controlled environment for mastering the basics. IPP Music offers a free click track download to help your team start strong—grab it here.

The right soundtrack can completely transform your cheerleading practice. By selecting music that boosts energy, enhances coordination, and improves focus, you’ll set your team up for success. Whether you opt for custom mixes or your favorite pump-up tracks, incorporating music into every phase of practice is essential for keeping your team motivated and prepared for competition.

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Coaching, Featured, Tips

Preparing Your Team for End-of-Season Cheer Events: A Coach’s Guide

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Preparing Your Team for End of Season Cheer Events A Coachs Guide
03
Sep

By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 3, 2024

As the cheerleading season progresses, the stakes get higher, and the competition gets tougher. The end-of-season events, such as the Allstar World Championship and the ICU World Championship, are some of the most prestigious competitions in the cheerleading world. For coaches, preparing a team to excel in these events requires meticulous planning, intense training, and a strong mental game. Here’s how you can ensure your team is ready to shine when it matters most.

cheer team training

1. Start with a Strong Foundation

  • Refine Basic Skills: Before delving into complex routines, make sure your team has mastered the basics. Stunts, tumbling, and jumps should be flawless and consistent. This foundation is crucial for building more intricate performances.
  • Conditioning and Strength Training: Incorporate regular conditioning sessions focused on building the strength and endurance needed for high-energy performances. This includes exercises that target core stability, flexibility, and explosive power.

2. Crafting the Perfect Routine

  • Routine Composition: Create a routine that highlights your team’s strengths while adhering to the scoring criteria of the competition. Balance difficulty with execution to avoid deductions. Consider consulting with choreographers who specialize in end-of-season competitions to gain an edge.
  • Incorporate Unique Elements: To stand out, incorporate creative elements such as unique transitions, visual effects, or unexpected musical choices. Judges often appreciate originality, provided it doesn’t compromise the routine’s execution.

3. Mental Preparation

* Visualization Techniques: Encourage athletes to use visualization techniques, imagining themselves successfully performing the routine. This mental rehearsal can boost confidence and reduce anxiety.
* Focus on Team Cohesion: Building a strong sense of unity and trust within the team is crucial. Team-building activities, group discussions, and positive reinforcement can help foster a supportive environment, essential for high-pressure situations.

4. Simulate Competition Conditions

* Mock Competitions: Hold full-out performances under conditions that simulate the actual competition environment. This includes performing in front of an audience, adhering to strict time limits, and dealing with potential distractions.
* Video Analysis: Record these performances and review them with the team. Highlight both the strengths and areas that need improvement. Use this feedback loop to make necessary adjustments and refine the routine further.

cheerleading preparation

5. Focus on Recovery and Injury Prevention
* Injury Prevention: As training intensity ramps up, so does the risk of injury. Ensure that athletes are following proper warm-up and cool-down protocols. Regularly check in with athletes about any aches or pains and address them promptly.
* Rest and Recovery: Plan for adequate rest days and recovery sessions. Overtraining can lead to burnout and diminish performance. Incorporate activities like yoga, stretching, and massage therapy to aid in recovery.
6. Fine-Tuning and Final Adjustments
* Routine Adjustments: As the competition approaches, make any final tweaks to the routine based on feedback and performance. Focus on cleaning up the details—pointed toes, sharp motions, and synchronized timing.
* Mental Rehearsals: In the final days before the competition, reduce physical training and focus on mental rehearsals. Use this time to build confidence and ensure that each athlete knows their role inside and out.
7. Prepare for the Event Day
* Event Logistics: Ensure that all logistics, from travel arrangements to uniform checks, are in order well in advance. Reducing stress on event day allows the team to focus solely on their performance.
* Nutrition and Hydration: Educate athletes on the importance of proper nutrition and hydration leading up to the event. A well-fueled body is essential for peak performance.

8. During the Competition
* Stay Calm and Focused: As a coach, your demeanor sets the tone for the team. Stay calm, offer constructive feedback, and keep the team focused on their goals.
* Post-Performance Reflection: After the performance, regardless of the outcome, gather the team for a reflection session. Highlight what went well and what can be improved for future performances. Use this as a learning experience for all athletes.

Preparing for end-of-season cheerleading events requires more than just skill; it requires strategy, mental toughness, and a well-rounded approach to training. By focusing on these key areas, you can help your team not only compete but excel on the biggest stages in cheerleading. Remember, the journey to these events is as important as the performance itself—every practice, every drill, and every moment of preparation contributes to the final outcome.

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Featured, News, South Korea

How Korean Cheer Just Took Over TikTok

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
How Korean Cheer Just Took Over TikTok
30
Aug

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 30, 2024

Alright, so let’s talk about these Korean cheerleaders who are absolutely blowing up on TikTok right now. If you’ve been scrolling through your feed and suddenly found yourself hypnotized by a group of cheerleaders doing a super chill dance routine, you’re not alone. These videos have been flooding social media, and it’s all thanks to the cheer squad for the Kia Tigers, a baseball team in Korea.

Picture this: the routine kicks off with some catchy drum beats, then you hear sneakers squeaking on a gym floor. Suddenly, a thumbs-up pops into view, bobbing up and down like it’s keeping time with the music. This little dance, often called the “Pikki Pikki” dance, has become a viral sensation. We’re talking millions of views on TikTok, all for a dance that’s simple, repetitive, and kinda low-key. But man, is it addictive!

Now, if you’re thinking about the high-energy routines we’re used to in American cheerleading—like the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders rocking out to “Thunderstruck”—this Korean routine might surprise you. The Kia Tigers’ cheerleaders are all about subtlety. They’re not throwing big stunts or flipping around. Instead, they’re gently moving their elbows, mostly staying in one spot, and if we’re being honest, they look a little… bored?

But here’s the thing—that laid-back vibe is totally on purpose. According to Lee Si-Young, the founder of the company that reps the cheer squad, the whole point is to match the chill tone of the music and make it easy for the fans to follow along. They wanted something that felt casual, not over-the-top.

The moves themselves are pretty basic—mostly just dancing with two thumbs up—but when you see it performed deadpan in front of 16,000 fans, over and over during a game, it’s got this weirdly captivating charm. It’s that unassuming nature that’s drawn in fans from all over the world and left a lot of people scratching their heads, wondering what’s so special about it.

The truth is, this dance has been around since 2022, but it’s only recently exploded in popularity. Why now? Well, it turns out that the Korea Baseball Organization (K.B.O.) is seeing record-breaking crowds, especially with more young women buying tickets. More fans mean more eyes on the cheerleaders—and that means more viral moments like this.

K.B.O. games are known for being super high-energy, and the cheerleaders play a huge role in that. But the strikeout dance is a bit more subdued since it’s performed when the Tigers are on the field, not when they’re up to bat. Tickets to these games are super affordable, too—around $5 to $10—so it’s a great way for younger fans to enjoy a day out, complete with their own food and drinks. And trust me, the atmosphere at a Korean baseball game is like a rock concert compared to the more laid-back vibe of Major League Baseball here in the States.

The song that’s got everyone hooked? It’s called “Lecon Studios” by Olive Beat, and it’s actually a sample from “My Lecon” by the Korean boy band JTL. The cheering staff calls it the “strikeout song,” but fans started calling it “Pikki Pikki” because of the squeaky sound effects. And just like that, a viral dance was born.

This whole thing has even sparked a wave of imitators, with people all over the world trying to mimic the cheerleaders’ blank stares and hip sways. Some folks, like British model and influencer Melissa Minh, have even poked fun at the lack of enthusiasm, but they still admit that these cheerleaders are pretty darn captivating.

It’s kind of wild to think that this is the first time a K.B.O. cheerleading routine has gone viral like this, but the squad is definitely feeling proud of their newfound fame. One cheerleader in particular, Lee Ju-Eun, has become a breakout star. She’s got this bouncy hair and barrettes that have made her a fan favorite in some of the most-watched videos.

Apparently, she’s a little dazed by all the attention, but she’s taking it in stride, enjoying the fun, and seeing it all as a positive experience. And let’s be real, who wouldn’t?

In some of the videos, you might even catch her freshening up her makeup or fanning herself off before jumping into the dance. It’s like she’s almost too cool to care—until the music hits, and then it’s game on. The dance itself is only done when the Tigers are on the field, so the cheerleaders are basically chilling between strikeouts. But when the beat drops, they come alive just enough to do their thing, then slip back into their nonchalant vibe. It’s that mix of effortlessness and charm that’s got everyone talking.

So there you have it—the “Pikki Pikki” dance, the viral sensation you didn’t know you needed, straight from the baseball fields of Korea to the endless scroll of your TikTok feed.

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Australia, Coaching, Events, Featured, Japan, News, Norway

The Worldwide Rise of Cheer: Spotlight on Japan, Australia, and Norway at 2024 ICU Championships

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Global cheerleading expansion top cheerleading nations 2024
19
Aug

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 19, 2024

Cheerleading has long been associated with American sports culture, but the sport has been experiencing a significant global expansion in recent years. This trend was particularly evident at the 2024 ICU World Cheerleading Championships, where several countries showcased their prowess, signaling a shift in the competitive cheerleading landscape. Among the standout nations were Japan, Australia, and Norway, each making significant strides and proving that cheerleading is truly becoming a global sport.

Team Japan: Rising to the Top in International Cheerleading

Japan’s ascent in competitive cheer has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the past decade, Japan has evolved from a country primarily known for its success in dance categories to a formidable contender in cheerleading, particularly in the Coed Elite division. This transformation is a testament to the country’s dedication to excellence and the strategic efforts made by Cheer Japan, the organization responsible for nurturing and developing the nation’s cheerleading talent.

Japan icu cheerleading All Girl Elite cheerleading

Evolution

Cheerleading in Japan has a rich history, supported by several key organizations, including Cheer Japan, which was founded in 2010. Initially, Japan made a strong impact in dance categories, such as Freestyle Pom and Hip Hop, where they consistently placed in the top ranks at international competitions. However, the nation’s ambitions extended beyond dance, leading to the formation of All-Girl and Coed Elite teams that would eventually compete at the ICU World Cheerleading Championships.

