Coaching, Featured, Practice Tips, Safety, Tips

Return to Cheerleading After a Break: A Safer Practice Plan

Posted on September 10, 2026September 9, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

10
Sep

By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 10, 2026

The first practice after a break can create false confidence. Athletes remember the counts, grips, and skills, so everyone expects their bodies to follow. Some skills may look ready during the first few attempts. That does not mean the team can safely repeat them through a full practice.

Memory is not readiness.

Athletes may lose strength, timing, balance, endurance, or confidence during time away. Stunt groups can also lose the small adjustments that keep skills stable. Bases may reach at different times, flyers may rush transitions, and spotters may react a fraction too late. Coaches need to rebuild those connections before adding difficulty or volume.

A return to cheerleading after a break should follow demonstrated ability, not the calendar. Your team may move quickly through basic progressions. Another team may need several practices at one stage. Both responses can be correct.

New Research Points to a Return-to-Activity Risk

A 2026 study in Pediatrics examined 15,799 cheerleading injuries among athletes ages 6 through 18. The cases represented an estimated 551,258 emergency department injuries from 2004 through 2023. Fourteen percent involved concussions or other closed-head injuries. Stunting contributed to 39 percent, while teammate collisions contributed to 37 percent.

The researchers also found recurring injury peaks during return-to-sport or return-to-activity periods. They identified those periods as an opportunity for prevention. The study did not test a specific cheer practice plan. It did show why coaches should treat returns as distinct training periods.

The study also examined the 2012–2013 rule change that restricted double-down dismounts for high school and younger teams. Head injuries and teammate collisions declined after that change. The researchers connected the improvement with matching advanced skills to the athlete’s level and environment. You can read the full study summary through the American Academy of Pediatrics.

That principle also makes sense after a break. An athlete may have owned a skill three months ago but lack the current timing to perform it safely. Coaches should evaluate present ability instead of granting permanent ownership of a skill.

Not Every Return Requires the Same Process

“Returning to cheer” can describe several different situations. A team may return after summer, winter break, competition downtime, illness, or injury. Those situations require different levels of oversight. Coaches should identify the reason for the break before planning the athlete’s return.

This article mainly covers healthy athletes returning after scheduled or voluntary time away. It can also help coaches organize practices for medically cleared athletes. It cannot replace an individual rehabilitation or return-to-play plan. A healthcare professional must control medical restrictions and clearance.

Use four return categories:

Return Type	Who Controls the Progression?
Scheduled team break	Coach, using current athlete readiness
Reduced training or vacation	Coach, after reviewing recent activity
Illness	Parent, healthcare professional, school policy, and coach
Injury or concussion	Qualified healthcare professional and applicable return-to-play rules

Do not combine these groups without reviewing their needs. A healthy athlete returning from vacation may start with normal conditioning. An athlete returning from concussion may have strict limits. A single team practice plan cannot override those individual instructions.

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Start Before the First Practice

Send athletes a short return questionnaire before they enter the gym. Ask when they last trained, what they practiced, and whether they currently have restrictions. Include private lessons, camps, open gyms, strength training, and other sports. “I stayed active” does not tell you what the athlete’s body prepared to do.

Ask these questions:

When did you last complete a full cheer practice?
What cheer skills have you performed during the break?
Did you attend tumbling, stunt, strength, or conditioning sessions?
Do you have pain, unusual soreness, or movement restrictions?
Did you experience an injury, concussion, or significant illness?
Did a healthcare professional give you restrictions?
Do you feel nervous about any skill that previously felt comfortable?
Has your stunt position changed since your last season?
Are you returning to more than one cheer team?

Do not use this form as medical clearance. Use it to identify conversations that should happen before practice. When an athlete reports an injury or restriction, follow your organization’s medical procedures. Do not let the athlete “test it” during practice.

Review your emergency plan, mats, equipment, and staff assignments before the return session. Coaches often focus on athlete readiness while ignoring the environment. A crowded floor, missing spotters, or unclear tumbling lanes can create preventable problems. The gym must also return ready.

Check Current Readiness Without Turning Practice Into a Medical Exam

Coaches should assess cheer skills, not diagnose injuries. Your first practice should show how athletes move, land, balance, and respond to corrections. Start with skills below the team’s maximum difficulty. Watch repeated attempts instead of celebrating the best attempt.

A basic return assessment may include:

Dynamic movement and gradual warmup
Basic body positions
Controlled landings
Jump preparation and single jumps
Core control and balance
Motion technique
Low-level tumbling fundamentals
Stunt grips and timing
Prep-level stunt entries and dismounts
Spotter positioning and reactions

The goal is not to prove that athletes can survive practice. You want to see whether they can repeat basic movements with control. Watch what happens as mild fatigue appears. Technique that disappears after three attempts needs more work.

Keep the assessment separate from team selection or punishment. Athletes will hide problems when they think one weak session can cost them a position. Tell them why you are reducing difficulty. Honest communication gives you better information.

Rebuild the Warmup for the Work Ahead

A few laps and static stretches do not prepare athletes for every cheer skill. Your warmup should match the work planned for that practice. Prepare landing mechanics before tumbling. Prepare shoulders, wrists, legs, and core control before stunting.

Increase the warmup gradually across the return period. Early practices may need more time for movement preparation and skill review. Later practices can move faster after athletes show consistent control. Do not copy the final-week competition warmup on the first day back.

The warmup also gives you your first fatigue check. Watch for athletes who struggle with movements they previously controlled. Ask questions before adding impact. A difficult warmup may mean the planned practice needs adjustment.

For more help organizing complete sessions, check out our guide to planning cheer practices effectively.

Return to Stunting From the Ground Up

Stunt groups need a progression even when every athlete returns to the same position. Timing and trust can fade during a break. Start with grips, body positions, dips, catches, and verbal cues. Make each athlete explain their job before increasing height or difficulty.

A general stunt return can follow this order:

Ground-level positions and grips
Loading drills and controlled dips
Prep-level skills
Basic extensions
Body positions
Simple transitions
More difficult entries and releases
Dismounts, baskets, and pyramids
Connected stunt sequences
Routine-speed execution under fatigue

This list does not replace your governing rules or credential requirements. Adjust the order for your athletes, division, and legal skills. Do not skip a stage because the group performed the skill last season. Make them show current control.

Repeat skills enough to judge consistency, but do not chase exhaustion. Adding more repetitions can make a shaky skill worse. Stop when timing or technique begins to decline. Return to an easier version and correct the cause.

USA Cheer gives coaches a direct rule for repeated stunt falls. When falls happen too often, return to the previous progression and rebuild the technique. Its National Cheer Safety Month guidance also teaches coaches when to stop trying to save a failing stunt.

Spotters Need Their Own Progression

Coaches often focus on the flyer and bases while treating the spotter as automatic protection. Spotting also requires timing, positioning, attention, and practice. A spotter returning from a break may react late or reach toward the wrong area. That can turn a controlled error into a collision.

Review where spotters stand and what they watch. Practice responses to common failures at low difficulty. Teach when to help lower a stunt and when to move into a controlled catch. Do not introduce difficult releases before the spotters demonstrate readiness.

Avoid assigning an unfamiliar athlete to spot an advanced skill without preparation. Being nearby does not make someone an effective spotter. The athlete must understand the skill, likely failure paths, and required response. Coaches must also follow all applicable spotting rules.

Control Teammate Collisions

The 2026 Pediatrics study found that teammate collisions contributed to 37 percent of concussions and closed-head injuries in its dataset. The study does not prove that floor traffic caused every collision. Many likely occurred during stunts or catches. Coaches should still control every collision risk they can see.

Set clear tumbling lanes and one-way traffic. Separate standing tumbling, running tumbling, and stunt work whenever space allows. Do not let athletes walk across active lanes. Assign a coach to control starts when several groups share the floor.

Stunt groups also need enough room for safe catches and unexpected movement. A stunt that falls sideways should not enter another group’s space. Mark group areas when the floor becomes crowded. Reduce the number of active groups when spacing becomes unsafe.

Music can also hide warnings and verbal cues. Control volume during early stunt progressions. Athletes should hear coaches and teammates clearly. Save competition-level sound for sessions that actually require it.

Rebuild Tumbling in Layers

Start tumbling with shapes, landings, and basic skills that support later passes. Then add standing skills, running entries, connected passes, and routine combinations. An athlete who can throw one skill may not have the endurance for repeated passes. Evaluate both execution and recovery.

Separate current skill ability from previous skill history. Ask athletes to show the progression that leads to the target skill. If the setup, body position, or landing has changed, stay at the easier stage. Do not let pride choose the tumbling plan.

Control the number of passes. More attempts do not always create better training. Repeated poor attempts teach poor timing and increase fatigue. Stop the set when the athlete cannot maintain the required technique.

Use appropriate surfaces and qualified coaches. Follow your program’s rules for spotting and skill level. Never use the return period to rush a new tumbling skill before choreography. Restore existing foundations first.

Delay Full-Outs Until the Routine Parts Are Ready

A full-out combines skill difficulty, repetition, timing, performance, and fatigue. It exposes every weakness that basic drills can hide. Running a full routine too early does not prove toughness. It gives coaches poor information because several failures happen at once.

Build toward full-outs in stages:

Walk counts and spacing
Mark choreography without major skills
Perform individual sections
Connect two sections
Run the routine with selected skills
Add more difficulty while controlling repetitions
Perform a full routine after every section meets the standard

Do not let a competition date force a full-out before the team is ready. Change the routine, reduce difficulty, or adjust the practice plan. A clean legal routine helps the team more than an ambitious routine that rarely survives practice. The schedule cannot perform the skills for your athletes.

When you begin full-outs, track where technique changes. Note missed grips, short landings, slow timing, and mental errors. Those failures may point to conditioning, skill readiness, or routine design. Do not answer every problem with more full-outs.

A Sample 10-Practice Return Plan

No fixed schedule can fit every team. Use this sample as a planning model, not automatic permission. Athletes must meet each practice goal before moving forward. Repeat or change a stage when the team lacks control.

Practices 1 and 2: Assess and Rebuild Basics

Review recent training, restrictions, and athlete concerns. Evaluate basic movement, landings, motions, jumps, tumbling foundations, stunt grips, and prep-level timing. Keep conditioning controlled and relevant to the planned skills. Do not run full-outs.

Use these sessions to identify groups that need separate progressions. Returning athletes may not start at the same point. Keep notes on consistency, confidence, and fatigue. Plan the next practices from those observations.

Practices 3 and 4: Restore Individual Skills

Add familiar tumbling and stunt skills after athletes demonstrate the required foundations. Keep difficult skills separate instead of connecting long sequences. Rebuild jump technique and basic conditioning. Continue training spotters at every stunt level.

Increase either difficulty or repetition with care. Do not increase both simply because the first practices looked good. Watch how athletes respond during the next session. Delayed soreness or fatigue may change your plan.

Practices 5 and 6: Reconnect Skills

Begin connecting tumbling passes, stunt transitions, jump combinations, and short routine sections. Keep a simpler version available for each difficult sequence. Use it when timing or technique declines. Do not reward athletes for hiding pain or fear.

Start building performance endurance through short sections. Allow enough recovery for athletes to maintain form. Track which section creates the first technical breakdown. That section needs work before the full routine does.

Practices 7 and 8: Add Routine Demand

Connect larger sections and add more routine-speed skills. Test spacing, transitions, communication, and spotter reactions. Continue to limit repetitions that lose quality. A failed section needs correction, not immediate punishment.

You may introduce partial full-outs during this stage. Choose the sections and skills in advance. Do not surprise athletes with added difficulty halfway through the run. Record the results and adjust the next practice.

Practices 9 and 10: Evaluate Full-Routine Readiness

Perform a controlled full routine only when each section meets your stated standard. Reduce difficulty when the team cannot maintain technique under fatigue. One completed full-out does not prove repeatable readiness. Review the run before adding another.

Some teams will reach this stage earlier. Others will need several more practices. The number does not matter as much as the execution. Your athletes should earn progression through current performance.

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Use Readiness Gates Instead of Dates

A practice number should never provide the only reason to advance. Set readiness gates for tumbling, stunts, jumps, and routine sections. Athletes should know what they must demonstrate. This approach makes your decisions easier to explain.

A readiness gate may require:

Several controlled repetitions
Legal technique for the athlete’s division
Stable timing across the stunt group
Safe catches and landings
Correct spotter positioning
No technique breakdown under normal practice fatigue
Athlete confidence without pressure or coercion
No conflict with medical restrictions
Enough space, mats, and qualified supervision

Choose the number of repetitions that fits the skill and your governing guidance. Do not invent one universal number for every team. A basic prep and an advanced release do not need identical standards. Higher-risk skills demand more evidence.

Document when a group meets each gate. This record helps when athletes miss practice or groups change. It also prevents the coaching staff from advancing one group based on excitement. Use the same standard throughout the team.

Watch What Fatigue Changes

Fatigue often appears first through technique. Bases may bend their arms early, flyers may lose body control, and tumblers may shorten landings. Spotters may drift or react slowly. Athletes may also forget counts that they knew at the start of practice.

Stop and review when several errors appear together. The team may need water, rest, a lower skill, or the end of that section. Do not add punishment conditioning after fatigue causes failures. That response adds load without correcting the original problem.

Ask athletes what changed. They may report fear, pain, poor sleep, or another practice earlier that day. You do not need to accept every explanation without question. You do need accurate information before deciding what happens next.

Record repeated patterns across practices. One difficult session may mean little. The same breakdown at the same point needs attention. Change the practice plan before the problem becomes normal.

Returning After Injury Requires Medical Direction

A coach cannot clear an athlete after injury. Follow the instructions from the athlete’s qualified healthcare professional and your organization. Ask for written restrictions when your policy permits it. Do not guess what “limited participation” means.

Medical clearance also does not require an immediate full-out. Follow the athlete’s prescribed return plan, then rebuild cheer timing within those limits. The healthcare professional controls medical readiness. The coach controls legal skill progressions and team placement.

Do not pressure athletes to return for a competition date. Do not ask parents to find a different medical opinion because the first answer disrupts your lineup. Build an alternate plan and protect the athlete’s long-term participation. The routine can change.

Concussion Return Follows a Separate Process

Do not use the sample 10-practice plan as a concussion protocol. The athlete must receive approval and supervision from a healthcare professional. The CDC uses a six-step return-to-sports progression based on international concussion guidance. Each stage usually takes at least 24 hours.

The athlete advances only when the current stage causes no new symptoms. If symptoms return, the athlete stops and contacts the medical provider. The provider may direct the athlete to return to the previous stage. Coaches do not shorten this process for cheer.

The CDC HEADS UP return-to-sports guidance moves athletes from regular activities through aerobic work, moderate activity, heavy non-contact work, practice, and competition. Cheer coaches must fit sport-specific activity within the provider’s plan. Stunting, tumbling, and full-outs do not belong in the early stages.

Keep the athlete connected with the team when appropriate. They may attend meetings, review video, or help with counts if their medical plan allows it. Do not make the athlete earn their position by ignoring symptoms. Recovery is not a character test.

Communicate the Plan to Parents and Athletes

Explain the return plan before the first practice. Parents should understand why the team will repeat easier skills. Athletes should know that coaches will use current execution to control progression. This message reduces pressure to prove everything on day one.

Tell families how to report pain, restrictions, or concussion symptoms. Give them one contact person and a private communication method. Do not discuss medical information in the team group chat. Share information only with staff who need it.

Explain how missed practices affect progression. An athlete who misses the first four sessions may need an individual assessment. Do not drop them directly into the team’s current stage. The group’s progress cannot prove that athlete’s readiness.

Common Return-to-Cheer Mistakes

Starting Where the Team Finished

Last season’s final routine represents months of training. It does not provide the correct starting point after a long break. Begin below the team’s maximum and move forward through evidence. Familiar skills can still require restored timing.

Using Conditioning as the Entire Return Plan

Conditioning supports cheer skills, but running and bodyweight exercises cannot restore stunt timing. Athletes need gradual sport-specific work. They also need controlled tumbling, landing, spotting, and group practice. General fitness does not replace technical readiness.

Chasing New Skills Too Soon

The return period should restore foundations before introducing major upgrades. New skills can hide problems because everyone expects errors. Familiar skills give you a cleaner view of current control. Add upgrades after the team restores dependable technique.

Letting Strong Athletes Pull the Whole Team Forward

Your most prepared athlete should not control the pace for every group. Athletes return with different training histories and bodies. Split groups when readiness differs. A fast group can progress without forcing another group to follow.

Treating Falls as Normal Repetition

Every stunt group will make errors. Repeated falls tell you that the current progression is not working. Return to the previous skill and correct the cause. Do not keep throwing the same stunt until chance produces one hit.

Advancing Because Competition Is Close

A deadline can guide planning, but it cannot create readiness. Reduce difficulty when the available training time cannot support the original routine. Coaches control routine design. Athletes should not carry the risk of unrealistic choreography.

Frequently Asked Questions About Returning to Cheerleading

How Long Should a Return to Cheerleading Take?

No universal number fits every athlete or team. The length depends on time away, recent training, age, skill level, and current execution. Use readiness gates instead of fixed dates. Medical returns must follow professional instructions.

When Should a Team Start Full-Outs After a Break?

Begin full-outs after athletes demonstrate control in every routine section. They should also maintain technique as fatigue increases. Start with marked routines, sections, and partial runs. Do not use a full-out to discover whether basic skills are ready.

Should Athletes Repeat Skills They Already Mastered?

Yes. Previous mastery does not prove current timing, strength, or consistency. A short progression allows the athlete to demonstrate readiness. Athletes who remain prepared may move through basic stages quickly.

Do Spotters Need Return Training?

Yes. Spotters need current timing, positioning, focus, and knowledge of the skill. Review catches and common failure paths at easier levels. Do not treat a spotter as passive protection. Their actions require preparation.

What Should a Coach Do When an Athlete Reports Pain?

Stop the activity that causes or changes the pain. Follow your school or gym procedures and contact the parent or medical staff when required. Coaches should not diagnose the problem. Medical professionals should control injury evaluation and return instructions.

Can an Athlete Return to Cheer as Soon as Concussion Symptoms Stop?

No. The athlete needs healthcare approval and a supervised, step-by-step return. The CDC progression usually requires at least 24 hours at each stage. Symptoms that return require the athlete to stop and contact the provider. Competition comes only after successful completion of the earlier stages.

Do Not Confuse Familiar With Ready

Your athletes may remember every skill they performed before the break. Their current bodies still need to prove timing, control, strength, and endurance. Start with foundations, watch repeated execution, and advance through clear gates. Move backward when the evidence tells you to.

A slower first week can protect the work that follows. A rushed return can cost far more practice time later. Build the team you have today, then train them toward the team they were before the break.

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Coaching, Featured, Schedules, Tips

All-Star and School Cheer: How Coaches Can Manage Two-Team Workloads

Posted on September 8, 2026September 7, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

08
Sep

By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 8, 2026

Many athletes participate in all-star and school cheer during the same season. Each coach may see a reasonable schedule, while the athlete experiences something very different. School practices, games, tumbling classes, all-star practices, and weekend travel can fill every day. Homework and sleep must fit around whatever time remains.

Doing both programs can work for some athletes. It can also create an exhausting schedule that neither coach fully understands. The problem starts when each program acts like the other one does not exist. An athlete only has one body, regardless of how many uniforms hang in the closet.

Coaches do not need to fight over ownership of an athlete. They need to see the complete workload and make informed decisions. That requires honest schedules, protected recovery, and clear attendance rules before the season begins.

Two Cheer Teams Create One Combined Workload

School and all-star cheer may have different goals, but they use many of the same physical skills. Both programs can include tumbling, jumps, stunts, baskets, pyramids, conditioning, and full-out routines. The athlete does not recover separately for each team. Every repetition contributes to the same weekly load.

A school coach may schedule two practices, a football game, and a Saturday competition. The all-star coach may add three practices, a tumbling class, and a Sunday event. Neither schedule looks extreme when viewed alone. Together, they can leave the athlete without a full recovery day.

This situation differs from seasonal participation in two distinct sports. All-star and school cheer repeat many of the same movements and impact patterns. The athlete may perform running tumbling for both teams within several hours. They may also base, backspot, or fly through dozens of added stunt repetitions.

The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine warns against simultaneous participation on multiple teams in the same sport. Its guidance links overscheduling with overtraining, injury, illness, sleep problems, stress, and burnout.

USA Cheer also recognizes the schedule problem. Its youth and junior national team guidance discourages athletes from joining multiple cheer teams during national team preparation. USA Cheer cites the number of required practices as the reason.

That does not mean every athlete must choose one team. It means coaches should stop treating dual participation as a harmless scheduling detail.

Coaches Usually See Only Half the Problem

A coach knows when an athlete attends that coach’s practice. They may not know what happened during the previous six hours. The athlete could arrive from another practice after completing full-outs, tumbling passes, or repeated elite stunts.

Young athletes often describe every practice as “fine.” They may worry that honest fatigue will cost them a position. Some athletes also believe that constant soreness proves commitment. That silence prevents both coaches from adjusting the workload.

Parents may know the schedule but lack the technical context. Two hours of choreography does not place the same demand on an athlete as two hours of full-outs. A game may include long breaks, while a stunt clinic may produce hundreds of high-effort contacts. Total hours matter, but the contents of those hours matter too.

Every dual-team athlete needs one complete weekly schedule. That schedule should include both teams, games, competitions, tumbling classes, private lessons, open gyms, strength work, and required school events. Travel time also affects recovery, even when it does not count as training.

Build a Weekly Cheer Workload Sheet

You do not need expensive tracking software. A shared spreadsheet or weekly form can expose the problem quickly. The athlete or parent can update it each Sunday. Both coaches can review it before planning the week.

Track these details:

Workload Item	What to Record
School cheer practices	Date, duration, and planned sections
All-star practices	Date, duration, and planned sections
Games and performances	Call time, performance time, and physical demands
Competitions	Warmups, performance rounds, travel, and return time
Tumbling classes	Duration and approximate number of passes
Stunt classes or privates	Position, skills, and approximate repetitions
Full-outs	Full routine, marked routine, or section full-out
Strength and conditioning	Duration, exercises, and intensity
Pain or unusual soreness	Area, activity that caused it, and whether it changed movement
Sleep	Approximate hours and major disruptions
Academic demands	Tests, projects, and weeks with unusual school pressure

The sheet does not need perfect numbers. Its job is to reveal crowded days, repeated high-impact sessions, and missing recovery. A blank calendar can make six practices look manageable. A detailed calendar may show three straight days of tumbling and full-outs.

Coaches should also mark each session as low, medium, or high demand. A film review may carry low physical demand. Stunt sections and repeated tumbling may carry medium or high demand. Full-outs, competitions, and intense double sessions usually belong in the high-demand category.

Do not use these labels to compete with the other coach. Use them to decide when an athlete needs reduced repetitions, modified conditioning, or a different practice assignment.

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Count Repetitions, Not Only Practice Hours

Two practices of equal length can place very different demands on an athlete. One practice may focus on motions, counts, and transitions. The other may include repeated baskets, standing tumbling, and full-outs. Counting both as “two hours” hides the difference.

Track the skills that create the greatest load for each athlete. Flyers may need extra attention after repeated baskets, inversions, and body positions. Bases and backspots may need adjustments after heavy stunt sessions. Tumblers may need reduced passes after clinics, private lessons, or competitions.

You do not need an exact count for every motion. Approximate counts can still reveal patterns. “About 30 running passes” provides more useful information than “one tumbling class.” “Five full-outs” tells the other coach what happened before the athlete entered the next practice.

Ask athletes to report added training outside both programs. Open gym, backyard tumbling, and private lessons still create physical load. Optional training does not become invisible because neither head coach assigned it.

Protect Real Recovery Days

Medical groups differ slightly on the number of recommended rest days. They agree that young athletes need regular recovery.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends at least one or two days off each week from competition and sport-specific training. It also recommends two or three months away from one sport each year. The AAP connects insufficient recovery with overuse injuries, overtraining, lower performance, and burnout.

AMSSM advises young athletes to keep organized sports to five or six days each week. The organization also recommends at least one full day away from sports. NATA takes a stronger position and recommends two days away from organized training and competition.

At minimum, protect one complete rest day every week. Aim for two when the competition calendar permits it. A “rest day” cannot include tumbling privates, open gym, conditioning, or another team’s practice. Walking through choreography may also defeat the purpose when the athlete never gets a mental break.

Recovery cannot depend on whichever program gives in first. Coaches and families should identify the protected day before the season. When an event takes that day, move the recovery day somewhere else. Do not simply erase it.

Use Age-Based Hours as a Warning Light

NATA recommends that young athletes avoid more weekly organized sport hours than their age in years. Under that guidance, a 13-year-old should avoid more than 13 organized hours each week. The recommendation includes practices, competitions, classes, and other organized training.

This age-based measure cannot account for every athlete or practice. A low-impact instructional session does not equal two hours of full-outs. Still, the measure gives families and coaches a useful warning light. A 12-year-old logging 18 organized hours needs closer review.

Do not wait until the athlete crosses a number before paying attention. Rapid schedule increases can create problems even when total hours appear acceptable. The AAP recommends gradual increases in weekly training time and repetitions. Two programs can accidentally create a sudden increase because neither coach sees the combined change.

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Decide Which Coach Adjusts the Load

Both programs cannot demand maximum effort every day. Someone must adjust when high-demand sessions overlap. That does not require one program to surrender authority to the other.

Start with the complete schedule. Identify games, competitions, choreography, camps, and required practices. Then mark dates when both programs plan high-demand work. Address those dates before the athlete reaches them.

The adjustment may involve fewer tumbling passes, marked sections, limited stunt repetitions, or removal from conditioning. Coaches can also assign film review, counts, motions, or leadership work. The athlete can still contribute without repeating every high-impact skill.

Do not make the athlete negotiate two coaches during practice. The adults should settle foreseeable conflicts before the session. A teenager should not have to choose which coach to disappoint while both wait for an answer.

When direct coach communication fits program policy, get written permission from the parent or guardian. Keep the exchange factual and limited to scheduling, workload, injuries, and attendance. Do not discuss routine strategy, athlete rankings, or another program’s private information.

Set Attendance Priorities Before the Season

Schedule conflicts will happen. Football games, pep rallies, choreography, all-star competitions, and school events do not coordinate themselves. Waiting for the first conflict guarantees anger and rushed decisions.

Both programs should publish their non-negotiable dates before athletes commit. Families should compare the calendars and identify every known conflict. Coaches should then approve the plan in writing. An athlete should not learn in October that both programs claim the same weekend.

A program can reasonably refuse dual-team participation when the schedule cannot work. Coaches also have the right to set attendance standards. They should state those standards before accepting the athlete. A clear “no” before the season causes less damage than a forced choice during competition week.

Do not punish an athlete for following a preapproved conflict plan. Extra conditioning adds physical load to a schedule that already caused concern. It also turns communication into punishment. Handle repeated unapproved absences through your normal attendance policy.

The athlete should know which event takes priority when both programs compete. School rules, contracts, and governing policies may decide the answer. When no rule applies, the coaches and family must agree before the season. “We will figure it out later” is not a plan.

Watch for Changes in the Athlete

Coaches should not diagnose overtraining or medical conditions. They should notice changes and involve qualified healthcare professionals when needed.

The AAP lists fatigue, mood changes, sleep problems, poor academic performance, and declining athletic performance among possible warning signs. Persistent muscle or joint complaints also deserve attention. AAP guidance explains that excessive training without enough recovery can affect physical and psychological health.

Watch for these changes:

Skills that suddenly lose consistency
Unusual fear during previously comfortable skills
Repeated complaints of heavy or tired legs
Pain that changes technique or movement
Irritability or emotional withdrawal
Trouble staying focused during practice
Falling asleep during travel or team meetings
Declining school performance
Frequent minor illnesses
Loss of interest in either team
Anxiety about disappointing coaches
Soreness that never appears to improve

One rough practice does not prove that an athlete has exceeded their limits. A repeated pattern deserves action. Speak privately with the athlete and parent. Ask about the complete schedule, sleep, pain, school pressure, and recent changes.

Remove the athlete from activity when you suspect a concussion or serious injury. Follow your organization’s emergency and return-to-play rules. A workload spreadsheet cannot replace an athletic trainer, physician, or other qualified professional.

Sleep and School Still Count

An athlete can follow every practice plan and still lack enough recovery. Travel, homework, early school hours, and family responsibilities affect the same body. Weekend competition travel can remove sleep before Monday’s practice. Late games can create the same problem during the school week.

Do not treat academic decline as an unrelated issue. The AAP lists poor academic performance among the possible signs of excessive training or inadequate recovery. AMSSM also warns that overscheduling can damage academic and athletic performance. School success belongs in the workload discussion.

Ask families about major exams, school projects, and travel weeks. A short practice adjustment during finals may protect both performance and attendance. Coaches often gain more from a rested athlete on Friday than an exhausted athlete who survived every practice.

Stop Rewarding Athletes for Hiding Fatigue

Cheer culture often praises athletes who push through everything. That attitude can make honest communication feel weak. Athletes may hide pain or exhaustion because they fear losing their spot. Coaches create that fear when every modification carries a punishment.

Tell athletes that reporting workload will not automatically remove them from the routine. Explain how you use the information. You may adjust repetitions, change conditioning, or ask a healthcare professional for guidance. Silence creates more risk than an honest report.

Do not praise an athlete for completing two full practices while injured or exhausted. Effort matters, but judgment matters too. Coaches should model the difference between normal training discomfort and symptoms that need attention.

Your team culture should reward athletes who communicate early. Early reports give you more options. Late reports often arrive after the athlete loses skills, misses school, or needs a longer break.

Give Dual-Team Athletes a Written Plan

A short dual-team participation agreement can prevent many conflicts. This document does not need legal language. It should record what the athlete, family, and coaches already discussed. Everyone should receive the same copy.

Include these items:

Names and contact information for both programs
Complete practice and competition calendars
Known date conflicts
Attendance priorities
Protected weekly recovery day
Private lessons and outside training
Process for reporting pain or unusual fatigue
Process for schedule changes
Rules for injury information
Conditions that may require reduced participation
Person responsible for updating the master schedule
Review dates during the season

Review the plan after choreography, during competition season, and before major travel. A schedule that worked in September may fail in February. Added practices and bid events can change the load quickly. The plan should change when the season changes.

Parents Must Manage the Master Calendar

Coaches control their own practices, but parents usually see the athlete’s complete life. They should maintain the master calendar and disclose schedule changes. They should also include private lessons, school demands, and optional training. Leaving out “extra” sessions defeats the process.

Parents should not use the second team to pressure either coach. “The other coach allows it” does not settle a safety or attendance question. Each program can set its own standards. The family must decide whether those standards can coexist.

Parents also need to protect sleep and recovery. An open day does not always need another class. More training can produce worse results when the athlete never absorbs the work. Improvement happens after the body gets time to recover.

When Doing Both No Longer Works

Some athletes can handle school and all-star cheer with good planning. Others cannot maintain both schedules safely or successfully. Age, skill level, travel, schoolwork, sleep, injuries, and program demands all affect that decision.

Do not frame leaving one team as failure. The athlete may need to protect their health, grades, or long-term development. Reducing commitments can help the athlete perform better for the remaining program. It can also help them enjoy cheer again.

Set specific reasons to review dual participation:

The athlete cannot keep a weekly recovery day
The schedule repeatedly violates attendance rules
Pain or fatigue keeps returning
School performance declines
Sleep remains inadequate
Skills continue to regress
The athlete loses interest or shows persistent distress
Coaches cannot coordinate necessary adjustments
Competition conflicts have no workable solution

When these problems continue, the family may need to choose one program. Make that decision before an emergency or major competition. Coaches can provide honest information, but the family should make the final participation choice. Healthcare professionals should guide decisions involving injury or illness.

Frequently Asked Questions About All-Star and School Cheer

Can You Do All-Star and School Cheer at the Same Time?

Yes, some athletes successfully participate in both programs. The schedules must allow adequate recovery, schoolwork, sleep, and required attendance. Families should compare both calendars before committing. Coaches also need to consider the athlete’s combined physical workload.

How Many Days Per Week Should a Young Cheerleader Practice?

AAP and AMSSM guidance supports at least one full rest day each week. NATA recommends two days away from organized training and competition. The athlete’s age, health, schedule, and practice demands may require more recovery. A tumbling class or open gym does not count as rest.

What Should Coaches Count as Cheer Workload?

Count practices, games, competitions, tumbling classes, stunt privates, conditioning, open gyms, and full-outs. Also record high-impact repetitions and travel that reduces sleep. Total hours provide only part of the answer. Coaches need to know what the athlete did during those hours.

Which Team Should Take Priority?

School rules, program contracts, and published attendance policies may decide priority. When they do not, both coaches and the family should agree before the season. The athlete should not make the choice during a conflict. Programs should publish non-negotiable dates before accepting dual-team athletes.

What Are Possible Signs of Too Much Training?

Possible signs include persistent fatigue, sleep changes, mood changes, recurring pain, declining performance, and academic problems. These signs do not prove a specific condition. Coaches should speak with the family and refer medical concerns to qualified professionals. Suspected concussions and serious injuries require immediate action.

The Athlete Has One Body

School cheer and all-star cheer can both give an athlete valuable experiences. That does not make every combined schedule reasonable. Each coach must consider what happens outside their own gym. Ignoring the other program does not make its workload disappear.

Build one calendar, track demanding repetitions, protect recovery, and settle conflicts before the season. Listen when the athlete reports fatigue or pain. Adjust the plan when the workload grows. If two programs cannot share the athlete responsibly, the athlete should not carry the cost.

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Handling Cheer Parents: You Don’t Owe Them a Vote. You Owe Athletes a Fair Process.

Posted on September 7, 2026September 7, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

Handling Cheer Parents Without Giving Them a Vote

07
Sep

By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 7, 2026

Cheer team placement decisions can cause more conflict than almost any other coaching responsibility. Cuts, level assignments, and stunt positions affect athletes deeply. When coaches provide weak explanations, families fill the silence themselves. They blame politics, favoritism, seniority, body size, or another athlete.

You may make the right decision and still handle it badly. A fair result cannot repair a careless process. Athletes deserve honest feedback, while parents deserve clear rules. Neither group gets a vote on your final roster.

A Cheer Team Is Not a Tryout Leaderboard

Tryouts measure individual athletes, but competitions judge complete routines. Your highest-scoring tumbler may not fill your greatest roster need. Strong jumps cannot replace a dependable main base or backspot. One athlete may perform harder skills while another executes simpler skills more reliably.

USA Cheer applies this principle during national team selection. Its selectors build the best routine for the scoresheet instead of following a universal skills checklist. USA Cheer explains that athletes can earn selection through exceptional ability in specific categories. An athlete does not need every preferred skill.

Your roster must produce safe stunt groups, legal skills, strong sections, and dependable alternates. Individual rankings alone cannot build that roster. This fact does not give you permission to make unexplained choices. You still need to document why each choice helps the team.

Define What “Placement” Means

Coaches often use “placement” to describe four separate decisions:

Team selection
Level or division placement
Stunt position
Competition lineup assignment

Explain each decision before evaluations begin. Athletes and parents should know which decisions can change during the season. A team selection may last for the full year, while a stunt position may change after one unsafe practice. Do not let families assume every decision carries the same weight or duration.

A varsity athlete may serve as an alternate. A junior varsity athlete may move up after meeting specific standards. Your program may also keep rosters fixed for the entire season. State those rules before disappointment tests them.

Build a Cheer Tryout Rubric That Matches the Job

A good cheer tryout rubric measures more than visible difficulty. It measures whether an athlete can perform a specific job within your program. You can adjust the percentages below for your division and team goals. Set the weights before tryouts and keep them consistent.

Evaluation Area	Suggested Weight	What You Should Measure
Safety and consistency	25%	Control, technique, timing, landings, catches, and repeated execution
Role-specific skills	20%	Flyer, base, backspot, tumbler, dancer, or Game Day responsibilities
Tumbling, jumps, and motions	20%	Difficulty, execution, synchronization, and performance quality
Routine contribution	15%	Skills that help your planned sections and scoresheet
Coachability and team behavior	10%	Response to corrections, effort, focus, and treatment of teammates
Attendance and readiness	10%	Reliability, conditioning, preparation, and required commitments

Your program may value different categories. A non-tumbling team should not copy the rubric from an all-star Level 6 program. The rubric must match the actual job that each athlete will perform. Otherwise, you create false expectations and collect useless scores.

Do not award points for popularity, family connections, or how long an athlete has cheered. Do not let a parent’s volunteer work affect an athlete’s score. Returning athletes should meet the same stated standards as new athletes. Seniority can break a true tie only when your published policy allows it.

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Measure Safety and Consistency First

A skill does not help your routine when the athlete hits it once in five attempts. Ask each athlete to perform important skills more than once. Record successful repetitions instead of the athlete’s best attempt. Tryouts reward luck when one clean attempt controls a placement.

Watch how athletes enter, execute, and finish each skill. A tumbling pass with uncontrolled steps does not equal a clean pass. For stunts, track stable holds, safe catches, body control, grips, timing, and communication. Difficulty should never erase repeated safety problems.

Evaluate Athletes in Their Actual Roles

Do not evaluate every athlete as though each position requires the same abilities. Flyers, bases, and backspots solve different problems. A flyer needs body control, timing, flexibility, confidence, and consistent technique. Body size alone does not prove flyer readiness.

Bases need strength, control, timing, footwork, and reliable grips. Backspots need awareness, power, quick reactions, and strong communication. Test multiple stunt combinations when time allows. An athlete may struggle in one group and perform well in another.

Group results do not excuse individual weaknesses. They can help you separate poor technique from a poor stunt-group match. Record both the athlete’s individual performance and the group’s complete execution. That information will help when you build final stunt groups.

Score Coachability With Observable Evidence

“Bad attitude” tells an athlete very little. It can also hide personal bias. Instead, record what the athlete did and how that behavior affected the evaluation. Observable evidence produces better feedback and gives your staff something concrete to review.

Did the athlete apply a correction during the next attempt? Did the athlete stay engaged while another group worked? Did the athlete blame teammates after a fall? Did the athlete help reset the stunt and ask what needed to change?

These actions show focus, effort, and response to coaching. A vague personality label does not. Score the athlete’s behavior during the evaluation, not the reputation that followed them into the gym. If past conduct affects eligibility, state that rule before tryouts.

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Use More Than One Evaluator

Use at least two trained evaluators when your staffing allows it. Have each person score independently before discussing results. Compare scores after the session, then review large differences. Ask each evaluator to identify the exact skill or behavior that caused the difference.

One evaluator may miss a landing error while watching upper-body technique. Another may notice the error but miss how quickly the athlete applied a correction. Multiple evaluators also reduce the effect of personal relationships. They cannot remove every bias, but they make unsupported decisions harder to defend.

Tell evaluators what each score means before tryouts. A score of four must represent the same standard at every station. Run a short test evaluation with video when possible. This step exposes scoring differences before actual athletes enter the gym.

Record Evidence, Not Impressions

Your notes should help you explain a decision several days later. Words such as “weak,” “messy,” or “inconsistent” will not help. Use numbers and visible actions whenever possible. Your notes should answer what happened, how often it happened, and what standard the athlete missed.

Weak Feedback	Useful Feedback
Your tumbling was inconsistent.	You completed two of five running passes without a landing deduction.
Your stunt was shaky.	The group completed one of four extended liberties without a fall or major balance check.
You need a better attitude.	You stopped applying corrections after the second stunt attempt.
You were not ready for varsity.	Your motions met the standard, but your jumps and stunt timing scored below the varsity range.
Another athlete fit better.	The roster needed a backspot who could execute the required sequence consistently.

You do not need to hand families every evaluator’s private note. You need enough evidence to explain your decision accurately. Save evaluation sheets according to your school or gym policy. Do not rely on memory after emotions rise.

Explain When Team Needs Affect the Result

A composite score should inform your decision, but it should not automatically control every roster spot. Imagine that your 20 highest scores include eight flyers and only three dependable bases. A strict ranking cannot create safe stunt groups. Your roster needs enough athletes for every required role.

State before tryouts that team composition affects final placement. Define the positions, specialties, and alternates you expect to select. If your final decision differs from the score ranking, document the team need that caused it. This record helps you separate legitimate roster judgment from personal preference.

Do not hide every choice behind “team needs.” Name the actual need when you can discuss it without exposing another athlete’s information. You can say the roster needed another backspot. You cannot discuss another athlete’s score, injury, behavior, or private circumstances.

If your planned routine shapes the roster, complete a cheerleading skills audit before choreography. Build for the athletes you have. Do not select a roster that depends on skills your team rarely hits. Potential cannot replace current readiness when safety depends on the result.

Stop Promising Permanent Positions

Never promise an athlete a flyer spot, varsity placement, or competition position before evaluations. Previous placement does not guarantee future placement. Athletes change, and teams change with them. Rules, divisions, attendance, injuries, and routine needs also affect assignments.

A returning flyer may become a stronger base. A new athlete may fill a missing stunt position. You can respect an athlete’s preferred role without granting ownership of it. Team positions belong to the program, not individual athletes.

Explain this policy before the season. Do not introduce it after you move someone. Families may still dislike the change, but they cannot honestly call the rule new. Consistency gives your explanation credibility.

Announce Results With Respect

Do not post a public ranking. Share the roster, then keep individual evaluations private. Every athlete should receive enough information to understand the result. The message should remain direct, brief, and specific.

Each athlete should receive five pieces of information:

The placement decision
The main reason
One or two demonstrated strengths
Specific areas to improve
A re-evaluation date, when one exists

Do not spend ten minutes praising an athlete before stating the result. They will hear the coming rejection and distrust the praise. Give them the decision first, then explain the evidence. Respect does not require you to hide bad news inside compliments.

Do not invent a future opportunity to soften the result. False hope delays the athlete’s next decision and damages your credibility. If your roster stays fixed, say so. You can still provide a useful development plan.

A development plan should name skills and standards. “Work harder” does not tell an athlete what to practice. You can use a structured cheerleading progression program to guide that work. Give the athlete a realistic path, even when that path starts next season.

What to Say During Difficult Placement Conversations

Clear language prevents long, confusing conversations. It also keeps you from making emotional promises. You do not need a perfect speech. You need an honest decision, supporting evidence, and the next available step.

When an Athlete Does Not Make the Team

We did not select you for the roster this season. You showed strong motions and effort, but your stunt timing needs more work.

I can show you the two standards to improve before your next evaluation.

State the result before discussing improvement. Do not imply that extra classes guarantee future selection. Training can improve the athlete’s chances, but the next roster will still depend on performance and team needs. Say what you know and stop there.

When an Athlete Makes Junior Varsity Instead of Varsity

We placed you on junior varsity because you can contribute and train safely there now. Your tumbling met our varsity range, but your stunt timing did not. We will review your placement on October 15.

Only offer a review date when your program permits movement. Do not create a date that carries no real possibility. Explain the standards that the athlete must meet before that review. The date means little without measurable requirements.

When You Move a Flyer to Base

We are moving you to main base because the stunt groups perform more safely with that change. This assignment does not punish you. We will train you in the new role and review the groups after four practices.

Don’t tell the athlete that another flyer “beat” them. Explain the team decision and the athlete’s new responsibilities. Give the athlete real instruction in the new role. A reassignment without training sets the athlete up to fail twice.

When a Parent Demands Information About Another Athlete

I can explain our criteria, your athlete’s evaluation, and the available next steps. I can’t discuss another athlete’s scores, health, behavior, or placement. The coaching staff makes final lineup decisions.

Repeat the boundary once if needed. Do not defend another athlete or confirm the parent’s rumors. End the meeting when the parent refuses to respect your privacy rules. Your willingness to meet does not require you to accept abuse.

Speak With the Athlete Before the Parent

When age and program rules allow it, ask the athlete to begin the conversation. This approach teaches self-advocacy and reduces secondhand claims. The athlete can ask what needs improvement and hear the answer directly. Parents can join later when the situation requires their involvement.

NFHS recommends an athlete-to-coach-to-athletic-director communication chain. Its parent guidance also supports preseason meetings and clear communication rules. A 2022 survey cited by NFHS found that 73 percent of coaches worried about parent abuse. Playing time and athlete roles caused many of those concerns.

The NFHS parent-partnership workshop provides the survey data and communication recommendations. Tell families how to request a meeting before tryout results appear. Do not accept placement debates during practice, in parking lots, or through team group chats. Those settings invite rushed answers and public conflict.

Your program may also use a 24-hour pause after results. Follow your school or gym policy, and allow immediate contact for safety concerns. The pause should reduce emotional confrontations, not block legitimate questions. For wider behavior problems, use the separate YouHitZero guide to dealing with difficult parents.

Run the Parent Meeting Without Losing Control

Start with the placement decision. Explain the criteria and show the athlete’s relevant results. Let the parent ask reasonable questions, then bring the discussion back to the athlete. Do not let the meeting become a trial involving every person on the team.

Keep the discussion centered on what the athlete demonstrated, what the current team needs, and what the athlete can do next. Do not compare children or defend rumors. Never reveal private information about another athlete. You can acknowledge disappointment without changing the decision.

You can say:

I understand that this result disappointed you. I will explain how we reached it and what your athlete can control next.

Don’t compare their child to another team member.

Set a meeting length before you begin. Fifteen focused minutes often accomplish more than an open-ended argument. Include another coach or administrator when your policy requires it. And (obviously) follow all program rules for communication with minor athletes.

Explain Midseason Lineup Changes Before They Happen

Making the team does not always guarantee a competition spot. State that fact during registration or your preseason meeting. Explain whether alternates travel, warm up, perform, or receive another assignment. Families should understand the role before the first lineup change.

List the reasons that may change a lineup:

Safety concerns
Missed practices
Injury or illness
Repeated execution errors
Routine or scoresheet changes
Division changes
Stunt-group compatibility
Athlete conduct
Team emergency

You can’t use this list as unlimited cover. Apply each rule consistently and document why you made the change. Tell the athlete quickly, because delays create rumors. Teammates should never need to explain your decision for you.

Give the athlete a new role whenever possible. Alternates still need practice assignments, performance goals, and honest expectations. Do not make them stand at the edge of the mat without direction. A meaningful alternate plan can keep the team ready when an emergency occurs.

Avoid These Common Placement Mistakes

Changing the Criteria After Tryouts

Do not add a standard because your preferred athlete missed the published standard. That choice destroys the value of your rubric. If the rubric failed, repair it next season. Document any urgent exception and involve your program administrator.

Using Body Size as a Shortcut

Do not choose flyers by weight alone. Evaluate body control, technique, flexibility, timing, confidence, and complete group performance. Never discuss an athlete’s body with other families. Use role-specific performance standards instead.

Giving Vague Feedback

“Work harder” does not tell an athlete what to practice. Name the skill, the error, and the required standard. Useful feedback turns disappointment into a plan. Empty feedback turns it into resentment.

Claiming the Process Is Completely Objective

Every roster includes coaching judgment. Admit that fact instead of pretending that a spreadsheet made every decision. Your rubric supplies evidence, but your staff still builds the routine. Document where team needs changed the numerical order.

Hiding Behind “Coach’s Discretion”

You have final authority. Authority does not replace an explanation. If you cannot connect a decision to safety, performance, conduct, or a stated team need, review it. “Because I said so” protects weak decisions, not good coaches.

Letting Parent Pressure Change Standards

A loud parent should not receive a different process. Apply the same meeting rules, privacy limits, and evaluation standards to every family. Changing a placement to end an argument teaches parents that pressure works. It also tells athletes that performance does not control results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheer Team Placement Decisions

Why Would a Coach Select a Less Advanced Tumbler?

The team may need that athlete’s stunt position, consistency, motions, jumps, or performance ability. Coaches must build complete routines instead of tumbling exhibitions. The coach should still explain the relevant team need. “Coach’s decision” alone gives the athlete no useful information.

How Do Coaches Choose Flyers?

Coaches should evaluate body control, technique, flexibility, timing, confidence, consistency, and group compatibility. Weight alone cannot measure flyer ability. Repeated execution should carry more value than one impressive attempt. Safety must control the final assignment.

Can a Coach Move an Athlete From Flyer to Base?

Yes, when program rules allow role changes. Coaches may adjust stunt groups for safety, execution, attendance, or routine needs. The coach should explain the reason and train the athlete for the new role. A position change should never serve as public punishment.

Should Parents Receive Their Child’s Tryout Scores?

Your school, gym, or governing policy should control score access. Coaches should never release another athlete’s private evaluation. Even when you withhold raw sheets, you should provide specific feedback about the athlete’s performance. Explain what the athlete did well and what missed the standard.

Should Athletes Get Another Evaluation?

Offer another evaluation only when your program allows roster or role changes. Give the athlete a date and measurable standards. If the placement remains final, say that directly. You can still explain what the athlete should develop before the next season.

Even a Defensible Decision Still Might Sting

No placement system will make every family happy. That shouldn’t be your standard. Your process should produce consistent criteria, recorded evidence, private feedback, and useful next steps. Your boundaries should protect athletes, coaches, and private information.

Review any decision that you cannot explain with observable facts or a stated team need. Strong coaching does not require unanimous approval. It requires a process you can defend after the excitement, disappointment, and parking-lot opinions arrive.

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Cheer competitions are paying real prize money. Is that good for the sport?

Posted on August 31, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

31
Aug

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 31, 2026

Cash prizes are spreading through competitive cheer, and Olympia Cheer Championships’ $50,000 purse is the latest test case. Prize money is a net positive for the sport if it’s funded by sponsors rather than by raising athlete fees and only if safety enforcement keeps pace with the added incentive to win.

The Olympia Cheer Championships announced its judging panel on August 20, drawing on judges with long resumes across All Star, college, school, and international cheer. That’s useful information if you plan to compete, but the money is the more interesting story.

The inaugural Olympia Cheer Championships arrives in Las Vegas on September 25 and 26 during Joe Weider’s Olympia Weekend, and organizers are advertising $50,000 in cash prizes and bid boosts. Friday even has an official name: “Cash Day.” Athletes will compete in individual cheer, partner stunt, and group stunt divisions for direct cash prizes, while Saturday’s team competition adds financial awards through bid boosts. Cheer has paid winners before, but Olympia adds another test of a question the sport should spend more time asking: what happens when winning cheer competitions starts paying?

Olympia Is Putting Meaningful Money on the Floor

Some Olympia payouts exceed what most athletes would consider novelty prize money. First place in several college and open stunt divisions pays $2,250, second place pays $1,250, and third place pays $750. Youth, junior high, and high school individual champions can win $1,000, and the same $1,000 first-place prize applies to several youth stunt divisions.

Saturday’s team awards use a different system. Olympia lists Level Grand Champion bid boosts ranging from $2,000 at Level 1 up to $6,800 at Level 6, though those amounts can vary with participation. The event FAQ says Olympia will award $50,000 total across cash prizes and bid boosts, and that awards remain guaranteed regardless of eligible division entry counts. That creates a very different sales pitch from the usual medal, banner, jacket, ring, or bid: win this competition, and somebody may hand your group a check.

Cash Prizes in Cheer Aren’t Actually New

Olympia didn’t invent this idea. Varsity already awards serious money through the Varsity Cheer League — League 6 currently lists $10,000 for first place and $7,500 for second. Varsity’s Ultimate Battle events also pay cash; the 2027 USA Ultimate Battle advertises a $25,000 purse with at least 25 participating teams, and first place among Paid Worlds Bid holders earns $6,000.

USASF also allows event producers to award Worlds Bid Boost cash, letting winning teams receive up to $100 per performing athlete toward Worlds expenses. Then there’s the Pro Cheer League: Varsity launched its first professional season in January 2026, with athletes receiving part-time compensation, travel, lodging, bonuses, and prize incentives. Cheer has already crossed the line into paid competition, but Olympia still does something worth watching, by putting direct prize money into a conventional competition weekend that includes individual athletes and small stunt groups. That distinction matters.

Cheer Has Usually Made the Athlete the Customer

The economics of competitive cheer have always felt strange compared with most spectator sports. Programs pay competition fees, and athletes pay tuition, travel costs, uniforms, choreography, music, and other season expenses. Parents often buy admission to watch the athletes whose families already funded the trip. Success can earn prestige, bids, jackets, medals, or lower costs at another competition, but direct financial rewards have occupied a much smaller part of the system.

Olympia doesn’t completely reverse that arrangement: each competitor still needs a $150 athlete pass, and some divisions carry separate registration costs, including $250 for college coed partner stunt. Athletes still pay to enter. The difference comes at the other end of the transaction: a strong performance can return actual money. That sounds like a small change, but economically, it can become a very important one.

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Partner Stunt Could Feel the Effect First

Partner stunt may provide the best test case. A large All Star team can spend thousands of dollars traveling to an event, so a $2,000 team prize may disappear quickly against that budget. The math looks different for two athletes: a $2,250 first-place prize can meaningfully offset registration, airfare, hotels, and training costs for a college or open partner stunt group.

More money would make the calculation even more interesting. Imagine several independent events offering $5,000 or $10,000 partner stunt purses — elite stunters could start choosing events partly by prize opportunity, and you could eventually see athletes traveling to compete as specialized stunt teams outside their normal program schedule. Cheer already has athletes with enough name recognition to market those matchups, and cash gives event producers another reason to invite them.

Money Could Change How Coaches Choose Competitions

Coaches don’t build schedules around prize money today — reputation, bids, location, competition quality, timing, and program goals usually carry more weight. But cash could enter that equation. Suppose two comparable events land on the same weekend: one offers banners and bids, while another adds $20,000 in guaranteed divisional payouts. Some coaches will notice, and that pressure becomes stronger if parents see the difference too.

Families spend enormous amounts supporting competitive cheer, and an event that returns some money to successful programs can make a persuasive argument — even if the purse doesn’t come close to covering the season. It only needs to influence the decision between two otherwise similar competitions. Event producers understand incentives, and once money starts moving schedules, other producers will respond.

Prize Money Could Become Another Recruiting Tool

Event producers already compete for strong programs. A prestigious field attracts other teams, which in turn attract spectators, social content, sponsors, and attention — and prize money can help build that field. An organizer could invite strong Level 6 teams with a guaranteed purse, or build a partner stunt championship around recognizable athletes; cash makes those invitations more persuasive.

It also gives smaller event producers something established brands can’t own exclusively. You can’t manufacture decades of prestige overnight, but you can write a check. That could make prize money especially useful for new competitions trying to establish themselves quickly — Olympia looks like a good example. Its cheer competition has no history yet, so the event instead borrows recognition from Mr. Olympia and gives competitors another reason to take the debut seriously.

There Is One Big Condition

Prize money only improves the athlete economy when someone other than the athletes meaningfully funds it. If an event raises entry fees by $500 and creates a $500 prize, nobody has changed the system — the event has simply repackaged the money.

Sponsors create a more interesting model, where outside money enters the competition and athletes earn some of it through performance. Varsity already uses sponsorship in parts of its cash-prize system, including sponsor-backed cash prizes in its League 6 awards, and Olympia actively sells sponsorship packages with Kaepa as its headline cheer sponsor. Olympia doesn’t publish enough financial detail to determine exactly how it funds every award, which is something worth watching. The healthiest version of this trend brings new sponsor money into cheer and sends part of it toward competitors; the weakest version uses higher competitor fees to advertise a flashy purse. Coaches should care about the difference.

Could Prize Money Make Cheer Less Safe?

Cash creates another incentive to win, which deserves discussion in a sport where athletes already accept significant physical risk. But competition pressure existed long before purses — world titles, bids, scholarships, roster spots, social attention, and gym reputation already give athletes powerful reasons to push difficulty.

The correct response to cash prizes is strict safety enforcement. Olympia says safety officers will monitor the event, and its published rules include deductions or disqualification for safety violations. Prize money should never create permission for looser standards; if anything, an event offering serious cash should expect more scrutiny around rules, scoring, conflicts, and deductions. Money makes judging disagreements more expensive, which means event producers need scoring systems athletes can trust.

Cash Also Creates Questions Cheer Will Need to Answer

Who receives the money when minors win? How should a four-person stunt group divide a prize? What happens when athletes compete under a gym’s name — does the gym keep the award, or do the athletes receive it? Programs and event producers need clear policies before these situations create disputes, and the questions become more complicated as payouts grow. Nobody fights very hard over a trophy, but people behave differently when $10,000 sits behind first place. That isn’t an argument against prize money — it’s an argument for written rules.

Professional Cheer Already Exists, But Another Model Could Grow Beside It

The Pro Cheer League changes the old athlete-customer model much more directly: its athletes receive compensation for participating, and the league completed five events during its inaugural 2026 season. Olympia uses a different model — you enter as a competitor, pay the required costs, and compete for a purse.

That model could grow beside professional league cheer. Picture an open circuit of partner stunt, group stunt, individual, and elite team competitions with meaningful purses, where athletes don’t need a contract with one professional league to earn money from high-level cheer. A talented stunt group could compete at several cash events during a year, event producers could build specialty competitions around those athletes, and sponsors could attach themselves directly to divisions or purses. Cheer suddenly has more ways to create economic value from elite performance.

That’s Probably Good for Cheer

Competitive cheer has built a large business around athletes spending money. There’s nothing inherently wrong with that — competitions cost money to operate, and families voluntarily choose the sport. Still, elite athletic performance has value, and if sponsors, ticket buyers, broadcasters, event producers, and audiences benefit from that value, athletes should have opportunities to share in it. Cash prizes provide one way to do that.

Olympia’s $50,000 won’t rewrite the economics of cheer by itself, and the event hasn’t even happened yet…the results will tell us more than the announcement. Do strong athletes enter the cash divisions? Do coaches care about the bid boosts? Do spectators respond to partner stunt competition with money attached? And most importantly, does Olympia come back in 2027 with a larger purse?

If the answer is yes, watch what other event producers do next. Cheer already proved athletes will pay to compete. Now we may find out how much competitions will pay them to win.

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2026-27 NFHS cheer rules: What coaches need to know before competition season

Posted on August 31, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

31
Aug

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 31, 2026

NFHS released the 2026-27 Spirit rule changes in March. On August 25, NFHS published new comments that explain how coaches should read those changes. Several updates affect skills that high school cheer teams already use. Others change definitions that can affect whether a skill counts as tumbling or a legal transition. If you coach under NFHS rules, this is a good time to review your routine. A small detail can change the legality of a sequence.

Here are the 2026-27 NFHS cheer rules that coaches need to understand before competition season starts.

NFHS changed the definition of tumbling

This change could affect more routines than its short wording suggests.

NFHS now defines tumbling as an unsupported hip-over-head skill that begins and ends on the performing surface. A base cannot support the athlete during the skill. That definition creates a clearer line between tumbling and other acrobatic movements.

NFHS specifically mentions seat rolls and side rolls as examples. Those movements do not become tumbling simply because an athlete rolls across the floor. That matters most in divisions or situations that restrict tumbling. A coach could see an acrobatic floor skill and assume that officials will classify it as tumbling. The new definition gives coaches a better test.

Ask four questions when you review a questionable floor skill:

Does the athlete’s hip travel over the head?
Does a base support the athlete?
Does the skill begin on the performing surface?
Does it also end there?

If those details do not match the NFHS definition, the rulebook may classify the movement differently. Do not rely on what your gym has always called the skill. Use the NFHS definition when you build an NFHS routine.

A loading position can now occur during a transition

NFHS also changed its definition of a loading position, or load. A loading position occurs when bases support the top person under the feet below the bases’ shoulder level. NFHS now states that transitions can include loads. The 2nd part is kinda confusing…you might hear “load” and picture the starting position before a stunt goes up. NFHS does not limit the term to that moment.

Your group can move through a loading position during a transition. That wording matters because other rules can refer to a load position during a stunt sequence. Coaches now have a more exact definition. Watch the support point and height during transitions. Do not identify the position only by where it appears in the sequence.

NFHS expanded the rules for flip inversions

Rules 2-3-5a and the new 2-3-5k change one type of braced flip inversion. NFHS now allows a flip inversion when the top person and bracer use a hand-to-foot connection. The rule also adds restrictions for that connection.

The connection can exist without an additional hand-to-arm connection. That doesnt mean coaches can use any flip inversion with a hand-to-foot connection. NFHS prohibits twisting when the hand-to-foot connection is the only connection. The other requirements for the skill still apply.

This rule gives coaches another construction option for some inversion sequences. It does not create an unrestricted new category of flipping skills. If you add this connection, check the entire inversion against Rule 2-3-5. Don’t stop your review after you confirm the hand-to-foot grip.

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A bracer can release during some descending flip inversions

NFHS also changed Rule 2-3-5d.

A bracer can now release the top person during certain parts of a flip inversion. The bracer can also move into a load position. (NFHS)

Timing matters here: The top person must be descending. The top must also move toward a cradle, horizontal position, or the performing surface. (NFHS)

in plain english :): The flyer can’t be released by the bracer while she is still rising, hovering, or transitioning into another elevated stunt. She must already be coming down, and her destination must be one of three things: a cradle, a horizontal catch/position, or the floor.

Don’t read this rule as permission for a bracer to release anywhere during the inversion. The rule applies to a specific part of the skill. The top person’s direction and destination both matter. Coaches who use braced inversions should review the moment when the connection changes. Video can help you see exactly when the bracer releases. Slow the video down. Check the top person’s body position at the instant the connection ends.

New catchers must be free when a transition starts

Rules 2-4-2c and 3-4-3c address vertical-to-horizontal releases that use new catchers. NFHS now states that new catchers cannot take part in another skill when the transition starts.

Picture a top person who releases from a vertical stunt and travels into different catchers. Those catchers must already be available when the transition begins. You cannot pull them from another active stunt after the release starts.

This can affect busy pyramid choreography. A routine might look possible because the new catchers reach the top person on time. Their activity when the transition begins can still create a problem. Review the whole stunt group during these transitions. Do not watch only the top person.

A top person cannot pass over another top person or bracer

NFHS added Rule 2-5-5g for 2026-27. The rule prohibits a top person from passing over another top person or bracer during a stunt. (NFHS) This wording gives coaches a direct restriction for overlapping stunt paths. You should check this rule when two stunt groups work close together. Pay special attention when one top travels across another group’s space. A sequence can look clean from the front while the athletes’ paths overlap from another angle. Record these sections from the side during practice. That view can make the travel path easier to see.

2026 high school cheerleading rule changes

Extended releases can now include up to one twist

Rule 2-5-6c contains one of the more interesting changes for advanced high school teams. NFHS now permits a non-braced vertical release from an extended position to include up to one twist. (NFHS)

The change applies to an extended-to-extended vertical release. NFHS already allowed a full twist from prep level to an extended position. The new rule permits similar twisting progression from extension. (NFHS)

The wording matters. NFHS did not open every extended release to twisting. The rule covers the specific release described in Rule 2-5-6c. Coaches should check the starting position, release type, body position, catch position, and number of twists. Do that before you teach the skill as part of competition choreography.

This change may give advanced teams another way to add difficulty or movement without changing the final stunt position. Still, legality comes before routine construction. Build the skill from the exact rule language.

Vertical-to-horizontal releases require two catchers

NFHS also clarified Rule 2-5-6e. A release from a vertical position to a horizontal position requires two catchers. That requirement also applies when one base starts the stunt. (NFHS) The single-base detail can catch coaches.

You might build a stunt around one strong base and assume the same athlete can complete the entire release. The new wording removes that interpretation. Once the top releases toward a horizontal position, the skill needs two catchers. Look closely at creative single-base sequences in your routine. Check any release that changes the top from vertical to horizontal.

Dismounts to new catchers can include a quarter twist

Rules 2-7-8d and 3-7-8d add another useful option. NFHS now allows a quarter twist during a dismount to new catchers. (NFHS)

NFHS gives a simple example:

A forward-facing top person can dismount toward new catchers who stand to the side. The top can use a quarter twist to face the catch correctly. (NFHS)

This change can make some transitions easier to choreograph. It can also solve awkward spacing when the next formation sits beside the original stunt group. The limit still matters. The rule permits a quarter twist in this situation. Do not turn that allowance into a larger twisting dismount without checking the rest of Rule 2-7.

The new rules give coaches more options, but details decide legality

The 2026-27 NFHS cheer rules do not rewrite high school cheer from scratch. Most changes deal with specific positions, connections, catchers, releases, and definitions. Those details can still change what you can put on the floor.

The extended twisting release may attract the most attention. The new tumbling definition could affect more teams. The catcher rules also deserve a careful review. They can affect choreography that coaches already built before the season started.

NFHS approved eight rule changes and two definition changes for the 2026-27 Spirit season. The organization published its detailed comments on August 25. (NFHS) They also published a free 2026-27 Spirit Rules poster in August. Might be useful as a quick reference during practice. (NFHS)

What coaches should review in their routines now

Start with every inversion, release, dismount, and vertical-to-horizontal transition in your routine. Check the actual athlete connections. Then check where each catcher stands and what each catcher does when the skill begins.

Review your floor choreography under the new tumbling definition. A movement your team calls tumbling may not meet the NFHS definition. The reverse assumption can also cause trouble.

Check extended releases for twisting. If your team uses an extended-to-extended release, confirm that the skill fits Rule 2-5-6c before you keep it.

Review any stunt that sends one top person across another stunt group. Rule 2-5-5g now directly prohibits a top person from passing over another top person or bracer.

Finally, check your dismounts to new catchers. A quarter twist now has a legal use in that situation. That does not make larger twisting dismounts legal under the same rule.

Don’t wait for competition day to find a rules problem

A routine can feel familiar and still contain a rule issue after a definition changes. Run a rules review before your team locks its competition routine. Review the skills again after major choreography changes.

Keep the current NFHS Spirit Rules Book available during that process. NFHS comments can explain the changes, but the complete rulebook contains the full requirements around each skill.

When a sequence sits near the edge of a rule, get an official ruling before competition. Changing four counts in practice is much easier than changing a stunt during warmups.

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The Cheerleading Worlds 2027 scoring changes: What coaches need to know

Posted on August 18, 2026August 18, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

18
Aug

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 18, 2026

USASF has changed the scoring system for The Cheerleading Worlds 2027. Club divisions will move from a 170-point score sheet to 100 points.

At first glance, that sounds like a major scoring overhaul. The numbers look very different, but most of the scoring priorities remain almost the same.

USASF kept the same scoring categories and changed most category weights by less than one percentage point. One change deserves more attention: jump difficulty will now use a capped scoring system.

For coaches, that distinction matters. You probably don’t need to full-on rebuild your whole routine just because the score sheet now totals 100 points.

Buuuut…you do need to understand where the percentages moved and how the new jump cap affects the decisions you make about your routine.

What changed on the 2027 Worlds score sheet?

The previous USASF Worlds score sheet had 170 available points. The new sheet has 100, which makes the scoring system easier to read and compare.

USASF kept all 10 categories from the previous Worlds scoring system. Difficulty, execution, participation, synchronization, variety, pace, composition and performance still affect your score.

USASF Executive Director Dana Fielding described the update as primarily a scale conversion rather than a change in scoring philosophy.

That is probably the best way for coaches to view it.

A stunt section that scored well under the old system should still score well under the new one. The same applies to tumbling, pyramids and performance.

The percentages tell the real story.

How the category weights changed

Stunts accounted for 23.53% of the previous USASF score. They now account for 24%.

Pyramids made the same move, from 23.53% to 24%. Standing and running tumbling each move from 11.76% to 12%.

Here is the full comparison:

Category	2026 weight	2027 weight
Stunts	23.53%	24%
Pyramids	23.53%	24%
Tosses	5.88%	6%
Standing tumbling	11.76%	12%
Running tumbling	11.76%	12%
Jumps	5.88%	6%
Dance	5.88%	6%
Routine composition and creativity	5.88%	4%
Formations and transitions	2.94%	3%
Performance and showmanship	2.94%	3%

Building now accounts for 54% of the USASF score. Under the old sheet, building accounted for 52.94%. Tumbling moves from 29.41% to 30%. The remaining categories drop from 17.65% to 16%.

Those differences are real, but small. Building gains 1.06 percentage points, while tumbling gains only 0.59 percentage points. Routine composition and creativity has the largest percentage change. It drops from 5.88% of the total score to 4%.

That doesn’t mean you should stop caring about creative routines. It means composition carries slightly less scoring weight than it did last season.

The jump change matters more than the new total

The new jump system deserves more attention than the move from 170 points to 100. USASF will now use a capped system for jump difficulty. Teams can reach the maximum difficulty score by meeting the required standard. Once your team reaches that standard, adding more jump difficulty cannot increase the difficulty score further.

That changes the risk calculation.

Suppose your athletes can perform the required jump sequence with good timing and technique. Adding another difficult element may give you no extra difficulty credit.

If the added element hurts synchronization or landing control, the extra difficulty could work against you. The 2027 jump category still has six available points. Three points come from difficulty, while three points come from execution. Reaching the difficulty cap does not finish the job.

Your athletes still need good height, body position, timing and landings. A team that reaches the cap with poor execution can still lose points.

This should encourage coaches to stop adding difficulty once the section already earns full difficulty credit. At that point, clean execution becomes the better use of practice time.

USASF may release more scoring education during the season. Coaches should check the current USASF scoring documents before making final choreography decisions.

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Building still controls more than half of the score

Stunts carry 24 points under the new USASF score sheet. Pyramids carry another 24, while tosses account for six points. That gives building 54 of the available 100 points.

The scoring system still gives coaches a strong reason to prioritize reliable building sections. A difficult stunt that rarely hits remains a poor routine choice. Difficulty matters, but judges also score technique and execution. Your hardest stunt does not help much if athletes fight through it every time.

The same principle applies to pyramids. Your athletes need enough time to complete the structure, show the skill and move into the next section. Rushed building creates problems beyond the stunt itself. Late grips and slow dismounts can also affect transitions, timing and the next skill. The new score sheet does not reward difficulty at any cost.

Tumbling gained weight, but only slightly

You may hear that USASF increased the value of tumbling for Worlds 2027. That statement is technically correct, but it needs context.

Standing tumbling now carries 12% of the score. Running tumbling also carries 12%, while jumps account for another 6%.

The combined tumbling group now accounts for 30% of the score. Last season, the same group accounted for 29.41%.

That is an increase of only 0.59 percentage points.

A coach should not add a risky pass because tumbling “went up.” The scoring change is too small to justify skills athletes cannot perform consistently.

If two routine options already make sense, the new weighting can help you choose between them. It should not dictate your entire tumbling plan.

Participation still matters. Clean technique still matters. A controlled pass from more athletes can beat harder tumbling with poor execution.

Routine composition lost some weight

Routine composition and creativity had 10 available points on the old 170-point sheet. The category now has four points on the 100-point sheet. That changes its weight from 5.88% to 4%.

For some coaches, this may give permission to simplify sections that cause repeated problems. A clever transition has little value if athletes arrive late to the next stunt.

You should still create a routine that looks intentional and complete. Judges continue to score composition, formations, transitions, dance and performance. Those categories still account for meaningful points when you combine them. The change simply gives coaches more room to ask a useful question: does this creative choice help the routine enough to justify its cost?

Sometimes the answer will be yes. Sometimes removing one complicated transition will make the entire routine cleaner.

This could change how you clean a routine

The new scoring system may affect practice priorities more than choreography.

Start with jumps. Confirm that your planned sequence can reach the difficulty cap, then put more time into execution. After that, review your building sections. Stunts, pyramids and tosses account for more than half of the USASF score.

Ask how often each major skill hits during normal practice. Do not judge reliability from your best full-out of the week. A skill that hits eight times out of ten gives you a very different competition plan from one that hits three times. Then look at tumbling participation and technique. The small scoring increase makes clean team tumbling slightly more valuable, but reliability still comes first.

Finally, review transitions and composition. Simplify anything that creates more problems than scoring value. This is especially useful later in the season. Coaches often keep choreography because they spent time teaching it, even when the section never becomes dependable.

The score sheet gives you a reason to be more selective.

Do not confuse difficulty with maximum score potential

One mistake coaches can make is treating every scoring change as a request for more difficulty. The 2027 sheet does not say that.

Your score still depends on how well athletes perform the skills in the routine. Difficulty only works when the team can execute it at the required level.

That becomes especially clear with the new jump cap. Once your team reaches maximum difficulty credit, adding more difficulty offers no scoring benefit there. The same basic logic should guide the rest of your routine.

Ask whether a harder skill increases your realistic score. Do not ask whether it makes the routine look harder on paper. Those are different questions.

USASF and IASF both changed their totals

The scoring update also affects IASF divisions at The Cheerleading Worlds 2027. IASF tumbling divisions will move from 150 points to 100 points. IASF non-tumbling divisions will move from 135 points to 92. The similar totals may make the USASF and IASF systems look almost identical. Their scoring weights remain different.

USASF gives 54% of its Level 6 score to building. IASF tumbling divisions give considerably more weight to building. IASF stunts and pyramids each account for 30% of the 100-point tumbling score sheet.

That difference matters for programs that compete under both systems. A routine plan built for USASF scoring does not automatically transfer to an IASF division. Coaches should compare the category weights, not only the final point total.

So what should you do now?

First, download the current Worlds scoring documents from USASF. Make sure your staff uses the same version when you discuss routine changes.

Next, check your jump plan against the new difficulty cap. You need to know when your team has already reached maximum difficulty credit. Then review your building difficulty and hit rate. Building still carries 54% of the USASF score, so consistency deserves serious attention. Do the same with tumbling. Do not add difficulty simply because the combined tumbling percentage increased.

Review composition last. The category lost weight, which may make some risky transitions easier to remove. You should also get outside scoring feedback before your most important event.

USASF lists sanctioned 2026-2027 competitions that will use The Cheerleading Worlds scoring system. An early score sheet can expose problems you miss in your own gym. Video review helps, but an outside judge sees the routine differently. That feedback can tell you whether your intended difficulty and execution actually read from the judges’ table.

The biggest mistake would be overreacting

The move from 170 points to 100 points creates a large visual change. The actual USASF scoring priorities changed much less. Building gained a little weight. Tumbling gained a little. Routine composition lost some weight, and jump difficulty now has a defined ceiling.

For most Worlds teams, that should lead to adjustments rather than a full routine rebuild. Make sure your jumps reach the cap. Put your best building skills on the floor, and remove difficulty your athletes cannot perform reliably. Then clean the routine until the score sheet has fewer places to take points away.

The total at the bottom changed. The basic job did not.

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Cheer camp is over: Your 30-day camp-to-season plan

Posted on August 4, 2026August 4, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

Cheer camp is over 30 day camp to season plan

04
Aug

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 4, 2026

Cheer camp can make a team feel like it improved an entire season in four days.

Athletes learn new stunts. Captains come home motivated. Coaches have videos, notes, cheers, dances, warmups and corrections they swear they will remember. Everyone is tired, sore and excited about what the team could become.

Then regular practice starts.

Two weeks later, half the new material has disappeared. The stunt that hit at camp will not hit in your gym. Athletes remember different versions of the same motion sequence. Coaches move on to the next deadline before deciding which camp lessons belong in the season plan.

That is why every program needs a cheer camp follow-up plan.

Many teams are returning from camp right now. Recent NCA cheer camps included sessions at Shippensburg University from July 27 through August 3, the Gaylord Texan from July 30 through August 2 and the Renaissance Esmeralda from August 3 through August 6. UCA also held a University of Texas camp from July 23 through July 26.

The timing matters. What coaches do during the first month after camp will decide whether those four days become part of the team’s season or simply become a collection of videos on everyone’s phone.

Soooo…here’s a practical 30-day plan for turning camp progress into cleaner practices, safer skills and material your athletes can still perform when the season picks up

Why cheer camp material disappears so quickly

Camp is a controlled environment.

Your team has long practice blocks, instructors standing nearby and very few outside responsibilities. Athletes are surrounded by other teams working hard. They get immediate corrections and more repetitions than they normally would during a school-week practice.

That environment helps athletes learn quickly. It can also give coaches a misleading picture of what the team owns.

A stunt that hits twice with an instructor nearby is not automatically ready for a football game. A dance athletes performed after learning it that morning may look completely different a week later. A team can leave camp understanding a correction without having repeated it enough to make it a habit.

NCA overnight camps include both game day and performance training, while other camp formats may concentrate on leadership, skills, non-building material or custom instruction. Home camps can also be adjusted to spend more time on areas such as stunts, pyramids or baskets.

Your follow-up plan should match what your team actually worked on. A squad that spent four days learning game day material needs a different first month than a team that used camp to rebuild stunt technique.

The problem starts when coaches try to keep everything.

You do not need every cheer, dance, transition and stunt variation taught at camp. You need the material that fits your athletes, your schedule and the jobs your team must perform this season.

Before the first practice back, meet with your staff

Do not wait until athletes walk into the gym to decide what happens next. Set aside 45 minutes for the coaching staff. Include assistants, choreographers and any captains who need to understand the plan.

Bring your camp notes, score sheets, instructor feedback and videos. Put everything in one shared folder before the meeting. If four coaches each have different clips on their phones, nobody has a complete record of what happened.

During the meeting, answer these questions:

What improved most during camp?
Which corrections did athletes hear repeatedly?
Which skills only worked with instructor assistance?
Which material fits our actual season?
What caused the team the most trouble?
Did anyone leave camp injured, unusually sore or mentally discouraged?
What do we want to look different 30 days from now?

Be specific. “The stunts got better” isn’t super helpful…“Our main bases stopped stepping forward during full-ups after the instructor changed their starting position” gives you something you can coach.

“Game day improved” is too broad….“The team’s volume dropped whenever they added signs and poms” tells you what to test at home.

End the meeting with no more than 4 priorities for the month. Your team may have learned 20 things at camp. They can’t treat all 20 as equally urgent.