Japan’s Coed Elite team made its debut in 2014, but it wasn’t until 2023 that they secured their first gold medal, a historic moment that marked Japan’s emergence as a top contender in cheerleading. This victory was the result of meticulous preparation, including nationwide tryouts and rigorous training sessions held weekly. These efforts paid off, with the team making it to the finals for the first time and ultimately taking home the gold

Standout Athletes and Coaches

The success of Japan’s cheerleading teams can be attributed to both the athletes’ dedication and the expertise of their coaches. For example, Sonoka Kasahara, the head coach of the Coed Elite team, played a crucial role in leading the team to their historic victory in 2023. Under Kasahara’s guidance, the athletes engaged in a disciplined training regime that included stunt and tumbling homework, as well as intensive practice sessions in Florida just before the championship. This level of preparation was unprecedented for the team and demonstrated a new level of commitment that propelled them to the top

Additionally, the athletes themselves have shown remarkable resilience and skill. Many of the team members had never competed at such a high level before, making their achievement even more impressive. The win in 2023 is likely just the beginning. They clearly have momentum 🙂

Team Australia: A Consistent Cheer Powerhouse

Australia has cemented its place as a formidable force in the cheerleading world, particularly in the Coed and All-Girl divisions. The country’s consistent performances at international competitions, especially at the ICU World Cheerleading Championships, highlight the depth of talent and the strong cheerleading culture that has been cultivated over the years.

A Legacy of Success

Australia’s cheerleading history is marked by steady growth and increasing success on the global stage. The Australian Cheer Union (ACU) has played a pivotal role in this development, bringing together the nation’s top talent to compete at the highest levels. The ACU’s strategic approach includes rigorous selection processes, where athletes from across the country are chosen to represent Australia in various international events. This method has proven effective, as seen in their impressive performances at the 2023 and 2024 ICU World Cheerleading Championships.

In 2023, Australia had one of its most successful showings, with all teams placing in the top five in their respective divisions. The All Girl Elite team secured a historic gold medal, marking Australia’s first World Championship title in this category. Meanwhile, the Coed Elite team earned a silver medal, showcasing the country’s competitive edge across multiple divisions. These achievements were not just a testament to the athletes’ skills but also to the exceptional coaching and preparation that went into these performances.

Australia All Girl Elite cheerleading Australia All Girl Elite cheerleading

Standout Athletes and Coaches

Key to Australia’s success has been the dedication and expertise of its coaches, such as Derrick Turner, the head coach of the All Girl Elite team, and Eddie Davey, who leads the Coed Elite team. These coaches have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of what Australian cheerleading can achieve, focusing on refining techniques, building team cohesion, and fostering a competitive spirit that has propelled the teams to international success.

Athletes from Team Australia have consistently demonstrated their prowess, with many standout performances that have caught the attention of the global cheerleading community. The training regimen for these athletes is intense, with preparation involving multiple training camps across Australia and final practice sessions held just before major competitions in the USA. This level of commitment from both coaches and athletes has been a significant factor in Australia’s rise as a cheerleading powerhouse

Team Norway Cheer: Emerging Contenders

Norway has been making significant strides in the international cheerleading scene, particularly in the All-Girl and Coed Premier divisions. While the country may not have traditionally been seen as a cheerleading powerhouse, recent performances at global events like the ICU World Cheerleading Championships have shown that Norway is quickly becoming a formidable contender.

A History of Growth and Success

Norway’s cheerleading journey began with a slow and steady rise, primarily driven by the efforts of teams like the Viqueens Cheerleaders. The Viqueens, one of Norway’s most prominent cheerleading clubs, have played a pivotal role in elevating the country’s status on the world stage. Their team, Viqueens Spirit, has been competing internationally since 2011, steadily improving their performances over the years. In 2024, they achieved a monumental victory by winning their first-ever gold medal at The Cheerleading Worlds in the L7 International Open division. This win was the culmination of over a decade of hard work, dedication, and a strong culture of excellence within the team

Norway icu 2024 norwegian cheerleading All Girl Elite cheerleading

Standout Teams and Athletes

The Viqueens Spirit team is known for its rigorous training and the exceptional talent of its athletes. Notably, many members of this team also represent Norway at the ICU World Cheerleading Championships, demonstrating their versatility and high skill level across different competitions. In 2024, the Norwegian All-Girl Elite team, which included several athletes from the Viqueens, secured a spot on the podium, finishing just behind the United States and Finland. This achievement highlighted the depth of talent in Norway and underscored the country’s growing competitiveness on the international stage

Coaching and Development

The success of Norwegian cheerleading can be largely attributed to the quality of its coaching. Coaches like Nathalie Brøndrup, who have a deep connection to the sport both as former athletes and now as coaches, have been instrumental in building a culture of hard work and resilience. Brøndrup, for example, emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong, fighting spirit within the team, which has been a cornerstone of their success

In addition to coaching, Norway’s national cheerleading programs have benefited from structured development strategies, including regular training camps, participation in European and global championships, and a focus on technical skill development. Events like the ICU European Cheerleading Championships, hosted in Norway in 2024, have further provided a platform for Norwegian teams to compete at a high level and gain invaluable experience

As cheer continues to evolve, these countries are likely to remain at the forefront, inspiring others to elevate their programs. The future of cheerleading is undeniably global, and the sport is better for it.

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Cheer How-To Series, Coaching, Featured, Practice Tips, Tips

Mastering the Pyramid: Techniques for Building Strong, Safe, and Creative Cheerleading Stunts

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Mastering the Pyramid Techniques for Building Strong Safe and Creative Cheerleading Stunts
15
Aug

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 15, 2024

Cheerleading pyramids are one of the most dynamic and visually stunning elements of a cheer routine. They not only showcase the strength and skill of the athletes but also the creativity and precision of the coach. However, building a successful pyramid requires more than just physical prowess; it demands a deep understanding of technique, safety, and teamwork. In this article, we’ll explore essential techniques for constructing strong and safe cheerleading pyramids, offer unique ideas to make your stunts stand out, and provide a step-by-step guide on “How to build a cheer pyramid?”

The Foundations of a Strong and Safe Cheerleading Pyramid

Before diving into the creative aspects of pyramid building, it’s crucial to understand the fundamentals that ensure both strength and safety. Here are some key techniques:

how to build a pyramid in cheer
  1. Solid Bases: The Foundation of Success
    • Proper Stance: Bases should have a stable, shoulder-width stance with slightly bent knees to absorb the weight of the flyers. Their core should be engaged, and their back straight to maintain balance.
    • Grip and Hand Placement: Bases must have a firm grip on the flyers’ feet or ankles. Proper hand placement ensures that the flyers are secure and can be adjusted quickly if needed.
    • Communication: Clear and consistent communication between the bases and the flyers is essential. A simple cue like “ready” before lifting can make all the difference in timing and coordination.
  2. Flyer Technique: Lightness and Balance
    • Core Engagement: Flyers should keep their core tight and engage their muscles to maintain balance. A strong core allows flyers to stay light on their bases and reduces the risk of collapsing the pyramid.
    • Body Alignment: Flyers need to focus on keeping their body aligned, with hips over ankles and shoulders over hips. This alignment helps maintain stability and makes adjustments easier if the pyramid starts to wobble.
    • Trust and Confidence: Confidence is key for flyers. They must trust their bases and execute their moves with precision. Hesitation can lead to instability and increase the risk of falls.
  3. Spotters: The Unsung Heroes
    • Positioning: Spotters should always be in a position where they can quickly intervene if something goes wrong. They are responsible for the safety of the flyers and must be vigilant throughout the stunt.
    • Assistance, Not Interference: Spotters should provide assistance without interfering with the stunt. They can help guide the flyers’ feet or offer support when necessary, but they should not disrupt the balance of the pyramid.

Unique Cheer Pyramid Ideas

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative! Here are some unique pyramid ideas that can set your team apart at competitions:

  1. The Diamond Pyramid:
    • Description: The Diamond Pyramid involves creating a diamond shape with the flyers at different levels. One flyer stands at the top, with two more on either side at a slightly lower level, and a fourth flyer at the base level.
    • Why It Stands Out: The Diamond Pyramid is visually striking and adds depth to your routine. It allows for dynamic transitions, such as moving from a flat diamond to a vertical diamond by having the side flyers climb up or down.
  2. The Rolling Wave Pyramid:
    • Description: In this pyramid, flyers move in a wave-like motion, starting from one side and rolling across to the other. This can be achieved by having flyers at different levels perform synchronized movements that give the illusion of a wave.
    • Why It Stands Out: The Rolling Wave Pyramid adds fluidity and rhythm to your routine. It’s a great way to incorporate music and timing into your stunts, creating a memorable performance.
  3. The Starburst Pyramid:
    • Description: The Starburst Pyramid features flyers extending out from a central point, creating the shape of a star. This can be done with a central flyer at a higher level, with others branching out diagonally from them.
    • Why It Stands Out: The Starburst Pyramid is a crowd-pleaser due to its expansive and symmetrical design. It also allows for creative transitions, such as collapsing into a tighter formation or expanding into a larger star.
cheer pyramid ideas

How to build a Pyramid in Cheerleading?

If you’re new to cheerleading or looking to refine your technique, learning how to do a cheer pyramid is a fundamental skill. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Assemble Your Team:
    • Start by assigning roles within your team. You’ll need a combination of strong, stable bases, agile and balanced flyers, and vigilant spotters.
  2. Set the Foundation:
    • The bases should stand shoulder-width apart, with their knees slightly bent. They should be ready to support the flyers by holding their feet securely.
  3. Position the Flyers:
    • Flyers should step onto the bases’ hands or shoulders, keeping their core engaged and maintaining proper alignment. It’s essential to communicate clearly during this process.
  4. Build Upwards:
    • Once the first level is secure, additional flyers can climb onto the backs or shoulders of the flyers below them. Each level should be added carefully, with spotters ready to assist if needed.
  5. Check Stability:
    • Before completing the pyramid, ensure that all levels are stable. Flyers should maintain their balance, and bases should be firmly planted. Any wobbling should be corrected immediately.
  6. Execute the Pyramid:
    • Once the pyramid is fully constructed, the team can hold the position for the required time, perform any additional movements or transitions, and then safely dismount.
  7. Dismount Safely:
    • To dismount, flyers should carefully step down or be assisted by the spotters. The bases should help guide the flyers down to avoid any falls or injuries.

By following these steps and practicing regularly, your team can build strong, safe, and visually stunning pyramids that will impress judges and audiences alike.

Mastering the art of cheerleading pyramids takes time, practice, and a deep understanding of technique and safety. By focusing on the fundamentals, getting creative with your pyramid designs, and following a step-by-step approach, you can lead your team to success. Remember, the key to a great pyramid is not just strength and skill but also trust, communication, and teamwork.

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Events, Featured, News

UCA Summer Camps 2024 highlights

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
UCA Summer Camps 2024 highlights winners
15
Aug

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 15, 2024

The 2024 Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) summer camps have wrapped up, leaving a trail of incredible performances, standout athletes, and team successes across the country. From coast to coast, teams of all levels showcased their skills, teamwork, and determination at these prestigious camps, earning accolades and preparing for a competitive season ahead. Today, let’s take a closer look at some of the teams and athletes that shined this summer.