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Sort every piece of camp material

Create one list of everything the team brought home. Include:

Cheers and chants
Band dances and timeout material
Fight song changes
Stunts and stunt variations
Pyramid ideas
Basket drills
Tumbling corrections
Jump drills
Warmups and conditioning
Leadership exercises
Team traditions
Practice-management ideas

Give each item one of four labels:

Ready now

The team remembers it, can perform it safely and has an immediate use for it.

This might include a sideline cheer, a motion correction or a conditioning drill you want to use every week.

Needs work

The material fits your team, but the athletes do not own it yet.

Most new stunts and dances will probably land here. That is fine. “Needs work” means the material earns practice time. It does not mean you should put it into a performance immediately.

Save for later

The idea may help during basketball season, competition season or a future phase of training, but it does not deserve time right now.

Save the video and notes. Add a date for reviewing it again. Without a review date, “later” usually means “never.”

Cut it

Some camp material will not fit your team.

Maybe the cheer is too long. Maybe the stunt requires a top athlete you do not have. Maybe another team in your conference already uses the same dance. Maybe you simply dislike it.

Cutting material is part of coaching. Camp gave you options. It did not give you an obligation to use every option.

Days 1 through 3: Recover, review and take inventory

Your first practice after camp should not be a test of toughness.

Athletes may be dealing with sore wrists, ankles, backs or shoulders. Some will have bruises they ignored during camp because they wanted to keep participating. Others may be mentally drained after several long days of learning and performing.

Start practice with a physical check-in. Ask athletes to report pain, not just general soreness. Make it clear that honesty will not cost them a position.

The USA Cheer Cheerleading Safety Manual covers performer readiness, medical responsibilities, spotting and skill progression. Those standards still apply when a team returns home excited about new skills. A camp success does not replace your normal readiness and progression requirements.

Use the first practice to see what athletes remember without turning it into a pass-or-fail evaluation.

Ask the team to perform camp material in small sections. Record each attempt. Do not provide several minutes of reminders before the first run. You need to see what remained after the athletes left the camp environment.

You will probably find three kinds of memory:

Material the athletes remember accurately
Material they remember with small differences
Material they barely remember at all

Do not spend an hour rebuilding a routine nobody retained. Save the video, decide whether the material is worth relearning and keep practice moving.

A sample first practice back

Try this structure for a two-hour practice:

First 15 minutes: Athlete check-in, light movement and mobility

Next 20 minutes: Review cheers, dances and motions without extensive coaching

Next 25 minutes: Revisit stunt grips, body positions and timing on the ground or at a reduced level

Next 10 minutes: Water break and staff discussion

Next 30 minutes: Test the two or three camp skills most likely to become part of the season

Next 15 minutes: Review the correction that helped the team most at camp

Final 5 minutes: Explain the 30-day plan and tell athletes what they should review before the next practice

The goal is to collect information. You are not trying to recreate the final night of camp.

Days 4 through 7: Test camp skills in your own environment

Camp conditions are different from home.

The floor may feel different. Ceiling height may change what athletes are comfortable throwing. Your normal practice could be shorter. An instructor who helped identify a timing problem is no longer standing beside the group.

This week, find out which improvements survive those changes.

Start new stunts below their highest camp level. Check grips, feet, timing and athlete confidence before adding difficulty. If the group learned a full-up to extension, begin with the entry at prep level. If they learned a new pyramid connection, test each piece separately.

You are looking for repeatability.

A stunt that hits once and falls four times is not ready. A stunt that requires a different save on every attempt is not ready. A skill that only works when the strongest coach spots one side is not ready.

That does not mean the stunt was a bad choice. It means you have found its current place in the progression.

Track the following for each stunt group:

Number of attempts
Number of clean hits
Where the skill breaks down
Whether the same mistake repeats
How much coaching or spotting is required
Whether athletes can explain the correction themselves

The last point matters. Athletes who understand why a correction works are more likely to reproduce it when the coach moves to another group.

Keep the language athletes heard at camp

Ask athletes what words the instructor used when the skill improved.

Maybe the instructor said “wait for the dip,” “hips under,” “finish through the top” or something else that clicked with the group. Write that language down and use it consistently.

Coaches sometimes replace a successful correction with their own preferred wording. That can create unnecessary confusion. If the camp cue worked and it is technically sound, keep it.

Week 2: Decide what stays in the season plan

By the second week, the excitement has settled enough for you to make better decisions.

Review your videos from camp and your first week at home. Move each item into one of these categories:

Use immediately
Continue developing
Revisit on a specific date
Remove from the plan

Be honest about your practice time.

If you have two 90-minute practices each week, you cannot maintain the same amount of material as a team practicing four days a week. Keeping too much creates rushed practices and half-clean performances.

Choose material based on where your team will use it.

For sideline and game day material

Ask:

Can athletes perform it while watching the game?
Is the wording easy for the crowd to follow?
Does it work with your signs, poms or megaphones?
Can the team maintain volume while moving?
Is it different enough from your existing material to earn a place?
Does it fit the moments your team regularly encounters?

A cheer can look great in a quiet camp setting and fall apart beside a loud student section. Practice it with noise. Have someone call out game situations. Make athletes find their spacing quickly instead of walking into perfect lines.

For competition material

Ask:

Does the skill fit your division and routine needs?
Can the team perform it when tired?
Does it connect cleanly to the skills before and after it?
Will the skill score well enough to justify its risk and practice time?
Do you have backup athletes who understand the positions?
Can the group hit it without constant coach intervention?

Do not place a camp stunt into choreography simply because athletes love it.

Athletes usually love the newest and hardest option. Your job is to decide whether it makes the routine better.

For practice drills

Keep drills that solve a problem you see regularly.

A drill may have helped one stunt group at camp but be unnecessary for the rest of the team. Another drill may be useful enough to become part of every warmup.

Assign each drill a purpose. Athletes should know whether it is improving timing, strength, body position, technique or confidence. Randomly repeating camp drills will make practice feel busy without making it productive.

Week 2 is also the time to reset expectations

Camp can temporarily change team dynamics.

An athlete may have won an individual award and returned with more confidence. Another athlete may have struggled in front of instructors and returned questioning her role. Captains may expect the team to maintain camp-level intensity at every practice.

Talk about it.

Explain what camp results mean and what they do not mean.

An award recognizes what an athlete showed during camp. It does not settle every lineup decision for the season. Struggling with one skill does not erase an athlete’s value. A great final-day performance does not mean the team can stop drilling fundamentals.

Give athletes clear jobs for the next two weeks.

One athlete may need to review material before practice. Another may need to improve her conditioning. A stunt group may need ten focused repetitions of the same entry at every practice.

Athletes handle corrections better when they know what success looks like.

Week 3: Connect camp lessons to regular practice

By the third week, camp should stop feeling like a separate event.

The useful parts should now appear in your normal practice structure.

If the team learned a better jump warmup, put it into the warmup. If athletes improved their motion placement, hold that standard during every cheer. If a stunt correction worked, use it across groups instead of treating it as a one-time camp note.

This is where coaches often lose progress. They review camp material for two weeks, then return to the same practice habits they used before camp.

Choose one camp lesson for each part of practice:

Warmup
Motions and jumps
Stunts
Tumbling
Game day material
Conditioning
Team communication

You do not need a new lesson in every category. Use only what made a measurable difference.

Give athletes ownership without handing over practice

Captains and experienced athletes can help maintain camp material, but their role needs boundaries.

Assign one athlete to call a cheer review. Ask another to check whether a stunt group is using the agreed starting position. Have captains maintain the shared video folder.

Do not ask athletes to correct advanced technique they are not qualified to coach. Athlete leadership works best when the assignment is specific.

“Help everyone remember camp” is vague.

“Run the first five minutes of the sideline review using the videos in our folder” is clear.

Week 3 pressure test

Once material looks comfortable, change the conditions.

You are checking whether the team can perform the material while handling the distractions that come with the season.

Clean skills should survive small changes.

For game day material:

Add crowd noise
Use poms and signs
Put athletes in their actual sideline spacing
Call cheers from unexpected situations
Require athletes to react without a long setup
Run material after jumps or conditioning

For stunt material:

Run the skill after a normal practice block
Change which side of the floor the group uses
Add the transition before the stunt
Require the group to reset within a time limit
Test backup athletes at safe progression levels
Record from the front and side

Week 4: Record a new baseline

At the end of 30 days, film the same material you recorded during your first practice back. Use the same angle whenever possible. Do not choose only the best attempt. Record enough repetitions to show the team’s normal level.

Compare the videos with your staff & look for specific changes:

Are motions arriving together?
Has stunt timing become more consistent?
Are athletes using the corrections without reminders?
Can the team perform while tired?
Is game day material loud and easy to follow?
Did any pain or fear appear as repetitions increased?
Has the material earned a permanent place in practice?

Share selected comparisons with athletes. Showing the team that its work produced visible improvement can be more effective than another speech about effort.

You should also identify what did not improve. Maybe the stunt is still inconsistent. Maybe the dance takes too much practice time. Maybe the cheer is difficult for the crowd to understand. Removing something after 30 days is not failure. It is a coaching decision based on evidence.

What to do when a camp stunt stops working

This happens every year: The stunt hit at camp. The group felt confident. Everyone came home expecting to use it. Now it will not stay in the air.

Start by comparing the camp video with your current attempts.

Check:

Starting positions
Grip placement
Dip speed
Footwork
Flyer timing
Base spacing
Where athletes are looking
Whether the group pauses between counts
Which person begins correcting the stunt after a miss

Do not let the group redesign the skill after every attempt. Pick one correction, reduce the difficulty and repeat the corrected version. If the group cannot perform the lower progression consistently, stay there. Athletes may see that as moving backward. It is usually the fastest way forward.

Also consider whether the camp environment hid a personnel problem. An instructor may have provided a spot that changed the group’s confidence or timing. Another athlete may have filled a position for part of the session. The group may have attempted the stunt while fresher than it is during regular practice.

None of that makes the camp success fake. It tells you what support the group still needs.

What to do with all those camp videos

Create one shared folder for the team. Do not rely on social media posts or group-message history. Those are difficult to search, and important clips will disappear beneath hundreds of unrelated messages.

Organize the folder by subject:

Cheers
Dances
Stunts
Pyramids
Tumbling
Jumps
Instructor corrections
Team performances
Leadership notes

Name files clearly. “IMG_4837” tells you nothing. “Varsity full-up correction, left group, day two” is much easier to find in October.

Keep a second folder for coaches only. Use it for lineup discussions, injury information, athlete evaluations and anything else that should not be shared with the full team. Choose a few team videos for at-home review. Do not send athletes 40 clips and expect them to know which ones matter.

A simple camp follow-up assignment for athletes

Give each athlete a short reflection during the first week back.

Ask them to answer:

What correction helped you most?
What skill do you understand better now?
What material do you need to review?
Where did you struggle?
What is one job you can take responsibility for this month?
Is there any pain, fear or confusion the coaching staff should know about?

This gives quieter athletes a chance to communicate without speaking in front of the team. Read the answers. If athletes take the time to be honest and nothing changes, they will stop giving you useful information.

The biggest mistakes coaches make after cheer camp

Trying to keep every piece of material

Camp gives you a menu. Choose what your team needs.

Throwing new skills into performances too soon

A stunt that worked at camp still needs to pass your normal safety and consistency standards.

Forgetting the exact corrections that worked

Write down the instructor’s language while it is fresh.

Running a punishing first practice back

Tired and sore athletes do not need to prove their commitment by taking unnecessary repetitions.

Treating camp awards as permanent rankings

Use awards as recognition, not as the entire basis for lineup decisions.

Returning to the old practice routine

If camp taught your team a better way to warm up, communicate or correct skills, put it into the weekly plan.

Waiting too long to review material

The longer you wait, the more time you will spend reteaching.

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Your 30-day cheer camp follow-up checklist

Before practice resumes

Collect coach and athlete videos
Save instructor feedback
Hold a staff debrief
Identify injured or unusually sore athletes
Choose the month’s top priorities
Sort material into ready, needs work, later or cut

During the first week

Test what athletes remember
Rebuild stunts through safe progressions
Keep the camp cues that worked
Record the first attempts
Choose which material deserves practice time
Explain the follow-up plan to athletes

During the second week

Make final keep-or-cut decisions
Assign athlete review responsibilities
Connect material to actual game or competition needs
Set measurable standards for each skill
Speak privately with athletes whose confidence changed at camp

During the third week

Add useful camp lessons to regular practice
Test material under realistic conditions
Practice transitions and equipment
Check whether athletes can self-correct
Introduce backup personnel where appropriate

At the end of 30 days

Record a new baseline
Compare it with the first week
Review pain, fear and readiness
Remove material that has not earned its place
Set the next month’s priorities
Tell athletes what improved and what comes next

Cheer camp should change something

Camp does not need to transform your entire program.

It should change something specific.

Maybe your stunt groups now understand timing. Maybe your sideline material is cleaner. Maybe captains communicate better. Maybe your staff finally found language that helps athletes understand a correction.

The coach’s job is to notice what worked, build it into practice and let go of the rest.

Thirty days from now, your team probably will not remember every cheer it learned at camp. That is normal. The goal is for your athletes to retain the lessons that make them safer, cleaner and easier to coach throughout the season.

That is how cheer camp becomes more than four exhausting days in the summer. ☺️

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Frequently asked questions about cheer camp follow-up

How soon should a team practice after cheer camp?

The answer depends on travel, athlete soreness and your normal schedule. Avoid returning immediately to full-intensity repetitions when athletes are unusually tired or experiencing pain. Your first practice should include a physical check-in and a controlled review of what the team learned.

Should we use every cheer and dance learned at camp?

No. Keep material that fits your team’s game day responsibilities, identity and available practice time. Save other material for later or remove it from the plan.

When is a stunt learned at camp ready to perform?

A stunt is ready when athletes can perform it safely and repeatedly under normal practice conditions without unusual assistance. Coaches should also test the entry, exit, transitions and athlete readiness before using it in public.

How can athletes remember cheer camp material?

Record clear videos, organize them in a shared folder and assign small review sections before practice. Review the material within the first few days instead of waiting several weeks.

What should coaches discuss after cheer camp?

Coaches should review athlete health, repeated corrections, skill readiness, material retention, season needs and which camp lessons should become part of regular practice.

Coaching, Featured, Info, STUNT, Tips, Tryouts

How to get recruited for college cheer or STUNT in 2026-27

Posted on July 28, 2026July 28, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

How to get recruited college cheer STUNT 2026 2027

28
Jul

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 28, 2026

USA Cheer updated its 2026 College Cheer and STUNT Recruiting Combine page on July 14. Athlete registration runs $99, with an early bird discount that takes off another $10. College coaches attend free, which is why so many of them show up.

The recruiting picture also changed this year. In January 2026, all three NCAA divisions voted to make STUNT a championship sport, the 94th one the NCAA sponsors. The first NCAA STUNT championship happens in spring 2027.

So if you’re a current junior, you’re being recruited into a sport that will crown an NCAA champion during your freshman year. That’s new. Here’s how to handle the next twelve months.

What a college cheer and STUNT combine is

A combine is a recruiting event, not a tryout. You register as an individual, you demonstrate skills in front of coaches from dozens of programs at once, and then you talk to those coaches face to face.

USA Cheer publishes a sample schedule for the day. Registration comes first, then a welcome session where each college program introduces itself. After a warm-up, you demonstrate two jumps and standing tumbling.

A second warm-up leads into running tumbling. Partner stunts follow, split between all girl and coed. Then a college coaches panel takes questions from the floor.

The day ends with table time. You walk the room and talk one on one with coaches at their tables. That last stretch does more for your recruiting than anything you throw on the mat.

USA Cheer recruiting combine 2026 2027 schedule

You don’t have to bring a stunt group. USA Cheer encourages it, and your own group gives you the best chance of hitting clean. If you come alone, you’ll stunt with other attendees, and some colleges bring current team members who pull participants into groups. Wear your hair in a ponytail. Athletic shorts, a tank or t-shirt, cheer shoes and socks. Nothing you have to adjust mid-tumbling pass.

Who should go

USA Cheer aims these events at high school juniors, high school seniors and junior college athletes. There’s a separate freshman and sophomore rate too, so underclassmen can attend. The early bird discount doesn’t apply to that rate.

Go if you’re weighing cheer against STUNT. Go if you genuinely don’t know what level is realistic for you. Three hours of watching coaches react to your skills answers that question better than a year of guessing from Instagram.

One administrative note. Junior college participants who are 18 or older need a current USA Cheer membership before they can register. Sort that out first, because the event won’t show up in the app otherwise.

The 2026 combine dates

The Nashville combine already ran on July 9, alongside the USA Cheer and USASF National Conference. Here’s what’s left.

August:

Aug 22, River Forest, IL, Concordia University Chicago
Aug 29, Bethany, OK, Southern Nazarene University
Aug 30, Dallas, TX, Dallas Baptist University

September:

Sep 12, Costa Mesa, CA, Vanguard University (two sessions)
Sep 13, Sacramento, CA, Sacramento State University
Sep 26, Newark, DE, University of Delaware
Sep 27, Raleigh, NC, NC State University (two sessions)

October:

Oct 3, Fresno, CA, Fresno Pacific University (two sessions)
Oct 4, Spokane, WA, Whitworth University
Oct 24, Ogden, UT, Weber State University

USA Cheer adds participating colleges to each location as programs register, and the list looks very different in August than it did in May. Check the page again before you book travel. Some programs attend virtually, marked with a “(v)” next to the school name, so a school on the list isn’t necessarily in the room.

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What coaches evaluate

Tumbling gets watched twice, standing and running. Coaches care about what you land clean under pressure, not the one skill you hit in April. A clean back handspring tuck reads better than a shaky full.

Stunting comes down to position and flexibility. A base who can also back spot is easier to roster than a base who can only base. Flyers who can base are rare and coaches notice them immediately.

Jumps and motions tell coaches how you were trained. Sloppy motions are visible from the top row of a basketball arena, and a coach watching you at a combine is doing that math already.

Game day presence matters for traditional cheer programs, since those teams work football and basketball all season. Coaches are watching whether you look like you want to be there during the parts that aren’t skills.

Coachability shows up in the panel and at the tables. Take a correction without making a face. Answer a question with more than three words.

Fitness and injury history come up in conversation, so be ready to talk about both honestly. Academics come up too, and this is where athletes lose spots. A coach can’t recruit you if admissions won’t take you.

Cheer recruiting and STUNT recruiting work differently

Traditional college cheer isn’t an NCAA sport. Some programs sit under athletics, some under student affairs, and each school sets its own rules for aid, roster size and tryouts. There’s no NCAA recruiting calendar telling coaches when they can contact you.

That’s why so much traditional cheer recruiting still ends at a spring campus tryout. The combine gets you invited. It doesn’t get you rostered.

STUNT works like other varsity sports. A match runs four quarters: partner stunts, pyramids and tosses, group jumps and tumbling, then a team performance. Both teams run the same routine at the same time and officials score execution and synchronization. Whoever performs it better takes the point.

STUNT rosters have defined positions, including main bases, secondary bases, flyers, back spots and tumblers. A tumbling specialist can hold a spot without ever stunting. If your tumbling runs well ahead of your stunt work, that’s worth knowing.

The growth numbers explain why coaches are recruiting hard right now. STUNT cleared the 40-program threshold in its first year as an emerging sport across all three divisions, faster than any of the sports that came through that program before it.

If you’re open to both, say so out loud at every table. Plenty of schools at these combines run a cheer program and a STUNT program, sometimes under different coaches.

What to prepare before you go

Film a skills video first. Sixty to ninety seconds is plenty. Standing tumbling, running tumbling, jumps and stunting, shot from an angle where a coach can actually see your body line. Post it unlisted on YouTube and keep the link somewhere you can paste it in five seconds.

Write your academic information on a card and put it in your bag. Unweighted GPA, test scores if you have them, intended major. You will absolutely blank on your GPA at the third table.

Build a target list of eight to twelve schools before the event. For each one, check whether the school has traditional cheer, STUNT or both, whether the team competes, and roughly what the admissions profile looks like. Sort the list by how likely you are to make that roster.

Then take an honest inventory of your own skills. Write down what you hit nine times out of ten, not what you hit once at a competition in March. Bring contact information you can hand someone, and clean up your public social profiles before you go. Coaches look. So do compliance offices.

Mistakes that cost athletes roster spots

Inflating your skills is the fastest way to lose a coach. Tell someone you have a full and you’ll get asked to throw one that afternoon. Coaches talk to each other and they remember.

Generic outreach is the second. An email that opens with “Dear Coach, I am interested in your program” gets deleted before the second line. Name the school, name the coach, say what specifically drew you to that program.

Ignoring admissions requirements wastes months. If a school’s average admitted student sits well above your transcript, no coach can fix that for you.

Chasing only the programs you see on TV in January is a strategy that fails almost everyone. There are hundreds of college cheer and STUNT programs, and the ones with open spots aren’t usually the famous ones.

Failing to check what a school actually offers is a common one. A school might have STUNT and no traditional cheer, or both under separate staffs with separate tryouts.

Treating the combine as an audition is the last one. Nobody hands out roster spots on the mat that day. You’re opening conversations that play out over the next six to nine months.

Questions to ask coaches

Ask these at every table and write the answers down. The differences between programs will surprise you.

Is there scholarship or aid money for this team, and how do you award it?
What does a normal practice week look like during the season?
How much travel is there, and who pays for it?
What do athletes pay out of pocket for uniforms, shoes, camp and warmups?
How many spots are you filling this year, and how many returners do you have?
Who covers injuries, and is there an athletic trainer at practice?
Does the team compete, and at what event?

That last question catches people off guard more than it should. Some programs go to nationals every January. Some do game day only.

What to do in the 48 hours after

Email every coach you spoke with within two days. Reference something specific from your conversation so they can place you. Attach your video link and your academic information in the same message.

Then keep those coaches updated on a schedule. New skill, better grades, a competition result. A short email every six to eight weeks does more than one long one in March.

Start this week

Pick the closest combine date from the list above and register in the USA Cheer app. Then film your skills video this weekend, while you still have gym time and a spotter.

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Choreography, Coaching, Featured, Info, Practice Tips, Tips

The summer skills audit: stop choreographing the cheer team you wish you had

Posted on June 29, 2026June 29, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

cheerleading skills audit before choreography

29
Jun

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 29, 2026

Every coach has done it.

You look at the team in June or July and imagine what they could become by competition season. The stunt group is close. The tumbling is almost there. The flyer has the body position if she stays tight. The bases can hit it when everyone is fresh. The jumps are not sharp yet, but they will be.

So the routine gets built around the future version of the team…a version that may never show up.

This is where a summer skills audit helps. It forces coaches to separate what athletes can actually hit from what they might hit later. That difference matters before choreography starts, before music gets ordered, and before athletes spend weeks learning a routine that does not fit them.

The goal is not to lower expectations. The goal is to build a routine with clean, realistic skills and smart upgrade paths. Coaches can still push the team. They just need to know which skills belong in the routine now, which skills need more time, and which skills should stay out until the team proves they can handle them.

What is a summer skills audit?

A summer skills audit is a routine-readiness check; not a tryout. It’s not a punishment or a way to embarrass athletes who are behind. It is a coaching tool.

The audit asks one question over and over: Can this team perform this skill safely, cleanly, and consistently enough for choreography?

A skill that hits once in practice is not ready. A stunt that works only with one perfect group is not ready. A tumbling pass that lands when the athlete feels good but disappears under pressure is not ready. A pyramid section that needs five coach saves before it works is not ready. Summer is when coaches should find that out. Too many routines get choreographed around hope. Hope is fine in a team meeting. It’s not a routine strategy.

Why coaches overestimate summer skills

Coaches usually do not overestimate their teams because they are careless. They do it because cheer makes almost-finished skills look tempting.

A stunt that hits three times in a row can feel routine-ready. Then the group loses it when they add counts, music, formations, fatigue, and pressure. A tumbler who lands a pass on a dead mat can look ready. Then the pass changes when the athlete has to wait through a transition, run from a new corner, and perform after jumps.

A flyer may hit a body position during drills. Then the same body position falls apart inside a full sequence with choreography before and after it. That’s normal…practice skills and routine skills are not the same thing. A summer skills audit closes that gap. It asks athletes to prove the skill in conditions that look more like the routine.

The 8-out-of-10 rule

A clean routine needs skills that repeat. For most teams, a useful standard is simple: if a skill does not hit cleanly at least 8 out of 10 times in practice, it should not be locked into choreography yet. That doesn’t mean the team stops training it. It means the coach treats it as an upgrade, not a foundation.

Use 3 categories:

Green skills are ready. They hit most of the time. Athletes understand the timing. Coaches do not have to stop practice every time the skill appears. The skill can handle counts, music, and pressure.

Yellow skills are close. They hit sometimes, but they still need help. Timing changes. Technique slips. Groups need extra resets. These skills may work in a routine if the coach builds a backup plan.

Red skills are not ready. They miss too often, need heavy spotting, create safety concerns, or only work when conditions are perfect. Red skills belong in training, not choreography.

The categories should stay flexible. A yellow skill can become green. A green skill can become yellow when the team adds movement or music. The audit is not a one-day verdict. It is a way to keep the routine honest.

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Audit stunts first

Stunts deserve the first audit because they take the most time to fix after choreography. A shaky stunt section does not stay isolated. It affects formations, transitions, pyramid timing, music pacing, athlete confidence, and the rest of practice. If a coach builds the routine around stunt skills that are not ready, the team spends the whole season chasing the routine instead of cleaning it.

Start with each stunt group by itself. Ask the group to perform the skill ten times. Track clean hits, shaky hits, missed grips, late dips, unstable body positions, rough dismounts, and coach saves. Don’t count a skill as clean just because nobody fell.

A clean hit should look controlled. The flyer should show the intended body position. Bases should stay under the stunt. The back spot should not rescue every rep. The dismount should land safely. Athletes should know where they go next.

Then test the skill in motion. Add the entrance. Add counts. Add the transition before it. Add the transition after it. Add nearby groups. Add music when possible.

This is where the truth usually shows up. A stunt that looks good in isolation may not survive the routine. That does not make the skill useless. It tells the coach where the skill belongs.

Maybe it stays in training. Maybe it moves later in the routine. Maybe it gets simplified. Maybe only one group performs it. Maybe it becomes an upgrade after the first competition. That decision is easier in July than October.

Do not let one strong stunt group trick you

One strong group can make a team look more advanced than it is. That group hits the elite skill. Everyone gets excited. The routine gets built around that level of difficulty. Then the other groups spend months trying to catch up.

This is a bad trade.

Competition routines are judged as full-team products. If one group looks great and two groups fight for survival, the routine does not look strong. It looks uneven. The summer skills audit should judge the team, not the best group.

If only one group can hit the skill, the coach has a choice to make. Feature that group intentionally, or choose a skill the full section can hit. Both choices can work. Pretending the whole team owns the skill does not work.

A clean stunt section with slightly lower difficulty will usually age better than a high-difficulty section that scares everyone in the gym.

Audit tumbling under routine conditions

Tumbling is another place where coaches overcount skills.

An athlete may have a pass. That does not mean the pass belongs in the routine.

Test tumbling in the way the routine will use it. If the athlete has to run from a corner, test that corner. If the pass comes after jumps, test it after jumps. If the pass comes after a long transition, test it after movement. If the athlete has to wait on music, test the timing.

A tumbling pass should not count as routine-ready until the athlete can land it with the same setup they will use in the routine.

Coaches should also separate technical readiness from performance readiness.

A pass may be legal and land safely, but still look messy. Bent legs, low chest, uncontrolled rebounds, and scary landings can hurt the routine. They can also make the athlete less confident over time.

Some passes need more training. Some need a different placement. Some need to come out until the athlete can hit them without the whole section holding its breath.

That is not negative coaching. That is good routine design.

Audit jumps without lying to yourself

Jumps often get treated as a small section. They should not.

A weak jump section can make a polished routine look unfinished fast. Bent knees, low height, loose arms, bad timing, and messy landings are easy to see. Judges do not need replay to notice them.

A summer jump audit should test three things: technique, timing, and recovery. Technique asks whether the jumps have the shape the coach wants. Timing asks whether the team can hit together. Recovery asks whether athletes can land and move into the next skill without falling apart.

That last part matters. Many jump sections look acceptable until the team has to tumble, transition, or stunt immediately after. If the jumps drain the athletes so much that the next section suffers, the coach needs to know that now.

Do not build the jump section around the one athlete with great flexibility. Build it around what the team can hit together. Clean, synchronized jumps usually beat ambitious jump combinations that land like popcorn.

Audit pyramids in pieces

Pyramids can fool coaches because small pieces may work even when the full structure is not ready. Start with the parts.

Can each group hit its job? Can the bracers stay connected? Can flyers maintain body positions? Can bases move safely? Can the team hit the timing without a coach talking them through every count? Then connect the pieces.

This is where pyramid problems usually appear. Groups that hit alone may not travel well. Bracers may arrive late. Flyers may look unsure. Transitions may take more counts than expected. The pyramid may technically hit, but the visual may not read from the front.

The audit should include a front-view check. Record the pyramid from the judges’ angle and watch it without sound. If the visual does not make sense on video, music will not fix it. Pyramid difficulty should serve the routine. It should not become a maze the team barely survives.

Audit transitions like skills

Transitions are skills. Coaches do not always treat them that way, but they should.

A transition needs timing, spacing, body control, traffic awareness, and performance quality. Bad transitions make strong skills look worse. They also create avoidable stress for athletes.

During the summer audit, coaches should identify the athletes who struggle with spacing, speed, direction changes, and formation responsibility. That information should shape choreography.

Some teams can handle fast, layered transitions. Some teams need cleaner pathways and simpler movement. Some teams need extra counts because they have younger athletes, mixed experience levels, or big formation changes. That does not mean the routine has to feel slow. It means the routine has to move in a way the team can execute.

A coach who ignores transition skill level will end up cleaning the same traffic problems all season.

Film everything

Video makes the audit harder to argue with.

Athletes often feel like a skill hit because they survived it. Coaches may remember the best rep because it was exciting. Parents may hear that a skill is close and assume it should go in the routine.

Film solves a lot of that.

Record stunt reps, tumbling passes, jump sections, pyramid pieces, and short routine-style sequences. Watch them from the front. Watch them without stopping after the first hit. Watch the misses too.

The camera shows what the judges will see.

It also helps coaches spot patterns. Maybe a stunt group misses every time the flyer rushes the body position. Maybe a tumbler changes technique when tired. Maybe the jump timing problem starts with the arms, not the legs. Maybe the transition looks messy because two athletes cross the same lane.

Those details are easy to miss live.

A summer skills audit does not need fancy software. A phone camera and honest eyes are enough.

Create a no-drama scoring system

A skills audit can get emotional if athletes think every result is a judgment of their worth. Keep the language clean.

Do not label athletes as good or bad. Label skills as ready, close, or still training. That distinction matters.

A flyer is not a problem because one body position is inconsistent. A base is not a failure because one grip needs work. A tumbler is not behind as a person because one pass is not routine-ready.

The audit should help athletes see the path forward.

Use simple notes:

Ready for routine
Needs more reps
Needs technique fix
Needs safer version
Use only in featured spot
Train as upgrade
Do not use yet

That kind of language gives coaches useful information without turning the audit into a public ranking.

Build the routine with a base version and upgrades

The smartest coaches do not choose between easy and hard. They build layers.

Start with a base routine the team can hit. Then plan upgrades that can replace sections when the team earns them.

For example, a stunt group may start with a cleaner prep-level body position, while training the extended version as an upgrade. A tumbling section may start with the passes athletes can land under pressure, while keeping harder passes ready for later. A pyramid may use a safer connection first, then add a harder visual once timing improves. This approach gives the team confidence early.

It also keeps the routine from becoming stale. Athletes can work toward upgrades without feeling like the first version is a failure. The base version should still look intentional. It should not look like a watered-down placeholder. It should be choreographed to score as cleanly as possible.

If the upgrade never becomes safe or consistent, the team still has a routine. That is the point.

Set deadlines for routine decisions

A skill cannot stay “almost ready” forever. Coaches need decision deadlines. Without them, the team keeps waiting for skills that may not arrive in time.

Set a date before choreography when each major skill must prove itself. Set another date after choreography for upgrades. Set a final date before the first competition when the coach stops adding risk and starts cleaning.

The exact timeline depends on the program, but the principle stays the same. At some point, a skill either belongs in the routine or it does not. This protects the team. It also protects practice time.

A team that changes major routine sections too late loses cleaning reps. Athletes get nervous. Coaches get frustrated. Music edits pile up. The routine starts to feel temporary. Temporary routines do not perform with confidence.

Watch for the “one more week” trap

“Give it one more week” can become a season-long habit. Sometimes one more week makes sense. A group may need reps. An athlete may be coming back from vacation. A stunt may need one technical fix. But coaches should ask what will actually change in that week.

Will the team get more reps with the full group present? Will a coach fix a specific technique problem? Will the athlete get private tumbling work? Will the group drill the entry that keeps breaking?

If the answer is no, one more week may only delay the decision. Hope is not a training plan.

When a skill stays inconsistent after repeated chances, the coach should move it out of the routine and keep training it separately. That choice may feel disappointing in the moment. It usually saves the routine later.

Match skills to the team’s identity

The summer audit should not only ask what the team can do. It should ask what the team can sell.

Some teams are explosive. Some are sharp and clean. Some have strong stunt technique. Some have big personalities. Some have excellent dancers. Some have powerful tumbling but need simpler transitions. Some have young athletes who perform better when the routine is clear and confident. The routine should fit that reality.

Do not build a routine that hides the team’s best qualities because everyone is chasing difficulty. Use the audit to find what the team can own.

If the team has strong jumps, give the jump section a real moment.

If the team has one standout tumbler, feature that pass without forcing everyone else into skills they cannot match.

If the team performs well, give them music and choreography that let them connect with the crowd.

If the team has clean stunts, do not bury them inside overcomplicated transitions.

A good routine makes the team look more like itself. A bad routine makes the team look like it is pretending.

Use the audit to guide music and count sheets

The skills audit should feed directly into the count sheet.

If the team needs extra time for stunt setups, the count sheet should show that. If a transition needs more room, plan the counts before the music gets built. If the pyramid has one major visual, make sure the music supports that moment. If jumps need a clean recovery before tumbling, do not cram the next section too close.

Music cannot solve a routine that ignores skill readiness. A producer can help with pacing, energy, voiceovers, sound effects, and section changes. But the coach has to know what the team can actually execute.

The audit gives the music producer better information. It also helps the choreographer make smarter choices. This is where planning pays off. The routine feels less forced because the counts, skills, and music all come from the same honest picture of the team.

What to do when parents push for harder skills

Parents hear what their athlete says. Athletes often say the skill is close. That can create pressure.

A parent may ask why a stunt is not in the routine. An athlete may say they hit it at practice. Another parent may compare the team to a rival program. Someone may post a video of one successful rep and wonder why the coach will not use it. This is where the audit helps.

The coach can explain that routine decisions come from consistency, safety, and full-team execution. One hit does not decide choreography. Ten reps tell a better story. Routine conditions tell an even better one. Keep the message simple.

The team will train upgrades. The routine will use the skills that give the team the best chance to hit. The goal is not to avoid difficulty. The goal is to earn it.

Most parents can understand that when the coach explains it before emotions take over.

A sample summer skills audit plan

Coaches can run a basic audit in one or two practices. Start with stunts. Test the main skills each group wants to use. Track clean hits out of ten. Add entries and exits after the first round.

Move to tumbling. Test standing tumbling and running tumbling from routine-style setups. Record landings, timing, and consistency.

Run jumps as a group. Check height, timing, arm placement, landings, and recovery into the next section. Break down pyramid pieces. Test each group, then connect sections. Film from the front.

Finish with transitions. Give athletes formation changes and watch spacing, speed, and confusion points. After practice, sort the results into green, yellow, and red.

Then make routine decisions from that list.

Green skills can go into the first choreography plan.

Yellow skills need backup versions.

Red skills stay in training until they prove they are ready.

The audit does not need to be complicated. It needs to be honest.

The coach’s real job

Cheer coaches live between ambition and reality. Push too little, and the team never grows. Push too much, and the routine becomes a weekly emergency.

The summer skills audit helps coaches find the middle. It gives athletes room to improve without letting unfinished skills take over the routine. It helps choreographers build around truth. It helps music producers support the routine instead of guessing. It helps parents understand why consistency matters more than one good video.

Most of all, it protects the team from spending the season chasing a version of itself that only exists in the coach’s imagination.

Build for the team in front of you.

Train for the team they can become.

Those are different jobs. Good coaches know when they are doing each one.

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7 Routine Trends That Dominated Cheerleading Worlds 2026

Posted on June 23, 2026June 23, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

23
Jun

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 23, 2026

Every coach watches Worlds looking for something to bring home: a stunt entry, a pyramid idea, a transition, a music moment, a dance section that makes the crowd lose it.

But Cheerleading Worlds 2026 told a bigger story than one new skill or one viral clip. The best teams in Orlando did not win because they crammed the most difficulty into two and a half minutes. They won because they made smart routine choices, protected their score, and gave judges a clear reason to reward every section.

The lesson from Worlds 2026 was not “go harder.” The lesson was “build smarter.”

From Top Gun TGLC winning Senior Large Coed again, to Cheer Extreme Senior Elite defending Large Senior, to The California All Stars Lady Bullets controlling Senior XSmall, the routines that stood out had more than difficulty. They had identity, structure, pacing, and discipline.

Here are the seven routine trends coaches should take from Cheerleading Worlds 2026:

1. Deductions Decided the Story

The cleanest lesson from Worlds 2026 came straight from the score sheet.

Difficulty mattered. It always matters.

But deduction control separated champions from runners-up.

Look at L6 Senior Medium Coed. Spirit of Texas Royalty posted the highest raw score in the division with a 163.4. That should put a team in position to win. But four points in deductions dropped Royalty to a 159.4 final event score. Top Gun All Stars Savannah Legends scored a 162.3 raw score, took only one point in deductions, and won the division with a 161.3.

That is not a small detail.

That is the entire division.

Senior Large told the same story. Central Jersey All Stars Bombshells outscored The Stingray Allstars Orange in raw score, 151.65 to 149.45. But Bombshells took three points in deductions. Orange took zero. Orange finished second. Bombshells finished third.

Coaches love talking about upgrades. Worlds 2026 gave everyone a reminder that an upgrade only helps if the team can hit it when the lights are brightest.

A harder elite stunt that falls does not make your routine more competitive, it makes your math worse.

What This Means for Your Routine

Before adding difficulty, ask one brutal question: Can this team hit this skill three times under pressure?

Not once in a great practice. Not once when everyone feels fresh.

Three times. Under pressure. With fatigue. With nerves. With the season on the line. If the answer is no, the skill may belong in the gym longer.

2. Zero-Deduction Routines Became the Biggest Flex

A zero-deduction routine at Worlds says more than “we hit.” It says the coaches chose the right skills, trained the right details, and built a routine athletes could handle when everything got loud. Plenty of major 2026 champions made that point.

Top Gun TGLC won L6 Senior Large Coed with a 166.1 and zero deductions. Prodigy All Stars Midnight won L6 Senior Small Coed with a 164.15 and zero deductions. Cheer Extreme Raleigh SSX won L6 Senior Small with a 163.25 and zero deductions. The California All Stars Lady Bullets won L6 Senior Extra Small with a 162.4 and zero deductions.

Those teams did not water down their routines. They made elite difficulty look stable. That difference matters.

Worlds-level judges do not reward survival. They reward control. They reward body positions that finish. They reward groups that move together. They reward tumbling that lands with confidence instead of panic. They reward routines that look like the team owns every skill.

The best routines at Worlds 2026 did not feel like athletes were hanging on. They felt trained.

What This Means for Your Routine

Clean is not boring. Clean is expensive. It takes time, reps, honest coaching, and the discipline to remove skills that only hit when everything goes perfectly. A routine that hits clean in April starts with smart decisions in summer.

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3. Program Identity Mattered More Than One Surprise Skill

The teams that people remembered had a point of view. You could feel it before awards.

Top Gun did not bring one team to Orlando with one style. The program brought different versions of the same confidence. TGLC won Senior Large Coed. Lady Jags won Senior Medium. Legends won Senior Medium Coed. Double O won International Open Large Coed Level 6. Toxic won International Open Small Coed Level 7.

Those routines did not look identical. They felt connected. That is program identity.

Cheer Extreme gave the same lesson in a different way. Courtney Smith’s Kernersville side had Senior Elite back on top in Large Senior. Kelly Helton’s Raleigh side had SSX winning Senior Small and Code Black winning International Open Coed Non-Tumbling Level 6.

Different teams. Different divisions. Same clear standard.

That matters because judges and fans can feel when a program knows exactly who it is. The routine has a tone. The athletes perform with confidence. The choreography matches the team. The music does not feel pasted on. The routine does not chase every trend at once. It commits.

What This Means for Your Routine

Your routine should not look like a highlight reel from five other gyms. Take inspiration from Worlds, but do not copy blindly.

Build around your team’s strengths, your program’s personality, and the athletes standing in front of you. A routine with a clear identity will always feel more confident than one built from random “cool parts.”

4. The Best Routines Used Pacing Like a Weapon

Worlds routines can get messy fast.

Everyone wants a big opening. Everyone wants an elite stunt. Everyone wants a basket moment. Everyone wants tumbling. Everyone wants a pyramid people remember.

The problem comes when a routine tries to scream for two and a half minutes.

The best Worlds 2026 routines understood pacing.

They gave the audience and judges a reason to keep watching. They built from section to section. They created rises and releases. They did not treat transitions as dead space. They used choreography to set up skills instead of simply filling time between them.

That is why routines like TGLC, Senior Elite, Orange, Lady Jags, Royalty, Legends, Peach, Midnight, Black Ops, and Double O kept showing up in fan conversations and replay lists. Those teams did not only perform skills. They managed attention.

That is a massive coaching skill.

A routine should not feel like a playlist of unrelated moments. It should feel like one idea that keeps developing.

What This Means for Your Routine

Watch your routine without music. If the structure still makes sense, you probably built something solid. If the routine only feels exciting because the music covers awkward transitions, you have work to do.

Transitions should move the story forward. They should set up formations, create visual interest, and help the next section arrive with purpose.

5. Crowd Favorites Had More Than Difficulty

Crowd reaction does not determine the score, but it tells coaches something useful.

The routines people replay after Worlds usually have a clear identity, strong pacing, and at least one moment fans want to see again. FloCheer’s most-watched Worlds 2026 list made that obvious. The Stingray Allstars Orange finished second in Senior Large, but ranked first among the most-watched routines. Spirit of Texas Royalty finished second in Senior Medium Coed, but ranked third on that replay list. Top Gun Lady Jags, Senior Elite, Legends, Peach, Midnight, TGLC, Black Ops, and Double O all landed in the top ten.

That list matters because it shows the difference between scoring well and being remembered. Coaches should care about both.

A routine does not need gimmicks to be memorable. It needs moments that feel earned. A stunt sequence that builds tension. A pyramid that resolves cleanly. A dance that matches the team’s personality. A music change that lands at the exact right second. A formation that makes the floor feel full.

The audience reacts when the routine gives them a reason.

What This Means for Your Routine

Do not add “performance value” as decoration at the end; build it into the routine from the start.

Performance value comes from confidence, pacing, musicality, formations, and athletes who know what the moment means. If your team only performs during dance, the routine will feel flat everywhere else.

6. International Programs Are No Longer Chasing From Far Behind

The international divisions made one thing clear: the gap keeps shrinking.

Unity Allstars Ruby from England won International Open Level 6 with a zero-deduction 132.05. Cheer Sport Sharks Ottawa Silky Sharks from Canada won International Open Non-Tumbling Level 6 with a zero-deduction 125.9. TR Cheer Beast from Canada won International Open Small Coed Level 5 with a zero-deduction 133.85. ACE Athletics Rouge from Canada won International Open Large Coed Level 5 with a zero-deduction 137.05. Then you had Barcelona Bears Legacy from Spain winning International Open Coed Non-Tumbling Level 7 with a zero-deduction 132.15.

That is not “international teams are improving” as a polite throwaway line, that is international programs winning divisions, hitting zero, and forcing everyone else to match their standard. The depth showed up across the results too. Canada, England, Australia, Germany, Japan, Mexico, Chile, Puerto Rico, Wales, Spain, Sweden, Ireland, and other countries appeared throughout Finals and Semi-Finals. Worlds has always been international by name, but in 2026, it felt international by competitive reality.

What This Means for Your Routine

Stop treating international teams as side stories. If you coach in the United States, the standard is no longer local, regional, or even national. The standard is global.

If you coach outside the United States, Worlds 2026 should give your athletes proof that the door is open. Programs from outside the U.S. are not just showing up. They are winning, globing, and hitting routines that belong on the biggest stage.

7. The Small Details Moved Teams Up the Rankings

Every coach says details matter. Worlds 2026 proved it.

Small details turned into placements. A cleaner landing. A sharper motion. A controlled body position. A stunt group that finishes together. A transition that does not waste counts. A pyramid that hits the picture without wobble.

These details do not always make the highlight clip, but they make the score sheet. The Senior Small Coed division gave coaches a perfect example. Prodigy Midnight, Brandon Senior Black, and CALI SMOED finished first, second, and third. All three hit zero-deduction routines. At that point, the division turned into a battle of execution quality, routine construction, and who could create the most complete performance without giving anything back.

That is Worlds. At lower levels, teams can sometimes survive messy details because the difficulty gap creates separation. At Worlds, every detail has a cost.

What This Means for Your Routine

Film everything. Not just full-outs. Film stunt reps. Film transitions. Film jumps. Film pyramid timing. Film athletes walking into formations. Film what happens after a skill hits. Then watch without making excuses.

If motions finish late, fix them. If groups dip at different times, fix them. If athletes travel through transitions without purpose, fix them. If your pyramid picture takes too long to settle, fix it. The fastest way to improve your routine may not be adding a skill. It may be cleaning the five seconds before the skill.

Cheerleading Worlds 2026 did not reward chaos; it rewarded control.

The champions and fan favorites had difficulty, but they also had restraint. They knew what their athletes could hit. They protected the score sheet. They built routines with identity. They gave each section a job. They created moments without letting performance value turn into clutter.

That is the real trend. Not one stunt. Not one pyramid. Not one dance move.

The best routines at Worlds 2026 looked intentional from the first count to the final pose. That should be the goal for every coach planning a new season.

Build a routine your athletes can hit. Give it a clear identity. Train the details until they look automatic. Then clean it again.

Worlds did not prove that safe routines win, it proved that smart routines win..and there’s a difference.

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College Cheer Recruiting Starts Now. Are Your Athletes Ready?

Posted on June 9, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

09
Jun

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 9, 2026

Something worth telling your athletes about happened in Sweden this past weekend.

The FISU World University Championships wrapped in Gothenburg on June 7. University teams from across the world competed for cheer titles. Team Canada came home with two medals.

Canada took silver in All Female Elite and bronze in Coed Premier. The All Female Elite squad came entirely from the University of Alberta. The Coed Premier team came from the University of British Columbia.

Australia won the All Female Elite title with a score of 70.64. Canada, the defending champion, finished at 61.82.

So a university team from Australia just beat a university team from Canada for a world title. Your athletes probably have no idea this event exists. That gap is the opportunity.

Why this matters to the kids on your mat

Most of your athletes think cheer ends after high school or their last all-star season. They do not see a road past 18. The mat feels like a countdown clock to them.

That road exists, and it keeps getting wider every year. College programs compete for national titles. National teams compete at world championships. Now university squads compete on a world stage too.

Think about what that means for a 15-year-old on your team. She can train today with a real shot at a college floor in three years. She just needs someone to tell her the floor is there.

When a parent asks “where can this actually go,” you finally have a clean answer. You can point to a college team, a national team tryout, or a world championship floor. That answer changes how families weigh the time and money they pour in.

It also changes how your athletes show up to practice. A kid chasing a college spot trains differently than a kid running out the clock.

Two pathways your athletes should understand

There are two separate international routes, and people mix them up constantly. Knowing the difference makes you the coach parents trust.

The first is the ICU World Championships. Athletes try out and represent their country on a national team. Team USA won its fourth straight All Girl Premier title at ICU Worlds in April. The USA program also chased a ninth straight Coed Premier crown this year.

That route is national pride at the highest level. Your athlete wears the flag, not a school logo.

The second is the FISU route you just read about. Athletes compete for their university, not their country directly. The University of Alberta and UBC athletes earned those Canadian medals as students first. They made a college team, then reached the world stage through it.

Both routes start the exact same way. An athlete keeps training past the age where most kids walk away. Skills do not disappear at graduation unless your athlete lets them.

There is also a closer target most families forget. College cheer nationals in Daytona Beach draw programs from every division each spring. That floor is reachable for far more of your athletes than a world championship.

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What you can do this off-season

You do not need a new program or a bigger budget to open this door. You need to talk about it out loud and often.

Start by naming the pathway at practice this week. Tell your older athletes that college cheer and national teams are real goals, not fantasies. Say it to the whole gym, not just your standout flyer.

Then help them prepare like it counts. Capture clean film of their stunting, tumbling, and jumps now, while the season is fresh. Shoot it in good light against a plain background, and keep each clip short.

College coaches scan film fast. They want a full standing tumbling pass, a running pass, and a clean stunt sequence. Give them that in the first thirty seconds or they move on.

Male athletes have a real edge here, so push your boys especially hard. College coed teams hunt for strong male bases every single year. Many of those spots come with scholarship money attached.

Build a short list of programs with your athletes too. Match a kid’s skills to schools that compete at their level. A realistic target beats a dream school with no roster spot.

cheer after high school college cheer scholarships

The takeaway

Cheer is no longer a sport kids age out of at graduation.

The floor in Gothenburg proved that again this weekend.

Your job is to make sure your athletes know the door is open. Point at it early and name it often. Back it up with film, and watch how their training changes when the goal feels real.

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Competition Anxiety: Your Team Isn’t Choking, the Room Got Bigger

Posted on June 3, 2026June 3, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

03
Jun

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 3, 2026

A JV coach posted a question on Reddit that a lot of you will recognize. Her team made nationals last year, looked sharp at every local comp, then fell apart in front of a packed arena.

She has 26 years in cheer and still couldn’t believe the size of that crowd. Her girls are good enough, she says. They just got scared. Here is how to help them handle it before next time.

reddit post about cheerleading competition anxiety

Your girls didn’t forget their routine at nationals. They forgot they knew it.

You said they looked ready at every local comp, and I believe you. The skills were there. Then they walked into a room with thousands of people instead of a hundred. The room changed, and their bodies did the rest.

Here is the good news. You can train for the room, not just the routine.

The crowd is the opponent, not the routine

Nerves don’t show up because athletes doubt their tumbling. They show up because the brain reads a giant, loud, packed arena as a threat.

The heart races. The hands shake. The memory goes foggy. That is the nervous system reacting to scale, not skill.

So running the routine one more time won’t fix it. Changing how a big room feels to them will.

Recreate the chaos in practice

Your gym is quiet. Nationals is not. That gap is the problem you need to close.

Make practice loud and uncomfortable on purpose. Blast crowd noise through a speaker at full volume during full-outs. Pull up arena audio on YouTube and play buzzers, cheering, and announcers while they perform.

Invite people to watch, too. Ask other teams, parents, siblings, and the front desk staff to fill the gym. A bigger crowd in practice makes the real one feel smaller.

Give them a routine before the routine

Pressure makes athletes forget what to do with the ninety seconds before they take the floor. So hand them a script.

Same warm-up. Same stretch order. Same words in the huddle. Same spot in line, every single time.

A repeatable pre-performance routine tells the body it has done this before. Familiar actions quiet a panicked brain.

Teach them to breathe on command

Anxiety speeds up the breath, which speeds up everything else. Slow the breath and you slow the panic.

Teach box breathing and drill it until it sticks. Breathe in for four counts, hold for four, out for four, hold for four.

Run it at every rehearsal so it turns automatic. Then they can use it in the lineup without thinking.

Rename the feeling

A pounding heart before you compete feels almost the same as a pounding heart from excitement. Your athletes get to choose the label.

Stop telling them to calm down. Tell them they are excited and ready to go.

Athletes who treat nerves as fuel perform better than athletes who fight the feeling. So give that feeling a better name.

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Shrink the goal to one 8-count

Standing on the mat thinking about winning nationals is too big. The brain freezes under a goal that size.

Teach them to think about the next eight count and nothing else. Hit this section, then the next one, then the next.

A whole routine feels like a mountain. One 8-count feels like a single step.

They are watching your face

Athletes borrow their coach’s energy. If you look tense in the warm-up room, they will feel it before they hit the floor.

Stay loose. Crack a joke. Walk like you have done this a hundred times, even on the first time.

Your calm spreads to them. So does your panic. Pick one on purpose.

Talk about it before you go

Last year the nerves ambushed them. This year, take the surprise away.

Tell them straight. The arena will be huge and loud, their hearts will pound, and their legs might feel weird. That feeling is normal and expected.

When the nerves arrive right on schedule, they feel like part of the plan instead of a sign something went wrong.

full out practice tips for competition anxiety cheerleading

Your team is good enough. You said so yourself, and I trust your read after 26 years in this sport.

They don’t need better skills. They need reps in the chaos, a routine they trust, and a coach who looks unshakeable in the tunnel.

Train the room this season, not just the mat. Then walk into nationals like you own the place 😊

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Varsity Killed Flex Divisions. Then They Brought Them Back. Here’s What to Do With Your 2026-27 Roster.

Posted on May 6, 2026May 6, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

06
May

By Steve Pawlyk

Published May 6, 2026

The whiplash

On March 19, 2026, Varsity Spirit told program owners they would eliminate Flex divisions starting the 2026-27 season. Six days later, on March 25, they walked it back. Flex now lives for one more year and dies in 2027-28.

If you missed the first announcement and only caught the second, you might think nothing changed. That would be a mistake. The clock just started ticking on a roster strategy a lot of gyms have been quietly relying on.

What Flex actually was

USASF added Youth Flex and Junior Flex for the 2025-26 season. The whole point was to give programs more wiggle room with age ranges on a single team. A smaller gym that couldn’t quite field a Junior 3 could fold in a couple of Youth athletes and still compete.

Flex was provisional from day one. USASF said they would evaluate at the end of the season. Now we know how that evaluation went, even if Varsity later fuzzed the timeline.

Why Varsity wants Flex gone

Varsity has been pretty consistent in their reasoning. Age-based divisions, they say, create cleaner developmental tracks and clearer evaluation standards. They also pointed at “team culture” and “competitive balance,” which is corporate code for “older kids dominating teams of younger kids isn’t a great look.”

There’s a real argument here. A 14-year-old and a 9-year-old are not the same athlete. Putting them on the same team can blur what each of them actually needs.

The counter argument is also real. Small programs in small towns just can’t always hit roster minimums in strict age bands.

You can have your own opinion on which one wins. Varsity has made the decision for you either way.

What this means for your 2026-27 season

If you already planned to run a Flex team next season, run it. Nothing about the reversal changes your immediate plans. You have one more year to use this format the way you intended.

But if you were going to build a multi-year roster around Flex, stop. The 2027-28 cliff is real, and you need to plan backward from it now. Any athlete you bring into a Flex team in fall 2026 needs a home in fall 2027 without Flex.

That sounds obvious. In practice, gyms screw this up all the time because next August feels far away.

It isn’t.

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The age math you need to run before summer

Pull up your projected 2026-27 Flex roster. For every athlete on it, figure out their 2027-28 birth year and what divisions they’ll qualify for in a Flex-free world.

You’re going to find three groups.

Group one is athletes who can move cleanly into a standard age division on a team that will exist anyway. These kids are fine.

Group two is athletes who will age into a division where you can build a team around them. You might need to pair them with kids you don’t have on your roster yet. That means recruiting starts now, not in spring 2027.

Group three is the painful one. These athletes need divisions your gym can’t field a team in, because you’re a smaller program and the numbers just aren’t there.

You have three options for each kid in this group. You can develop them up a level so they can play on a team you do have. You can be honest with the family early so they have time to consider another gym.

Or you can use the 2026-27 season to build a recruiting pipeline that brings in age-eligible teammates for 2027-28.

None of these are quick fixes. All of them work better when you start in May than when you start in October.

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The Division 2 reality

If your gym is at or under the 125-elite-athlete threshold, this hits you harder. Flex existed exactly for programs your size. Losing it changes how you have to think about every roster decision for the next 18 months.

The extra year matters here. Use it to either grow your athlete count past the math problem, or to specialize hard in the divisions you can actually compete in. Trying to hold the same shape your gym had in 2025-26 will not work.

What this signal is really about

Pay attention to what Varsity has been doing across the board. They’ve consolidated around stricter age divisions.

They launched the Pro Cheer League with a clean professional age cutoff. They’re partnering with Curv AI to push more objective competitive measurement.

Flex was an experiment in flexibility. The Flex experiment ended quickly. The direction is toward tighter, more standardized division structure, even when that direction makes life harder for smaller programs.

If you build your gym’s strategy assuming Varsity will keep adding loopholes, those loopholes will keep disappearing on you. Build for what’s actually coming.

What to do this week

Three things will save you the most pain a year from now.

First, audit your Flex roster math against the 2027-28 grid. Highlight the kids in Group three above. They’re your priority.

Second, talk to those families now, before spring 2027 surprises them. You don’t need a solution yet. You need them to know you’re thinking about it.

Third, look at your current 6 to 9 year old recruiting funnel. Two years from now, those kids fill out the divisions that the 27-28 grid will require you to actually build. Recruiting today is roster planning for the cliff.

The extra year is a head start. Don’t waste it.

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Varsity Antitrust Settlement Checks Explained: 5,831 Claims Approved for Payment

Posted on April 10, 2026 by Steve Pawlyk

10
Apr

By Steve Pawlyk

Published April 10, 2026

After years of litigation, a federal judge approved the final distribution of funds in the $82.5 million antitrust settlement involving Varsity Brands and related defendants. The court’s February 12, 2026 order cleared payments to eligible claimants, and the numbers are not small: 8,875 claims were processed, 5,831 were ultimately deemed valid and payable, and $47,708,437.40 was approved for distribution to the state-law damages class. The estimated average payment came out to $8,181.86, with projected payments ranging from $334.67 to $51,604.97.

That means the Instagram post making the rounds is basically right on the core facts. It is not just rumor, and it is not one of those class-action situations where people wait years for a coupon and a shrug. Real payments have started hitting mailboxes and accounts. Cheer Daily reported on March 27, 2026 that it had confirmed multiple family payments, including examples around $8,000 and $12,000, with one reported payout of $18,570.90 tied to documented participation spanning multiple years.

What the Varsity Brands antitrust settlement was about

The lawsuit accused Varsity and related entities of maintaining and exploiting monopoly power across cheer competitions, camps, and apparel. In the court-approved long-form notice, plaintiffs alleged that Varsity used an exclusionary scheme involving acquisitions, exclusive dealing, and collusion with USASF, and that this conduct caused families and others to overpay for cheer competitions, camps, and apparel. Defendants denied wrongdoing and maintained that their conduct was pro-competitive and that they had valid defenses.

That matters because this case was never just about one fee, one event, or one invoice. The broader accusation was that the structure of competitive cheer itself had become too concentrated, and that families were effectively paying the price for that concentration year after year. The court did not rule on the merits at trial because the case settled, but the settlement amount and the accompanying business-practice changes make it clear this was a major industry case, not background noise.

Why only 5,831 claims were approved

This is the part a lot of social posts leave out.

The settlement was not a blank check for everyone in cheer. The damages class was limited to people and entities in 33 states plus the District of Columbia that indirectly paid Varsity or a Varsity affiliate between December 10, 2016 and March 31, 2024 for eligible categories including competition-related fees, apparel, camp fees, and certain accommodations. The approved states were Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, D.C., Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

So right away, a huge chunk of the cheer world was never in line for damages payments. Texas, Georgia, and Alabama were not part of the damages class, despite being massive states in competitive cheer. Cheer Daily highlighted that exclusion too, and it is a big reason the final number of paid claims was far lower than the number of people who may have thought they were covered.

On top of that, claimants had to actually submit a valid claim, provide proof of participation, and affirm their purchases under penalty of perjury. The court-approved notice said participation documentation was required, and the settlement administrator could ask for additional records tied to events, purchases, participants, or residency. Claims with deficiencies were given a chance to be corrected, but not everyone made it through that process. The final court order states that all initially deficient claimants were offered an extended deadline to resubmit, yet only 5,831 claims were ultimately deemed valid and payable out of 8,875 reviewed.

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How the money was divided

The $82.5 million headline number was never the amount families would split directly.

According to the February 2026 court order and the settlement administrator’s final report, the settlement included $27.5 million in attorneys’ fees, $7,450,156.47 in litigation costs, $125,000 in service awards for the named plaintiffs, taxes and related fees, and notice and administration expenses. After those deductions, the net settlement fund available for approved claimants was $47,708,437.40. The court also approved withholding $200,000 to handle any remaining disputes or unexpected distribution issues.

From there, the net fund was divided into three pools: 53% for competitions, 26% for camps, and 21% for apparel. Payments were then calculated on a pro rata basis according to the number of years a claimant made valid purchases in each category, rather than simply reimbursing exact receipts dollar for dollar. That structure explains why payouts vary so much. A family with many documented years in the system could land a dramatically larger payment than someone with a short or lightly documented participation window.

Why these payouts are getting so much attention

Because in cheer, families are used to the opposite experience.

They are used to paying. They are used to fees stacking on top of fees, and they are used to being told that this is just what serious participation costs. So when a settlement produces real checks in the thousands, it instantly hits a nerve. It feels less like abstract legal paperwork and more like a public acknowledgment that the financial burden in this industry may have gone way too far for way too long.

And honestly, that is the real story here.

Yes, the settlement is about money. But culturally, it is also about validation. For years, families, gym owners, and industry people have complained that the cost structure around competitive cheer had become bloated, consolidated, and hard to escape. This settlement does not prove every complaint was legally correct in the way a trial verdict would have, but it absolutely confirms that the concerns were serious enough to generate an $82.5 million resolution and court-supervised industry changes.

The business changes may matter more than the checks

This is the part that should not get buried.

The court-approved settlement notice says Varsity agreed to several business-practice changes. Among them: Varsity cannot condition eligibility for an end-of-season championship on prior attendance at a Varsity-owned cheer camp; it cannot require exclusive purchasing arrangements as a condition for participation in rebate or discount programs tied to cheer competitions; and it cannot require participants in 35% or more of its cheer competitions to stay at Varsity-approved accommodations as a condition of competing. The settlement also imposed limits on how USASF can share certain confidential information from event producers.

Those changes are not as flashy as a check, but they may be the more important long-term piece. A one-time payout is nice. Structural change is what actually alters the experience of future athletes, gyms, and families.

What cheer families should understand right now

First, if you already filed and your claim was validated, the distribution phase is real. This is not speculation anymore. The court approved it, and reporting shows payments have started reaching recipients.

Second, if you did not file a claim by the court-approved process, this is almost certainly not something you can jump into now. The February 2026 order states that no further claims received by the administrator shall be allowed.

Third, if you were in cheer during the class period but live in a non-covered state, that is likely why you are seeing others get paid while you get nothing. That is not necessarily because your experience was different. It is because the damages class was built around specific state-law claims, not a full nationwide damages recovery.

The bigger takeaway for the cheer industry

This settlement lands at a weird but important moment for cheer.

The sport keeps growing. The costs keep climbing. Families keep stretching themselves to stay in it. At the same time, the industry still has serious unresolved questions about market power, pricing, transparency, and who actually benefits from the current structure.

So no, this is not just a legal footnote. It is a signal flare.

If 5,831 approved claims are now splitting more than $47.7 million after fees and costs, then the economic pressure points in cheer were substantial enough to survive years of litigation and produce one of the most consequential settlements the industry has ever seen.

And that is why this story matters even to people who are not getting a check.

Because the real question is not only who got paid.

It is whether competitive cheer is finally being forced to confront the business model that made a case like this possible in the first place.

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Drilling Sharp Transitions Between Motions: From Punch to T, T to High V, and Beyond

Posted on November 12, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

12
Nov

By Steve Pawlyk

Published November 12, 2025

Sharp transitions are what separate a good routine from a championship-level one. Every clean line depends not only on where a motion lands but how it gets there. In All-Star cheer, those split-second pathways between positions – Punch to T, T to High V, High V to Low V – are where most visual sloppiness occurs. This guide explains how to teach precise, fast, and uniform transitions step-by-step, with drills and cue language that create muscle memory, synchronization, and control across your entire team.

Understanding Motion Transitions

Definition:
A motion transition is the controlled movement connecting two defined positions in a routine. The transition must travel the shortest, most direct path with even tension and zero bounce at the endpoint.

Core Mechanics:

Economy of Motion: The arms travel the smallest path possible between positions.
Constant Tension: Shoulders, core, and wrists stay engaged throughout.
Timing: Every athlete hits the new motion on the same count.
Stillness Between Movements: Once a position hits, there is no residual wobble.

Common Transition Types:

Linear: Straight pathways (e.g., T → High V).
Rotational: Turning the arms around the axis of the shoulders (e.g., Punch → T).

• 3. Sequential: Linked multi-position changes (e.g., T → High V → Low V).

Step-by-Step: Teaching Sharp Transitions One-on-One

Step 1: Isolate the Start and End Points

Begin by teaching each motion independently until the athlete can hold both perfectly.
Cue: “You can’t travel cleanly between two crooked spots.”

Once the endpoints are mastered, have the athlete slowly connect them — pausing halfway to confirm arm path and shoulder control.

Step 2: Slow-Motion Rehearsal

Execute the transition in four counts:

Count 1–2: Travel halfway.
Count 3–4: Arrive at endpoint and freeze.
Cue: “No swinging. No bouncing. Just slide and stop.”

Step 3: Gradual Acceleration

Once technique is clean, reduce to 2 counts, then 1 count, maintaining the same pathway discipline.
Use a metronome (90–120 BPM) to build rhythmic consistency.

Step 4: Add Visual Checkpoints

Use mirrors or record video to ensure elbows and wrists track symmetrically.
Cue: “Both hands should take the same route, same speed, same finish.”

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Teaching Small Groups

Step 1: Synchronization Drills

Have 3–5 athletes perform T → High V together to an 8-count.
Assign one athlete as “visual lead.” Others mirror their timing and endpoint.
Cue: “If you can see another arm move before yours, you’re late.”

Step 2: Mirror Pair Work

Partners face each other and perform transitions simultaneously.
Each athlete watches for delay, angle deviation, or path wobble.
Swap partners every 30 seconds for fresh observation.

Step 3: Pathway Consistency

Use painter’s tape on the mirror or wall to mark arm travel paths.
Have athletes trace those lines visually while transitioning.

Teaching the Whole Team

Step 1: Sectional Isolation

Work in formation lines. Each line executes a single transition (e.g., Punch → T) repeatedly on count 8.
Front line serves as timing reference for the rest of the team.

Step 2: Layered Tempo Progression

Run the same transition series at three speeds:

Half-tempo with pauses for alignment.
Full-tempo to counts.
Music-speed under pressure.

Record each version for video review.

Step 3: Full-Team Transition Pyramid

Group the team by skill level: beginners drill T ↔ High V, intermediates add Low V, advanced groups run sequential combos.
Cue across levels: “Fast is fine, sloppy is not.”

Coaching Language That Reinforces Clean Transitions

Effective Cues:

“Travel tight – elbows scrape your ribs.”
“Path, not power.”
“Snap through, don’t swing through.”
“Freeze like the motion owes you money.”
“Speed without chaos.”

Avoid:

“Faster!” – without form reference, it causes flailing.
“Bigger!” – encourages over-rotation

Drills to Build Transition Precision

Four-Count Path Drill Execute one transition in four controlled counts. Builds awareness of midpoint control.
Metronome Timing Drill Perform continuous transitions to beats at 100–120 BPM; freeze on downbeat. Develops rhythm discipline.
Laser Line Drill Use a low laser or elastic cord to mark shoulder height. Arms should never cross below or above during T → High V.
Mirror Snap Challenge Athletes face mirrors; coach calls random transitions (“T → Punch,” “High V → Low V”). Points for exact count accuracy.
5. Full-Team Transition Ladder Entire team runs a chain of motions (Punch → T → High V → Low V → T). Each error restarts the ladder. Builds endurance and focus.

Common Athlete Errors and How to Correct Them

Error	Cause	Correction Strategy
Arm swing too wide	Lack of spatial awareness	Tape floor/mirror lines; cue “Shortest path wins.”
Delay between counts	Weak timing control	Use audible 8-counts or metronome to reinforce rhythm.
Over-rotation or bounce	No core engagement	Add planks and hollow holds; cue “Stop from your ribs.”
Elbows bent mid-path	Fatigue or poor triceps activation	Strengthen with resistance bands; cue “Lock then travel.”
Unsynchronized finishes	Visual dependency	Drill “eyes closed” reps to develop proprioception.

Conditioning for Transition Endurance

Sharp transitions demand explosive muscle control and sustained tension. Integrate:

Shoulder raises: 3×12 front/lateral combo sets.
Core twists with med ball: 3×20 for torso stabilization.
8-count motion circuits: Repeat 3 rounds nonstop for stamina.

Cue: “You don’t just hit motions — you connect them with power.”

Transitions define the rhythm, cleanliness, and energy of your choreography. Precision between motions communicates professionalism and teamwork.
Teach your athletes to value the space between counts as much as the counts themselves. Clean transitions are a learned habit — built through repetition, awareness, and exact language from you, the coach.

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How to Teach Proper High V and Low V Technique Without Tension or Slouch

Posted on November 11, 2025November 12, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

11
Nov

By Steve Pawlyk

Published November 11, 2025

The High V and Low V are two of the most common motions in competitive All-Star cheer – and two of the most frequently performed incorrectly. Even experienced athletes struggle with shoulder elevation, flared ribs, or collapsing posture that make these basic shapes look soft or uneven. For coaches, mastering how to teach and refine these motions builds the foundation for every visual element that follows.

Watch elite teams like Cheer Extreme Raleigh SSX (six-time World Champions as of 2025) or GymTyme Illinois Fever (back-to-back World Champions and 2025 MAJORS Champions), and you’ll immediately notice the razor-sharp precision of their V motions. Teams like South Coast Cheer Fearless (three consecutive World titles from 2023-2025) and Cheer Athletics Plano Cheetahs (2025 MAJORS Champions in Large Coed) demonstrate how flawless fundamentals translate to championship-level performances. Top Gun All Stars TGLC, with nine World Championship titles, and The Stingray Allstars Peach and Orange (both 2025 MAJORS Champions) exemplify what happens when shoulder placement, angle consistency, and core engagement become non-negotiable standards.

This guide breaks down the biomechanics, teaching progressions, drills, and cue language that produce clean, strong V-lines without stiffness or slouching – the same techniques that separate world-class programs from the rest.

Understanding the Mechanics of the High V and Low V

High V: Arms extend upward at approximately 45° from the head, forming a “V” with palms facing forward. Shoulders remain depressed, core engaged, and wrists aligned with the forearm.

Low V: Arms extend downward at approximately 45° from the hips with the same shoulder and palm orientation. The torso remains tall; no leaning or hip shift.

Key Concepts:

Shoulder stability: Press shoulders down and back to avoid lifting into the neck.
Core control: The rib cage should stay locked over the hips.
Angle precision: Both arms hit identical 45° angles from the body’s centerline.
Hand posture: Palms open, fingers tight, wrist flat with forearm.

Step-by-Step: Teaching the High V and Low V One-on-One

Step 1: Establish Correct Posture

Have the athlete stand in front of a mirror, feet together, core tight.
Cue: “Imagine a straight pole running from your ears through your hips — stay tall against it.”

Checkpoints:

No rib flare.
No arched back.
Shoulders pressed down, not forward.
Step 2: Build Arm Pathways
Start in a clean stance. Slowly lift arms to High V using a controlled path.
Cue: “Slide your arms up invisible rails until they stop at 45°.”
Reverse to Low V while keeping the chest tall.
Step 3: Activate Proper Muscle Engagement

Have the athlete perform isometric holds for 10 seconds in each position.

Cue: “Press your shoulders down into your back pockets while reaching long through your fingertips.”
This balances relaxation and engagement — no over-tightening through the traps.

Teaching Small Groups

When working with 3–5 athletes, visual consistency becomes the goal.

Step 1: Mirror Line Drill

Athletes line up facing a mirror. Coach calls “High V!” — everyone hits and holds.
Cue: “Your wrists should live on the same invisible shelf.”

Step 2: Shoulder Suppression Awareness

Place light resistance bands under each athlete’s armpits, anchored behind them. As they hit High V, they feel upward resistance.
Cue: “Keep your shoulders under control — don’t let the band lift you.”

Step 3: Peer Alignment Feedback

Partners watch from the side to ensure the 45° line is consistent.
Correction language: “Your V is too narrow/wide — match your partner’s arm spacing.”

GymTyme Illinois is particularly known for their attention to technical detail in every transition and count. Coach Colleen Peddle notes that their athletes “strive to be their best every time they practice,” which is evident in Fever’s consistent execution of fundamentals like V motions throughout their championship routines.

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Teaching the Whole Team

Step 1: Floor Grid for Angle Consistency

Mark 45° lines on the floor with tape extending outward from each athlete’s center point. These act as alignment guides for both High V and Low V. Cue: “Hit your V to the line – not beyond it.”

Step 2: Visual Synchronization

Film the team from the front and above if possible. Pause frames at each V to identify uneven angles. Adjust arm width and height as a group.

This filming technique is standard practice at top programs. Watch any performance from The California All Stars Black Ops or World Cup All Stars Shooting Stars and you’ll see the results of this level of video analysis – perfect synchronization that creates powerful visual impact.

Step 3: Integration into Choreography

Transition drills: practice moving from T → High V → Low V → punch → High V on counts 1-8. Cue: “Every V is identical – same reach, same stop, same confidence.”

Coaching Language That Resonates

The words a coach uses determine how tension or relaxation manifests. Effective cues:

“Lift without shrugging.”
“Reach from your back, not your neck.”
“Arms long, ribs in.”
“Energy out your fingers, not your traps.”
“Tall spine, heavy shoulders.”

Avoid:

“Tighten up” – creates trap tension.
“Higher arms” – causes shoulder lift.

Common Athlete Errors and How to Correct Them

Error: Shoulders lift toward ears

Cause: Over-activation of upper traps

Correction: Cue downward press: “Slide shoulders into your back pockets.” Add lat-pull drills.

Error: Rib flare / arched back

Cause: Weak core engagement

Correction: Incorporate plank and hollow-body holds; cue “ribs down, core tight.”

Error: Uneven V angles

Cause: Dominant arm or shoulder imbalance

Correction: Mirror practice; use resistance band symmetry drills.

Error: Soft wrists

Cause: Lack of forearm tension

Correction: Reinforce “blade hand” cue; add wall-press tension exercises.

Error: Bent elbows

Cause: Poor triceps control

Correction: Light dumbbell V-holds to build endurance.

South Coast Cheer Fearless has demonstrated how eliminating these errors at the foundational level leads to three consecutive World Championship titles. Their XSmall division team proves that when every athlete masters these corrections, the collective visual impact is unmatched.

Drills for Developing Perfect V Technique

1. Wall Alignment Drill

Stand six inches from a wall. Perform High V and Low V without touching it. If wrists or elbows hit, the V is too narrow or wide.

2. Resistance V Holds

Loop a light band around wrists. Maintain outward pressure while holding a High V for 15 seconds; repeat Low V. Builds symmetrical engagement.

3. Tempo V Transitions

Execute controlled V changes to a metronome (80–100 BPM). Focus on hitting exact 45° endpoints.

4. “Shoulders Down” Cue Drill

Coach places a palm lightly on athlete’s traps during motion. The goal: perform full V without rising into the hand.

5. Full-Team V Sync Challenge

Entire team hits alternating High V/Low V to 8-count music. Any misaligned athlete restarts the round. Reinforces collective accountability.

Elite programs like Top Gun All Stars Miami integrate these drills into daily practice. With nine World Championship titles for TGLC alone, their commitment to fundamental excellence in motions like the High V and Low V is evident in every performance.

Conditioning for V Endurance

Strong V positions require posterior-chain balance and shoulder stamina. Integrate:

* Reverse flys (3×12 at 8 lbs)

* Scapular retraction band pulls (3×15)

* Plank arm raises (3×10 each side)

* 30-second High V/Low V holds under fatigue conditions

Cue: “When your arms burn, hold the line – that’s your real V.”

Cheer Athletics Plano has partnered with Sports Academy to provide their Elite teams with specialized strength, flexibility, and conditioning programs for the 2025-2026 season. This type of targeted conditioning helps teams like Panthers (multiple World Champions) and Cheetahs maintain technical precision even under the physical demands of a full routine.

Learning from the Best: What Championship Teams Do Differently

When analyzing the 2025 MAJORS and Cheerleading Worlds results, certain patterns emerge among champion teams:

Consistency Across All Athletes: Watch Cheer Extreme Raleigh SSX’s routines and you’ll see that every athlete – not just the strongest ones – demonstrates identical shoulder placement and angle precision in their V motions. This team consistency is what allowed them to score 164.85 with zero deductions at Worlds 2024.
Detail-Oriented Practice: GymTyme Illinois focuses on “every count” of their routines, according to their coaching staff. This attention to transitions and details extends to fundamental motions, ensuring that V positions are always sharp, never rushed or lazy.
Zero Tolerance for Technical Errors: The Stingray Allstars programs (with teams like Peach and Orange winning MAJORS divisions) maintain high standards for motion technique. A sloppy V is corrected immediately, reinforcing that fundamentals are never beneath any athlete’s attention.
Progressive Skill Development: Cheer Extreme Raleigh’s pathway from developmental teams to world-champion squads like SSX shows how building proper V technique from Level 2 creates athletes who can execute flawlessly at Level 6. They “track kids from one team to the next” to ensure proper technical foundation.