Bemidji High School wins UCA Camp

Northside Varsity Cheer: Building Bonds and Breaking Barriers

Northside Varsity Cheer attended the UCA camp at East Carolina University from July 8-10, alongside 12 other schools. The team focused on enhancing their stunting, jumps, dances, and overall choreography. Five of their cheerleaders—senior captains Sierra Minor, Trinity O’Neal, and Addy Davenport, along with juniors Khloe Hewitt and Mackenzie Conoway—were selected as UCA All-Americans. Their success didn’t stop there—Northside also clinched first place in the Medium Varsity Division for cheer and crowd leading and received the prestigious “Tradition Award” for inspiring leadership on and off the field. This camp was not only a competition but a vital team-bonding experience that left the girls stronger and more confident.

ULM Cheerleading and Hawkline: Stepping Up to Nationals

ULM Cheerleading’s Hawkline made a powerful statement at the UCA/UDA camp at Southern Methodist University from July 19-21. Their relentless effort paid off as they earned blue ribbons across the board and were awarded the Most Improved title, securing a silver bid to Nationals in Daytona, Fla., in April 2025. Hawkline dancers Amelia Long and Haley Hoover also earned All-American honors. The camp marked a significant milestone in ULM’s growth, with all three spirit groups, including Ace the Warhawk, winning Most Improved awards—a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Minot North: Rising Stars in Varsity Cheer

Minot North’s cheer team, only in their second year as a varsity squad, made waves at the UCA camp on August 2-3. The team excelled in various workshops, earning a gold ribbon for their camp cheer routine and a superior squad trophy. Six members—Jaidyn White, Ashley Carr, Vreelyn Nygaard, Winter Getzlaff, Payton Stolba, and Alina Kibler—were named UCA All-Americans. This remarkable achievement highlights the talent and potential of this young team as they head into their first year cheering at home games in their own school.

Watseka Community High School: A Tradition of Excellence

Watseka Community High School’s varsity cheer squad attended UCA camp at Purdue University from June 18-21, where they brought home the camp championship trophy for their routine, which featured a dance with a building pyramid. The squad also earned two superior blue ribbons during the week. Three cheerleaders—Marisa Clark, Siara Sansone, and Summer Yarneau—were selected as All-Americans, and Clark and Sansone were invited to apply for the UCA staff. Watseka’s strong performance at camp is a testament to the squad’s talent and dedication, and they are poised to bring this momentum into the upcoming sports season.

Mainland High School: All-American Honors Abound

Mainland High School celebrated eight of its cheerleaders being named UCA All-Americans this summer. Among the honored athletes were G’lia Foster, Kelsi Jenkins, Amari Langford, Amyah Watlington, Aysia Thompson, Kamya Sampson, Terrianha Williams, and Aniyah Ray. These athletes now have the opportunity to perform at prestigious events across the globe, including parades in Philadelphia, Orlando, London, and Rome. Mainland’s success at UCA camp reflects their dedication to excellence and their role as ambassadors of cheerleading.

Butler County High School: Excelling in Competition

The Butler County High School (BCHS) cheerleading squad had a stellar showing at the UCA camp in July, where they earned first place in the cheer competition and took second in the camp routine. Their performance not only earned them trophies but also set the stage for a promising season ahead. BCHS cheerleaders, including standout athletes Sara Peyton Dospapas and Emily Clark, are proving themselves as formidable competitors in every arena they enter.

Coahoma Community College: Preparing for Greatness

Coahoma Community College (CCC) cheerleaders are gearing up for an exciting season after attending the UCA College Cheer and Dance Camp at the University of Alabama from July 18-21. This prestigious camp offered CCC cheerleaders the chance to learn from top-tier instructors, focusing on advanced techniques in stunting, tumbling, and performance. The experience has left the team well-prepared and motivated for the challenges of the upcoming academic year.

Rainier High School: Small But Mighty

Rainier High School cheerleaders brought home multiple accolades from the UCA camp at Great Wolf Lodge in Centralia, held from July 15-18. Competing against 14 other schools, Rainier earned first place in their camp routine and second place in the game-day routine. Additionally, four cheerleaders—Briella Davenport, Peyton Thomas, Marian Jackson, and Samantha Cohen-Olson—were selected as All-Americans. Despite being one of the smaller teams at the camp, Rainier’s cheerleaders demonstrated that size is no barrier to success. Thomas was especially thrilled to be selected as an All-American this year after initially hesitating to try out in 2023.

Bemidji High School: Consistent Excellence

Bemidji High School saw eight of its cheerleaders earn All-American honors at the UCA camp held from July 29-31. Among the recognized athletes were Abby Loebs, Kennedy Rasmus, Kaiahna Martell, Lola VanEngelenhoven, Taylor Joy, Natasha Chastek, Zaquia Williams, and Lauren White. Loebs, Rasmus, and Williams earned the distinction for a second time, showcasing their consistent excellence in the sport. Bemidji’s cheerleaders have consistently demonstrated their skills, sportsmanship, and teamwork, earning them opportunities to perform on global stages from Florida to Hawaii and even in Europe.

ULM Cheerleading UCA Camp winners

Graham High School: A Winning Team Spirit

Graham High School’s cheer squad made a statement at the UCA camp at Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine from July 11-14. Six cheerleaders were named All-Americans, including senior Sara Peyton Dospapas, junior Emily Clark, and sophomores Ella Andrade, Aiyana Gideon, Emma Hamm, and Bayleigh McGee. Additionally, Dospapas was invited to try out for a UCA staff position next year following her graduation. Graham’s team also won multiple awards, including three spirit sticks and superior ribbons, and placed first in the Game Day Routine, earning them a bid to the UIL State Cheerleading event in January 2025.

Ingleside High School: Dominating the UCA Camp

Ingleside High School cheerleaders had a fantastic showing at the UCA camp at Moody Gardens in Galveston from July 28-31. Seven varsity cheerleaders—Paityn McCombs, Allison Howland, Aleeah Lopez, Haylie Perez, Vivian Davis, Giselle Hernandez, and Bailey Patton—were named All-Americans. The junior varsity squad also earned superior trophies and All-American recognition for juniors Shayleigh Williams, Leah Stearns, Cheyenne Witt, sophomore Lilly Cordova, and freshman Gabriella Castillo. Ingleside’s success at the camp is a reflection of their hard work and dedication, setting them up for a successful year ahead.

Rio Rancho High School wins

Rio Rancho High School: Masters of the Camp

Rio Rancho High School’s varsity cheer team found success at the UCA Masters Camp in Loveland, Colorado, from July 10-13. The team placed second in both cheer and stunt sequences and won first place in the camp routine. The squad also celebrated 10 All-American selections, including standout athletes Sean Barnes and Austin Erwin, and a male jump-off champion. With such a strong performance, Rio Rancho is ready to chase a state title in the upcoming season.

Rock Springs High School: Sixteen All-Americans and Counting

Rock Springs High School’s Tigers Cheer Team had an outstanding performance at the UCA camp, with 16 cheerleaders being named All-Americans. The honored athletes include Bridgette Taylor, Braylynn Greene, Nevaeh Anderson, Azalia Ruiz, Masen Werkele, Sean Barnes, Austin Erwin, Gavin Tongate, Brooke East, Alexus Bowles, Adyson Sellers, Aizlynn Abram, Aliza Ransom, Noelle Moser, Jensyn Cordova, and Ireland Lew. The team also received a superior rating, showcasing their exceptional talent and dedication. Head Coach Dena Douchant expressed immense pride in her team’s accomplishments, which have set the stage for a successful season ahead.

Pike County Middle School: Young Stars on the Rise

Pike County Middle School cheerleaders proved their mettle at the UCA camp at Great Wolf Lodge, with six athletes—Kelsey Sirmon, Taryn Hancock, Jersey Wright, Carsyn Everitte, Ansley Boes, and Brooklyn Kneringer—earning All-American titles. Their outstanding performances have earned them the opportunity to participate in the prestigious Disney World Thanksgiving Day Parade, a significant achievement for these young cheerleaders.

St. Mary’s and Fredericksburg Middle School: Preparing for the Season Ahead

Cheer teams from St. Mary’s and Fredericksburg Middle School joined forces at a UCA camp from May 30 to June 1, focusing on enhancing teamwork and performance skills. With summer training camps in full swing, these squads are gearing up for the competitive season ahead, ready to bring their best to the cheerleading stage.

As the summer camps come to a close, these remarkable teams and athletes have set the tone for a thrilling cheer season. Their hard work, dedication, and achievements at UCA camps nationwide highlight the spirit of cheer and the incredible talent within these squads. As they move into the 2024-25 season, we can expect to see these teams continue to excel and inspire on the sidelines and beyond.

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Coaching, South Korea

“승리”: 팀워크와 회복력의 정신을 그린 치어리딩 이야기

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
A Cheerleading Story About the Spirit of Teamwork and Resilience - South Korean Cheer Movie
13
Aug

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 13, 2024

치어리딩 팬들과 코치들이 기대할 만한 영화, 한국 영화 *”승리”*가 2024년 8월 16일 미국 극장에 개봉됩니다. 박범수 감독이 연출한 이 활기차고 감동적인 드라마는 고등학생 소녀들이 치어리딩 팀을 결성해, 약팀 축구팀을 응원하고 지역 사회에 희망을 불어넣는 이야기를 담고 있습니다.

치어리딩 영화

1990년대 후반 거제도를 배경으로 한 *”승리”*는 “밀레니엄 걸스”라는 치어리딩 클럽의 여정을 따라갑니다. 이 클럽은 두 명의 열정적인 댄서, 필순과 미나에 의해 설립되었으며, 처음에는 학교에서 댄스 연습실을 확보하기 위해 시작되었지만 곧 더 큰 의미를 가지게 됩니다. 치어리딩 팀은 학교의 고군분투하는 축구팀을 응원하며, 아시아 금융 위기로 인해 어려움을 겪고 있는 마을에 희망과 활력을 불어넣습니다

이 영화는 1984년 거제도에서 실제로 결성된 치어리딩 클럽에서 영감을 받아, 이야기의 진정성과 문화적 중요성을 더하고 있습니다. *”응답하라 1988″*로 알려진 이혜리는, 수많은 도전에도 불구하고 꿈을 포기하지 않는 필순의 역할을 통해 진심 어린 연기를 선보입니다. 그녀의 지역 방언 사용은 캐릭터에 깊이를 더해 관객들에게 더 큰 공감을 이끌어냅니다

*”승리”*는 단순히 치어리딩에 관한 이야기가 아닙니다. 인간 정신의 회복력과 공동체의 힘을 담은 이야기입니다. 영화의 내러티브는 팀원 각자의 고유한 개성과 특성을 가진 캐릭터들이 풍부하게 채워줍니다. 이들의 화합과 에너지는 영화의 간단한 줄거리를 보완하며, 시청자들에게 진정으로 몰입할 수 있는 경험을 제공합니다

치어리딩 코치들에게 *”승리”*는 필드나 코트 너머로 치어리딩이 미칠 수 있는 영향력을 상기시켜줍니다. 치어 팀의 열정과 결단력은 스포츠 팀뿐만 아니라 전체 공동체에 영감을 줄 수 있음을 강조합니다. 이 영화는 팀워크, 인내심, 그리고 자신의 꿈을 추구하는 것의 중요성을 일깨워주는 주제들을 깊이 담고 있어, 치어리딩 세계에서 큰 공감을 얻을 것입니다.