Teaching clean High V and Low V positions is about structural discipline, not brute force. The coach’s role is to train posture first, then angle precision, and finally tension control. Build awareness from the shoulders down, not the hands up.

The 2024-2025 season has shown us through teams like South Coast Cheer Fearless (three-peat champions), GymTyme Illinois Fever (back-to-back champions), Cheer Extreme Raleigh SSX (six-time champions), and Cheer Athletics Plano Cheetahs (MAJORS champions) that technical excellence in fundamentals is what separates good teams from championship programs. When you invest time in perfecting V motions, you’re not just fixing arm positions – you’re building a foundation for every elite skill that follows.

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Teaching Perfect Arm Angles How to Correct Chicken Wings Dropped Elbows and Soft Wrists

Posted on November 7, 2025November 7, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

07
Nov

By Steve Pawlyk

Published November 7, 2025

In competitive All-Star cheerleading, sharp motions define the difference between a clean, high-scoring routine and one that looks unrefined. Teaching athletes how to execute crisp, dynamic arm movements with precision and body control is fundamental to building strong visuals and synchronicity across your team. This guide walks All-Star coaches through a technical, step-by-step process for teaching sharp motions effectively – from individual drills to full-team synchronization – while addressing common errors, timing issues, and body alignment problems that often hold athletes back.

Understanding the Mechanics of Sharp Motions

Definition:
A “sharp motion” is a quick, controlled movement that stops abruptly at a precise endpoint with visible muscle engagement. It requires correct arm path, shoulder alignment, and total-body engagement.

Core Elements of Sharpness:

Tension: Muscles are fully engaged without appearing rigid.
Accuracy: Arm placement hits exact angles (e.g., 45°, 90°).
Timing: Motion reaches its final position simultaneously across athletes.
Control: Movement stops cleanly, with no bounce or wobble.

Key Muscles Used:
Deltoids, trapezius, latissimus dorsi, biceps/triceps, and core stabilizers.

Step-by-Step: Teaching Sharp Motions One-on-One

Step 1: Establish Muscle Awareness

Drill: Have the athlete hold a High V for 10 seconds. Then cue:
“Tighten your arms until they feel like steel – now breathe without letting the arms move.”
This develops static control and shoulder stability.

Step 2: Teach Arm Pathways

Use mirror feedback. Demonstrate a motion slowly, tracing the arm path.
Cue: “Travel through the air like you’re slicing – not floating.”
Have the athlete practice T → High V → Low V transitions at half-speed, then full-speed, maintaining tight paths and deliberate stops.

Step 3: Reinforce Visual Symmetry

Correct uneven elbows by cueing: “Both elbows should look like twins – same height, same line.”
Photograph or record the athlete mid-motion for visual correction.

Step 4: Add Controlled Speed

Once the athlete can execute cleanly at half-speed, use a metronome or counts.
Cue: “Hit, hold, snap back – no extra noise in between.”

One-on-One Focus: Keep feedback specific and immediate – correct after every rep. For developing athletes, emphasize “clean over fast.”

Teaching Small Groups: Building Consistency

When moving from individual correction to group work (3-5 athletes), the goal shifts from precision to uniformity.

Step 1: Synchronization Drills

Drill: Assign one athlete as the “lead” and have others match their timing and stop point.
Use 8-count tracks at 100 – 120 BPM for consistency.

Step 2: Peripheral Awareness

Cue athletes to use side vision to check alignment:
“Your arms should land in the same line as your neighbor’s. If you see a hand out of place, match it.”

Step 3: Micro-Timing Adjustments

Record group motions in slow-motion.
Identify the athlete who hits early or late, then isolate and re-sync.
Use rhythmic clapping or verbal counts (“1-and-HIT”) to reinforce team timing.

Teaching Full-Team Precision

Step 1: Formations and Spacing

Sharp motions lose impact when spacing drifts. Tape lines on the floor to keep spacing exact (arms-length apart).
Cue: “Your visual space is part of the motion – protect your square.”

Step 2: Layered Instruction

Start with silent run-throughs – no music, just visual hits.
Progress to count-based: “5-6-7-8!”
End with music-speed execution and pause drills between counts to check visuals.

Step 3: Visual Synchronization Drills

Use video playback and freeze frames at key motions (High V, T, Punch, etc.) to identify misalignments.
Assign “correction partners” – athletes who check each other’s arm levels and tension before full runs.

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Coaching Language That Works

The phrasing you use directly influences athlete response. Avoid abstract cues like “be sharp” or “hit harder.” Replace them with sensory and mechanical instructions.

Effective Coaching Phrases:

“Imagine your arms are blades cutting the air.”
“Snap into place like a magnet hitting metal.”
“Hold tension like you’re trying to flex your arms into the floor.”
“Freeze, don’t bounce.”
“Clean lines over fast arms.”

Common Athlete Errors and How to Correct Them

Error	Cause	Correction
Bent elbows	Weak triceps or poor tension awareness	“Lock but don’t lock out – think steel, not wood.” Drill with 3-lb dumbbells.
Uneven arms	Shoulder misalignment or hand dominance	Train both sides equally. Use mirror or laser alignment drills.
Wobbly stops	Lack of core engagement	Add plank and hollow hold conditioning. Cue: “Freeze from your ribs, not your wrists.”
Soft wrists	Weak tension through forearm	Incorporate “blade hand” drills – open palm tension holds for 8 counts.
Sloppy transitions	Rushed counts or overextension	Slow down, isolate each transition. “Every path is a punch, not a wave.”

Progressive Drills for Mastery

Isolation Drill: Perform each motion slowly to counts – no transitions. Focus only on angle accuracy.
Snap Drill: Hit T → High V → Low V → T in rhythm to a metronome, pausing between each to check angles.
Mirror Match Drill: Two athletes face each other and mirror motions simultaneously. Immediate visual feedback reinforces synchronization.
Resistance Band Drill: Attach light bands to wrists. Perform motions while maintaining band tension – builds strength and control.
Full-Team Clean Hit Challenge: Every athlete must freeze at the end of each motion; any visible bounce or movement restarts the count.

Building Endurance for Sharp Motions

Sharp motions require not only precision but also endurance. Incorporate these conditioning elements:

Shoulder holds: 3 sets of 30-second High Vs with light dumbbells.
Core stabilization: Hollow holds and plank variations to reduce upper-body wobble.
Repetition drills: 50-count sets of full-out motions to simulate routine fatigue.

Cue during conditioning: “Your arms should look the same on count 1 as they do on count 50.”

When an Athlete Struggles

Common Struggles:

Arms aren’t hitting sharp or fast enough:
- Cause: Lack of muscle engagement or understanding of “motion lock.”
- Fix: Have the athlete perform slow-motion hits against light resistance bands to feel the tension through shoulders, triceps, and wrists. Cue “lock from the shoulder, not the elbow.” Reinforce with short-count drills — e.g., “1–hit, 2–freeze.”
Elbows bend or wrists flop at the end of the motion:
- Cause: Weak upper-arm engagement or fatigue during repetition.
- Fix: Add static arm holds (10 seconds per motion) and isometric presses against a wall. Cue “squeeze through your arms like you’re cracking glass.”
Angles inconsistent between left and right sides:
- Cause: Poor proprioception or shoulder imbalance.
- Fix: Drill in front of a mirror or record video feedback. Have the athlete hit one motion at a time and freeze for visual alignment checks. Cue “match the mirror, not your memory.”
Athlete can’t find visual uniformity in team formations:
- Cause: Over-focusing on personal execution instead of spatial awareness.
- Fix: Use “mirror pairs” — partner the athlete beside your cleanest performer and run synchronized drills. Cue “your job is to disappear into the line.”
Timing late or early on counts:
- Cause: Overthinking or reacting visually instead of audibly.
- Fix: Practice hitting on a metronome beat or 8-count track. Cue “hit the sound, not the sight.”

Coach Tip:
When a particular athlete struggles to “feel” the sharpness, try tactile feedback. Have the athlete hold a lightweight resistance band across both wrists or a small towel between hands — this creates tangible tension through the arms and instantly teaches them what “tight” actually feels like. The goal isn’t punishment; it’s awareness. Once they feel it, they can replicate it without the tool.

Teaching sharp motions isn’t about speed — it’s about accuracy, control, and tension. Start slow, demand consistency, and build synchronization from the ground up. The payoff is visual cleanliness, team unity, and a routine that commands attention from judges the moment the first motion hits.

Stay tuned for more coaching tips from our Cheer How-To Series

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The College Cheer Boom: New Opportunities for High-School Programs

Posted on November 5, 2025November 5, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

05
Nov

By Steve Pawlyk

Published November 5, 2025

Across the US, more colleges are expanding or relaunching competitive cheer programs. St. Philip’s College just introduced a stomp-and-shake squad that celebrates HBCU culture, and the University of the Pacific, is now rebuilding its cheer presence after years away. These moves mark a cultural and competitive shift: the college cheer landscape is diversifying, and that means every high-school and all-star coach needs to rethink how they’re preparing athletes for what’s next.

Stomp and Shake Goes Mainstream

At St. Philip’s College, Coach Zenobia Tucker is introducing Texas audiences to a rhythmic, chant-driven, dance-heavy style historically rooted in HBCUs. It’s energetic, expressive, and unapologetically cultural-a far cry from the rigid precision of traditional competitive cheer. As more colleges adopt unique styles, recruiters are valuing individuality, showmanship, and rhythm just as much as raw difficulty.

Why it matters for feeder programs

High-school and all-star programs that expose athletes to multiple cheer “dialects”-traditional, game-day, stomp-and-shake, STUNT-will produce more adaptable, recruitable talent. Versatility is the new differentiator.

The University Reboot Trend

The University of the Pacific’s decision to relaunch its squads mirrors a national wave of collegiate re-investment. Programs once considered “sideline only” are now aligning with varsity athletics, offering scholarships, and competing nationally. For high-school coaches, this translates into new pipelines, scholarship opportunities, and higher stakes for athlete readiness.

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3 Drills to Prep Athletes for College Cheer Tryouts mobile

1. Style-Switch Routines

Goal: Train adaptability.
Have athletes perform a 45-second routine twice – first in traditional all-star style (tight motions, sharp lines, classic facials), then immediately in stomp-and-shake format (rhythmic, grounded, call-and-response energy).

Coaching cue: Focus on body control and facial engagement. College recruiters love athletes who can switch tempo and tone seamlessly.

2. Game-Day Command Challenge

Goal: Develop leadership and projection.
Run a “crowd-call gauntlet.” Each athlete must step to center mat and deliver a 15-second game-day call using full voice, clear diction, and eye contact – then lead a quick sideline sequence.

Coaching cue: Evaluate vocal power, presence, and clarity. College squads, especially those in HBCU or STUNT programs, value commanding communicators as much as tumblers.

3. Athlete-to-Coach Drill

Goal: Build teaching and teamwork skills.
Pair athletes and have each teach the other a short 8-count motion or jump combo. The “coach” must cue safely, correct form, and give feedback in under two minutes.

Coaching cue: This mimics the peer-teaching dynamic found in college programs and shows who can communicate technically under pressure.

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What High-School and All-Star Coaches Should Do Now

1. Treat cheer like a career pipeline

Build relationships with nearby college coaches. Encourage your juniors and seniors to attend collegiate combines or open practices. Maintain updated highlight reels-colleges now scout via Instagram and YouTube as often as in-person events.

2. Cross-train for multiple cheer styles

Mix in stomp-and-shake elements or game-day chant blocks during off-season practices. Athletes who can adapt their style to fit different collegiate cultures stand out immediately in tryouts.

3. Focus on communication and leadership skills

College programs prioritize athletes who can lead, teach, and engage crowds-not just throw elite skills. Assign captains to run warm-ups, mentor younger athletes, and manage social-media content responsibly.

4. Educate parents on the new recruiting landscape

Scholarships now appear at a wider range of schools, from D-II programs to community colleges like St. Philip’s. Host a “college cheer night” each spring where families can explore new programs, financial-aid paths, and travel expectations.

5. Track academic alignment

As more cheer teams earn varsity or club-sport recognition, GPA and credit load requirements are tightening. Help your athletes stay academically eligible early.

A Broader, More Inclusive Future

The expansion of competitive cheer isn’t just about more teams-it’s about more voices. HBCU-style programs like St. Philip’s introduce cultural diversity and expression that’s long overdue in collegiate cheer. This shift also challenges high-school coaches to broaden their athletes’ experiences: not every great cheerleader fits one mold, one uniform, or one choreography style.

The best feeder programs in 2025 will be those that teach adaptability-technical mastery with cultural fluency. The future of college cheer looks more inclusive, more athletic, and more expressive than ever.

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The 2025 All-Star Coaching Crisis: How Staff Retention Became the Hidden Battle in Cheerleading

Posted on November 4, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

04
Nov

By Steve Pawlyk

Published November 4, 2025

All-star cheer is stacked with choreography arms races and upgrade-season flexes, but the teams winning consistently in 2025 share a less flashy superpower: they keep great coaches. Across gyms, programs report rising burnout, thin hiring pools, and junior coaches cycling out just as they become valuable. With athlete numbers climbing again post-covid, staffing gaps can be brutal. So what do you do? You treat retention like a core competitive strategy.

Why retention is wobbling (and how it shows up on the mat)

Participation rebounded. High-school sports hit record participation in 2024-25, which swells feeder systems and tryout interest. That’s great—until your coaching bench is shallow and every extra team stretches staff thinner.
Coach burnout is real. Research on elite coaches points to heavy cognitive/emotional load, role conflict, and time pressure—classic burnout drivers that accelerate turnover. Gym-level guidance this year echoes the same theme: unchecked mental exhaustion tanks decision quality, erodes culture, and bleeds staff.
Policy and professionalism keep rising. From USASF compliance updates to USA Cheer’s body-positive uniform guidance and social-media consent norms, expectations on coaches are broader than “teach skills.” That’s progress—but it also expands the job description, which you must acknowledge with training and compensation.
Market shakeups siphon talent. Pro-style initiatives and high-visibility events (The MAJORS, Worlds pipelines) make top coaches more mobile and more valuable. If your gym doesn’t have a clear growth path, recruiters (and rivals) do.

Bottom line: retention isn’t “HR paperwork.” It’s the difference between clean, consistent hit-ratios and volatile seasons where skills stall because roles keep resetting.

The Retention Flywheel for Cheer Gyms (5 repeatable moves)

1) Redefine the job (and pay) for 2025 reality

What to do this month:

Publish role scorecards that include modern responsibilities: athlete-wellbeing practices, parent communications, compliance checkpoints, and social-media boundaries aligned to USA Cheer guidance.
Create tiered coach ladders (Assistant → Lead → Head → Program Director) with transparent criteria: certifications/credentailling status, team outcomes, athlete retention, safety/compliance execution. Note: USASF has a credentialing transition slated for late Fall 2025—build that into your ladder and budgets.
Peg pay ranges to role complexity and team count, not just mat hours. Add seasonal completion bonuses and “return next season” retention bonuses for senior staff.

Why it works:
People stay when expectations and compensation feel fair for the whole job you’re asking them to do—skills, culture, and compliance.

2) Build a bench with a STAFF Funnel

A pipeline beats panic hiring. Use this funnel to convert alumni and part-time talent into reliable coaches:

Scout: Invite alumni and college cheerleaders to shadow nights once per month.
Train: Run a quarterly “Assistant Coach Mini-Camp” (two evenings) covering progressions, spotting, athlete-wellbeing, and current USASF rules.
Apprentice: Assign each apprentice to one team + one mentor; track a simple skill-checklist and practice-planning reps.
Formalize: After 8–12 weeks, move successful apprentices onto the payroll with a clear ladder step and next credential.
Forecast: Maintain a 90-day hiring board with the number of athletes, projected teams, and required coaching hours to prevent last-minute scrambles.

3) Make mental-health sustainability part of operations

Structural fixes that beat “self-care” platitudes:

Cap practice loads per coach (e.g., 4 practices/night max, two consecutive late nights max).
Rotate “parent-night duty” so a single coach doesn’t absorb all high-friction conversations.
Schedule recovery windows after showcase/nationals weeks; plan coverage in advance.
Offer EAP-style resources or partner with a local provider for short-form counseling options.

These moves mirror best practice from coach-burnout literature and cheer-specific leadership guidance published this year.

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4) Upgrade onboarding: the First 90 Days blueprint

New hires leave when day-to-day reality doesn’t match the interview. Solve it with a tight 3-phase plan:

Days 1–30 (Absorb & Align)

Safety & progressions clinic (USASF rules, spotting protocols).
Culture primer: communication tone, uniform/photo policy, consent workflows.
Shadow two different head coaches; co-run warm-ups and cool-downs.

Days 31–60 (Own a Lane)

Own one specialty block (tumbling stations, baskets, or pyramids) on two teams.
Pass a feedback loop: submit one practice plan/week; receive written notes.

Days 61–90 (Lead with Support)

Lead a full practice under observation; get a scored rubric on pacing, technical accuracy, and athlete communication.
Meet with the director to set next-season goals tied to the ladder (e.g., credentialing step, team assignment).

5) Tie retention to performance KPIs coaches actually control

Track 4 coaching KPIs monthly—share the dashboard with staff:

Athlete Retention % (by team and season-to-date)
Skill Progression Rate (e.g., % of athletes who advanced a tumbling/jump/stunt progression)
Safety/Compliance Hits (checklist adherence, incident-report quality)
Parent Satisfaction (2-question pulse after showcases: communication clarity + athlete experience)

Reward improvements with cash or PTO, not just plaques.

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Hiring: stop fishing; build bait

The market is noisy. Here’s what’s cutting through in 2025:

Mission-first job posts. Lead with athlete experience and safety—not just “come win banners.” (Consider Indeed/USA Cheer listings language trends and program context.)
Show your ladder and pay philosophy in the post. If you hide it, your competitor will flaunt theirs.
Offer portfolio time. Allocate 1–2 paid hours/week for lesson-planning and film review—top coaches value prep time.
Flexible contracts. Split roles (e.g., “Tumbling Lead Tue/Thu + Weekend Choreo”) to attract college-seasonal staff and parents with coaching backgrounds.

Culture: the moat your rivals can’t copy

Uniform and media-consent conversations used to be afterthoughts; they’re table stakes now. Gyms adopting the updated USA Cheer posture (body-positive, consent-forward, athlete-first) are seeing better parent relations and stronger staff morale—because coaches aren’t firefighting preventable conflicts every week. Pair that with intentional team-bonding and you get the compound effect: athletes stay longer, parents become advocates, and coaches do their best work instead of their most work.

Putting it together: a one-page retention plan you can deploy this week

1) Publish: role scorecards + the four KPIs. (30 minutes)
2) Announce: a two-step retention bonus (season completion + next-season return). (15 minutes)
3) Schedule: a monthly Shadow Night + quarterly Assistant Coach Mini-Camp. (15 minutes)
4) Install: practice-load caps and a rotating parent-duty schedule. (20 minutes)
5) Kick off: the 90-day onboarding track for any coach hired since June. (15 minutes)

Total: ~95 minutes to signal you’re serious.

The top of all-star is ruthless and glamorous (hello, The MAJORS), but the through-line among perennial finalists is continuity. They don’t re-learn systems every fall. They don’t re-negotiate culture via group texts. They retain. As the sport professionalizes (credentialing refresh, compliance, bigger events, even semi-pro pathways), smart directors are building organizations where great coaches want to stay. That’s the competitive edge in 2025.

If you’re still treating retention like “hope they come back,” you’re paying the price in skill plateaus, chaotic schedules, and frazzled staff. Treat it like choreography: design it, rehearse it, score it. Your coaches will feel the difference—and so will your scores.

Appendix: copy-paste assets

Sample job post snippet (steal this):

Lead All-Star Coach (Progressions + Culture) — Boston North
You’ll lead stunt/tumbling progressions for 2–3 teams, co-own athlete-wellbeing and safety checklists (USASF), and help us deliver a consent-forward, body-positive athlete experience (USA Cheer guidance). Transparent ladder, paid prep time, completion & return bonuses. Apply with one practice plan and one short video clip explaining your progression philosophy.

6-point parent communication policy (shareable)

24-hour “cool-down” after events
One weekly update per team (logistics + goals)
No athlete images posted without consent (team policy link)
Stick to chain of command (assistant → head → director)
Safety & compliance questions answered in writing within 48 hours
6. Quarterly parent town-hall (15 minutes + Q&A)

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From the Barn to Champions: How Celebrity Cheer Built a Dynasty in Six Years

Posted on October 24, 2025October 24, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

24
Oct

By Steve Pawlyk

Published October 24, 2025

Let me tell you a story that’ll make you rethink everything you know about building a championship program.

It’s 2020. The world is shut down. Everyone’s figuring out how to practice in parking lots and driveways. And in York, Pennsylvania, two sisters, Amber Urey and Bethany Wilkerson, are standing in a barn that’s usually rented out for weddings, looking at a single tumbling mat, and they think: “Yeah, we can start an All-Star gym here.”

Fast forward to 2025. Celebrity Cheer is now an NCA, CHEERSPORT, and Summit champion. They’re running 11 teams spanning ages 3 to 18, from beginner rec through elite level 5. And they did all of this in six years.

Sooo…the question is….How? How did they do this?

Let’s run it out.

The Maryland Twisters Blueprint

Here’s the thing about Amber and Bethany: they weren’t just randos that decided to open a gym. They came up through Maryland Twisters Black Ice, one of the most respected programs in the country. They saw how elite gyms operate from the inside.

That experience is everything. They knew what championship culture looked like before they tried to build it.

When you’ve lived in a program that produces consistent excellence, you internalize things you don’t even realize: How practices should flow. What kind of corrections elite athletes respond to. The difference between working hard and working smart. The importance of small details that separate good routines from winning routines.

But here’s what’s interesting. They didn’t try to be Maryland Twisters. They built something different, something that worked for their community and their vision.

Starting in a Barn (Yes, Actually a Barn)

The barn-turned-wedding-venue detail isn’t just a cute origin story. It’s actually the most important part.

Because when you start with one mat in a barn during COVID, you can’t hide behind fancy facilities or equipment. You either have solid coaching fundamentals or you don’t. You either create real culture or you don’t. You either develop athletes properly or you don’t.

Think about it: No parents were joining Celebrity Cheer in 2020 because of their IG-worthy facility or their trophy case. They joined because they believed in Amber and Bethany as coaches.

That’s a completely different foundation than gyms that start with investor money, huge facilities, and big marketing budgets. Celebrity Cheer had to prove they could coach before they could prove anything else.

The “Home-Grown” Philosophy

Here’s where it gets really instructive for anybody building a program.

Celebrity Cheer’s success isn’t built on recruiting superstars from other gyms. It’s built on taking young athletes (sometimes starting at age 3) and developing them all the way through to elite levels.

Why does this matter?

First, it’s sustainable. You’re not constantly losing athletes to poaching. You’re not dealing with drama about kids switching gyms every season. You build loyalty because families see their kids grow up in your program.

Second, it creates unified technique. When athletes learn your system from the beginning, you don’t spend years breaking bad habits they picked up elsewhere. Your level 1 athletes are learning the same progressions that your level 5 athletes mastered. Everything connects.

Third, it proves your coaching works. Anyone can assemble a team of talent. Building that talent from scratch? That’s the real flex.

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From 1 Team to 11 Teams: Strategic Growth

Let’s talk about how they scaled, because this is where most gyms screw up.

Celebrity Cheer didn’t go from a barn to 11 teams overnight. They grew strategically, adding teams as they had the coaching capacity and facility space to maintain quality.

This is crucial: They chose quality over quantity at every decision point.

Too many gym owners see dollar signs and expand faster than their coaching staff can handle. You end up with teams that don’t get enough attention, parents who feel ignored, and a reputation for being “the big gym where my kid is just a number.”

Celebrity Cheer did the opposite. They made sure each team had proper coaching ratios, adequate practice time, and the resources needed to succeed. Only then did they add another team.

The result? Eleven teams that are all well-coached, not eleven teams where only the top one or two get real attention.

What You Can Steal from Their Playbook

Okay, practical coaching wisdom time. Here’s what we can learn:

1. Your credentials matter less than your coaching ability. Amber and Bethany’s Maryland Twisters background gave them credibility, but the barn situation stripped away any ability to coast on reputation. They had to deliver results. Focus on becoming an excellent technical coach, not just collecting certifications.

2. Culture eats facilities for breakfast. Parents will drive past nicer gyms to bring their kids to coaches who genuinely care and produce results. Invest in your coaching skills and team culture before you invest in fancy equipment.

3. The “home-grown athlete” model is underrated. Stop obsessing over recruiting. Start obsessing over developing the athletes already in front of you. Build progressions that turn your tiny novices into your senior elite athletes five years later.

4. Growth should serve quality, not replace it. Before you add a team, ask: Do we have the coaching staff to do this right? Do we have the facility time? Can we maintain the same standard we’ve set? If the answer is no, wait.

5. Your background informs your system, but shouldn’t limit it. Amber and Bethany learned from Maryland Twisters but built Celebrity Cheer to fit their community and vision. Respect where you learned, but don’t be afraid to do things differently.

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The Six-Year Timeline Reality Check

Can you really go from a barn to national championships in six years?

Celebrity Cheer has proven you can. But let’s be honest about what that requires:

Elite coaching knowledge from day one. They didn’t figure out coaching while building the gym. They already knew how to coach at a high level.
Smart growth decisions. They didn’t try to do everything immediately.
A clear development pipeline. They built progressions that worked from tiny novice through senior elite.
Consistent execution. Six years of showing up every single day and doing the work.

This isn’t a “start a gym with no experience and win championships next year” story. This is a “bring real coaching expertise, make smart decisions, and execute consistently for six years” story.

But here’s the encouraging part: 6 years is actually pretty fast. Most dynasty programs take a decade or more to reach national championship levels. Celebrity Cheer compressed that timeline by doing a lot of things right from the jump.

The Barn Probably Helped, Actually

Here’s my somewhat contrarian take: Starting in that barn might have been an advantage.

When you have limited resources, you become resourceful. When you can’t rely on fancy facilities to attract families, you build real relationships. When you have one mat, you get really creative about maximizing every minute of practice time.

Some of the worst-coached teams I’ve seen come from gyms with the most impressive facilities. Because the facility becomes the product instead of the coaching.

Celebrity Cheer never had that luxury. The coaching had to be the product from day one.

What This Means for You

Whether you’re starting a new program, rebuilding one, or trying to take your established gym to the next level, Celebrity Cheer’s story offers a blueprint:

Start with real coaching expertise. If you don’t have it yet, go get it. Work under coaches who know what they’re doing. Learn the technical progressions inside and out.

Build culture before you build empire. Get one team right before you add ten teams.

Develop your athletes instead of constantly recruiting. Create a system that takes beginners and turns them into champions over multiple years.

Grow strategically, not desperately. Only expand when you can maintain quality.

Remember that championships come from coaching, not facilities. The barn was temporary. The coaching knowledge was permanent.

And maybe most importantly:

Trust the process. Six years feels like forever when you’re in it. But looking back, it’s a remarkably fast trajectory from barn to dynasty.

So if you’re coaching in less-than-ideal circumstances right now. Maybe your practice space isn’t great, maybe you don’t have a huge budget, maybe you’re starting from scratch. Remember, Amber and Bethany standing in that barn in 2020 with one mat and a vision.

They built a championship program from that.

And you could too.

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Why You Overrotate When Adding a Roundoff: The Real Deal on Standing vs Running Tumbling

Posted on September 10, 2025September 11, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

10
Sep

By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 10, 2025

A few days ago, someone posted a video in r/cheerleading asking why they kept overrotating their kick fulls. I jumped in with this whole article about kick full technique. I was pretty proud of it, honestly. 😊 Then she dropped a very polite comment that showed how I kinda missed her point.

She basically said: “Cool article, but this isn’t just about kick fulls. This happens with literally any skill when I go from standing to running. Like, I can nail standing doubles on tumble track, but when I need a roundoff-BHS for triples, I overrotate onto my back every time.”

And you know what? She was 100% right. I’d completely missed the bigger picture. Her problem wasn’t about one specific skill. It was about something way more fundamental that affects pretty much every tumbler who’s leveling up. So I went back, did my homework, talked to a bunch of coaches, and wrote this completely new article that actually addresses what’s really going on.

To the athlete OP from r/cheerleading (u/Beginning_Army_9084): respect. This one’s for you.

⚠️ Real Talk: Safety First

Look, I need to be super clear here. Everything in this article is dangerous if you try it without proper coaching. I’m talking about:

You NEED a certified coach watching you
You NEED to be in a real gym with proper mats and equipment
You NEED to have the basics down first
You NEED someone spotting you until your coach says you’re good to go solo

Please don’t try this stuff in your backyard or basement. I’m serious. People get paralyzed or worse from tumbling wrong. This isn’t meant to scare you. It’s just reality.

The Problem Everyone Faces (But Nobody Explains Well)

So here’s the deal: You’ve got your standing doubles looking clean. You’re feeling good. Then you add a roundoff-back handspring and suddenly you’re rotating way too fast and landing on your back. Sound familiar?

One athlete described it perfectly: “I can do standing double fulls on tumble track just fine, but I can’t do standing triples, so I need to add a roundoff-BHS. But then I overrotate and land on my back.”

This isn’t just you being weird or doing something wrong. It’s a legit biomechanical thing (fancy word for how your body moves) that happens to basically everyone when they start combining standing and running skills.

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Why This Happens: The Science Stuff (Made Simple)

1. Your Roundoff Changes Everything

Here’s what research actually tells us: roundoffs literally turn your forward running speed into upward and backward power. When you add that to the technique you use for standing skills, you suddenly have way more rotation than you know what to do with.

Think of it this way: It’s like you’re used to driving 30mph and suddenly you’re going 60mph but still trying to brake at the same spot. Of course you’re gonna overshoot.

2. Your Muscles Fire Totally Differently

This is kinda wild. So scientists have studied this and found that your muscles actually work in a completely different order when you’re tumbling from a run versus standing still. Like, your calf muscles (gastrocnemius if you wanna get fancy) and your quads work together differently, and your hamstrings kick in at different times.

Real world translation: Imagine throwing a baseball while standing still versus throwing while running. Same arm motion, right? But your whole body has to adjust to handle the momentum. That’s exactly what’s happening with your tumbling.

3. Your Brain is Playing Catch-Up

Your brain has basically memorized how to do your standing skills. It knows what to look for (visual cues), what your body position feels like (that’s the proprioceptive thing; basically your body’s GPS system), and when to fire which muscles. But when you suddenly add speed, your brain can’t adjust fast enough.

What this feels like: You know that weird feeling when you step on an escalator that’s broken and not moving? Your brain expects motion but gets stillness, and you feel all off-balance for a second? That’s basically what’s happening here, but in reverse. Your brain expects standing-speed but gets running-speed, and everything feels wrong.

The Real Issue: You’re Using the Wrong Technique for the Situation

Here’s the truth bomb: The technique that works perfectly for your standing skills just doesn’t work when you add running momentum. Research on tumbling shows that how you take off literally determines how much power and rotation you generate, and the technique for standing is totally different from running.

Think about it like this: You’re trying to use the same parking technique whether you’re going 5mph or 50mph. That’s obviously not gonna work.

Standing Skills (What You’re Used To):

You’re on the ground longer during takeoff
You have time to really set up your rotation
Your body stays pretty upright
All your power comes from your leg push
You control everything

Running Skills (What You Need to Learn):

You have to be way quicker off the ground
The roundoff already started your rotation for you
You’re dealing with forward momentum you have to redirect
Your power comes from legs PLUS all that running speed
There’s way more going on to manage

Easy comparison: Standing skills are like jumping straight up from a chair—controlled, predictable. Running skills are like jumping off a moving skateboard—everything’s faster and if you don’t adjust, you’re eating mat.

Before You Even Think About This Stuff: The Non-Negotiables

Real talk—if you can’t do these things, you’re not ready for what we’re talking about:

Strength Stuff You Need:

✓ Hold a handstand against the wall for a full minute (yes, 60 seconds, no cheating) ✓ Hold a free handstand for at least 5 seconds without walking around ✓ Bang out 10 solid handstand snap-downs ✓ Hold a bridge with your shoulders over your hands for 10-20 seconds ✓ Do hollow body rocks for 30 seconds, 5 times (and actually stay hollow) ✓ Jump backward onto something hip-height (box, mats, whatever)

Skills You Better Have First:

✓ A consistent standing back handspring (not just “I did it once”) ✓ A roundoff that actually rebounds (not just falls backward) ✓ Either a back walkover OR bridge kickover (shows you have the flexibility) ✓ The standing version of whatever skill you’re trying to add a roundoff to

If you’re reading this list thinking “uh, I can’t do half of this”—then stop here. Work on these first. Seriously.

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How to Actually Fix This (With Your Coach!)

Step 1: Figure Out What’s Actually Happening

Your coach needs to film you doing:

Your standing skill (like a standing double)
The same skill from a roundoff-back handspring
Then you both need to look at the difference

Red flags to watch for:

You keep landing on your back or shoulders (bad news)
Your chest falls backward every time
You can’t control easier skills before trying harder ones
You’re scared of running passes but not standing ones
Your feet land way behind where they should

standing vs running power step 1 competitive cheerleading

Step 2: Get That Hollow Body on Lock

When you add speed, your body naturally wants to arch backward like crazy. Coaches call this “arch temptation” and it’s super real. You have to fight this with specific hollow body training.

What’s happening: When you go fast, your body wants to turn into a banana. It’s like when you’re in a car that accelerates hard and you lean back into the seat; except in tumbling, that’ll mess everything up.

Drills your coach will have you do:

Hollow rocks with different arm positions – 30 seconds, 3 times
Handstand snap-downs staying hollow – The key is keeping that shape even when going fast
Roundoff to stick landing – Just land it, no extra skills
Roundoff jump-backs – Jump backward onto raised mats, staying tight

Step 3: Relearn Your Timing (This is the Game-Changer)

Here’s what science tells us: your muscles have to work in a different pattern for running skills. While we can’t put an exact percentage on it, you definitely need to snap down earlier when you’re coming out of a roundoff.

Easier way to think about it: Standing skills give you time to really pull and snap. From a roundoff? Everything’s gotta happen faster. It’s like the difference between a casual high-five and trying to high-five someone when you’re both running—the timing is totally different.

The Main Drill (Always With a Spotter):

Do your roundoff-back handspring
But instead of your usual skill, just do a layout with ZERO twist
Try to snap earlier than feels normal
Land in control (not trying to stick it perfectly upright)
Only add twisting when your coach says you’re ready

Step 4: Learn Control, Not Maximum Power

How to Progress (Everyone’s Different on Timing):

Phase 1: Keep It Simple (At Least 2-3 Weeks)

Just do roundoff-back handspring-layouts (no twisting at all)
Focus on where your chest ends up when you land
Need to nail this at least 10 times before moving on

Phase 2: Add a Little Twist (Another 2-3 Weeks Minimum)

Try roundoff-back handspring-Arabians (that’s a half twist to your stomach)
This forces you to set right because you can’t cheat it
Has to be consistent before moving on

Phase 3: Bring Back Your Full Skill (This Takes Forever for Some People)

Don’t go full power right away
Film everything to review with your coach
Only add more power when you’re landing clean
Seriously, this can take months—that’s normal

Phase 4: Level Up (Only When Your Coach Says So)

Once doubles are boring and easy, maybe start thinking about triples
But if the easier skill isn’t automatic, you’re not ready for harder stuff

The Cues That Actually Help

What Your Coach Should Be Telling You:

“Set up before you twist” – The roundoff gives you spin, you just need to go UP
“Snap earlier” – Your legs need to move faster than in standing
“Same shapes, different timing” – Keep your technique, just adjust when stuff happens
“Up and a little forward, not back” – Fight that backward pull

What Your Coach is Looking For:

Your chest should be neutral or slightly forward at takeoff
Your eyes should see the ceiling, not the wall behind you
Your arms should punch up, not reach back
Your feet should land under you or slightly in front

Quick Reference Training Card for Coaches Step 7

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Mistakes That Make Everything Worse

1. Taking a Huge Run-Up

More steps doesn’t mean more control. Research on sprinting shows people hit near-top speed in just a few steps. Your coach will tell you how many steps to take (usually like 2-3 power steps).

Why this matters: Taking a massive run-up just gives you more time to mess up. Keep it simple.

2. Jumping UP Into Your Roundoff

This kills your momentum. You want to hurdle forward, not up.

Think about it: Be a race car staying low and fast, not a pogo stick bouncing up and down. Every bit of upward bounce is wasted energy.

3. Skipping Steps in Training

Your brain needs time to adjust. Work with your coach to use the right progression for your gym. Don’t try to rush it just because your friend is doing harder stuff.

4. Those Weird Backward Steps

Okay, this is confusing. In cheerleading rules, if you go backward, it’s technically “standing tumbling” even if you take steps back. But from a how-your-body-works perspective, those steps create momentum so it’s not really “standing” anymore.

The issue: Taking backward steps before your “standing” skills creates this weird in-between technique that doesn’t work well for either real standing OR running skills. Work with your coach to keep your technique clean.

Mistakes That Make Everything Worse

1. Taking a Huge Run-Up

More steps doesn’t mean more control. Research on sprinting shows people hit near-top speed in just a few steps. Your coach will tell you how many steps to take (usually like 2-3 power steps).

Why this matters: Taking a massive run-up just gives you more time to mess up. Keep it simple.

2. Jumping UP Into Your Roundoff

This kills your momentum. You want to hurdle forward, not up.

Think about it: Be a race car staying low and fast, not a pogo stick bouncing up and down. Every bit of upward bounce is wasted energy.

3. Skipping Steps in Training

Your brain needs time to adjust. Work with your coach to use the right progression for your gym. Don’t try to rush it just because your friend is doing harder stuff.

4. Those Weird Backward Steps

Let’s Talk About Mental Blocks (They’re Normal!)

What’s Really Going On

Mental blocks are legit psychological responses that sometimes need professional help. It’s not just “being scared”. It’s way more complex than that.

Here’s the deal: Your brain has multiple systems keeping track of what’s happening when you tumble:

What you see (visual)
Your balance system (vestibular: like your inner ear stuff)
Where your body parts are (proprioceptive: your body’s GPS)

When these systems get conflicting info at high speed, your brain can basically hit the emergency brake. That’s a mental block.

What might help (but only with your coach):

Super slow progression – Like, way more reps at each level than you think
Same routine every time – Same warm-up, same cues, same everything
Watch yourself succeed – Video review can help reprogram your brain
Get professional help – Sports psychologists are amazing for this stuff

Important: Mental blocks are NOT you being weak or a baby. They’re your brain trying to protect you. Never try to just “push through” without help.

When to STOP (This is Serious)

Your coach should stop you if:

You land on your neck or shoulders (even once)
You’re consistently scared and it’s not getting better
You feel lost in the air (don’t know where you are)
Anything hurts (back, neck, joints)
You can’t control what you’re currently working on
You’re too tired to keep good form

If any of this happens, stop. Rest. Maybe go back to easier stuff. This isn’t giving up. It’s being smart.

Everyone’s Different (And That’s Okay)

People progress at totally different speeds based on:

What training they’ve done before
Natural flexibility and strength
How they handle fear
How often they train and who coaches them
Their body type and proportions
How old they are

There’s no “normal” timeline. Some people get this in weeks, others take literally years. This doesn’t mean anything about how good you’ll eventually be; tons of elite athletes were “slow learners” at first.’

The Bottom Line: You Need Your Coach

The athlete who spotted this pattern was super smart, but being aware of the problem doesn’t fix it. You need:

A legit coach who knows their stuff
A real gym with proper equipment
Patience to work through everything properly
Consistent practice focusing on quality, not just throwing skills
Good communication with your coach about what you’re feeling

The science shows that elite athletes have to train their bodies to work differently for different situations. In normal words, standing and running skills need different timing, and you have to train both. It’s not about being stronger; it’s about being smarter with your training.

Last Words to the Reddit Athlete

Your comment about this being a universal problem was spot-on. The fact that you could see the pattern, “I can do it standing but overrotate from a roundoff” and connect it across different skills shows you really understand what’s happening. That kind of awareness is huge.

This isn’t you doing something wrong. It’s a normal thing that happens when you’re getting better. The research backs this up—different tumbling situations literally require your muscles to work in different patterns.

Keep working with your coach, trust the process (even when it’s slow), and remember that every elite tumbler has dealt with this exact same thing. The difference between people who figure it out and people who don’t isn’t talent. It’s having good coaching and the patience to do things right.

You’ve got this. But please, take your time, stay safe, and always have qualified supervision.

Quick Checklist for Athletes

Daily Conditioning (Only if your coach approves)

Hollow body rocks – 3 sets of 30 seconds
Wall handstands – Work up to 60 seconds
Bridges – Hold for 10-20 seconds
Whatever core work your coach assigns

Remember

Everyone progresses at their own speed
Mental blocks are normal, not weakness
Never train this stuff without your coach
If it hurts, stop immediately
Being safe is way more important than any skill

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Why Am I Overrotating My Kick Fulls? A Coach’s Guide (with Drills to Fix It)

Posted on September 1, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

01
Sep

By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 1, 2025

Cheer tumblers working on doubles often run into a frustrating problem: overrotation on their kick fulls. This issue shows up most often when athletes move from standing entries to roundoff entries, and it can make doubles feel impossible.

The good news? Overrotation isn’t a dead end — it’s actually a sign of power. With the right mechanics and drills, athletes can learn to control that power and use it as a foundation for doubles.

The Root Cause of Kick Full Overrotation

When an athlete goes from a standing kick full to a roundoff–back handspring–kick full, the entry changes everything:

Extra power and momentum: The roundoff + handspring produces more height and rotational energy than a standing kick, making the twist easier to over-rotate.
Delayed kickdown: Without snapping the legs down early enough, the layout rotation continues too long before the twist is complete.
Chest position at set: A chest that’s too open (arched) at takeoff almost always leads to excess flip rotation.

Why Roundoff Entries Make It Worse

Stronger rebound: Roundoff + handspring creates more lift, giving more airtime and faster twisting.
Different body position: From standing, athletes naturally kick legs under. From roundoff, snapdown is less pronounced, leaving the layout overextended.
Overcompensation: Athletes pushing harder for doubles often throw the layout too aggressively before twisting.

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Fixing Kick Full Overrotation

Here are the core adjustments to stop overrotating:

Focus on the Kickdown: Snap the kick under earlier to cut off excess layout rotation.
Drill Hollow Body Shapes: Hollow = control. Arch = overrotation.
Control the Set: Set high before twisting; don’t throw back.
Use Progressions Before Doubles: Build clean, consistent fulls before adding difficulty.
Review on Video: Frame-by-frame shows chest angle and leg snap timing.

Kick Full Correction Drill Plan for Coaches

This progression gives athletes a clear path to stop overrotating kick fulls. Don’t move forward until the athlete can hit clean, controlled landings consistently.

Step 1: Re-Establish Hollow Control

Purpose: Break the arch habit that fuels overrotation.

Drills:

Hollow Holds (4 x 30s)
Hollow Jumps on Tramp
Layout Snapdowns with Stick Landings

Cues: “Flat back, no arch.” | “Snap feet under faster.”

Step 2: Layout Control Before Twist

Purpose: Build a consistent layout base.

Drills:

Roundoff–Back Handspring–Layout Stick
Standing Kick Layouts (snapdown timing)
Layout Rebounds (no backward roll)

Cues: “Land like it’s the end of a pass.” | “Stop the flip early.”

Step 3: Controlled Fulls With Snapdowns

Purpose: Add twist without letting layout rotation dominate.

Drills:

Standing Kick Fulls to Layout Finish
Roundoff–Kick Full to Soft Mat Stick
Half-Twist (Arabian) Snapdown Drills

Cues: “Kick under before twisting.” | “Finish twist with chest, not back.”

Step 4: Roundoff Entry Control Work

Purpose: Adapt to extra power from roundoff entries.

Drills:

Roundoff–Kick Full to Stick
Roundoff–Kick Full to Layout Drill
Roundoff–Back Handspring–Layout to Mats

Cues: “Set high, don’t throw back.” | “Twist later than you think.”

Step 5: Progression Toward Doubles

Purpose: Control the single full first, then move into doubles safely.

Drills:

Two Perfect Kick Fulls Rule (hit 2 in a row clean)
Kick Full + Layout Combo
Doubles Into Pit (focus on snapdown)

Cues: “Master the single before chasing doubles.” | “Your full is your foundation.”

Overrotation on kick fulls isn’t a flaw — it’s a sign of power. The challenge is controlling that energy with better snapdowns, hollow body control, and a disciplined set. Once athletes can consistently hit controlled fulls, doubles become safer, smoother, and much more attainable.

With the right cues and this drill progression, coaches can turn an athlete’s biggest frustration into their clearest path forward.

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From First Client to 6-Time Champions: The Story of Oklahoma State University & IPP Music

Posted on July 24, 2025November 12, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

From First Client to Six Time Champions The Oklahoma State IPP Music Story 1

24
Jul

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 24, 2025

Here’s a story that still amazes me: The first major mix I ever produced was Oklahoma State University‘s championship mix for their 2011-12 season. I was actually with a different company that I had cofounded. OSU won their national championship in 2012 using that mix. But here’s what smart programs understand-OSU had found their sound. When I left to start IPP Music that summer, they made a strategic decision to maintain that consistency. They recognized that their musical identity had become part of their competitive advantage. What happened next changed everything-not just for IPP Music, but for how I understand the importance of signature sound in building championship programs.

The Call

When Coach Lindsey Bracken first contacted us, she was clear about what OSU needed: music that captured their identity, not just generic cheerleading songs. “We bleed orange,” she told me. “Our music needs to show that.”

I’ll be honest-the opportunity to mix for OSU back in 2012 is what began the trajectory that’s skyrocketed us to the position we are in today. Without OSU, we might not be as popular as we are now. But here’s what I didn’t expect: 12 years and 6 national championships later, they’re still with us. In an industry where programs often switch music providers like they’re changing practice wear, OSU’s loyalty has been both humbling and inspiring.

What Makes a Championship Partnership

After more than a decade working with Oklahoma State, I can tell you exactly why Coach Bracken says, “IPP provided music that encompasses our school pride so well and reflects our love for OSU.”

It’s not because we’re magicians with 8 count music or because we have some secret formula other companies don’t. It’s because from day one, we’ve approached their music as partners, not vendors. When OSU wins, we celebrate. When they face challenges, we problem-solve together. Their success is our success-literally.

The Numbers Tell the Story

Six national championships since 2012. Let that sink in. While other programs chase the newest music producer or the flashiest effects, Oklahoma State has stayed consistent with their cheer mix partner-and they’ve built a dynasty.

This isn’t luck. It’s what happens when a program commits to excellence in every aspect, including their music. Too many teams treat their cheer sounds as an afterthought, something to figure out after choreography is done. Champions like OSU know better. They understand that music is the foundation that elevates good routines to championship caliber.

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What We’ve Learned Together

Working with OSU has taught us invaluable lessons that now benefit all 1,134+ programs we serve.

Consistency Builds Champions

Programs that stick with one music producer develop a signature sound. Judges recognize it. Fans anticipate it. Athletes perform better to music that feels like “theirs.” OSU’s sustained success proves that musical consistency is a competitive advantage.

Understanding Beats Everything

We don’t just make premade cheer music or custom mixes-we study our partners. We learn their traditions, their values, what makes them unique. For OSU, that means understanding Cowboy pride beyond the mascot. Getting the program’s vibe. For other programs, it might be completely different. But the commitment to truly knowing our clients remains constant.

Relationships Matter More Than Transactions

We’re now the Official Music Producer of the USA Cheer National Team and we partner with an endless list of larger gyms/programs and governing bodies. We’ve grown beyond what I imagined possible in 2012. But OSU reminds me daily that our success comes from relationships, not titles. They trusted us when we were nobody. They heard their future in the mixes we built for them.

Why This Matters for Your Program

If you’re a coach or choreographer reading this, you might be wondering what OSU’s story means for you. Here’s my take after producing thousands of mixes:

Stop shopping for the cheapest option or the trendiest producer every season. Find a music partner who:

Understands your program’s identity
Delivers consistent quality
Values your success as their own
Provides cheer songs clean and properly licensed for competition

Whether you need fully custom dance songs for team routines or affordable premade cheer music that can be personalized, the key is finding a partner, not just a provider.

A Personal Note

To Coach Bracken and the entire OSU program: Thank you. You gave a small music company a chance, and your faith in us launched something bigger than either of us imagined. Your six championships are yours-earned through talent, dedication, and countless hours of hard work. But knowing we’ve been part of that journey, providing the soundtrack to your success, remains one of IPP Music’s proudest achievements.

To every other program reading this: Your championship journey is waiting. Whether you’re an established powerhouse or a growing program with big dreams, the right music partner can accelerate your path to success. We’d be honored to be part of your story, just as we’ve been privileged to be part of Oklahoma State’s.

ipp cheer music championship winning team Oklahoma State University

The Future We’re Building

Today, IPP Music serves programs worldwide: youth leagues to elite All-Star gyms, from Tokyo to Topeka. We offer everything from customizable $49 premade mixes to fully custom productions. But no matter how much we grow, the lesson from OSU remains the same: championships are built on partnerships.

When programs ask me about our success stories or our production process, I often share the OSU story. Not because every program will win six nationals (though we’d love that!), but because their approach-choosing a partner and building together-is available to everyone and has proven to be critical in hitting that zero.

Ready to start your own championship partnership? Explore our custom and premade cheer music options. As the Official Music Producer of the USA Cheer National Team and the trusted partner of champions like Oklahoma State University, we’re ready to help write your success story.

Be sure to check out future articles on other teams that have found success using ippmusic.com in this new series called

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Teaching the Hurdler Jump: A Comprehensive Guide for Competitive Cheer Coaches

Posted on July 9, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

09
Jul

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 9, 2025

If you’ve been coaching cheerleading for any length of time, you know that certain skills just make or break a routine. The hurdler jump? It’s definitely one of those game-changers. After spending years in the trenches coaching everyone from tiny mini athletes to college competitors, I’ve learned that teaching this jump isn’t just about demonstrating and hoping for the best. It’s about understanding the science, breaking down the progression, and meeting each athlete where they are.

So grab your coffee (or protein shake – no judgment here!), and let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about teaching the hurdler jump to young competitive cheerleaders.

Understanding the Anatomy of a Hurdler Jump

Before we even step foot on the mat, let’s get crystal clear on what we’re teaching. I’ve seen too many coaches confuse variations or teach hybrid versions that end up hurting scores at competition.

The Front Hurdler

This is probably what you’ll teach most often. Picture this: your athlete is positioned at a 45-degree angle to the crowd (this angle is crucial – straight-on looks awkward, and full profile hides the back leg). The leg furthest from the crowd will come up straight in front as high as possible, while the other bends behind. Arms can be in a touchdown or in a high V.

The key here is that straight leg – it should be reaching for the sky, ideally getting close to the athlete’s nose level. The back leg? That’s where things get interesting. The knee should be bent with the foot pulled up toward the glutes, and the knee itself should be pointing down toward the ground. Think of a track hurdler clearing a hurdle – hence the name!

The Side Hurdler

Less common but equally impressive when done right. Here, one leg extends to the side, while the other bends toward the back with the knee facing out. Arms should be in a “T” motion. The main difference? That bent knee faces the crowd rather than the ground, and the whole body orientation is different.

The “Not-a-Hurdler” (aka The Herkie)

Quick story time: Named for Lawrence Herkimer, the founder of the National Cheerleaders Association, this jump is similar to a side-hurdler, except that instead of both arms being in a T-shaped motion, both arms are opposite of what the leg beneath them is doing. The legend goes that Herkie couldn’t quite nail the hurdler, so he created his own version. It’s different enough that judges will dock points if your athletes throw a Herkie when they’re supposed to hit a hurdler!

Prerequisites: Building the Foundation

Here’s where I might ruffle some feathers, but I’m going to say it anyway: if your athletes aren’t ready, pushing them into hurdlers is a recipe for injury and frustration. Let’s talk about what “ready” really means.

Flexibility Requirements

Flexibility is the first area a cheerleader should address. If a cheerleader is tight throughout her hamstrings, groin, or lower back they must stretch. Range of motion is the number one cause of injuries.

Here’s my flexibility checklist for hurdler-ready athletes:

Hamstring Flexibility Test:

Have the athlete lie on their back
Lift one straight leg up while keeping the other flat on the ground
They should reach at least 90 degrees without the bottom leg lifting
Less than that? Time for targeted stretching

Hip Flexor Mobility Test:

Lunge position with back knee on the ground
Push hips forward gently
If they feel extreme tightness or can’t keep their torso upright, those hip flexors need work

Dynamic Flexibility Check:

Standing leg swings forward and back (should reach at least hip height)
Standing kicks to the front (controlled, not ballistic)
If they’re struggling here, the jump will be a struggle too

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Strength Prerequisites

Flexibility without strength is like having a sports car with no engine. Here’s what your athletes need:

Core Strength: Can they hold a hollow body position for 30 seconds? If not, start there. The core is what keeps that chest up during the jump.

Leg Power: Single-leg squat test – can they do at least 5 on each leg with good form? This translates directly to jump height.

Hip Flexor Strength: Have them lie on their back and lift one straight leg up and down 10 times without touching the ground. If they’re shaking by rep 5, you’ve found a weakness to address.

The 12-Week Progressive Teaching Method

After years of trial and error (emphasis on the error in my early coaching days), I’ve developed this progression that actually works. The timeline can be compressed or extended based on your athletes’ abilities, but don’t skip steps!

Weeks 1-3: Flexibility and Strength Foundation

Week 1: Assessment and Flexibility Focus

Start every practice with what I call the “Hurdler Prep Circuit”:

5 minutes of dynamic warm-up (high knees, butt kicks, leg swings)
10 minutes of targeted stretching:
- Pike stretch holds (30 seconds x 3)
- Butterfly stretch for hip opening (30 seconds x 3)
- Standing quad stretches (30 seconds each leg x 2)
- Seated hurdler stretch (the actual position) – 30 seconds each side x 3

Ground position work:

Have athletes sit in the hurdler position on the floor
Focus on proper positioning: straight leg fully extended, bent leg tucked comfortably
Hold for 30 seconds, switch sides
Progress to lifting the arms to touchdown position while seated

Week 2: Building Specific Strength

Add resistance work:

Theraband kicks: 3 sets of 10 each leg (front and side)
Single-leg glute bridges: 3 sets of 10 each leg
Core work specific to jumps:
- Hollow holds (work up to 45 seconds)
- V-ups focusing on keeping chest high (3 sets of 10)
- Russian twists with emphasis on tall posture (3 sets of 20)

Continue flexibility work and add:

Partner stretching for deeper range of motion
PNF stretching techniques (contract-relax method)

Week 3: Movement Patterns

Time to get moving:

Walking hurdlers: Literally walk across the floor hitting the position with each step
Hurdler holds against the wall: Kick up and hold the position for 5 seconds
Jump prep without the hurdler:
- Straight jumps focusing on landing (3 sets of 5)
- Tuck jumps for height (3 sets of 5)
Single-leg bounds for power (3 sets of 5 each leg)

Weeks 4-6: Introduction to the Jump

Week 4: Breaking Down the Prep

The prep is everything. After you count 5, 6, 7, 8, on the first 1, 2 bring your hands into a “clasp” right under your chin and hold them there for those two counts. On 3, 4, proceed to a “High-V” and hold that motion for those two counts.

Drill this until it’s automatic:

Prep practice: 50 reps of just the arm sequence
Add the knee bend on counts 3, 4
Practice the swing through without jumping
Mirror work: Athletes watch themselves to ensure chest stays high

Week 5: Adding the Jump

Start small:

Mini hurdlers: Jump just a few inches off the ground, focus on hitting the position
Use a prop: Have them jump and touch their knee to a coach’s hand held at appropriate height
Box jumps with hurdler position: Jump onto a small box (6-12 inches) landing in hurdler
Video review: Film each athlete and review together

Common issues at this stage:

Chest dropping (fix: “pretend there’s a string from your chest to the ceiling”)
Arms not hitting position (fix: practice arms separately 100 more times)
Bent leg not pulling up (fix: hamstring curls and targeted strength work)

Week 6: Height and Extension

Now we’re cooking:

Full jump attempts with focus on ONE aspect at a time:
- Monday: Just focus on chest position
- Tuesday: Just focus on straight leg height
- Wednesday: Just focus on bent leg position
- Thursday: Just focus on arms
- Friday: Put it all together
Introduce combination work: Hurdler to immediate rebound

Weeks 7-9: Refinement Phase

Week 7: Technical Precision

Details matter in competitive cheer:

Toe point drills: Even in warm-ups, toes are pointed
Landing practice: Make sure to land properly with your feet together, toe to heel and with bent knees
Timing with music: Start incorporating counts and rhythm
Side-by-side comparisons: Athletes watch each other and provide feedback

Week 8: Power Development

Complete 6 to 8 reps of the hurdler with resistance bands while maintaining technique for maximal jump height and kick height:

Resistance band training (if appropriate for age/level)
Plyometric progressions:
- Depth jumps from 6-inch box
- Broad jumps focusing on explosive takeoff
- Single-leg bounds with hurdler arms
Recovery focus: Teach proper stretching and foam rolling

Week 9: Consistency Building

The goal: 8 out of 10 perfect:

Set-based training: 5 sets of 3 jumps, rest between sets
Fatigue training: Hurdlers at the end of practice when tired
Pressure training: Perform for other teams or parents
Video analysis: Athletes self-assess using rubric

Weeks 10-12: Competition Ready

Week 10: Combinations and Connections

Real routines require connected skills:

Hurdler to toe touch combinations
Running tumbling into hurdler
Hurdler to immediate cradle prep (for younger teams)
Focus on maintaining height through fatigue

Week 11: Mental Preparation

The mental game is huge:

Visualization exercises: Athletes close eyes and see perfect hurdler
Positive self-talk training: Replace “I can’t” with “I’m learning”
Competition simulation: Full routine run-throughs
Individual goal setting: Each athlete sets personal best goals

Week 12: Polish and Peak

Time to shine:

Full routine integration
Focus on performance quality, not just technique
Team synchronization drills
Confidence building through success tracking

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Advanced Drills That Actually Make a Difference

Here are the drills I’ve collected over the years that really move the needle:

The Wall Series

Basic Wall Kicks:

Stand arm’s length from wall
20 kicks straight up, trying to touch above head marker
Progress to faster tempo
Add ankle weights for advanced athletes (with caution)

Wall Hurdler Holds:

Back against wall
Jump and press back against wall in hurdler position
Hold for 3-5 seconds
Builds muscle memory and strength

Partner Drills

Assisted Hurdlers:

Partner holds athlete’s hands
Athlete jumps while partner provides slight upward assistance
Gradually reduce assistance
Great for building confidence

Resistance Partners:

Partners hold resistance bands attached to jumper’s waist
Provides resistance on the way up, assistance on the way down
Builds explosive power

Equipment-Based Progressions

Box Jump Variations:

Single leg box jumps (builds unilateral power)
Hurdler position box jumps
Depth jump to hurdler (advanced only)

Trampoline Work (if available):

Allows athletes to feel the position with more air time
Reduces impact during learning phase
Great for athletes afraid of the skill

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Let’s get real about the issues you’re going to see over and over:

Problem 1: The Dreaded Chest Drop

It’s important not to cut off the height of your jump by tilting your chest forward. This is THE most common issue.

Why it happens:

Lack of core strength
Trying to kick too high too soon
Poor spatial awareness

Fix it:

Wall sits with arms in touchdown (builds postural strength)
Video review from side angle
Verbal cue: “Show your number to the judges!”
Physical cue: Light tap on upper back during prep

Problem 2: The Lazy Back Leg

The tendency is to concentrate so hard on kicking your front leg, that you don’t realize that the back leg is still dangling around down there.

Why it happens:

All focus goes to the front leg
Lack of hamstring strength
Poor muscle activation patterns

Fix it:

Isolated back leg drills: Just practice the bent leg portion
Hamstring curls with resistance bands
Mental cue: “Kick your heel to your booty!”
Partner feedback: Have partner tap the heel when it’s in correct position

Problem 3: Sloppy Feet

Judges notice everything, and floppy feet scream “recreational team.”

Why it happens:

Never been properly trained
Lack of ankle strength
Poor habit formation

Fix it:

Releve walks across the floor
Theraband foot exercises
Point and flex drills during every water break
Make it non-negotiable: pointed toes from warm-up to cool-down

Problem 4: The Split Landing

Nothing ruins a beautiful hurdler like a sloppy landing.

Why it happens:

Uneven leg strength
Poor spatial awareness
Trying to land before ready

Fix it:

Landing drills separate from jumps
Single leg landing practice
Visual markers on the floor
Verbal cue: “Feet like magnets!”

Creating the Right Training Environment

Your gym’s culture makes or breaks skill development. Here’s how to optimize:

Space Considerations

Minimum requirements:

8×8 feet per athlete for safe practice
Ceiling height of at least 12 feet
Spring floor or quality mats
Mirrors on at least one wall

Safety Protocols

Non-negotiables:

10-minute dynamic warm-up (every. single. practice.)
Proper landing surface
Athlete-to-coach ratios (I recommend 8:1 maximum for jump training)
Clear progression requirements before moving to next level

Building Confidence

Remember: confidence builds skills as much as drills do.

Strategies that work:

Celebrate small wins publicly
Use positive correction: “I love your height! Now let’s add that toe point!”
Film progress videos monthly so athletes see improvement
Create skill-specific awards or recognition

Creating Buy-In From Athletes and Parents

Success requires everyone on board:

Athlete Buy-In

Make them partners:

Explain the “why” behind each drill
Let them track their own progress
Create peer mentorship opportunities
Connect skills to their goals

Parent Education

Informed parents = supportive parents:

Host a skills education night
Send home progress videos
Explain the progression timeline
Share the injury prevention focus

Final Thoughts: The Art and Science of Coaching

Teaching the hurdler jump is about so much more than just the mechanics. It’s about building confident, strong athletes who understand that excellence comes from consistent, focused effort. Every athlete will progress at their own pace, and that’s not just okay – it’s expected.

I’ve been fortunate to work with thousands of athletes over my years coaching, from tiny three-year-olds taking their first cheer class to Division 1 college competitors. The one constant? The athletes who master the fundamentals with patience and proper progression are the ones who excel long-term.

Remember, we’re not just teaching a jump. We’re teaching discipline, body awareness, goal setting, and the value of quality practice. These lessons extend far beyond the mat.

Your athletes don’t need to be perfect on day one, week one, or even month one. They need to be progressing, staying safe, and building confidence. Focus on the journey, not just the destination, and you’ll develop not just better cheerleaders, but better athletes and people.

Keep your energy high, your corrections positive, and your standards consistent. Before you know it, you’ll have a team throwing hurdlers that make the crowd go absolutely wild – and more importantly, you’ll have athletes who are proud of what they’ve accomplished through hard work and dedication.

Now get out there and start building those champion hurdlers! Your athletes are counting on you to guide them to success, and with this comprehensive approach, you’ve got everything you need to make it happen.

Stay passionate about the process,

P.S. – Remember to document the journey. Those “before” videos from week 1 compared to competition performances? Pure gold for showing athletes how far they’ve come. Plus, they make great material for end-of-year banquets!

Check out the conversation on our podcast “You Hit Zero”

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Varsity’s Pro League Gamble Reshapes Competitive Cheer

Posted on July 1, 2025July 1, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

01
Jul

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 1, 2025

TLDR:

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The Varsity Pro Cheer League launches in 2026 with four teams, part-time five-figure salaries, and a January-March season that creates both unprecedented opportunities and existential threats for gym owners. After $126 million in antitrust settlements, Varsity Spirit is betting that professionalizing cheerleading will rehabilitate its image while further consolidating its control over the sport—a move that forces every competitive gym to reconsider its business model, athlete development strategy, and relationship with the industry’s dominant player.

For gym owners and coaches, this isn’t just another competition format. It’s a fundamental restructuring of how elite cheerleading works in America. The league’s structure—with Varsity owning all teams, controlling all athlete contracts, and selecting only established mega-gyms as partners—signals a new era where professional pathways exist but remain firmly within Varsity’s ecosystem. Whether you view this as the sport’s natural evolution or another monopolistic power grab, most likely depends on whether your gym is on the inside or outside of Varsity’s inner circle.

The league’s blueprint reveals calculated control

The Pro Cheer League’s structure demonstrates Varsity’s methodical approach to maintaining market dominance while appearing to advance the sport. Four founding teams in Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, and San Diego will each field 30 athletes, creating just 120 professional positions nationwide. These teams will train at Varsity’s chosen facilities: Stingray Allstars, Cheer Athletics, Top Gun All Stars, and California All Stars—notably all gyms with deep Varsity relationships and significant market power.

Athletes earn “five-figure” annual salaries as part-time Varsity Spirit employees, with additional compensation including travel, lodging, uniforms, and performance bonuses. The season runs January through March 2026, featuring five events in Indianapolis, Atlanta, Houston, Anaheim, and Nashville. Competition format includes head-to-head skills battles and traditional team routines, designed for television appeal.

What’s revealing isn’t just what Varsity included but what they carefully controlled. All teams remain wholly owned by Varsity Spirit, eliminating any pretense of independent competition. Athletes can pursue individual sponsorships only “with league approval.” Teams practice at pre-selected facilities, ensuring only certain gyms benefit from professional presence. This isn’t professional cheerleading emerging organically—it’s Varsity creating a closed system where they control every aspect from tryouts to championships.

Industry reactions expose deep divisions

The cheerleading community’s response reveals a sport wrestling with its identity and independence. While USA Cheer’s executive director Lauri Harris called it an “exciting development,” and partner gym owners expressed enthusiasm, deeper analysis shows significant concerns about Varsity’s motivations and methods.

Dan Cotton of the Cheer Biz Podcast captured the nuanced reaction: while showing “excitement about the professional step forward,” he expressed “serious concerns about gym affiliations, athlete eligibility, and long-term vision.” This balanced view reflects many industry professionals who want athlete opportunities but worry about implementation.

More pointed criticism emerged from business analysts and legal observers. Front Office Sports positioned the league as Varsity’s attempt to “turn the page after a litany of legal headaches” following their recent settlements. Sportico noted the timing “comes as Varsity works to rehabilitate its corporate image in the wake of antitrust and sex-abuse lawsuits.” The fierceboard community, representing grassroots gym owners and coaches, discussed Varsity’s “unfair monopoly” and debated boycott strategies.

Matt Stoller’s antitrust newsletter provided historical context, noting that Varsity founder Jeff Webb “testified in court that the competitions exist solely for the promotion of his cheerleading supply business.” This admission undermines claims that the professional league primarily serves athlete interests rather than corporate strategy.

Your gym faces an athlete retention crisis

For non-partner gyms, the most immediate threat is talent drain. Research from other youth sports shows that 90% athlete retention is considered excellent, but losing your top 18+ athletes to professional teams could devastate this metric. The psychological impact extends beyond numbers—younger athletes lose role models, team dynamics shift, and your gym’s competitive edge dulls.

The financial mathematics are brutal. If you lose 20% of your elite athletes, expect 12-15% revenue decrease in the first year before accounting for reduced competition success, lower enrollment from diminished reputation, and increased recruiting costs. These aren’t just your highest-paying clients; they’re your advertisement for excellence, your coaching assistants, and your culture carriers.

Consider how travel hockey destroyed community programs. Local rinks that once developed NHL players now struggle to field house leagues because elite players migrated to specialized facilities. Little League participation dropped 20% from its 2000s peak as travel baseball captured serious players. Cheerleading won’t be different—except Varsity controls both the amateur and professional pathways, giving them unprecedented power to direct athlete flow.

Smart gyms will implement “alumni ambassador” programs immediately, creating formal relationships with departing athletes. Develop “hybrid training” programs serving both all-star and professional-track athletes. Most critically, begin recruiting younger athletes more aggressively, knowing your development timeline just compressed.

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Schedule conflicts create operational nightmares

The Pro League’s January-March season seems strategically timed to minimize conflicts with Worlds in April, but this surface-level analysis misses the deeper disruption. November through March represents peak training season for all-star teams preparing for their championship run. Your best athletes—and possibly coaches—will have divided attention during the most critical preparation period.

Varsity claims athletes can continue with all-star teams “during the inaugural season,” but anyone who’s managed elite athletes knows this promise rings hollow.

How does an athlete maintain peak performance for both professional competitions and Worlds preparation? When professional team practice conflicts with all-star training, which takes priority? These aren’t hypothetical concerns—they’re scheduling nightmares that will fracture teams and force impossible choices.

The coaching impact may prove even more disruptive. If your top coaches get pulled toward professional teams—either as athletes or support staff—your entire program suffers. The industry already faces a qualified coaching shortage, and this league will exacerbate the problem by creating competing demands for limited talent.

Forward-thinking gyms should negotiate coaching arrangements now, before the professional teams lock in their staff. Create clear policies about conflict resolution and priority setting. Consider developing specialized tracks where some teams focus on traditional all-star competition while others prepare athletes for professional tryouts. The gyms that acknowledge this fundamental split early will adapt most successfully.

Financial opportunities exist for strategic gyms

While challenges dominate, smart gym owners can find significant opportunities in this restructuring. The four partner gyms—Stingray, Cheer Athletics, Top Gun, and California All Stars—gained enormous advantages through facility partnerships, but they’re not the only potential winners.

New revenue streams emerge for gyms positioned correctly. Professional athlete training camps and clinics command premium pricing. “Pro-prep” programs targeting ambitious 16-17 year olds can charge 30-50% above standard tuition. Equipment partnerships, merchandise sales, and content creation opportunities multiply when you’re associated with professional development.

International athlete recruitment presents an underexplored opportunity. With cheerleading’s Olympic recognition and growing global participation, 7.5 million athletes across 119 countries represent a vast market. American gyms offering professional pathway programs can attract international talent willing to pay premium prices for elite training.

The youth sports economy generates $15-28 billion annually, with families spending average of $883 per child. Parents already demonstrating willingness to invest heavily will pay more for programs with clear professional pathways. Position your gym as the regional center for professional development—even without direct league partnership—and capture this premium market segment.

Consider how gymnastics gyms evolved when elite pathways clarified. Facilities specializing in Olympic-track development command prices 3-4x higher than recreational programs. Parents pay willingly because the pathway is clear, the coaching is elite, and the possibilities seem tangible. The Pro Cheer League creates similar dynamics in cheerleading.

Partnership strategies beyond the chosen four

Varsity selected four mega-gyms as inaugural partners, but expansion is inevitable. Position your gym now for future partnership opportunities by demonstrating value to the professional ecosystem. This requires strategic thinking beyond hoping for selection.

Develop formal relationships with current partner gyms. Create athlete exchange programs, coaching education partnerships, or specialized training camps that benefit both facilities. When expansion comes, Varsity will look for gyms already integrated into their professional network. Building these relationships costs little but positions you favorably for future opportunities.

Geographic strategy matters enormously. The inaugural teams represent major metropolitan markets, but numerous large cities remain unclaimed. If you’re in Chicago, Philadelphia, Phoenix, or Seattle, begin positioning as the obvious expansion choice. This means upgrading facilities, developing elite coaching staff, and demonstrating market dominance that makes you indispensable.

Media and content creation capabilities increasingly influence partnership decisions. Gyms with professional video production, strong social media presence, and proven ability to generate engaging content offer value beyond traditional metrics. Invest in these capabilities now—they’re table stakes for professional sports involvement.

Most importantly, maintain flexibility in your Varsity relationship. While partnership offers opportunities, it also creates dependencies. The most successful gyms will develop multiple revenue streams and maintain some independence, ensuring they’re not entirely beholden to Varsity’s strategic decisions.

Monopoly concerns shape industry dynamics

Understanding Varsity’s business model is crucial for navigating this new landscape. KKR’s $4.75 billion acquisition in August 2024 provides the capital backing this professional expansion. With Varsity generating $400+ million in annual EBITDA, they possess resources no competitor can match.

The antitrust context cannot be ignored. Varsity paid $82.5 million in 2024 and $43.5 million in 2023 settling monopoly allegations. They still face ongoing litigation in Texas. Launching a professional league while fighting antitrust claims seems audacious—or desperate, depending on your perspective.

Varsity’s vertical integration creates unique challenges for independent gyms. They control competitions, uniforms, governing bodies (through relationships with USA Cheer and USASF), and now professional opportunities. Every aspect of an athlete’s journey can occur within Varsity’s ecosystem, making it increasingly difficult for gyms to operate independently.

This control extends to seemingly minor details with major implications. Athletes need league approval for individual sponsorships. Teams use Varsity-mandated equipment. Media rights negotiations happen through Varsity’s existing ESPN relationship. Each element reinforces their market control while appearing to advance the sport.

For gym owners, this monopolistic structure presents a devil’s bargain. Partnering with Varsity provides access to resources and opportunities impossible to achieve independently. But it also means accepting their rules, their pricing, and their strategic decisions. The cheerleading industry increasingly resembles a company town where Varsity owns the store, the bank, and now the factory.

College cheerleading faces existential questions

The Pro League’s impact on college cheerleading remains uncertain but potentially transformative. With over 250 colleges offering programs but typical scholarships only $500-$1,000 annually, the financial incentive clearly favors professional opportunities for elite athletes.

College programs must evolve or risk irrelevance. The traditional model—where college cheerleading represents the pinnacle for most athletes—crumbles when professional salaries exceed scholarship values by 10-50x. Smart colleges will develop partnerships with professional teams, creating integrated pathways that benefit both institutions.

The implications extend beyond individual programs. If top athletes skip college for professional opportunities, the talent level in collegiate cheerleading drops dramatically. This could trigger a downward spiral: lower talent means less exciting competitions, reduced fan interest, and ultimately less funding. Alternatively, it might clarify college cheerleading’s role as developmental rather than elite performance.

For gym owners, this shift requires recalibrating athlete counseling and development. The conversation changes from “which college program?” to “college or professional track?” This complexity demands more sophisticated guidance and potentially different training approaches for athletes pursuing different paths.

International expansion creates new dynamics

While the Pro League launches as an American venture, international implications loom large. The International Cheer Union represents 119 member nations with 7.5 million participants globally. Olympic recognition in 2021 accelerated cheerleading’s international growth, creating a global talent pool previously disconnected from American elite pathways.

Bill Seely mentioned interest from Canadian and European athletes, but this understates the potential disruption. International athletes who previously had no professional prospects in cheerleading now see a clear target. Expect increased competition for professional spots as global talent seeks American opportunities.

For American gyms, this creates both challenges and opportunities. Competition for professional positions intensifies as international athletes enter the pool. But gyms that develop international recruitment pipelines and cultural support systems can tap into new markets. Consider how international students transformed American university economics—cheerleading could follow a similar pattern.

The regulatory complexities of international athlete participation remain unaddressed. Visa requirements, work authorization, and athlete rights create bureaucratic challenges Varsity must navigate. Gyms hoping to recruit internationally need legal expertise and administrative systems previously unnecessary in cheerleading.

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Survival strategies for independent gyms

For the majority of gyms without professional partnerships, survival requires strategic adaptation rather than direct competition. You cannot outspend or outmuscle Varsity, but you can find profitable niches in the new ecosystem.

First, clarify your value proposition. If you’re not sending athletes to professional teams, what do you offer? Strong answers include: community connection, affordable excellence, diverse program offerings, or specialized training. The key is differentiation—you must offer something the professional pathway doesn’t provide.

Develop alternative competitive tracks that don’t depend on Varsity competitions. International competitions, collegiate preparation, and performance opportunities create athlete goals beyond the professional league. While Varsity dominates traditional all-star cheerleading, creative gyms can build successful programs around alternative objectives.

Financial diversification becomes critical. Gyms overly dependent on elite team tuition face severe risk. Expand into recreational programs, adult fitness, tumbling classes, and summer camps. These programs generate steady revenue less affected by professional league disruption. The most resilient gyms will derive no more than 40% of revenue from elite competitive teams.

Consider cooperative strategies with other independent gyms. Shared coaching resources, joint training camps, and collaborative competition teams help smaller gyms maintain competitiveness. While Varsity consolidates control vertically, independent gyms can create horizontal networks that provide mutual support.

The harsh reality of adaptation

The Varsity Pro Cheer League forces uncomfortable decisions on every gym owner and coach. You must choose: attempt to join Varsity’s professional ecosystem, compete independently, or pivot toward different market segments. Each path demands different strategies, investments, and acceptance of different risks.

For gyms with professional partnership ambitions, the requirements are clear but demanding. Facility upgrades alone could cost $500,000-$2 million to meet professional standards. Coaching salaries must increase to retain talent. Marketing and content creation require professional investment. These costs mount before considering the operational complexity of managing professional and amateur programs simultaneously.

Independent gyms face different but equally serious challenges. How do you maintain relevance when the sport’s pinnacle exists outside your reach? How do you motivate athletes when professional opportunities require leaving your program? How do you compete for talent when partner gyms offer professional pathways? These questions don’t have easy answers, but ignoring them guarantees failure.

The pivot toward recreational or alternative focuses might seem like retreat, but it could prove the smartest strategy. The youth sports participation market continues growing even as elite pathways consolidate. Parents increasingly seek healthy activities over hypercompetitive environments. Gyms that capture this market might find more sustainable success than those chasing professional partnerships.