코치로서, *”승리”*는 여러분의 팀에게 훌륭한 동기 부여 도구가 될 수 있으며, 재미와 교훈을 동시에 제공할 것입니다. 90년대의 향수를 불러일으키는 이 영화는 당시의 아이코닉한 K-pop 트랙과 그 시대를 상징하는 패션을 더해, 그 시절을 기억하는 이들에게 특별한 즐거움을 선사할 것입니다

결론적으로, *”승리”*는 단순한 치어리딩 영화 이상입니다. 희망과 회복력, 그리고 팀워크의 강력한 힘을 축하하는 이야기입니다. 이 영화는 치어리딩 코치와 선수들, 그리고 자신을 넘어서는 무언가를 응원하는 의미를 이해하는 모든 사람들에게 깊은 감동을 줄 것입니다.

팀워크

*”밀레니엄 걸스”*와 함께하는 *”승리”가 이번 8월 미국 극장에 찾아옵니다. 치어리딩 커뮤니티에서 꼭 봐야 할 영화로, 여러분의 동기 부여 도구에 훌륭한 추가물이 될 것입니다. 😊

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Chile

Mejores Equipos de Cheerleading Competitivo en Chile 2024

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
cheerleading en Chile
13
Aug

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 13, 2024

El cheerleading competitivo en Chile ha estado ganando un impulso significativo en los últimos años, con varios equipos emergiendo como potencias en la escena internacional. Aquí te presentamos algunos de los equipos chilenos de cheerleading más destacados y por qué vale la pena seguirles la pista:

Empire All Stars Chilean Cheer

1. Ciclon Elite All Stars

Ciclon Elite All Stars ha sido una fuerza dominante en el cheerleading chileno. Este equipo ha tenido un desempeño consistente en competencias internacionales, logrando posiciones notables. Su destacada actuación en The Cheerleading Worlds, especialmente en la división Internacional Open Coed Non-Tumbling Level 6, ha consolidado su reputación como uno de los principales equipos de Chile.

2. Empire All Stars

Empire All Stars es otro equipo de primer nivel que está haciendo avances significativos. Conocidos por sus impresionantes acrobacias y rutinas sincronizadas, han competido ferozmente en varios eventos internacionales. Su reciente avance a las finales en The Cheerleading Worlds 2024 es un testimonio de su habilidad y dedicación.

3. Hero All Stars

Hero All Stars ha ganado reconocimiento por sus actuaciones llenas de energía y destreza técnica. Han sido finalistas en competencias prestigiosas, mostrando su talento y el rigor de su entrenamiento. Este equipo continúa superando los límites y elevando el nivel del cheerleading chileno.

4. Golden All Stars

Los Golden All Stars también se han hecho un nombre en el circuito internacional de cheerleading. Sus rutinas son destacadas por su creatividad y ejecución, lo que les ha ganado lugares en las finales de eventos importantes. La capacidad de este equipo para realizar acrobacias complejas con precisión los convierte en un referente en la escena competitiva del cheerleading en Chile.

Factores Claves Detrás de su Éxito

  1. Regímenes de Entrenamiento Rigurosos: Estos equipos se someten a entrenamientos intensivos, enfocándose en el acondicionamiento físico, acrobacias, gimnasia y coreografía. La dedicación a perfeccionar sus habilidades es evidente en sus presentaciones pulidas.
  2. Entrenadores Experimentados: Muchos de estos equipos se benefician de la guía de entrenadores experimentados que aportan experiencia internacional y técnicas de entrenamiento innovadoras. Este entrenamiento profesional es crucial para preparar a los equipos para competencias de alto nivel.
  3. Cohesión y Comunicación del Equipo: La comunicación efectiva y los lazos fuertes dentro del equipo son vitales para el éxito en el cheerleading competitivo. Estos equipos invierten tiempo en actividades de construcción de equipo para fomentar la confianza y la colaboración entre los miembros, lo que se traduce en actuaciones impecables en el tapete.
  4. Comunidad de Apoyo y Recursos: La comunidad de cheerleading en Chile ofrece un apoyo robusto a través del acceso a instalaciones de entrenamiento, financiamiento para competencias internacionales y una red de fanáticos apasionados. Este sistema de apoyo juega un papel importante en el éxito de los equipos.
Golden All Stars Chile Cheer

Perspectivas Futuras

Con el crecimiento y desarrollo continuo del cheerleading competitivo en Chile, estos equipos están destinados a alcanzar alturas aún mayores. El reconocimiento y apoyo crecientes para este deporte probablemente verán a más equipos chilenos destacarse en el escenario mundial, trayendo a casa más trofeos e inspirando a las futuras generaciones de cheerleaders.

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Events, Featured

The Majors 2025 Team Lineup

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
The Majors 2025 Cheer Competition Team Roster Lineup
30
Jul

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 30, 2024

The Majors 2025 is shaping up to be an incredible event, showcasing the top Senior Level 6 all-star cheerleading teams from across the country. These elite teams, known as “The Majors 2025 Teams,” have been invited to compete in what is recognized as the most selective all-star cheer competition in the world. Here’s a detailed look at the programs and teams competing at The MAJORS 2025, promising a night full of high-energy performances and impressive stunts.

What is The MAJORS?

The MAJORS is hailed as the “most selective all-star cheer competition in the world.” Produced by Varsity All Star, it gathers elite teams from senior level 6 divisions to compete in a one-night-only spectacle that highlights the most popular and skilled teams in all-star cheerleading. Traditionally, this event kicks off the JAMFEST Super Nationals Weekend, transforming the opening night into a celebration of cheerleading excellence. The MAJORS is not just a competition; it’s an event where the cheerleading community comes together to witness and celebrate the pinnacle of the sport.

A Look at Last Year’s Results

Reflecting on last year’s MAJORS, the competition was incredibly tight, and the performances were nothing short of spectacular. Each team brought their A-game, showcasing exceptional skill, creativity, and athleticism. The high level of competition and the memorable routines set a high bar, building anticipation for this year’s event.

XSmall Divisions Set the Tone

In the XSmall All Girl division, South Coast Cheer’s Fearless team claimed the top spot with a score of 144, demonstrating their flawless execution and dynamic performance. They were closely followed by California All Stars Mesa Vixens, who scored 131, and Cheer Express Miss Silver, who rounded out the top three with 91 points. These teams showcased the precision and energy that define elite cheerleading.

The XSmall Coed division was equally thrilling, with Gymtyme Illinois Fever and Twist & Shout Diamonds both scoring 127, creating a tie for first place. Their routines were a perfect blend of difficulty and synchronization. Cheerville Anarchy secured third place with 122 points, showing their competitive spirit and strong execution.

Small All Girl and Coed Teams Impress

Cheer Extreme Raleigh’s SSX dominated the Small All Girl division with a score of 147, showcasing their powerful stunts and creative choreography. ICE Lady Lightning followed with 131 points, and ECE Bombshells came in third with 127 points. These teams exemplified the high standards of performance and athleticism expected at The MAJORS.

In the Small Senior Coed division, MACS All Star Cheer’s Senior Starz took the lead with 142 points, while Brandon All Stars Senior Black closely followed with 139 points. KC Cheer Fierce Five secured third place with 123 points. The competition was fierce, with each team pushing the limits of their skills and routines.

Medium Divisions Showcase Elite Talent

Spirit of Texas A-Team led the Medium All Girl division with a score of 133, demonstrating their consistent excellence and precise execution. Stingrays All Stars Peach and Top Gun All Stars Lady Jags followed with 125 and 113 points, respectively, highlighting the competitive nature and high skill level in this division.

In the Medium Coed division, Spirit of Texas Royalty shone brightly, scoring 137 points and showcasing their dynamic stunts and cohesive routines. Prodigy All Stars Midnight and Stingrays All Stars Steel followed with 129 and 119 points, respectively, proving that the Medium Coed division is packed with talent and fierce competition.

Large Divisions Deliver Power-Packed Performances

Cheer Extreme Senior Elite dominated the Large All Girl division with a score of 141, while Cheer Athletics Panthers and World Cup Shooting Stars followed with 138 and 124 points, respectively. The Stingray Allstars Orange team also impressed with their performance, scoring 120 points. These teams brought a level of power and precision that captivated the audience.

In the Large Coed division, Cheer Athletics Cheetahs led with 134 points, showcasing their high-energy routines and complex stunts. Their performance was a testament to their rigorous training and dedication to excellence.

The close scores and high-quality performances set a high standard for this year’s MAJORS, so get ready. I’m pretty sure we can expect another night of spectacular cheer showcasing the best in the sport! You can check out the results and recap of last year’s Majors here.

What Cheer Teams are in The Majors 2025?

Programs and Teams Competing at The MAJORS 2025

X-Small All Girl

  • ICE – Golden Girls
  • California Allstars Bullets – Lady Bullets
  • South Coast Cheer – Fearless

X-Small Coed

  • Stars Vipers – Hiss
  • Twist & Shout – Diamonds
  • GymTyme – Fever

Small All Girl

  • Woodlands Elite – Generals
  • East Celebrity Elite – Bombshells
  • Cheer Extreme – SSX

Small Coed

  • Woodlands Elite – Black Ops
  • Southern Jersey Storm – Celsius
  • KC Cheer – Fierce 5
  • Brandon AllStars – Senior Black
  • Twist & Shout – Obsession

Medium All Girl

  • ATA – Atomic
  • StingRay AllStars – Peach
  • Maryland Twisters – F5
  • Top Gun – Lady Jags

Medium Coed

  • CA Allstars Bullets – Black Ops
  • TopGun AllStars – Revelation
  • Spirit of Texas – Royalty

Large All Girl

  • World Cup All Stars – Shooting Stars
  • Rays – Orange
  • Cheer Extreme – Senior Elite
  • Cheer Athletics – Panthers

Large Coed

  • Rays – Steel
  • Cheer Athletics – Cheetahs
Majors 2025 Cheer Event Teams

X-Small All Girl

ICE – Golden Girls: Coming out of Indianapolis, these ladies are all about clean routines and insane tumbling. They grabbed first at JAMfest in 2022 and kept the momentum going with a solid second place at NCA in 2023. Their precision and elite stunts are always on point.