Financial projections reveal sobering truths

Let’s examine realistic financial scenarios for different gym types as the professional league develops:

Scenario 1: Current Partner Gym

Revenue increase: 25-40% within 3 years
Required investment: $1-3 million in facilities and staff
Risk factors: Dependence on Varsity decisions, athlete burnout, market saturation
Probability of success: 70% given Varsity support

Scenario 2: Aspiring Partner Gym

Revenue impact: -10% initially, potential +20% if selected
Required investment: $500,000-$1 million in preparation
Risk factors: May never receive partnership, opportunity cost of investment
Probability of success: 30% given limited expansion slots

Scenario 3: Independent Elite Gym

Revenue impact: -15-25% over 3 years
Required investment: $100,000-$300,000 in program diversification
Risk factors: Continued athlete drain, reduced competitiveness
Probability of maintaining current scale: 40%

Scenario 4: Pivoting Recreational Gym

Revenue impact: -20% initially, stabilizing at -5% within 2 years
Required investment: $50,000-$150,000 in program development
Risk factors: Brand perception, staff expertise gaps
Probability of successful transition: 60%

These projections assume competent management and favorable local markets. Poorly managed transitions could result in -40-50% revenue declines or complete failure.

Time-sensitive decisions demand immediate action

The professional league launches in January 2026, but critical decisions cannot wait. Tryouts begin September 2025, meaning athlete recruitment and retention strategies need implementation now. Every month of delay represents lost opportunities and increased risk.

For gyms pursuing partnerships, begin relationship building immediately. Attend Varsity events, develop connections with current partner gyms, and demonstrate your value to the ecosystem. Waiting for Varsity to notice you is a losing strategy—proactive engagement improves your odds dramatically.

Independent gyms need even more urgent action. Diversification takes time, and cultural change happens slowly. If you’re pivoting toward recreational programs or alternative competitive tracks, begin that transition now. Your current elite athletes provide credibility for launching new programs—once they leave, building from scratch becomes much harder.

Financial preparation cannot be overstated. Whether pursuing partnership or independence, the next 24 months will strain resources. Secure credit lines, build cash reserves, and prepare for revenue volatility. Gyms entering this transition with weak balance sheets face extreme survival risk.

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Disruption demands strategic response

The Varsity Pro Cheer League represents the most significant structural change in competitive cheerleading history. Whether you view it as opportunity or threat, ignoring it guarantees obsolescence. Every gym must develop a strategic response aligned with their capabilities, market position, and ownership goals.

For the chosen few partner gyms, the league offers unprecedented opportunities for growth, prestige, and financial success. These gyms will shape professional cheerleading’s future while building sustainable competitive advantages. Their challenge lies in managing complexity while maintaining program quality across amateur and professional tracks.

For aspiring partners, the path requires significant investment with uncertain returns. Success demands exceptional execution, strategic positioning, and some luck. The rewards for those who succeed could be transformative, but the majority will invest heavily without achieving partnership, making this a high-risk strategy.

Independent gyms face the hardest choices. Competing directly with Varsity’s professional ecosystem seems futile, but creative adaptation offers viable paths forward. Whether through international expansion, alternative competitive tracks, or recreational focus, successful independent gyms will find profitable niches Varsity doesn’t serve.

The uncomfortable truth is that competitive cheer’s landscape will look dramatically different in 5 years.

The professional league accelerates existing consolidation trends while creating new competitive dynamics. Gyms that acknowledge this reality and adapt strategically will survive and potentially thrive. If you resist the change or react slowly, you’ll likely face marginalization or closure.

Your response to the Varsity Pro Cheer League will likely determine your gym’s future. Choose wisely, act decisively, and remember that in times of industry disruption, strategic clarity matters more than resources. The gyms that emerge strongest won’t necessarily be the biggest or best-funded—they’ll be the ones that most clearly understand their value proposition in cheer’s new professional era.

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Teams, Coaches, & Programs to Watch in Competitive Cheer This Fall 2025

Posted on June 27, 2025June 27, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

Competitive Cheer Teams to Watch Fall 2025

27
Jun

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 27, 2025

Competitive cheer in the United States is entering a new season this fall with a host of standout teams and individuals poised to make waves. Across high school, collegiate, and all-star levels, certain programs have distinguished themselves through championship success, innovative routines, and unique training philosophies. Today we’re gonna spotlight some of these must-watch teams, athletes, and coaches – and, importantly, what you can learn from their approaches to elevate your own cheer game.

High School Cheer Standouts

High school cheerleading continues to produce powerhouse programs that dominate nationally. Two programs in particular – one an established dynasty and the other a rapidly rising force – exemplify what it takes to reach the top.

Greenup County High School (Kentucky) – Tradition Meets Tenacity

One of the most legendary high school cheer programs in the nation, Greenup County High School has a storied legacy built over four decades. Head coach Candy Berry has led the Kentucky school to an astounding 17 UCA national titles in her career, with the latest championship coming in early 2024. After a seven-year drought since 2017, Berry’s squad reclaimed the crown this past season, proving that tradition combined with tenacity is a winning formula.

Berry emphasizes to each new team the weight of Greenup’s history: “We tell them from the get-go… you have a history, you have a tradition here,” she says. This mindset instills pride and motivation in the athletes to add their own chapter to the school’s legacy. In February’s nationals, that motivation paid off – Greenup hit a zero-deduction routine and erupted with joy upon hearing they’d finally taken first place again.

Candy Berry, coaching at Greenup since the early 1980s, attributes the program’s sustained excellence to each generation’s dedication: “They all have the same dream but it’s a different group of kids that strive for it in their own way,” she explains, noting that every championship is special because new athletes achieved it through their own hard work. Under Berry’s leadership, Greenup has set a standard of consistency, fundamentals, and pride in tradition that any school can emulate.

Takeaway: A strong tradition can be a springboard for success – use your program’s history to inspire current athletes. Holding today’s team to the high expectations set by past champions fosters accountability and hunger. At the same time, each team should be allowed to find its own identity and motivation. Greenup’s resurgence teaches that perseverance and pride can revive any program’s fortunes; no matter how long it’s been since your last win, keep striving and believe in your legacy.

Live Oak High School (Louisiana) – Pushing the Difficulty Bar

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Live Oak High School (Watson, LA) has emerged in recent years as a modern powerhouse with a focus on ambitious difficulty and innovation. Led by head coach Maddie Guidry Claverie – herself a former Live Oak cheerleader – the Live Oak Eagles are known for throwing skills usually seen at the college or all-star level. “The Eagles are known for their incredibly difficult routines full of stunts & tumbling that are performed and executed at the highest level,” notes Varsity’s Amber Salas.

This small-town team’s resume now boasts nine UCA National Championships in the traditional performance divisions, plus two more in the Game Day division – a testament to both difficulty and versatility. Coach Claverie, only a few years out of college, has quickly become a respected figure for building an elite program. She credits part of Live Oak’s success to a strong feeder system and a culture of hard work. (Indeed, observers note that for programs hoping to replicate Live Oak’s ascent, “the blueprint is clear: invest in your athletes from a young age, foster a culture of dedication and…” – the rest is evident in Live Oak’s results.) Claverie also isn’t afraid to seek new challenges; this season, she is adding a college coaching role at Southeastern Louisiana University while still helming Live Oak’s squad.

By branching out, she’ll bring even more experience back to her high school team. Live Oak’s recent routines have been highlight-reel material – packed with difficult tumbling passes, creative pyramids, and technical stunts – yet the team consistently “hits” those routines with minimal deductions. That ability to push the envelope while staying clean was on full display at UCA Nationals, where Live Oak clinched the 2024 Large Varsity Division I championship with a remarkable 97.4 scorevarsity.com. It’s clear this program has firmly established itself among the nation’s elite.

Takeaway: Dare to be ambitious in your skills and choreography, but back it up with excellent technique and repetition. Live Oak shows that high schoolers can safely perform college-level difficulty – if they’re trained up through years of conditioning and precise coaching. Building difficulty should be a long-term plan: start developing young athletes early (many Live Oak cheerleaders train in junior high and even youth leagues) and continually raise the bar. Also, focus on consistency under pressure. Live Oak’s big scores come from hitting difficult routines with zero deductions, which requires intense preparation. The lesson for other teams is to dream big but practice even bigger: set goals to add one extra skill or a unique twist to your routine, and drill it until your team can execute it perfectly even on the biggest stage.

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Collegiate Cheer Powerhouses

At the collegiate level, the competitive field is deeper than ever, with traditional dynasties being challenged by hungry up-and-comers. This fall, all eyes are on a few programs that have recently made headlines – and the coaching philosophies that got them there.

University of Kentucky – The Gold Standard of College Cheer

It’s impossible to discuss college cheerleading without mentioning the University of Kentucky. UK’s cheer program is, simply put, the most decorated in history – with 25 national titles in Division IA coed (the top division) to date. Head coach Jomo Thompson has been a part of 18 of those championships as either an athlete or coach, and his approach to maintaining excellence is illuminating. Rather than obsess over the competition, Thompson has his team compete with themselves – or rather, with past UK teams. “What we try to do is pick some of the routines that former Kentucky teams have done, that have set a good benchmark… Those are the routines we try to beat,” Thompson explains. In other words, the Wildcats focus on their own rich tradition as the metric of success.

This tradition-centric mindset frees the athletes from distraction and keeps them aiming higher each year. It clearly works: Kentucky often enters nationals as the favorite, and even when they don’t win, they are near the very top. In 2019, UK won its 24th title (fourth in a row at that time) with seniors noting that living up to expectations is just part of the job.

One senior described the atmosphere when Kentucky takes the mat: “It’s dead quiet… I know some of [the crowd] are hoping we hit, but I feel like the majority are like ‘come on, I hope they fall’… but it’s that kind of pressure that we like. We like proving people wrong”. That quote underscores how Kentucky cheerleaders embrace pressure – they know everyone is gunning for them, and they channel it as motivation to hit perfectly.

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Even when Kentucky was narrowly defeated this past season, their presence loomed large. At the 2024 UCA nationals, Kentucky finished third behind two rising programs, yet still earned a remarkable 95.4 raw score (after a minor deduction). The Wildcats remain the team to beat, and their emphasis on fundamentals (like difficult partner stunts and pyramids executed with textbook technique) continues to raise the standard for college cheer.

Takeaway: Never rest on your laurels – compete against your own past best. Kentucky’s “tradition over competition” philosophy can benefit any team, even if you don’t have 25 titles! Identify what your team did well in previous seasons (or even just in practice) and set that as the baseline to improve upon. By internalizing this mindset, you’ll continuously push your skills further rather than playing it safe. Additionally, Kentucky shows the importance of thriving under pressure. Treat every practice like nationals – with focus and intensity – so that when the real pressure hits, you’ll welcome it. Confidence comes from preparation, and UK’s decades of success prove that a culture of high expectations and self-driven excellence yields champions.

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University of Central Florida – Hitting When It Counts

Once in Kentucky’s shadow, the University of Central Florida (UCF) has stormed into the spotlight after winning the 2024 UCA Division IA Coed national championship. The UCF Knights claimed their fourth title in this division – and their first since 2020 – by delivering back-to-back flawless routines at nationals.

Under the guidance of head coach Linda Gooch, who just completed her 40th year coaching her alma mater, UCF has steadily built a culture centered on precision and peaking at the right time. In the 2024 finals, UCF knew the competition was fierce – perennial powers Kentucky and Alabama were there, as well as the defending three-time champions from South Florida. UCF responded by being one of only two teams to hit a perfect “zero-deduction” routine in semifinals, earning the top spot going into finals.

They then rose to the occasion in finals with another hit, scoring 97.3 to edge out Alabama by just 0.5 points. The significance of this win was huge for UCF’s program: it proved that with consistency and mental toughness, they could topple the traditional giants. Coach Gooch’s reaction said it all – pure elation – as it was her fourth championship as coach (tying UCF for the second-most titles ever in Division IA, behind only Kentucky).

Gooch, a Hall of Famer, has instilled a mindset in her athletes to focus on execution over difficulty. UCF’s routine had plenty of difficulty, but importantly, they only included skills they knew they could hit solidly under pressure. The result was zero deductions on finals night, whereas other teams with flashier routines incurred mistakes.

UCF also prides itself on collective teamwork; in addition to the coed cheer win, their all-girl Game Day squad and dance team also achieved top placements, showing the breadth of the spirit program’s strength. Heading into this fall, UCF will be a program to watch as they defend their championship with the confidence of knowing they can beat anyone when they hit. And you can be sure that Kentucky, Alabama, and others will be sharpening their routines to challenge the Knights – making for an exciting collegiate season ahead.

Takeaway: Consistency is king. UCF’s triumph underscores that hitting clean routines can outweigh throwing the absolutely hardest skills if those skills can’t be hit consistently. For teams at any level, the lesson is to train for consistency – condition your routines to hit under all conditions (fatigue, loud crowds, pressure moments). Focus on execution and timing, because a flawless simpler stunt will score better (and look more impressive) than a shaky advanced stunt. Another takeaway is the importance of competitive resilience. UCF had gone a few years without a title, but they stayed hungry and used near-misses as fuel to come back stronger. If you fall short one season, study what went wrong, make adjustments, and come back mentally tougher. Finally, trust in veteran leadership – Coach Gooch’s decades of experience and calm guidance undoubtedly helped UCF handle the nerves of finals. Lean on your coaches and team leaders when stakes are high; their confidence will spread to the rest of the team.

(Keep an eye on other collegiate contenders too: programs like the University of South Florida, which had won three straight championships before UCF unseated them, and the University of Alabama, a perennial top finisher, are all pushing the envelope. And outside the UCA circuit, don’t forget about the NCA College Nationals champions like Weber State University, who have attracted top talent – including star athlete Gabi Butler – and won the 2021 NCA Grand National title with the highest score of any teamweber.eduweber.edu. The college cheer landscape is rich with talent, which means more examples for you to learn from.)

All-Star Elite Teams and Programs

In the all-star cheer world, the level of athleticism reaches its peak. All-star teams are known for pushing creative boundaries and for fierce rivalry at events like The Cheerleading Worlds each spring. This fall, several programs stand out as trend-setters in skills and team culture. Here are a couple of the elite programs – plus one underdog story – that you should watch and learn from:

Top Gun All Stars (Florida) – Innovators of the Sport

Top Gun All Stars is a name synonymous with all-star cheer innovation. Founded by coaches Victor and Kristen Rosario and based in Miami, Top Gun has produced multiple world championship teams – most famously their Large Coed Level 6 team “TGLC” (Top Gun Large Coed) as well as teams like “Lady Jags” and “Revelation.” Top Gun’s routines are legendary for high-flying stunts, daring pyramids, and themed performances that push cheerleading’s creative limits. It’s no surprise that the Rosarios are widely regarded as “trailblazers in the sport and champions of innovation”. In 2024, Top Gun’s TGLC reclaimed the World Champion title in the premier Large Coed division, scoring an impressive 167.05.

They then successfully defended their title at the 2025 Worlds, showing that their creativity is matched by consistency on the mat. What sets Top Gun apart is not just difficult skills (though they do some of the hardest coed stunts and tumbling passes in cheerleading), but also the originality of their routine choreography and music themes. This is the program known for doing things like coed stunt sequences that look like synchronized dancing and inventing new transitions that other teams scramble to copy in later seasons. They famously mix elite skills with showmanship – for example, incorporating unique counters, visuals, and even humor into routines while never sacrificing technical execution. Top Gun’s training environment also emphasizes family-like unity (they refer to their teams as “Jags” family) and encouraging innovation at all levels – athletes are encouraged to contribute ideas and try new skills. The result is a fearless style of cheerleading that has kept Top Gun at the pinnacle of the sport for decades.

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Takeaway: Embrace innovation and play to your team’s strengths. Top Gun teaches us that cheerleading is equal parts athletic competition and artistic performance. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your choreography – a signature move or theme can make your routine memorable. Encourage your team to try that new stunt or put a twist on a formation; even if it’s never been done, it could set you apart.

Importantly, however, Top Gun never throws unprepared skills – they drill tirelessly to make sure those innovative elements hit. So, innovation must go hand-in-hand with mastery: if you add a unique skill, condition it to the point where it’s second nature. Additionally, foster a positive, close-knit team culture. Top Gun’s athletes often talk about feeling like family, which helps when taking risks – teammates trust each other both in the air and on the ground. A unified team that believes in a creative vision will perform with confidence and swag. In short, dare to lead, not follow, and put in the work to back it up.

Cheer Extreme Senior Elite (North Carolina) – Excellence Through Adversity

On the all-girl side, Cheer Extreme Senior Elite remains a juggernaut that exemplifies persistence and excellence. Cheer Extreme is a large program with many teams, but Senior Elite (their Large Senior Level 6 team out of Kernersville, NC) is the one that put them on the map. This team has been a Worlds finalist every year since the division’s inception and has claimed multiple World Championships (2010, 2012, 2013, and most recently 2023 and 2025). Senior Elite is known for gorgeous technique – especially their stunning pyramid and stunt sequences – and a certain degree of dramatic flair (fans will recall their famous “prayer” stunt sequence and emotional music selections). What’s truly inspiring about Senior Elite is how they handle adversity. In 2024, for instance, they finished off the Worlds podium (a rare 4th place finish after a mistake in finals).

Rather than get discouraged, the team came back in 2025 with a renewed determination and ultimately won back the World Champion title in their division. Coaches Courtney Smith-Pope and Kelly Helton have created a culture where athletes hold each other accountable and treat setbacks as fuel for growth. Senior Elite’s 2025 run was marked by hitting routine after routine all season – they even received perfect “hit zero” outings at major competitions leading up to Worlds, signaling their focus on redemption.

A hallmark of Cheer Extreme’s approach is precision drilling of fundamentals (their flyers have beautiful body positions, their baskets are high and clean) combined with innovative stunt engineering. They were one of the first all-girl teams to perform release moves that many thought only coed teams could do. This willingness to pioneer, paired with deep attention to technique, makes them a model team. Their motto “#SE4L” (Senior Elite for Life) also highlights the strong alumni network and mentorship – former athletes often come back to coach or support, creating continuity. As we look to this fall, Senior Elite and their rivals (like World Cup Shooting Stars, Stingray Allstars Orange, and Cheer Athletics Panthers) will surely continue their classic battles, each pushing the other to new heights. For any cheerleader, there’s much to learn from how Senior Elite continually evolves while respecting the core of what makes them great.

Takeaway: Respond to setbacks with determination, not defeat. Cheer Extreme Senior Elite’s journey shows that even elite teams face disappointments – what matters is the response. If you drop a stunt or lose a competition, use it as motivation to pinpoint weaknesses and turn them into strengths. Senior Elite’s improvement from 2024 to 2025 was no accident; it was a product of refocused training and mental resilience. The lesson is to never settle – even champions have to continuously grind to stay on top. Another takeaway is the value of perfecting the basics. Much of Senior Elite’s wow factor comes from superb technique in everything from tumbling to transitions. Strive for cleanliness and form in every skill before upping difficulty. That solid foundation will carry you through pressure moments. Finally, build a support system in your program. Senior Elite benefits from a legacy of alumni and a program-wide standard of excellence. Even if you’re on a smaller team, create a supportive network – cheer on your teammates, learn from those who came before you, and take pride in your team’s identity. A positive culture not only makes training more enjoyable, but it also breeds success.

Maine Stars Glory (Maine) – Big Dreams from a Small Gym

One of the most exciting “breakout” stories in recent all-star cheer is Maine Stars Glory, a small D2 all-star team that proved anything is possible. Hailing from a small gym in Eliot, Maine, Glory made history in 2025 by becoming the first team from Maine to win a World Championship. Competing in the Level 6 Limited Senior Extra Small Coed division (a mouthful of a division name, but essentially a division for very small teams), Maine Stars Glory had just 16 athletes – nine of them first-timers at Worlds – and yet they delivered back-to-back flawless routines to capture the gold.

Their story is a master class in team unity and belief. The coaching staff (Lori McPherson, Kelsey Daigle, and Mikaela Leighton) cultivated an atmosphere of positivity and 100% trust within the team. They have a tradition of the whole team getting ready together at the coaches’ house on competition morning – eating breakfast as a family and “setting positive vibes for the day”. This emphasis on bonding paid off: “This team was very young… Their bond was something special, all 16 athletes had the same dream,” the coaches noted, and that unity kept everyone focused under pressure.

Importantly, Maine Stars Glory also confronted their weaknesses head-on. Early in the season they struggled to hit clean routines on two-day competitions, so they scheduled an extra competition late in the season just to practice hitting both days – which gave them confidence going into Worlds. At Worlds, they hit the best two routines of their season when it mattered most. The coaches instilled unshakeable belief in the athletes: back in November, months before Worlds, they had each athlete write down the goal of winning Worlds and hang it where they’d see it every day.

“You have to 100% believe it to achieve it,”

– Lori McPherson

After their win, the coaches reflected on the wider impact: they hope other small gyms see this and feel inspired that “anything can happen when you are a true team”. They also imparted a valuable piece of advice to their athletes (and really to all of us): celebrate your success, but then get back to work. “Congratulations for a job well done. Now work even harder, because you just proved you could achieve it once—so now go after it again,” the Glory staff said, challenging their athletes to stay hungry. And finally, they live by a motto of “Grateful for Today” – ending each practice by expressing gratitude and humility, win or lose. Maine Stars Glory’s Cinderella story captivates the cheer world, but it was built on very down-to-earth principles that any team can adopt.

Takeaway: No program is too “small” to dream big. The first step is believing in your goals and cultivating that belief in every team member. As Maine Stars’ journey shows, when an entire team commits to a vision and supports one another, extraordinary outcomes can follow. Team bond and culture are as crucial as skill difficulty – trust and positivity will carry you through the fiercest challenges. Another takeaway is to address your weaknesses. If there’s a hurdle holding your team back (be it stamina on day two, mental blocks, etc.), tackle it deliberately – add a mock competition, do extra reps, seek advice – rather than avoiding it. By overcoming those hurdles in practice, you build the confidence to shine when it counts. Lastly, stay humble and hungry. Even after a big victory, continue to work hard and improve, and always be grateful for the opportunities and friendships cheerleading brings. Maine Stars Glory’s attitude of gratitude and relentless work ethic is something any athlete can emulate.

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Whether it’s a high school squad chasing a first trophy or an all-star team defending a world title, the common threads among these standout programs are hard work, innovation, consistency, team unity, and passionate leadership. We’ve seen coaches like Candy Berry and Linda Gooch nurture generations of athletes with a love of the sport and attention to fundamentals. We’ve seen younger coaches like Maddie Claverie and the Maine Stars staff combine fresh ideas with serious training discipline. We’ve watched programs like Kentucky and Top Gun maintain dominance by never getting complacent, and others like UCF and Maine Stars rising by out-working and out-executing the competition.

As you prepare for the fall season, take these lessons to heart. Maybe you’ll incorporate a new bonding activity for team unity, or challenge yourself to add a harder skill now that you know what’s possible. Maybe you’ll set a personal goal and tape it to your mirror, or simply recommit to making every rep count in practice.

Remember the mantra of Weber State’s celebrated athlete Gabi Butler: “Hard work beats talent, when talent refuses to work”.

The teams and athletes highlighted above have talent and put in the work – and that’s why they’re champions. By studying their approaches, you can find ways to improve your own methods. This fall, don’t just watch these cheer all-stars – learn from them, and then go be one of them.

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🏆 Top 3 Must-Attend Cheer Coaching Conferences in 2025

Posted on June 15, 2025June 15, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

15
Jun

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 15, 2025

Summer 2025 is shaping up to be a game-changer for cheerleaders—and even more so for the coaches, choreographers, and gym owners supporting them. This season’s top-tier professional development events – TSN Coaches Retreat, Next Gen Coaches & Owners Conference, and the combined USA Cheer/USASF National Conference – offer more than just routine clinics. Held in Palm Springs, Arlington, and Las Vegas respectively, each conference blends technique drills, leadership sessions, business strategy, and unrivaled networking opportunities. Whether you’re aiming to refine tumbling, master stunt choreography, elevate your gym’s culture, or grow your business, these conferences are thoughtfully designed to equip you and your athletes for success; both on the mat and behind the scenes.

1. The Spirit Network Coaches Retreat

📅 Date & Location: June 18–21, 2025 — Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells (Palm Springs area)

🎯 Why It’s Worthwhile:

Elite-level training from World Championship coaches and successful gym owners.
Comprehensive sessions on athlete development, business operations, choreography, stunt tech, yoga/meditation, networking, and demo showcases.
New Athlete Track lets coaches bring teen athletes to learn professional practices side-by-side.

🏨 Nearby Hotels:

Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa (on-site, with special coach rates)
Nearby Indian Wells accommodations—book early as June fills quickly.

🤝 Produced & Sponsored By:

Produced by: The Spirit Network (TSN) Coaches Network
Sponsors & Partners: Top-tier cheer/dance brands featured during event

2. USA Cheer & USASF National Conference 2025

📅 Date & Location: July 10–12, 2025 — JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa, Las Vegas, NV

🎯 Why It’s Worthwhile:

Industry-wide scope: Engages All Star, school, studio, and college coaches, choreographers, choreographers, and STUNT directors.
Educational depth: Sessions in skill development, scoring strategy, rule education, business management, tumbling, STUNT, and dance.
Master Day & The Academy: Pre-conference workshops for coaches, plus athlete and junior-coach leadership training (ages 13–18)
Networking & Vendor Access: “Spirit HQ Expo” and “Dance Alley” showcasing cutting-edge products & services. Keynote address by education specialist Gerry Brooks

🏨 Hotels:

JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa (host hotel; discounted room block via registration portal)
Other nearby Strip hotels also available—Las Vegas offers wide options.

🤝 Produced & Sponsored By:

Producers: Jointly by USASF & USA Cheer
Sponsors: Presented in partnership with USA Cheer and USASF, including major cheer brands via exhibitor sponsorships.

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3. Next Gen Coaches & Owners Conference

📅 Date & Location: June 20–22, 2025 — Loews Arlington Hotel, Arlington, TX

🎯 Why It’s Worthwhile:

Focused tracks on coaching technique, athlete development, gym ownership, leadership, and business growth.
Tailored for owners and coaches, including an “owners-exclusive” track for Next Gen Academy members delivering strategic guidance.
Practical, actionable takeaway sessions ensuring coaches can apply lessons directly to their gyms.

🏨 Hotel:

Loews Arlington Hotel — convenient on-site lodging, close to conference.

🤝 Produced & Sponsored By:

Producers: Next Gen Academy
Sponsors: Local-and-industry specific sponsors (details typically included on registration site)

🌟 4. CDIP Coaches’ Event + Open Championship Series (Vegas, June 13–15, 2025)

While it’s wrapped up for 2025, the CDIP (Cheer & Dance Industry Professionals) Coaches’ Event in Las Vegas—held June 13–15—is one to mark on your calendar for 2026. Helmed by Heidi Weber, Executive Director of Operations for the Open Championship Series (OCS), CDIP delivers hands‑on business workshops, speaker panels, and practical sessions on efficiency, branding, athlete development, and more

Why to Watch for 2026:

Heidi Weber is a phenom organizer: With an MBA and 17 years of coaching under her belt, she’s transformed OCS into a growing rival of Varsity’s events—offering a more affordable, independent path .
OCS is rapidly gaining momentum: In just three years, the circuit has built credibility among gym owners and coaches seeking value and innovation outside of top‑priced national events
Learner‑first focus: Expect emphasis on streamlined business systems, customer‑centric approaches, and coaching leadership—all with real‑world application.

2026 Planning Tips:

Location: Vegas or another major city—look out for announcement mid‑year.
Hotels: Typically clustered near the Las Vegas Strip or convention corridor—budget and resort‑style options expected again.
Producers & Sponsors: CDIP runs the show, with OCS and Revolution Events backing the program, and independent vendors supporting hands‑on workshops.
Who Should Attend: Gym owners and coaches eager for practical business solutions, efficient event formats, and an alternative to the Varsity ecosystem.

📊 Quick Comparison

Event	Dates	Location	Audience	Strengths
TSN Retreat	Jun 18–21	Palm Springs, CA	Coaches + teen athletes	Immersive training, athlete track
Next Gen Conf.	Jun 20–22	Arlington, TX	Coaches & gym owners	Business strategy + leadership
National Conf.	Jul 10–12	Las Vegas, NV	All levels & disciplines	Broad support, vendor expo

✅ Why You Should Attend

Deepen Coaching Skills: Learn from top-tier trainers, choreographers, and program directors.
Boost Gym Growth: Business and leadership tracks help owners scale smartly.
Enhance Athlete Experience: Sessions on tumbling, safety, choreography, and athlete mindset.
Network Smart: Connect with peers, vendors, and thought leaders across key cheer disciplines.
Stay Ahead of Trends: Gain insights into scoring, rule changes, STUNT development, and evolving techniques.

🎟️ How to Register

TSN Retreat: Visit the Spirit Network site; includes room block at Renaissance Resort.
National Conference: Register via USASF/USA Cheer; includes hotel booking link at JW Marriott.
Next Gen Conference: Details and registration available on Next Gen Academy website.

💡 Final Thoughts

For any coach, choreographer, or gym owner looking to elevate their program in 2025, these three events provide a blend of elite training, business acumen, and industry connection: all fundamental for building world-class programs.

Whether you’re focused on athlete development, gym strategy, or competitive edge, there’s a conference designed to meet your goals.

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🌍 Spotlight on UK Cheer: What Gosport’s Breakthrough Means for Program Owners

Posted on June 14, 2025June 14, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

14
Jun

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 14, 2025

Competitive cheerleading is experiencing a seismic shift—with elite teams now springing up across the globe, beyond the traditional U.S. powerhouses. Case in point: in June 2025, Gosport, UK—far from the glittering arenas of Orlando—celebrated a game-changing moment when Jessie Leigh Dance & Cheer Academy and Storm Athletics both clinched gold medals at a prestigious Florida competition, shattering stereotypes and redefining global excellence. Their astounding success not only earned headlines but also spotlighted a broader trend: countries from Canada to Australia, Japan to Norway, are producing breakout programs that challenge long-standing hierarchies. In this article, we’ll explore how these rising international stars are reshaping competitive cheer—and share actionable insights for U.S. coaches, choreographers, and gym owners ready to raise their own programs to world-class status.

1. 🇬🇧 Gosport’s Rise: Jessie Leigh & Storm Athletics

Located on an industrial estate in Gosport, UK, Jessie Leigh Dance & Cheer Academy and Storm Athletics have become world-class programs—each clinching gold in different heats at a major U.S. competition this spring

Founded by passionate couples (Jessie & Mark Metelko; Sarah & James Carlin), these gyms balance strong technical foundations with community-focused culture, appealing to athletes ranging in all ages; from kids to adults. Storm Athletics now boasts 350 members; Jessie Leigh has 250 competitive athletes and 150 recreational participants

2. 🌏 Other Non-U.S. Breakouts

Canada

Cheer Sport Sharks from Ontario are consistently in the top 3 of International Open divisions at The Cheerleading Worlds.
Flyers All Starz Notoriou5 (Canada) recently took the L5 International Open Small Coed title at Cheerleading Worlds 2025.

Australia

Team Australia finished top-3 multiple divisions at ICU Worlds 2025, including Youth All-Girl and Junior Coed levels smu.edu+8cheerunion.org+8ippmusic.com+8.
Infinity Athletics in Loganholme skyrocketed from a seven-athlete gym to 250+ members, with two locations and a slot in the 2025 Global Games in Honolulu.

Japan & Norway

Japan has dominated dance categories—e.g., Freestyle Pom and Hip Hop—ranking top in recent ICU contests.
Viqueens Cheerleaders from Norway took home gold in International Open All-Girl Level 7 at Worlds 2024.

UK (Beyond Gosport)

Unity Allstars Black (England) won L7 International Open Coed Non-Tumbling at Worlds 2025.
Coventry Dynamite (England) proudly placed in International Open Large Coed at Worlds 2024.

Emerging Regions: Latin America, Africa & Asia

ICU’s 2025 medal tally shows strong performances from Team Ecuador, South Africa, Poland, Mexico, and Chile in Youth & Junior categories.
Team Ukraine-1 earned top doubles Pom podium in ICU World Cup flocheer.com+3cheerunion.org+3starrcards.com+3.

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What This Means for Cheer Coaches, Choreographers & Gym Owners

1. ❇️ Quality Over Origin

Elite cheer no longer belongs solely to the U.S.—global programs are mastering difficulty, execution, and creativity. Gosport and Infinity Athletics are teaching us that excellent coaching, solid infrastructure, and athlete well-being can trump geographical stereotypes.

2. ✔️ Opportunity for International Event Partnerships

Hosting clinics or competitions featuring teams like Coventry Dynamite or Viqueens Cheerleaders can elevate your gym’s credibility, diversify team experience, and attract new audiences.

3. 🌐 Path to Global Connections

Establish relationships with emerging programs abroad for collaborative training opportunities, e-learning exchanges, or even elite coaching trips. These connections enrich your teaching methodology and appeal to prospective athletes/families.

4. 🎯 Inclusion Unlocks Growth

A core theme across these breakout gyms is inclusivity—welcoming beginners, all-abilities athletes, women and men. Logan’s Infinity Athletics attributes its success to offering multiple entry points—from semi-competitive to adult fitness teams

5. 📈 Monetizing Elite Achievements

When non-U.S. teams excel internationally, it generates press, public awareness, and enrollment spikes. U.S.-based gyms can adopt similar strategies—championing international travel, celebrating athlete achievements, and building narrative around aspirational culture.

Coach Tips for Leading Your Gym to the Next Level

Develop Local Identity: Like Gosport, leverage regional pride tied to top-tier wins.
Invest in Infrastructure: Consider facility expansions or upgrades when growth demands follow strong coaching.
Build Inclusive Programs: Offer pathways from recreational to elite—all-abilities squads included.
Engage in Global Events: Attend ICU Worlds, Summit, or Global Games—not just for performance, but networking and trend-spotting.
Leverage Press & Social Media: International medals are marketing gold—share videos, highlight athlete journeys, invite local media.

The international cheerleading landscape is shifting—from Gosport’s meteoric rise in the U.K., Canada’s champions, Australia’s gym growth, to strong showings from Japan, Norway, and beyond. Coaches, choreographers, and gym owners have a golden opportunity: use these global success stories to inform your recruitment, programming, facility planning, and storytelling. With vision and intentional growth strategies, your program could be the next breakout team making headlines at ICU Worlds or Summit! 🙌

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First-Year Cheer Coach Survival Guide: Navigating Your Inaugural Season

Posted on May 30, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

30
May

By Steve Pawlyk

Published May 30, 2025

First, Welcome to the Family!

Stepping into your first season as a cheer coach is exciting – and a little daunting. You’re not just teaching motions and stunts; you’re becoming a mentor, leader, and role model. This guide will help you survive and thrive in your inaugural year by covering three critical areas: building your confidence, establishing your authority, and fostering a supportive, effective coaching style. Along the way, we’ll share insights and quotes from well-known, successful cheer coaches at the high school, all-star, and college levels to illustrate what works. Remember, even the most decorated coaches had a “first year” – with the right mindset and strategies (and a few real-world examples), you can set the foundation for a rewarding coaching career.

1. Building Confidence as a New Coach

Own your role from Day One. Confidence isn’t about knowing everything – it’s about believing in yourself and your ability to learn and lead. Legendary Navarro College coach Monica Aldama emphasizes the importance of composure: no matter how nervous you feel inside, project calm confidence to your team.

“I definitely have always told myself no matter what I’m feeling inside, I can’t let the team know… if they see me looking terrified or scared… all that work that we’ve done could go down the drain… I know they’re looking to me as their leader, and how I’m feeling is going to radiate out into them”.

In short, your emotions are contagious. A first-year coach who appears confident and positive will instill the same belief in the athletes.

Scenario: Imagine it’s the first practice and you’re running a complex stunt sequence. Inside, your stomach is doing flips of its own. One stunt group struggles and all eyes turn to you. Instead of panicking, you take a deep breath, smile, and break down the problem step-by-step. The team sees your steady demeanor and dives back in with renewed confidence. By practice end, the stunt hits – and your athletes learned that you won’t flinch under pressure.

Practical confidence-builders:

Prepare and plan: Walk into practice with a detailed plan. Preparation breeds confidence. If you know what you want to accomplish each day (from stretching, to drills, to full-outs), you’ll spend less time second-guessing and more time coaching.
Leverage your strengths and experience: Whether you were a collegiate cheerleader or a studio dancer, draw on what you know. “One of the biggest differences between my mom and I as coaches is that I have cheered and competed at the highest level… I think this allows me to be more black and white at times,” says University of Mississippi’s head coach, Ryan O’Connor. If you can still demonstrate a motion or flip, do it! Showing expertise (or even sharing stories of past challenges you overcame) earns respect and reassures you do know what you’re talking about.
Find a mentor and network: Don’t hesitate to reach out to other coaches for advice. Many veteran coaches remember their first-year struggles and are happy to help. “The more contacts you can make as a coach, the better. We can’t do this alone and most coaches are always happy to help!”. Watching experienced coaches or having an industry mentor gives you a safety net and a sounding board, boosting your confidence when facing new situations.
Adopt a growth mindset: Confidence for a new coach also means being okay with learning on the job. There will be days when a pep talk falls flat or a formation tweak doesn’t work – that’s normal. Take it from successful coaches who view setbacks as lessons. Monica Aldama, after a rare defeat, allows herself a short pity party then gets back to work: “I allowed myself to be sad… and as soon as I felt like I had, I was like, Okay, now we’re ready to go… you can’t ever stay in that moment”. Treat each challenge as a chance to improve.

By investing in preparation, projecting assurance, and embracing continuous learning, you’ll gradually turn that “imposter syndrome” into hard-earned confidence. And as your self-belief grows, so will your team’s trust in you.

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2. Establishing Authority and Earning Respect

Being a new coach often means walking a fine line – you want your team to like you, but you also need them to listen to you. Authority isn’t about being authoritarian; it’s about consistent leadership and respect. Monica Aldama describes it well: “I try to be very consistent so they know that when I’m serious, I’m serious, and that I do have rules and I expect them to follow them. But at the same time, I want them to know that they can come talk to me and that I am going to be empathetic.” In other words, set clear expectations early – and enforce them fairly – so athletes understand your standards. When you say practice starts at 5:00, start at 5:00. When you outline a code of conduct, follow through with appropriate consequences. Consistency shows you mean what you say, which earns respect over time.

Scenario: A few weeks into the season, you notice some of your athletes arriving late or giggling while you’re giving instructions. As a new, young coach, you worry about coming off too strict – but you also know this can’t slide. In the next team meeting, you calmly restate the attendance rule from your handbook and why it matters (“We can’t improve if we don’t all commit to being here on time”). You also pull aside the giggling group after practice, not to scold, but to let them know you value their energy – just not during important explanations. The result? The team refocuses, and even those initially testing boundaries realize you’re serious but fair.