California Allstars Bullets – Lady Bullets: High energy, perfect execution—Lady Bullets are a staple in the X-Small All Girl division. Their strategic coaching and innovative routines make them tough to beat.

South Coast Cheer – Fearless: Fearless lives up to their name with dynamic routines and tight team cohesion. They’ve faced their share of challenges but always come back strong with intricate choreography and powerful stunts.

X-Small Coed

Stars Vipers – Hiss: Hiss has been leading their division with top-notch performances, especially shining at the 2021 Cheerleading Worlds. Their coaching staff really knows how to bring out the best in these athletes.

Twist & Shout – Diamonds: Diamonds are all about innovation and clean execution. Their high-performance standards keep them competitive, and they always bring something new to the mat.

GymTyme – Fever: Fever is all about high energy and precision, winning back-to-back titles in the Level 6 XSmall Coed division at The Cheerleading Worlds. They’re a team you don’t want to miss.

Small All Girl

Woodlands Elite – Generals: These Houston athletes have a history of success, including a big win at Worlds in 2015. Their routines are all about clean execution and powerful tumbling.

East Celebrity Elite – Bombshells: Known for their precise routines and innovative choreography, the Bombshells consistently shine at major championships. Their coaching staff emphasizes skill development and teamwork, making them a force to be reckoned with.

Cheer Extreme – SSX: SSX from North Carolina is always a crowd favorite with their breathtaking stunts and flawless tumbling. Their legacy of success is driven by dedicated coaches and talented athletes.

Small Coed

Woodlands Elite- Black Ops: Black Ops made a huge splash with their first World Championship title in 2021. They’re known for rigorous training and complex stunts, always delivering stellar performances.

Southern Jersey Storm – Celsius: Celsius is high-energy and innovative, with strong team cohesion. Their supportive coaching staff makes them a strong contender in the Small Coed division.

KC Cheer – Fierce 5: Fierce 5 is all about pushing boundaries with their stunts and tumbling. Their disciplined training and teamwork keep them at the top of their game.

Brandon AllStars – Senior Black: Senior Black from Florida consistently dominates with their high-level performances and consistent success. Their rigorous training and expert coaching keep them on top.

Twist & Shout – Obsession: Known for impressive routines and strong competitive records, Obsession’s intricate choreography and dynamic performances make them a top team.

Medium All Girl

ATA – Atomic: ATA Atomic from Georgia is known for their strong team cohesion and impressive performances. They’re always a team to watch in the Medium All Girl division.

StingRay AllStars – Peach: Peach is iconic with their clean routines and innovative choreography. They’re consistently at the top in national and international competitions.

Maryland Twisters – F5: F5 is celebrated for dynamic routines and a strong competitive record. Their powerful stunts and precise execution keep them at the forefront of the cheer world.

Top Gun – Lady Jags: Lady Jags are legendary with high-energy performances and innovative routines. They’ve secured numerous national and international titles.

Medium Coed

CA Allstars Bullets – Black Ops: Black Ops is a dominant force in Medium Coed with multiple World Championship titles. Their dynamic stunts and high-energy routines make them a favorite.

TopGun AllStars – Revelation: Revelation is known for intricate choreography and high-caliber performances. Their consistent success at Worlds and other major competitions makes them a team to watch.

Spirit of Texas – Royalty: Royalty is all about powerful stunts and high-energy performances. Their strong competitive record and dedicated coaching staff keep them at the top of their division.

The Majors 2025 Twist and Shout
The Majors 2025 Twisters

Large All Girl

World Cup All Stars – Shooting Stars: Shooting Stars from New Jersey are one of the most iconic teams, with six World Championship titles. Their innovative routines and captivating performances set the standard.

Rays – Orange: Orange from the Stingray Allstars is all about clean routines and high-energy performances. Their consistent success at major competitions highlights their dedication and skill.

Cheer Extreme – Senior Elite: Senior Elite is celebrated for powerful stunts and intricate choreography. Their numerous top placements make them elite in the cheer world.

Cheer Athletics – Panthers: Panthers from Texas are legendary with multiple World Championship titles. Their high-energy routines and complex stunts make them a perennial favorite.

Large Coed

Rays – Steel: Steel is prestigious in the Large Coed division with rigorous training and intricate stunts. They consistently deliver stellar performances at major competitions.

Cheer Athletics – Cheetahs: Cheetahs are legendary in Large Coed with multiple World Championship victories. Their high-difficulty routines and creativity keep them at the top of their game.

The Majors 2025 is set to be an epic showdown of talent and dedication. With these powerhouse teams ready to hit the mat, it’s going to be a competition you won’t want to miss. Get ready for some whaaaaaat 😊


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Featured, News, Olympics

The Ridiculousness of Competitive Cheer not being in the 2028 Olympics

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
will cheerleading be in the 2028 olympics?
29
Jul

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 29, 2024

We were all hopeful when the cheer was granted full recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on July 20, 2021. However, the recent announcement that competitive cheer will not be included in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games has everyone wondering why. I’m going to run through the criteria the IOC demands for a sport to be included and how cheer meets every measure of this criteria.

The Criteria for Olympic Inclusion

To be considered for the Olympics, a sport must meet several criteria set by the IOC. These include:

  1. Environmental Sustainability: The sport must have minimal environmental impact.
  2. Scoring Complexity: The sport must have an easy to understand scoring system
  3. Universality: It should be practiced widely across the globe.
  4. Gender Equality: The sport must promote and ensure gender equality.
  5. Integrity and Fairness: The sport must have clear rules and be governed by a body that ensures fair play.
  6. Popularity: The sport should have a significant following and be popular in various regions.
  7. Host Country Interest: The host country’s interest in the sport can influence its inclusion.
  8. Athlete Safety: The sport must ensure the safety of its participants.
  9. Cost: The cost of hosting the sport should be reasonable

Okay, that’s the Olympics’ list of criteria for inclusion, now let’s break down each point and show why cheer fits each one.

Olympic sports cheer

1. Environmental Sustainability: The Sport Must Have Minimal Environmental Impact

One of the criteria for a sport to be included in the Olympics is its environmental sustainability. This means the sport should have a minimal environmental impact, aligning with the Olympic Movement’s commitment to sustainability and the preservation of our planet.

Understanding the Criterion

The IOC’s emphasis on environmental sustainability includes considerations such as:

  • Resource Usage: The sport should not require extensive use of non-renewable resources or cause significant environmental degradation. This includes considerations of the materials used in equipment and facilities.
  • Energy Consumption: The sport should not have high energy demands that could lead to excessive carbon emissions. This includes both the energy needed to host the event and the energy required for day-to-day training and operations.
  • Waste Management: The sport should have effective waste management practices in place, minimizing waste generation and ensuring proper disposal and recycling.
  • Biodiversity Impact: The sport should avoid activities that harm local ecosystems or wildlife.

The Ridiculousness of this

While the intention behind this criterion is laudable, applying it uniformly across all sports can seem ridiculous, especially in the context of competitive cheer. Here’s why:

  1. Competitive Cheer’s Low Environmental Impact: Unlike sports that require large fields, specialized infrastructure, or significant travel, competitive cheer typically takes place in existing facilities like gyms or multipurpose arenas. The environmental impact of competitive cheer events is minimal compared to other sports like golf, which can involve maintaining extensive courses, or motorsports, which have high fuel consumption and emissions.
  2. Equipment and Facilities: The equipment used in competitive cheer, such as mats and uniforms, does not have a significant environmental footprint, especially when compared to the extensive gear needed for sports like cycling or skiing.
  3. Energy Consumption: competitive cheer competitions and practices do not demand high energy usage. They are typically held indoors and do not require the intense lighting, heating, or cooling that some other sports do.
  4. Waste Management: competitive cheer events generate minimal waste compared to large-scale outdoor sports events, which often involve significant waste from spectators and participants.
  5. Biodiversity Impact: competitive cheer activities do not interfere with natural habitats or wildlife, unlike sports that take place in natural settings, such as sailing or equestrian events.

Comparisons with Other Sports

To illustrate the absurdity of applying this criterion strictly to competitive cheer, consider the following comparisons:

  • Golf: Maintaining golf courses requires vast amounts of water, pesticides, and fertilizers, all of which have significant environmental impacts. Despite this, golf is included in the Olympics.
  • Sailing: Sailing events often impact marine ecosystems and involve extensive travel and logistics.
  • Equestrian Sports: These require substantial land use and maintenance, along with the care and transportation of horses.

2. Complex Scoring System: A Barrier to competitive cheer’s Olympic Inclusion

One of the critical reasons competitive cheer was not included in the 2028 Olympic Games is its complex scoring system. This intricacy poses a significant barrier to the sport’s appeal among the general public and decision-makers. Let’s dive deeper into why the scoring system is considered complex, how it impacts competitive cheer’s visibility and popularity, and why this reason is arguably ridiculous.

Understanding competitive cheer’s Scoring System

competitive cheer routines are judged based on a variety of elements, each contributing to the final score. These elements include:

  1. Difficulty: The complexity of stunts, pyramids, tumbling passes, and jumps. Teams are rewarded for incorporating more challenging skills.
  2. Execution: How well the team performs the routine, focusing on technique, precision, and synchronization.
  3. Creativity: The uniqueness and innovation of the choreography, including formations and transitions.
  4. Overall Performance: The energy, enthusiasm, and engagement of the team throughout the routine.
  5. Deductions: Penalties for mistakes such as falls, incomplete stunts, or safety violations.

Each of these categories is scored on a detailed rubric, which can vary between different competitive cheer organizations and competitions. Judges need to assess numerous aspects within a short time frame, leading to a detailed and multifaceted scoring process

Olympics 2028 cheerleading

The Complexity for Viewers

For viewers unfamiliar with the sport, this scoring system can be overwhelming and difficult to follow. Unlike sports where the scoring is straightforward (e.g., a goal in soccer or a basket in basketball), competitive cheer’s scoring involves understanding technical elements and subjective judgments. This complexity can lead to several issues:

  1. Lack of Immediate Clarity: Spectators might find it challenging to understand why one routine scores higher than another, especially when the differences are based on nuanced technicalities.
  2. Engagement: The difficulty in understanding the scoring can reduce viewer engagement. Sports with transparent scoring systems tend to attract more viewers because the audience can easily follow the progression and stakes of the competition.
  3. Appeal to Broad Audiences: For a sport to be included in the Olympics, it needs to appeal to a broad, global audience. The complexity of competitive cheer’s scoring can make it less accessible to new viewers, limiting its widespread appeal.

Why This Reason is Ridiculous

Despite the points above, the argument that competitive cheer’s complex scoring system is a reason for its exclusion from the Olympics is arguably ridiculous for several reasons:

  1. Precedent of Complex Sports: Many Olympic sports have complex scoring systems that have not prevented their inclusion. Gymnastics, figure skating, and diving, for example, all have intricate scoring that requires expert understanding. These sports have been part of the Olympics for years, and their complexity is managed through comprehensive commentary and educational efforts.
  2. Educational Opportunities: The complexity of competitive cheer scoring can be mitigated with proper education and commentary. Broadcasters can explain the scoring elements, much like they do for gymnastics and figure skating, making it easier for viewers to follow and appreciate the performances.
  3. Engagement Through Innovation: Sports with complex scoring can still engage viewers through innovative presentation. Real-time scoring graphics, detailed breakdowns, and interactive features can help demystify the scoring process for audiences.
  4. Growing Popularity: competitive cheer is rapidly growing in popularity worldwide, with increasing participation and viewership. Its inclusion in the Olympics could further boost its visibility and understanding, similar to how gymnastics and figure skating have benefitted from Olympic exposure.

Comparisons with Other Sports

To further illustrate the point, let’s compare competitive cheer’s scoring system with that of other sports:

  • Gymnastics: While gymnastics also has a detailed scoring system, it benefits from a longer history in the Olympics and a more established public understanding. Commentators often help demystify the scoring by explaining deductions and bonuses in real-time.
  • Figure Skating: Similar to gymnastics, figure skating has a complex scoring system but is well-supported by commentators who explain the intricacies to the audience. Over time, viewers have become more familiar with the scoring elements.
  • Diving: Diving involves judges scoring based on execution and difficulty, but the criteria are simpler and more consistent, making it easier for viewers to grasp.
usa cheer olympics 2024

3. Universality: It Should Be Practiced Widely Across the Globe

Explanation: The IOC requires that a sport be widely practiced across the globe to ensure it has a universal appeal and representation. This means the sport should have active participation and recognition in numerous countries.

Why This Is Ridiculous:

  • Growing Global Presence: competitive cheer is rapidly expanding worldwide. The International Cheer Union (ICU) boasts 119 member national federations and has over 10 million athletes globally. This shows a significant level of international engagement and participation.
  • Comparable Sports: Many sports included in the Olympics are not universally practiced. For instance, sports like curling and equestrian have a limited number of participating countries yet remain in the Olympics. competitive cheer’s growing global presence should more than qualify it under the universality criterion.

4. Gender Equality: The Sport Must Promote and Ensure Gender Equality

Explanation: The IOC emphasizes gender equality to promote fairness and equal opportunity for all athletes, regardless of gender.

Why This Is Ridiculous:

  • Equal Participation: competitive cheer promotes gender equality, with both male and female athletes actively participating. Many competitive cheer teams are coed, and the sport celebrates and encourages participation from all genders.
  • Historical Disparities: Some Olympic sports have historically been male-dominated or have struggled with gender equality, yet they are still included. competitive cheer, on the other hand, has made significant strides in balancing gender representation and should be recognized for its efforts.

5. Integrity and Fairness: The Sport Must Have Clear Rules and Be Governed by a Body That Ensures Fair Play

Explanation: Sports included in the Olympics must have well-defined rules and be overseen by a governing body that maintains the integrity of the sport.

Why This Is Ridiculous:

  • Established Governing Bodies: The International Cheer Union (ICU) is the recognized governing body for competitive cheer, ensuring that the sport adheres to clear and fair rules. The ICU’s governance is on par with other sports federations that oversee Olympic sports.
  • Comparable Issues: Many existing Olympic sports have faced issues with fairness and integrity, such as controversies in judging in figure skating or boxing. These sports are not excluded despite these challenges, making it unreasonable to single out competitive cheer.

6. Popularity: The Sport Should Have a Significant Following and Be Popular in Various Regions

Explanation:

To ensure high viewership and engagement, the IOC prefers sports that are popular and have a significant following.

Why This Is Ridiculous:

  • Rising Popularity: competitive cheer has seen a tremendous rise in popularity, especially with events like the competitive cheer Worlds and the ICU World Championships drawing large audiences. The sport’s popularity is growing in regions outside North America as well.
  • Olympic Sports with Limited Popularity: Several Olympic sports have niche followings, yet they remain included. Sports like modern pentathlon and synchronized swimming do not have massive global followings but are still part of the Olympics. competitive cheer’s growing fan base should make it a viable candidate.

7. Host Country Interest: The Host Country’s Interest in the Sport Can Influence Its Inclusion

Explanation: The interest and popularity of a sport in the host country can play a role in its inclusion to boost local engagement and viewership.

Why This Is Ridiculous:

  • Strong U.S. Support: competitive cheer is incredibly popular in the United States, the host country for the 2028 Olympics. This local interest should work in competitive cheer’s favor, making its exclusion based on this criterion even more puzzling.
  • Precedent: Other sports have been included primarily due to host country interest, such as karate in Tokyo 2020 and breakdancing in Paris 2024. competitive cheer’s exclusion despite strong U.S. support seems inconsistent with this precedent.
USA Cheer Team Olympics Los Angeles 2024

8. Athlete Safety: The Sport Must Ensure the Safety of Its Participants

Explanation: The IOC prioritizes the safety of athletes, ensuring that the sports included do not pose undue risks.

Why This Is Ridiculous:

  • Improved Safety Measures: competitive cheer has significantly improved its safety standards with regulations, training programs, and safety protocols. The ICU and other governing bodies have implemented measures to reduce injury risks.
  • Inherent Risks in Other Sports: Many Olympic sports carry significant risks, such as gymnastics, boxing, and skiing. These sports are not excluded despite their high injury rates, making the exclusion of competitive cheer on safety grounds appear inconsistent and unreasonable.

9. Cost of Hosting Competitive Cheerleading

Explanation: The IOC considers the financial feasibility of hosting a sport, favoring those that are cost-effective.

Why This Is Ridiculous:

  • Low-Cost Sport: Hosting competitive cheer is relatively inexpensive compared to many other Olympic sports. It requires standard indoor venues, which are often already available and used for other sports. The specialized equipment needed, such as mats and uniforms, is minimal and not cost-prohibitive.
  • Venue Versatility: Cheer can be accommodated in multipurpose arenas that do not require significant modifications or additional infrastructure. This makes it an economically viable option for host cities, reducing the financial burden associated with preparing and maintaining venues.
  • Comparable Costs: Many existing Olympic sports entail substantial costs for venues and equipment. For example, building and maintaining facilities for sports like swimming, cycling, or equestrian events can be extremely expensive. Given this context, cheerleading’s relatively low cost for infrastructure and equipment makes its exclusion on financial grounds unjustifiable.

The criteria used to exclude competitive cheer from the 2028 Olympics are not only unreasonable but also inconsistent when compared to the inclusion of other sports. competitive cheer meets or exceeds many of these criteria, and its exclusion highlights a need for a more inclusive and equitable approach in the selection process for Olympic sports. By addressing these inconsistencies, competitive cheer can improve its prospects for future inclusion in the Olympic Games.

USA Cheer Olympic Team Performing

The Sports That Made the Cut

The LA28 Organizing Committee added five sports to the 2028 Olympics: cricket, flag football, baseball/softball, lacrosse, and squash. These sports were chosen based on their global popularity, simplicity, and alignment with Olympic values.

  • Cricket: With over a billion fans worldwide, cricket is a sport with a vast following, especially in countries like India, Australia, and England.
  • Flag Football: Supported by the NFL, flag football has grown rapidly and is seen as a safer alternative to traditional American football.
  • Breakdancing: “Breaking” as they prefer it to be called will be a sport in this year’s Olympics…crazy
  • Lacrosse: Known for its fast-paced and exciting gameplay, lacrosse has a growing global presence.
  • Squash: Squash is played in over 185 countries and has a strong professional circuit.

Competitive cheer’s journey to Olympic inclusion is inevitable. While it did not make the cut for LA 2028, the sport’s recognition by the IOC and its growing global presence are promising signs for the future. Though, it seems, for the moment, there is a bias against including our sport. My guess is we’re too bad-ass, but 🤷‍♂️

…Flag Football 🤦‍♂️ ….for real

Steve Pawlyk Signature Full

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Events, Featured, News, Results

2024 Daytona NCA Nationals Results (searchable)

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Daytona NCA Nationals 2024 Results Scores
14
Apr

By Steve Pawlyk

Published April 14, 2024

This year’s NCA College Cheer Nationals, held from April 11-13 in Daytona Beach, Florida, proved that not even stormy skies could dampen the spirit of collegiate cheerleading. Originally slated for the picturesque outdoor setting by the iconic Daytona Coquina clock tower, inclement weather forced the event indoors, turning it into an unexpected yet equally thrilling display of cheer excellence.

OSU Daytona College Cheer Nationals Competition Results

Adapting to Change:

The sudden venue change tested the adaptability and focus of competing teams. Inside the confines of the alternative indoor venue, the atmosphere turned electric, with teams and spectators rallying to make the most of the challenging situation. The echo of cheers and the stomp of routines filled the air, creating a memorable spectacle of resilience and cheer spirit.

Highlights and Performances:

Despite the weather setbacks, the competition was fierce, featuring top-notch performances that pushed the boundaries of collegiate cheerleading. Teams from various divisions showcased their skills, executing intricate stunts and synchronized routines with precision and flair.

Winning Teams and Programs:

Reflections on the Event:

The 2024 NCA College Cheer Nationals not only showcased the athletic prowess of collegiate cheerleaders but also highlighted their remarkable ability to adapt and excel under unexpected pressure. The last-minute shift indoors due to the inclement weather could have unsettled many, but instead, it reinforced the strength and resilience of all participating teams. The enclosed setting of the venue added a unique intimacy to the event, amplifying the spirit and energy of each performance. This closeness allowed athletes and spectators alike to connect more deeply, feeling every chant and cheer right in their bones, making every stunt and formation seem more impactful.

As the vibrant echoes of the 2024 Nationals slowly fade, the robust spirit of the event firmly lingers—a vivid testament to the unyielding passion and resilience within the cheer community. This year’s unexpected challenges only deepened the bonds among teams and spectators, showcasing that the heart of cheerleading thrives on both competition and camaraderie. Looking forward to next year, the NCA College Cheer Nationals aims to return under clearer skies, promising to leverage the extraordinary experiences of this year to elevate the event further. No matter the setting, the essence of the Nationals will always revolve around fierce competition, unwavering support, and the shared love for cheer

2024 Daytona College Nationals Winners Results
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2024 Daytona NCA Collegiate Nationals Results - Finals

wdt_ID wdt_created_by wdt_created_at wdt_last_edited_by wdt_last_edited_at Division Program/Team Max Deductions Raw Performance Event Score Rank
1 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Large Coed Division IA Weber State University 100 0.25 99.20 98.95 98.52 1
2 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Spirit Rally Division II Tarleton State University 100 0.00 98.00 98.00 97.81 1
3 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I North Carolina A&T State University 90 0.25 88.30 97.86 97.64 1
4 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Southern Methodist University 90 0.25 87.77 97.27 97.26 1
5 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Dallas Baptist University 90 0.75 88.13 97.18 97.25 1
6 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I Stephen F Austin State University 90 0.25 87.63 97.12 97.20 2
7 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Large Coed Division IA Texas Tech University 100 0.75 98.07 97.32 96.97 2
8 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Oklahoma Baptist University 90 0.00 87.47 97.19 96.74 2
9 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Florida Atlantic University 90 0.25 87.37 96.82 96.55 2
10 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced All-Girl Division II Davenport University 100 0.25 96.53 96.28 96.49 1
11 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Large Coed Junior College Trinity Valley Community College 100 1.00 98.23 97.23 96.42 1
12 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Spirit Rally Division IA University of Florida Competition Club 100 0.00 97.00 97.00 96.36 1
13 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Mississippi State University 90 0.75 87.33 96.29 96.33 3
14 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Spirit Rally Division IA University of Michigan 100 0.00 97.10 97.10 96.28 2
15 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Spirit Rally Division II Texas A&M University – Kingsville 100 0.00 96.30 96.30 96.28 2
16 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Lindenwood University 90 0.75 86.97 95.88 96.17 3
17 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Large Coed Junior College Tyler Junior College 90 0.25 86.80 96.19 96.15 1
18 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Spirit Rally Division IA Mississippi State University 100 1.25 97.20 95.95 96.14 3
19 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division III Christopher Newport University 90 0.00 86.63 96.26 96.03 1
20 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I California Baptist University 90 0.25 86.80 96.19 96.01 1
21 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Spirit Rally Division I Niagara University 100 0.00 96.30 96.30 95.94 1
22 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA The Ohio State University 90 0.00 86.17 95.74 95.72 1
23 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Small Coed Division I Weber State University 100 0.00 95.87 95.87 95.71 1
24 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I University of Central Arkansas 90 0.00 86.70 96.33 95.58 3
25 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced All-Girl Division II Oklahoma Baptist University 100 0.00 95.90 95.90 95.58 2
26 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Morgan State University 90 0.00 86.10 95.67 95.55 2
27 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA WVU Competitive Cheer Club 90 0.00 87.07 96.74 95.51 2
28 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA University of Tennessee Club Team 90 0.75 86.70 95.58 95.43 3
29 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Small Coed Division IA Texas Tech University 100 0.25 95.97 95.72 95.41 1
30 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Slippery Rock University 90 0.75 86.70 95.58 95.33 4
31 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Spirit Rally Division IA Michigan State University Competitive 100 0.00 95.60 95.60 95.30 4
32 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Lubbock Christian University 90 0.00 86.00 95.56 95.27 5
33 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I Missouri State University – Springfield 90 0.00 86.13 95.70 95.25 4
34 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Large Coed Junior College Navarro College 100 1.25 97.27 96.02 95.23 2
35 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Large Coed Division IA University of Missouri – Columbia 90 0.00 85.83 95.37 95.22 1
36 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Large Coed Junior College Pratt Community College 90 0.00 86.70 96.33 95.17 2
37 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division III Bridgewater State University 90 0.00 86.03 95.59 95.13 1
38 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Coed Division II University of Arkansas Fort Smith 90 1.00 86.30 94.89 95.10 1
39 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Spirit Rally Division II University of Texas – Tyler 100 0.00 95.20 95.20 95.08 3
40 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA University of Pittsburgh 90 0.00 85.70 95.22 95.05 4
41 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Game Day Division IA University of Michigan 100 0.00 95.67 95.67 95.03 1
42 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Small Coed Division IA NC State 100 0.25 95.83 95.58 95.01 2
43 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced All-Girl Division I California Baptist University 100 1.25 95.87 94.62 95.01 1
44 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Coed Division II Lindenwood University 90 1.00 86.57 95.19 94.96 2
45 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Small Coed Division IA Brigham Young University 100 0.00 95.17 95.17 94.91 3
46 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Large Coed Division IA University of Louisville 100 1.00 96.60 95.60 94.79 3
47 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA Texas A&M 90 0.00 85.93 95.48 94.71 4
48 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Game Day Division IA Brigham Young University 100 0.00 95.63 95.63 94.69 2
49 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Game Day Division II Dallas Baptist University 100 0.00 95.27 95.27 94.67 1
50 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Old Dominion University 90 0.00 85.47 94.96 94.63 5
51 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Northeastern University 90 0.00 85.37 94.85 94.55 3
52 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Game Day Division I Utah Valley University 100 0.25 95.23 94.98 94.55 1
53 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Coed Division II Saginaw Valley State University 90 0.00 85.27 94.74 94.52 3
54 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA Florida State University 90 0.00 85.53 95.04 94.48 5
55 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Junior College Dodge City Community College 90 0.00 85.83 95.37 94.43 1
56 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I Jackson State University 90 0.25 85.47 94.71 94.37 5
57 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA New Mexico State University 90 0.75 86.23 95.06 94.37 6
58 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA NC State Club Cheer 90 0.25 85.27 94.49 94.36 6
59 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA Georgia Southern University 90 1.25 86.47 94.82 94.32 7
60 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced All-Girl Division IA University of Louisville 100 1.50 95.80 94.30 94.24 1
61 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Spirit Rally Division II Lindenwood University 100 0.25 94.60 94.35 94.24 4
62 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced All-Girl Division IA Oklahoma State University 100 0.25 94.97 94.72 94.23 2
63 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Spirit Rally Division I Texas Southern University 100 0.75 94.40 93.65 94.21 2
64 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Large Coed Division IA Oklahoma State University 100 0.00 94.17 94.17 94.06 4
65 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Small Coed Division I Kennesaw State University 100 0.00 94.70 94.70 94.05 2
66 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced All-Girl Division I Kennesaw State University 100 0.25 95.90 95.65 93.95 2
67 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA Kent State University 90 0.75 85.37 94.10 93.93 8
68 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Sam Houston State University 90 0.00 85.67 95.19 93.82 7
69 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Valdosta State University 90 1.50 85.83 93.87 93.80 6
70 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division III Curry College 90 0.75 85.00 93.69 93.78 2
71 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division III University of Massachusetts – Boston 90 1.50 85.13 93.09 93.55 3
72 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I UC Santa Barbara 90 0.25 84.70 93.86 93.44 4
73 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Sacramento State 90 0.00 84.60 94.00 93.42 5
74 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Large Coed Division IA East Carolina University 90 0.25 84.90 94.08 93.41 2
75 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Florida A&M University 90 0.25 84.83 94.01 93.41 6
76 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Small Coed Junior College Dodge City Community College 100 0.50 94.40 93.90 93.31 1
77 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA University of North Texas 90 1.00 85.40 93.89 93.21 8
78 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Small Coed Junior College Trinity Valley Community College 100 1.00 94.13 93.13 93.20 2
79 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced All-Girl Division IA Clemson University 100 2.00 94.57 92.57 93.18 3
80 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Coed Division II Slippery Rock University 90 0.25 84.17 93.27 93.16 4
81 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville 90 1.00 84.67 93.07 93.14 7
82 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Small Coed Division IA University of Louisville 100 1.00 95.17 94.17 93.09 4
83 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Game Day Open Navarro College 100 0.00 93.70 93.70 93.07 1
84 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I University of New Hampshire 90 0.00 83.67 92.96 93.04 6
85 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I American University 90 0.00 83.77 93.07 92.98 8
86 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Large Coed Division IA Georgia Southern University 90 0.00 84.33 93.70 92.97 3
87 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Saint Joseph’s University 90 1.25 84.40 92.53 92.87 9
88 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced Small Coed Division IA University of Kansas 100 1.00 93.70 92.70 92.86 5
89 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed NAIA Roosevelt University 90 1.00 84.13 92.48 92.81 1
90 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division III Piedmont University 90 0.50 84.43 93.31 92.70 4
91 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Large Coed Division IA Kansas State University 90 0.50 84.13 92.98 92.70 4
92 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Merrimack College 90 0.75 84.67 93.32 92.61 10
93 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Large Coed Division IA Florida Atlantic University Club 90 0.00 83.90 93.22 92.56 5
94 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Coed Division II University of Arkansas Monticello 90 0.25 83.63 92.68 92.51 5
95 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Mascot University of Missouri- Truman The Tiger 60 1.50 56.40 92.50 92.50 1
96 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Advanced All-Girl Division III Alma College 100 0.25 93.50 93.25 92.50 1
97 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA Northern Illinois University 90 0.75 84.00 92.58 92.49 9
98 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA University of Georgia Club Cheer 90 0.00 84.17 93.52 92.48 9
99 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Jacksonville State University 90 0.75 84.03 92.62 92.43 10
100 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:31 PM Intermediate Large Coed Junior College Riverside City College 90 0.75 83.93 92.51 92.43 3
Division Program/Team Rank

2024 Daytona NCA Collegiate Nationals Results - Prelims

wdt_ID wdt_created_by wdt_created_at wdt_last_edited_by wdt_last_edited_at Division Program/Team Max Deductions Raw Performance Event Score Rank
1 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Dallas Baptist University 90 87.73 0.00 97.48 0.97 1
2 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I Stephen F Austin State University 90 87.70 0.00 97.44 0.97 1
3 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Division II Tarleton State University 100 97.50 0.25 97.25 24.31 1
4 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Large Coed Division IA Weber State University 100 97.73 0.50 97.23 24.31 1
5 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Southern Methodist University 90 87.50 0.00 97.22 0.97 1
6 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced All-Girl Division II Davenport University 100 97.10 0.00 97.10 24.28 1
7 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Lindenwood University 90 87.33 0.00 97.04 0.97 2
8 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I North Carolina A&T State University 90 87.73 0.50 96.98 0.97 2
9 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Division IA Mississippi State University 100 97.20 0.50 96.70 24.18 1
10 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Mississippi State University 90 86.80 0.00 96.44 0.96 2
11 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Division II Texas A&M University – Kingsville 100 96.20 0.00 96.20 24.05 2
12 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced All-Girl Division I California Baptist University 100 96.43 0.25 96.18 24.05 1
13 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Large Coed Junior College Tyler Junior College 90 86.87 0.50 96.02 0.96 1
14 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Large Coed Division IA Texas Tech University 100 97.93 2.00 95.93 23.98 2
15 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Division I Texas Southern University 100 95.90 0.00 95.90 23.98 1
16 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Coed Division II University of Arkansas Fort Smith 90 86.40 0.25 95.75 0.96 1
17 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Florida Atlantic University 90 86.60 0.50 95.72 0.96 3
18 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA The Ohio State University 90 86.10 0.00 95.67 0.96 1
19 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I California Baptist University 90 86.80 1.00 95.44 0.95 1
20 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Oklahoma Baptist University 90 85.87 0.00 95.41 0.95 3
21 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division III Christopher Newport University 90 85.80 0.00 95.33 0.95 1
22 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Small Coed Division I Weber State University 100 95.50 0.25 95.25 23.81 1
23 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Morgan State University 90 85.67 0.00 95.19 0.95 2
24 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced All-Girl Division IA Clemson University 100 95.03 0.00 95.03 23.76 1
25 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA University of Tennessee Club Team 90 86.13 0.75 94.95 0.95 2
26 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division III University of Massachusetts – Boston 90 85.43 0.00 94.93 0.95 2
27 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Division I Niagara University 100 95.10 0.25 94.85 23.71 2
28 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Large Coed Division IA University of Missouri – Columbia 90 85.53 0.25 94.79 0.95 1
29 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Division II University of Texas – Tyler 100 94.70 0.00 94.70 23.68 3
30 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced All-Girl Division II Oklahoma Baptist University 100 94.60 0.00 94.60 23.65 2
31 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Slippery Rock University 90 85.10 0.00 94.56 0.95 4
32 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA University of Pittsburgh 90 85.07 0.00 94.52 0.95 4
33 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Small Coed Division IA Texas Tech University 100 94.73 0.25 94.48 23.62 1
34 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Division IA University of Florida Competition Club 100 94.70 0.25 94.45 23.61 2
35 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Lubbock Christian University 90 84.97 0.00 94.41 0.94 5
36 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Division IA Michigan State University Competitive 100 94.40 0.00 94.40 23.60 3
37 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Coed Division II Lindenwood University 90 85.97 1.25 94.27 0.94 2
38 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Small Coed Division IA Brigham Young University 100 94.40 0.25 94.15 23.54 2
39 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced All-Girl Division IA University of Louisville 100 95.57 1.50 94.07 23.52 2
40 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division III Curry College 90 84.87 0.25 94.05 0.94 3
41 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Large Coed Junior College Trinity Valley Community College 100 95.97 2.00 93.97 23.49 1
42 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA NC State Club Cheer 90 84.57 0.00 93.96 0.94 3
43 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Division II Lindenwood University 100 93.90 0.00 93.90 23.48 4
44 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I Missouri State University – Springfield 90 85.40 1.00 93.89 0.94 3
45 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Saint Joseph’s University 90 85.17 0.75 93.88 0.94 3
46 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Coed Division II Saginaw Valley State University 90 84.70 0.25 93.86 0.94 3
47 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed NAIA Roosevelt University 90 85.10 0.75 93.81 0.94 1
48 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Division IA University of Michigan 100 94.30 0.50 93.80 23.45 4
49 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Large Coed Division IA Oklahoma State University 100 94.50 0.75 93.75 23.44 3
50 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division III Bridgewater State University 90 85.03 0.75 93.73 0.94 1
51 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Northeastern University 90 84.97 0.75 93.66 0.94 4
52 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Old Dominion University 90 85.40 1.25 93.64 0.94 5
53 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division II Valdosta State University 90 85.37 1.25 93.60 0.94 6
54 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA University of Houston 90 85.10 1.00 93.56 0.94 6
55 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA Kent State University 90 84.30 0.25 93.42 0.93 4
56 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Small Coed Junior College Trinity Valley Community College 100 94.67 1.25 93.42 23.35 1
57 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Division I Sacramento State 100 93.40 0.00 93.40 23.35 3
58 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced All-Girl Division I University of New Hampshire 100 94.13 0.75 93.38 23.35 2
59 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I Jackson State University 90 84.90 1.00 93.33 0.93 4
60 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville 90 84.90 1.00 93.33 0.93 5
61 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Small Coed Division IA University of Kansas 100 93.83 0.50 93.33 23.33 3
62 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I University of Central Arkansas 90 86.00 2.25 93.31 0.93 5
63 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Small Coed Division IA NC State 100 94.80 1.50 93.30 23.33 4
64 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division I University of New Hampshire 90 83.93 0.00 93.26 0.93 6
65 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Game Day Division I Utah Valley University 100 93.23 0.00 93.23 23.31 1
66 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Mercer University 90 83.87 0.00 93.19 0.93 6
67 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced All-Girl Division I Utah Valley University 100 93.63 0.50 93.13 23.28 3
68 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Game Day Division IA University of Michigan 100 93.13 0.00 93.13 23.28 1
69 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Game Day Division II Dallas Baptist University 100 92.87 0.00 92.87 23.22 1
70 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division III Endicott College 90 84.47 1.00 92.85 0.93 4
71 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Large Coed Junior College Navarro College 100 95.10 2.25 92.85 23.21 2
72 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Eastern Michigan University 90 83.77 0.25 92.82 0.93 7
73 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA Florida State University 90 84.20 0.75 92.81 0.93 5
74 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA Georgia Southern University 90 84.43 1.00 92.81 0.93 5
75 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Coed Division II Slippery Rock University 90 83.53 0.00 92.81 0.93 4
76 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced All-Girl Division IA Oklahoma State University 100 93.77 1.00 92.77 23.19 3
77 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I American University 90 83.67 0.25 92.71 0.93 7
78 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Small Coed Division II Davenport University 100 92.60 0.00 92.60 23.15 1
79 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA Texas A&M 90 84.97 2.00 92.41 0.92 7
80 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA Florida International University South 90 83.17 0.00 92.41 0.92 7
81 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Large Coed Division IA University of Louisville 100 95.10 2.75 92.35 23.09 4
82 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Texas State Competitive Cheer 90 83.27 0.25 92.27 0.92 8
83 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA New Mexico State University 90 85.97 3.25 92.27 0.92 8
84 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Small Coed Junior College Blinn College 100 92.20 0.00 92.20 23.05 2
85 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA Northern Illinois University 90 83.20 0.25 92.19 0.92 9
86 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Large Coed Junior College Riverside City College 90 83.87 1.00 92.19 0.92 2
87 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I UC Santa Barbara 90 83.63 0.75 92.18 0.92 8
88 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced Small Coed Division I Kennesaw State University 100 93.10 1.00 92.10 23.03 2
89 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Coed Division II University of Arkansas Monticello 90 82.80 0.00 92.00 0.92 5
90 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division III Fitchburg State University 90 83.20 0.50 91.94 0.92 5
91 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division III New York University 90 83.60 1.00 91.89 0.92 6
92 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Game Day Division IA Brigham Young University 100 91.87 0.00 91.87 22.97 2
93 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Small Coed Division IA Jacksonville State University 90 82.90 0.25 91.86 0.92 10
94 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate Large Coed Division IA Kansas State University 90 83.57 1.00 91.85 0.92 2
95 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division IA WVU Competitive Cheer Club 90 84.67 2.25 91.82 0.92 10
96 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced All-Girl Division IA University of Missouri – Columbia 100 92.57 0.75 91.82 22.95 4
97 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Advanced All-Girl Division IA University of South Carolina – Columbia 100 93.07 1.25 91.82 22.95 5
98 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Spirit Rally Open Penn State Behrend Competitive Cheer 100 91.80 0.00 91.80 22.95 1
99 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division III Keene State College 90 82.80 0.25 91.75 0.92 7
100 tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM tbitties 04/14/2024 01:36 PM Intermediate All-Girl Division I Sacramento State 90 83.20 0.75 91.69 0.92 9
Division Program/Team Rank

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Coaching, Featured, Practice Tips, Tips

Mastering Your Basket Toss Technique

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
IPP YouHitZero Mastering Your Basket Toss Technique
09
Apr

By Steve Pawlyk

Published April 9, 2024

A question from an athlete in the r/cheerleading subreddit caught my eye, and I thought it presented a perfect opportunity to discuss this.

OP is facing challenges with their basket tosses, specifically dealing with the added power from their bases, which is affecting their form and landings. Let’s break this down and turn those tosses from daunting to dynamic!

How to do a basket toss in Cheer

Understanding the Dynamics of a Powerful Basket Toss

First off, a powerful basket toss isn’t just about height. It’s about control, timing, and technique. When your bases are strong, and they “chuck” you up with all they’ve got, it’s crucial to match that power with the right technique.

cheer basket toss techniques

The Lift Off: Sync and Stability

Your initial position and how you leave the bases’ hands play a massive role. Ensure your feet are firmly together, and your body is tight. The power comes from your legs just as much as from your bases. Push off with your legs to aid that upward momentum. This doesn’t just help you go higher; it gives you more control.

The Ride: Finding Your Peak

Riding your basket refers to how you position yourself in the air. The goal? A controlled, tight, and peak position. Here’s where timing comes into play. You want to stand up quickly, yes, but smoothly. Too fast, and you might unsettle your balance. Too slow, and you won’t utilize the full power of the toss. Find that sweet spot where you extend fully at the right moment, maximizing your height and control.

The Tuck and Twist: Precision in the Air

For those intricate basket tosses involving a tuck, twist, or any other element, your core is your best friend. Engaging your core throughout the toss will keep you stable and allow you to execute your skills with precision. Remember, it’s not just about the height; it’s about what you do with it.

The Descent: Controlled and Confident

Coming down can be the most intimidating part, especially with the added power. Your instincts might tell you to rush into your landing position, but resist that. Start preparing for your landing as you start descending, but keep your body tight and controlled. Bend your knees upon landing to absorb the shock, and trust your bases to catch you securely.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Feet slipping out? Focus on your foot placement at the start. Keep them pressed firmly together, and as you’re tossed, think about pointing your toes upward slightly. This small adjustment can prevent slipping.
  • Landing in a pike? This usually means you’re rushing your stand-up phase. Focus on extending fully at the top before preparing for the descent.
  • Overwhelmed by the power? Practice with your bases to find the right timing. It might also help to do strength training, focusing on your core and legs, to better handle and use the power to your advantage.

Final Thoughts

Like any skill in cheerleading, mastering the basket toss takes practice, patience, and trust in your team. Each toss is a team effort – from the bases and backspot to the flyer. Communication is key. Talk to your bases about what you’re feeling and work together to make those adjustments.

how to do a basket toss in cheer

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