Tips for establishing your authority:

Start with structure: In your first team meeting or parent meeting, outline how you will run the program. Discuss team rules, practice schedules, communication channels, and your coaching philosophy. A clear structure from day one signals that you’re organized and professional. According to Varsity’s new coach guide, “The key to a successful year is communication!” – be proactive in explaining your vision and expectations. It’s easier to be seen as an authority if everyone knows the playbook.
Be firm, not frazzled: Issues will arise – an athlete talks back, a parent questions your choreography, or the squad has an off-day. Stay calm and address each issue with a level head. Veteran high school coach Donna Martin (who led Dunbar HS to multiple national titles) learned through experience to pick her battles and give second chances when appropriate. “I have a little more experience with all kinds of situations. I feel like I probably give kids more chances where Ryan (my daughter coaching college) is more strict. Of course, kids are younger in high school… some situations may be more on the parent than the child,” Donna notes. Her advice underscores that authority can be flexible based on context – younger athletes sometimes need guidance more than punishment. You can enforce rules and show understanding.
Earn respect through expertise and effort: Especially if you’re a young coach or stepping into big shoes, you might feel you have to prove yourself. Focus on what you bring to the table. Maybe you have superior tumbling knowledge, fresh choreography ideas, or simply an infectious passion. Pour that into your coaching. Athletes respect coaches who make them better. For example, all-star gyms often use creative drills and technique focus to build credibility. “Always work with drills before they try the actual skill… If they can’t do the drill, don’t do the skill!” Showing that you prioritize proper technique and safety over showing off will earn athlete (and parent) trust. When your team sees that your methods lead to progress – that stunt finally hits or their jumps height improve – your authority grows naturally.
Set the tone with team leaders: If you have senior athletes or captains, enlist them as allies. Have a private talk with them early on – communicate your goals and ask for their support in setting an example. Winning over veteran cheerleaders can make or break a first-year coach. They can either become your biggest advocates or your biggest hurdles. By respecting their experience and empowering them (perhaps letting a captain run warm-ups or lead a bonding activity), you show you’re confident enough not to rule with an iron fist. In turn, they’re more likely to back you up when you enforce rules, creating a culture of peer accountability.

Finally, remember that respect is a two-way street. Treat your athletes with respect – listen to their concerns, acknowledge their hard work – and they will return it. A new coach who is consistent, fair, and caring will quickly dispel any notions of being a push-over. As college coach Ryan O’Connor famously reminded her team, “You need to sacrifice for this team, or this team will be the sacrifice…”. By establishing a standard of dedication and mutual respect, you lay the groundwork for a unified squad that’s ready to follow your lead.

3. Fostering a Supportive and Effective Coaching Style

Great coaches aren’t just loud cheerleaders on the sidelines – they are mentors who develop athletes both as performers and as people. Especially in cheer, where trust and teamwork are paramount (think about the literal trust fall of a stunt!), you’ll want to cultivate a positive, supportive atmosphere. A winning first season is not defined solely by trophies, but by the foundation of team culture you build. As Cheer Athletics all-star coach John Davenport Knowles puts it: “Make sure you are passionate about kids and people… Being passionate about how to teach life lessons is the most important part.” In your coaching debut, focus on people first. The skills and clean routines will follow.

Scenario: Mid-season, one of your cheerleaders, “Alyssa,” who was normally full of energy, seems withdrawn and is struggling with her tumbling. Rather than write her off as lazy, you pull her aside after practice. She confides that academic stress and a sprained wrist have her feeling low. You adjust her role for the upcoming game to ease the tumbling load and pair her with a buddy for homework sessions. Over the next few weeks, Alyssa regains her confidence – not just because her wrist healed, but because she knows her coach cares about her well-being. The whole team notices the support, and a culture of looking out for one another grows.

How to build a supportive, effective coaching style:

Get to know each athlete personally: Building personal relationships is not a waste of time; it’s the bedrock of effective coaching. The head coach of the legendary Cheer Extreme emphasizes, “Every individual is different and therefore needs a mix of personalized and general training.” Take time to learn your team members’ personalities, what motivates them, and what might be happening in their lives. Who thrives under pressure? Who needs a confidence boost after a mistake? Showing you care about them beyond just hitting a stunt creates trust. Athletes who feel valued will go the extra mile for you and the team.
Be approachable and empathetic: A common mistake for first-year coaches is trying to be too strict or distant in order to establish authority. In reality, you can be both respected and approachable. Monica Aldama balances these roles as a “friend” and “boss” simultaneously: “It is a friendship, but at the same time, it’s a respectful friendship, where you know that I’m still the person that’s going to be bossing you around… You also find that they’re all different; some want you to be tough with them and then if you use that same approach on someone else, it’ll just tear them down. I really try to figure everyone out.” The takeaway? Adjust your coaching style to the individual. If one flyer responds well to tough love but another shuts down, you’ll get better results by tailoring your feedback. Being empathetic doesn’t mean lowering standards; it means you deliver critiques in a way each athlete can absorb. For instance, after a fall, one cheerleader might need a fiery “get up, you’ve got this!” while another might need a gentle “shake it off, I believe in you.”
Positive reinforcement goes a long way: “Celebrate small and big achievements” – Triple Threat KC. Shout-outs, high-fives, and celebrating small victories can transform your team’s mindset. A culture that “celebrates small and big achievements” fosters confidence and self-assurance in athletes. Something as simple as ending practice with each team member sharing one thing they’re proud of that day can keep morale high. When mistakes happen (and they will), correct them, but also point out what is improving. For example: “The pyramid dip was off-count, but I love the height you’re getting – we’ll fix the timing next practice.” This tells athletes you see their effort, not just their errors.
Team building and unity: A supportive team is a connected team. Plan activities that bond your athletes. It could be as involved as a weekend team retreat, or as simple as a goofy game at practice warm-ups. Many top coaches insist that a close team is a team that will have a successful season. When your athletes trust each other, they catch tighter and cheer louder. You can facilitate this by creating a “big sister/little sister” buddy system, doing occasional fun practices (like swapping routines with the dance team for a day), or having a tradition where team members anonymously exchange uplifting notes before competitions. These efforts might seem extra, but they pay off in athletes who feel supported like family. And when issues like cliques or bullying arise, address them immediately – make it clear that your team succeeds and fails together.

Above all, lead with compassion and positivity. Cheer Extreme founder Courtney Smith-Pope built one of the most successful all-star programs by treating athletes like family. When asked about this, Courtney said “We’ve helped a lot of kids… and have been able to have a positive influence on athletes to help them achieve their goals and dreams… Our biggest dream is to pass on the boundless love we got from our mom and dad onto the kids we have the honor to coach,” In your first year, set the tone that you are there to lift athletes up. When they feel safe and inspired, they will reach new heights – literally and figuratively – and you’ll be known as both an effective coach and a trusted mentor.

4. Thriving Through Challenges: Advice from the Legends

No matter how prepared you are, your inaugural season will have its challenges – maybe an unexpected injury, a routine that isn’t scoring as hoped, or just the fatigue of a long season. Survival as a first-year coach isn’t about avoiding problems; it’s about tackling them with resilience and perspective. Here are a few final nuggets of wisdom from coaching legends to help you keep pushing when the going gets tough:

• Stay patient and problem-solve:

“You MUST have patience and understanding. Everything is attainable, and all problems are solvable,” – New Fairfield Falcons, Head Coach

When faced with a setback, take a breath and remember that with time and effort, you can work through it. Champion coaches approach challenges logically – if a pyramid consistently fails, they break it down into pieces, fix grips or timing, and build it back up. Adopting a “problems are solvable” attitude will help your team stay calm and focused on solutions, not mistakes.

Keep the big picture in mind: Early in your coaching journey, it’s easy to get tunnel vision on the next competition or the current stunt sequence. Don’t forget why you (and your athletes) are here: love of the sport and personal growth. If you lose a competition, use it as a learning experience rather than a confidence killer. If you’re exhausted mid-season, remember that the influence you’re having on these young people goes beyond a trophy. As John Davenport Knowles reminded coaches, we’re teaching life lessons – things like teamwork, perseverance, and leadership that will stick with your athletes far longer than any trophy polish.
Persevere and strive for excellence: Set the tone that your team will work hard and finish strong, no matter what. Monica Aldama’s hallmark motto from Navarro College is a great mantra to share with your team: “You keep going until you get it right, and then you keep going until you can’t get it wrong.”This champion mindset – practice, refine, perfect – shows your athletes that excellence comes from dedication. It will inspire them and you to push through rough practices because the end goal is worth it. However, also balance that drive with knowing when to rest. Sometimes the best thing you can do during a stressful week is call a practice early and do a team ice cream social to rebuild spirits. A fresh, recharged team will outperform a burned-out one every time.
Celebrate the journey: Finally, take time to acknowledge small wins and memorable moments. Your first pep rally as a coach, the first time the team sticks a routine full-out, or even the first time a shy athlete finds her voice to lead a cheer – these are huge milestones. Successful coaches are passionate, but also grateful. As you navigate your first year, keep a journal or log of things that went well. You’ll be amazed at how these reflections build your confidence for year two. Plus, showing enthusiasm and gratitude rubs off on the team. As the Stingray All-Stars like to say, “Confidence is contagious,” and so is passion. If you demonstrate love for the sport and for your team, they will mirror it right back to you.

Embrace the Challenge, Embrace the Fun

Your inaugural season as a cheer coach will be a whirlwind of long practice nights, last-minute routine changes, and a whole lotta pride in your team. You will grow just as much as your athletes do. By building your confidence (and faking it when you must), asserting your authority with consistency and care, and cultivating a supportive team culture, you set yourself up not just to survive but to succeed.

There will be tough days – but remember, every Hall of Fame coach started out exactly where you are. Lean on the advice of those who’ve walked this road: be patient, communicate clearly, stay passionate, and never stop learning. As you navigate the ups and downs, keep your love for the sport and your team at the forefront. Do that, and your first year of coaching will be the start of something truly amazing – a legacy of leadership and spirit that will impact lives for years to come. Go into this season with confidence and heart – you’ve got this, Coach!

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Roadmap to Success: Major Cheerleading Competitions 2025–2026

Posted on May 9, 2025May 9, 2025 by Steve Pawlyk

09
May

By Steve Pawlyk

Published May 9, 2025

Between May 2025 and May 2026, cheerleading teams around the world are gearing up for some of the sport’s most prestigious competitions. In the United States, events like NCA & NDA College Nationals, The Cheerleading Worlds, and the Allstar World Championship draw elite talent. Across the Atlantic, the UK’s Future Cheer Internationals dominates the scene, while Australia’s AASCF Nationals, Japan’s All Japan Cheerleading & Dance Championship, South Korea’s national championship, and Mexico’s ONP National Grand Championship showcase top-tier teams in their regions.

Below we break down each major competition—including dates and unique characteristics—and provide detailed 6–9 month training roadmaps for two scenarios: (1) teams starting from scratch and (2) returning advanced teams. These roadmaps include timelines for skills training, choreography, conditioning, recovery, and crucial administrative deadlines (registration, music licensing, uniforms, bid qualifications). For convenience, each roadmap is accompanied by a downloadable .ics calendar file.

NCA & NDA College Nationals 2026 (USA) - NEW

Date & Venue: April 5–10, 2026 in Daytona Beach, Florida. This is the pinnacle of college cheer and dance, famous for its beachfront Bandshell finals. Teams qualify via summer camps or video bids, then spend months preparing to “go to Daytona.” A hallmark of NCA College Nationals is the required crowd-leading cheer section in routines and the electrifying atmosphere of performing on the outdoor stage. Top teams need difficult stunts and pyramids, sharp crowd appeal, and endurance to hit solid routines on both prelims and finals days. (As NCA says, it’s a journey “from NCA College Camp to NCA Nationals,” all for that moment on the Bandshell.

Roadmap for New Teams (Starting from Scratch)

For a new college team aiming for Daytona, the focus is on building fundamental skills and securing a Nationals bid early:

Summer (May–Aug 2025): Hold tryouts in late spring and immediately begin off-season conditioning. Attend an NCA Summer Camp in July–Aug 2025 to learn game day material and earn a Nationals bid (camp attendees can receive an automatic bid)varsity.com. Start basic stunt group training and coed stunt basics; emphasize tumbling drills and motions technique.
Fall 2025: With the bid secured, kick off regular team practices by August. Spend September on stunting technique and pyramids, gradually increasing difficulty as skills solidify. In October, begin choreographing the competition routine’s outline – including the crowd cheer segment (signs, chants, megaphones) and the music section. By November, finalize music selection and ensure it’s properly licensed. (If the team didn’t attend camp, submit a video bid by the November deadline to qualify for NCA Nationals.) In late fall, ramp up full-out practice repetitions.

Winter 2025–26: Hold a routine choreography camp in early January 2026 to put together the full routine with a professional choreographer. January and February are for cleaning up the routine and improving endurance – aim to be able to run full-outs back-to-back (remember, at NCA College Nationals teams often compete on both BandShell and indoor stage). Register for Nationals by the on-time registration deadline (likely February) to avoid late fees. In February, attend a local tune-up competition or showcase to simulate performing under pressure.
Spring 2026 (Pre-Nationals): Clean and polish the routine throughout March, focusing on tumbling passes and pyramids hitting consistently with zero deductions. Plan a friends-and-family showcase in late March as a dress rehearsal. Finalize uniform orders by March to ensure they arrive; coordinate logistics (travel to Daytona, hotel, music proof, etc.). Allow a short taper the week before competition to keep athletes fresh. Arrive in Daytona a day or two early to practice on strips of the actual performance surface if possible (outdoor elements like wind and sun can be a factor on the Bandshell).
Competition: Compete in prelims and, if you advance, finals between April 5–10, 2026. Aim to “hit zero” (no deductions) in both performances, showcasing strong crowd-leading in the cheer section and stellar technique in the music section. Use any feedback from prelim judges to make minor adjustments for finals. Most importantly – soak in the experience of Daytona Beach and keep the team calm and focused for the high-energy environment.

Download New Team Calendar (.ics): Below is a calendar of key dates and milestones for a new team’s journey to NCA College Nationals 2026 (from tryouts through Nationals). You can import this into your calendar app for a detailed timeline.

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NCA & NDA College Nationals 2026 (USA) - ADVANCED

Roadmap for Returning Advanced Teams

Experienced college teams (especially those returning to Daytona or defending titles) can streamline early-season prep and push difficulty further:

Early Off-Season (May–July 2025): After the 2025 Nationals, give athletes a short break to recover (mental and physical rest is important). By June, start optional workouts focusing on maintaining conditioning and rehabbing any injuries. Many top teams still attend an NCA College Camp in summer – not only to secure their bid (if not already obtained via video) but also to practice game-day elements and bond as a team. Use camp to identify any skill gaps and set goals (“Go Be Great” initiative and spirit showcases add motivational fire).
Fall 2025: With many veterans returning, you can start at a higher difficulty level. In August and September, introduce new elite stunts, pyramids, and tumbling passes that build on last year’s routine – push creativity and difficulty since these teams aim to wow judges. Analyze score sheets from 2025 to address any relative weaknesses (for example, if tumbling difficulty was maxed out, focus on stunt innovation, etc.). By October, have a preliminary routine outline and begin full routine choreography earlier than a novice team would. Using the fall, perform at pep rallies or exhibitor events to get comfortable performing in front of crowds. Ensure music is mix-mastered by winter and fully compliant with licensing rules (Varsity requires use of licensed music providers).

Winter 2025–26: Many returning teams aim to have the bulk of their routine ready by the holidays so they can spend January–March cleaning and refining. Schedule full-out routines multiple times per week starting in January 2026. Because NCA scores execution heavily, allocate practice time to perfect stunt timing, toss technique, and pyramids dismount landings. Simulate the Daytona environment in practice – for example, practice outdoors in a breeze for the Bandshell feel, or run from a mock prelim to a finals routine on back-to-back days to build stamina. By February, all sections (including the game-day cheer segment) should be hitting consistently.
Pre-Nationals Spring 2026: In March, host a mock competition with impartial judges (maybe alumni or local coaches) to score the routine and provide feedback. Use this feedback to make final adjustments – seasoned teams might increase difficulty in a section if they’ve been consistently hitting zero, knowing the payoff in score could be worth the risk. Finalize all logistics (travel, accommodations at Daytona, practice schedules) well ahead of time. A week or so before Nationals, hold a high-energy send-off performance in front of the school/community to build confidence and excitement. Then taper activity slightly to keep athletes fresh and injury-free.
Competition: Arrive at NCA Nationals ready to handle the pressure. Experienced teams know to treat prelims as finals – a strong Day 1 can secure a favorable draw/order for finals. At the event (April 2026), pay attention to NCA’s scoring nuances: e.g., the crowd segment – ensure signs, poms, and motions are sharp and the crowd effect is maximized (NCA judges reward effective crowd-leading). Between prelims and finals, coaches should review routine video for any bobbles to fix. By this stage, an advanced team’s muscle memory and experience take over. The result: a confident, aggressive finals performance in Daytona to contend for a national title.

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The Cheerleading Worlds 2026 (USA) - NEW

Date & Venue: April 24–27, 2026 at ESPN Wide World of Sports, Orlando (Walt Disney World). The Cheerleading Worlds is the premier international all-star championship, where elite Level 6/7 teams from around the globe compete. Over 500 teams from 25+ nations converge for this event, each having earned a bid throughout the season. Routines are all music (no cheer segment) and are scored on difficulty, technique, creativity, and perfection – hitting a zero-deduction routine is crucial in this “pinnacle of the sport’s most prestigious stage”. With prelims, semi-finals, and finals in many divisions, teams often must perform multiple days. Scoring emphasis: Tumbling and stunt difficulty at the absolute maximum of the scoring grid, impeccable execution, and standout choreography (transitions, visual effects) to set teams apart. Small details like uniform design and performance showmanship can even make a difference at this level.

Roadmap for New All-Star Teams

A newly formed all-star Worlds team (perhaps a gym’s first Worlds team) has a steep road: they must build skills and secure a Worlds bid during the season:

Spring–Summer 2025 (Formation & Basics): Hold tryouts by May 2025 once the previous season ends. Select athletes who meet the age and level requirements for a Worlds team (typically Level 6 or 7). Start training in June with a focus on basics: establish technique for tosses, standing tumbling (fulls/doubles), and stunt group assignments. Over summer, schedule extra clinics for specialty skills like baskets and tumbling upgrades. Also, choose a competition schedule targeting bid-qualifying events (e.g., USA Cheer or Varsity competitions that offer Worlds bids).
Choreography & Routine Building (Late Summer 2025): By July or August, host a choreography camp to create a first draft of the Worlds routine. Since difficulty is paramount at Worlds, incorporate the hardest skills the team can safely execute – but ensure to design routine sections that highlight athletes’ strengths (e.g., if you have strong tumblers, emphasize synchronized tumbling passes). By the end of summer, you should have a routine that hits all score sheet elements (stunts, pyramid, running and standing tumbling, jumps, dance). Obtain music from a licensed producer (the mix often includes voice-overs highlighting team name/theme).
Fall 2025 (Routine Reps & Early Comps): Use the fall months to condition the athletes for full 2:30 routines. Initially, break the routine into sections for cleaning. Start doing full-outs by October. It’s wise for a new team to attend an early-season competition (Nov or Dec 2025) to get feedback. Even a local competition can serve as a reality check for stamina and where deductions occur. Adjust choreography if needed – for example, if a stunt is not hitting consistently by December, consider simplifying it to ensure a clean routine by Worlds.

Bid Qualification (Winter 2025–26): Worlds bids (Paid, At-Large) are typically up for grabs starting mid-season. Plan to attend at least one major nationals or bid event in Jan/Feb 2026. Many teams target events like CHEERSPORT, NCA All-Star Nationals (late February), or UCA International All-Star Championship in March to secure their bid. If your team is still growing, consider smaller bid events for an At-Large bid. Keep in mind: teams must have a bid to attend Worlds, so this is a critical milestonecheermedia.com. Once a bid is earned, immediately take care of Worlds registration and payment by the stated deadline (usually by late March). Also coordinate travel early – Orlando fills up with cheer teams during Worlds week.
Spring 2026 (Pre-Worlds Prep): After securing the bid, intensify focus on execution. March is the time to max out your routine – add that extra tumbling pass or trick if the team can handle it, because difficulty can separate teams at Worlds. Many gyms attend Showcase events or even The U.S. All Star Federation’s Worlds Send-Off in April to practice performing in front of a crowd one last time. Keep athletes healthy: incorporate recovery days, sports therapy sessions, and mindset training (the Worlds stage can be overwhelming for first-timers).
Worlds Week (April 2026): Arrive in Orlando a few days early to get acclimated. Practice on spring floors at the venue’s scheduled practice times. Prelims/Semis: Treat every performance like finals – in a huge field, you often must hit multiple clean routines to even make finals. Trust the training and emphasize performing with confidence and energy (judges at Worlds look for difficulty and flawless execution). By April 24–27, 2026, you’ll take the mat at Worldscheermedia.com representing your gym and possibly your country, aiming to hit a routine that impresses both judges and the world streaming online.

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The Cheerleading Worlds 2026 (USA) - ADVANCED

Roadmap for Returning Advanced Teams

Top Worlds teams (many of them world champions or medalists) treat the season as a marathon where they fine-tune every detail. For a returning Worlds team:

May–July 2025: Conduct tryouts soon after Worlds 2025 to fill any open roster spots (many athletes will return, but aging out or injuries may require new members). Set season goals (e.g., “increase stunt difficulty by X,” “score 5 points higher in performance scores”) in a kickoff meeting. Start summer practices focusing on skill upgrades – for instance, if last year’s routine lacked back tucks in jumps or certain coed stunt releases, incorporate drills to add those. Many elite teams invite outside experts for tumbling or flexibility clinics in summer.
Routine Construction (Summer/Early Fall 2025): By mid-summer, the coaching staff often has a game plan for the routine theme and construction. High-level teams sometimes get choreography done as early as August or September to give maximum time for mastery. Use skills from the new Worlds score sheet update (if any changes for 2025–26 season) to ensure you’re choreographing to maximize points. Emphasize innovative elements – judges at Worlds love novel transitions, creative pyramids, and “wow factor” moments. By the end of September, aim to have a routine that can score near full difficulty when executed.

Competition Season (Fall 2025–Winter 2026): Rather than waiting, many returning teams compete at major competitions mid-season to secure a Paid bid and test their routine under pressure. For example, attend an early bid event in November or December 2025; some U.S. teams go to events like the All Star Challenge or America’s Best (or for international teams, perhaps an early national championship) to grab a bid. Securing a Paid Bid by January means less financial stress and more focus on training. Through January and February, practice is relentless: full-outs 3–4 times a week, cross-training for endurance (some teams do swimming or extra cardio sessions), and frequent cleaning sessions (drilling tumbling landings, fixing any form breaks in stunts).
Peak and Taper (March–April 2026): March is about peaking – difficulty and performance should reach their zenith. It’s common for elite teams to hold a showcase or send-off in late March or early April for family and fans, performing the routine in uniform exactly as they will at Worlds. This provides one last performance rep and confidence boost. After that, focus on mental preparedness and slight tapering of physical intensity to keep athletes fresh. By now, all logistics for Worlds (travel, Disney park tickets, practice gym bookings) are finalized. The team might also review tape of top competitors (if available from other comps) to understand how they can stand out.
Worlds 2026: Arrive with time to adjust to the venue. For veterans, the Worlds arena atmosphere – massive crowd, cameras, and pressure – is familiar, but remind any newer athletes what to expect. Usually, there’s a prelim/semifinal round: treat it like finals, hitting a solid routine to advance.

An advanced team might hold back nothing, knowing consistency is their strong suit. By finals day, rely on experience: trust that the routine you’ve competed all year can hit one more time. Often the difference at this level is mental – staying calm, confident, and aggressive on the mat. Aim to hit that perfect routine and leave the rest to the scores. Regardless of placement, a returning team’s success is measured by improvement and executing a routine at the limit of what’s possible in cheerleading.

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Allstar World Championship 2026 (USA) - NEW TEAM

Date & Venue: April 16–19, 2026 in Orlando, Florida (Orange County Convention Center). The Allstar World Championship (often dubbed “Allstar Worlds”) is a relatively new international event produced by the Open Championship Series, and it’s quickly become one of the world’s largest cheer and dance competitions. In 2025 it featured over 1,500 teams across all ages and level, and 2026 is expected to be just as massive. Teams qualify by earning bids at independent (non-Varsity) events throughout the season. The competition has a unique format with “Battle Rounds” and Finals on separate days, meaning teams might compete multiple times in a tournament-style progression. Scoring emphasis: Since many teams come from various independent event brands, scoring aligns with industry standards (difficulty & execution), but performance/showmanship is huge – the crowd energy at Allstar Worlds is high, with programs trying to prove themselves on a world stage outside the USASF/IASF Worlds framework. This event also includes more divisions (including Allstar prep and international divisions) in a big celebration of cheer.

Roadmap for New Teams

For a gym that’s aiming to send a team to Allstar Worlds for the first time, here’s how to navigate the season:

Summer 2025 (Team Assembly): After tryouts in May, confirm the team’s division and level (Allstar Worlds has divisions for various levels, not just Level 6/7 like USASF Worlds). Ensure you attend Open Championship Series competitions during the year, since a bid is requiredcheermedia.com. Identify a target event in your region that offers Allstar Worlds bids (these could be independent events like Cheer LTD, Champion Cheer, etc., throughout fall/winter). Begin routine choreography by end of summer, focusing on a fun theme or wow factor – Allstar Worlds crowds love entertaining routines.
Fall 2025: Train fundamentals and run routine sections in practice. Because some athletes might be younger (if lower levels are competing at Allstar Worlds), instill good technique early. Attend at least one local competition by November 2025 to get feedback. Use that to adjust stunt difficulty or sequencing. Also, apply for/secure music licensing – even independent events require proof of licensed music, so use a service that provides documentation. Uniforms should be ordered by fall if new, to ensure arrival for the first competitions.

Bid Events (Winter 2025–26): Compete at your chosen bid event when ready – possibly December 2025 or January 2026. If you don’t win a bid on the first try, have backup competitions planned in Feb or even early March (the Open Series often has later bid comps). An At-Large bid will suffice to attend, though a Paid bid helps financially. Once the bid is secured, celebrate briefly, then refocus on cleaning up for Allstar Worlds. Submit all required bid acceptance paperwork and register for Allstar Worlds by their deadline (likely in March 2026).
Pre-Event Prep (March–Apr 2026): Practice the routine in the “Battle Round” format – at Allstar Worlds, you might perform on Day 1 (battle) and only some advance to Day 2 finalscheermedia.com. Prepare two days of energy. If your division has a large number of teams, you may compete twice before finals. Stamina training (running full-outs on back-to-back days in practice) will help. Focus on performance showmanship: facials, sharp motions, and engaging choreography can set your team apart in a field of many.
Allstar Worlds Event (April 2026): Arrive in Orlando with time to adjust (like Worlds, this is at a huge venue). Attend the check-in and any opening ceremonies to get athletes excited. On competition day, bring the fun and passion – judges and crowd here appreciate a joyful, high-energy performance as much as difficulty. If you advance past battles to finals, treat finals like a fresh start (scores often don’t carry over fully). The goal for a new team should be hitting a personal best routine on that Worlds stage and making memories at this international showdown.

Bid Qualification (Winter 2025–26): Worlds bids (Paid, At-Large) are typically up for grabs starting mid-season. Plan to attend at least one major nationals or bid event in Jan/Feb 2026. Many teams target events like CHEERSPORT, NCA All-Star Nationals (late February), or UCA International All-Star Championship in March to secure their bid. If your team is still growing, consider smaller bid events for an At-Large bid. Keep in mind: teams must have a bid to attend Worlds, so this is a critical milestonecheermedia.com. Once a bid is earned, immediately take care of Worlds registration and payment by the stated deadline (usually by late March). Also coordinate travel early – Orlando fills up with cheer teams during Worlds week.
Spring 2026 (Pre-Worlds Prep): After securing the bid, intensify focus on execution. March is the time to max out your routine – add that extra tumbling pass or trick if the team can handle it, because difficulty can separate teams at Worlds. Many gyms attend Showcase events or even The U.S. All Star Federation’s Worlds Send-Off in April to practice performing in front of a crowd one last time. Keep athletes healthy: incorporate recovery days, sports therapy sessions, and mindset training (the Worlds stage can be overwhelming for first-timers).
Worlds Week (April 2026): Arrive in Orlando a few days early to get acclimated. Practice on spring floors at the venue’s scheduled practice times. Prelims/Semis: Treat every performance like finals – in a huge field, you often must hit multiple clean routines to even make finals. Trust the training and emphasize performing with confidence and energy (judges at Worlds look for difficulty and flawless execution). By April 24–27, 2026, you’ll take the mat at Worldscheermedia.com representing your gym and possibly your country, aiming to hit a routine that impresses both judges and the world streaming online.

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Allstar World Championship 2026 (USA) - ADVANCED

Roadmap for Returning Teams

Gyms that have been to Allstar Worlds before (or regularly attend) will approach the season with confidence and perhaps aim for higher placement or a Paid bid:

Summer 2025: Solidify the team early and plan the competition schedule to hit key bid events. An experienced team might go for a Paid Bid at a major Open Championship in fall. Since Allstar Worlds allows multiple levels, if this is a senior team of a lower level (say Level 4 or 5), ensure the athletes maintain skills after the previous season – no time for a long break. Conduct a skills camp in July focusing on upgrading tumbling passes or stunt technique.
Fall 2025: Complete routine choreography by the start of fall so that by October you’re running full routines. Consider attending The Open branded events or Champion’s Cup in November if they offer bids – snagging an early bid can ease the road. Use fall competitions to test risky elements; if all goes well, keep them, if not, adjust by January.

Winter 2025–26: Once a bid is secured (hopefully a Paid Bid by late fall), utilize December–February to polish. Because Allstar Worlds isn’t Varsity-run, there may be slight differences in score focus – research judging feedback from 2025’s event to see what was rewarded (maybe creativity and pyramid difficulty were big). Incorporate those insights. Continue to keep the routine fun and engaging – returning teams often bring back signature moves or themes that the Allstar Worlds crowd remembers.
Spring 2026: As Allstar Worlds approaches, simulate the Battle Round format in practices. For example, have the team do a full-out in the morning (as if Day 1) and another in the afternoon (as if Day 2 finals) to build confidence that they can hit twice. Fine-tune the routine pace so athletes have the endurance to finish strong (judges notice if energy fades at the end). Take advantage of any “last chance” comps only if needed – otherwise, focus on practice.
At the Championship: A returning team knows to soak in the unique atmosphere – an enormous convention center with multiple floors and a festival-like atmosphere. Remind athletes to stay focused amid the spectacle. The team can also lean on past years’ experience: e.g., if last year they lost points on a minor deduction, they know now to avoid that mistake. Execute the battle round with confidence to advance to finals. In finals, aim to outperform your own Day 1 routine – the goal is to peak at the right moment.

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Future Cheer Internationals 2025 (UK) - NEW TEAMS

Date & Venue: June 20–22, 2025 at the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) in Bournemouth, UK. Future Cheer Internationals (often called “FC Internationals” or just “Future Cheer Nationals”) is the largest cheerleading competition in the UK and Europe. It attracts programs from across Britain and even abroad, all competing under one roof just steps from the beach. Uniquely, registration for this event opens extremely early (September of the prior year) due to high demand, and it reaches capacity quickly. Teams range from tiny novice to elite worlds-level, performing on a sprung floor in multiple arenas. Scoring emphasis: Generally aligns with USASF/IASF standards, but showmanship and cleanliness are key. Judges often come from international backgrounds, so they look for sharp motions, synchronized technique, and creative choreography. This event also often offers bids to USASF Worlds and other end-of-season championships, so top teams choreograph with those score sheets in mind too.

Roadmap for New Teams

If a new team or program in the UK is aiming to compete at Future Cheer Internationals 2025, their season might look like this:

Team Formation (Autumn 2024): UK teams typically kick off in September with the new school year. Hold tryouts or team placements in early September 2024. Register for FC Internationals as soon as registration opens (Sept 16, 2024) – it’s first-come, first-served until they hit capacity, so a new team must secure their spot. Begin weekly practices focusing on core skills (stunts at level, tumbling basics, dance).
Late 2024: By November, start routine choreography or at least stunt sequence construction. Many UK teams bring in choreographers in the winter. Plan music production by December so you can get proper licensing (usually via companies like ASCAP-covered producers or using sites aligned with the UK music guidelines). Over the winter break, athletes should maintain conditioning, as January will ramp up.
Early 2025: Aim to have your full routine choreographed by January. Future Cheer’s Early Bird payment deadline is January 6, 2025, so ensure fees are sorted to get the discount. Use January and February to drill technique – UK competitions often deduct for form issues (bent legs, incomplete twists), so clean those up. Consider attending a smaller regional competition in Feb or March (Future Cheer and other organizations host events like “Heart of England” or “Legacy” etc.) as a trial run. This gives athletes experience and the coaches insight into any changes needed.

Mid-season Adjustments (Spring 2025): By March, incorporate any judge feedback from the regional comp. The on-time registration payment deadline is March 10, 2025futurecheer.net, so finalize your roster and ensure all paperwork (insurance, music licenses, athlete IDs) are submitted by then. Order any new uniforms by the spring if you haven’t yet – you’ll want them by May. Through April and May, intensify full-outs. UK events don’t usually have prelims/finals – it’s one-shot performances – so practice executing the routine perfectly first try. Emphasize stamina: a 2 minute 30 second routine should be solid from start to end.
Pre-Competition (June 2025): Hold a showcase or open practice in early June to perform in front of supporters – this boosts confidence. Taper training slightly the week of the event to avoid injuries, but keep athletes’ bodies active. Bournemouth is a travel destination, so finalize travel plans (coaches often book hotels and transport well in advance). Remind athletes to stay hydrated and rested – June can be warm, and excitement will be high.
Competition (June 20–22, 2025): Arrive at the BIC, enjoy the atmosphere (multiple halls of cheer routines!). For a new team, the goal is to hit a clean routine and have an unforgettable experience. The crowd and judges will appreciate big smiles and confident performance. Because this is “Internationals,” remember that winning isn’t everything – hitting zero and showing improvement is a huge success for a first-timer on such a big stage. If your division awards bids (e.g., to Cheerleading Worlds or Summit), an extra clean routine might even earn you onefuturecheer.net! Regardless, celebrate the journey – from a brand-new team to competing at Europe’s biggest competition in just 9 months.

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Future Cheer Internationals 2025 (UK) - ADVANCED

Roadmap for Returning Advanced Teams

For a veteran UK team aiming to top their division or grab Worlds bids at Future Cheer:

Summer 2024: Training might continue year-round for top teams; however, official practice ramps up in August. As soon as dates are announced, ensure the team is registered (an experienced coach will sign up on Sept 16 at 9:00am sharp!). Analyze the 2024 scores—where can you gain points? Perhaps tumbling difficulty or pyramid creativity. Set those targets early.
Fall 2024: Implement a skills camp or invite a US choreographer in early autumn to inject fresh ideas. By October, have the routine mostly set. Since this team has competed together, you can push difficulty sooner. Compete at one or two winter events (like Future Cheer’s “Winter Wonderland” in December) to see how the routine scores. Use these outings to test any risky elements under pressure.

Winter/Spring 2025: Pay close attention to deadlines: though you likely paid by January, confirm everything by March. If aiming for a USASF Worlds bid at FC Internationals, tailor sections of your routine to the Worlds score sheet (e.g., include more elite combo passes for tumbling, as Worlds values that). Through spring, focus on maximizing the execution score – a difficult routine only wins if performed cleanly. Conduct weekly mock-judging sessions: have coaches score portions of the routine and demand those last minor deductions be cleaned (pointed toes, synchronized landings, etc.). Conditioning is key – athletes should be able to finish the routine strong; consider extra cardio or full-out back-to-back runs.
Pre-Competition: As a seasoned team, host a big showcase right before Internationals, inviting media or recording it for social. This not only hypes the athletes but also puts a bit of pressure to simulate the event. At this point, trust in the training – avoid over-practicing the final week. Keep everyone healthy (maybe schedule physio for anyone with nagging pains, enforce good nutrition and sleep).
Competition Weekend: Arrive in Bournemouth with confidence. The team knows the arena and what nationals feels like. Their aim is likely to win or hit a specific score threshold. Remind them to enjoy it too – an authentic, confident performance can impress judges as much as pure technique. During the routine, veteran athletes will know how to adapt if something small goes awry (e.g., save a wobbly stunt) – this composure is your advantage. When that final beat hits, a seasoned team should be smiling because they know they just delivered something special. In awards, you might secure not only a trophy but possibly a bid to Worlds or other postseason events if offered – a valuable prize for all that hard work.

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AASCF Nationals 2025 (Australia) - NEW TEAMS

Date & Venue: November 20–24, 2025 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (Australia). The Australian All Star Cheerleading Federation (AASCF) Nationals is the largest cheer event in Australia, featuring over 2,000 routines and 11,000+ athletes across cheer and dance. It’s the culmination of the Aussie season (which typically runs February–November). This championship is notable for its “Road to Worlds” segment on the final day, where top teams vie for bids to the USASF Cheerleading Worlds. With divisions from Tiny Novice to Level 7, it’s a marathon event over 5 days. Scoring emphasis: Similar to other all-star events (difficulty & execution), but given the scale, consistency matters – teams often compete once (finals only) except some Level 7 that might have Day 2. AASCF’s score system aligns with ICU/IASF standards. Unique to 2025: Monday, Nov 24 is dedicated to Worlds bid performances, so teams aiming for bids must keep some energy in reserve for an extra run.

Roadmap for New Teams

For a new Australian all-star team working towards their first Nationals:

Summer 2024–25 (Dec–Jan): Australia’s season starts in the new year (many tryouts happen in Dec or Jan). So, hold tryouts in January 2025 right after the holiday break. Begin training in February focusing on fundamentals. Set attendance at AASCF State Championships mid-year as a goal – these regional comps (around August/September) will prepare the team for Nationalsinstagram.com.
Feb–May 2025: Use the first few months for skill building. If it’s a Level 2 team, for example, ensure all stunt groups master extended stunts by May, and all tumblers have solid back handsprings, etc. Choreography can be planned for winter – perhaps in June or July – when the team is skill-ready and right before competition season picks up. Also, early in the year, sort out administration: AASCF membership, music licensing (APRA AMCOS in Aus covers some, or use USA cheer music providers), uniform design and orders (many Aussie teams get new uniforms by Nationals; ordering by mid-year is wise).
Mid-Year 2025 (June–Sept): Have a choreography camp by June or July. Right afterward, attend a mid-year competition (AASCF Winterfest or state competition in July/August) to test the routine. State Championships (each state’s qualifier, usually Aug/Sept) are key – they not only give competitive experience but also serve as a de facto qualifier for Nationals (though technically AASCF Nationals is open, doing well at State gives confidence). By September, identify weak spots from judges’ critiques at State and refine those sections. Registration for Nationals will be due around early fall – make sure to register the team and book travel to Melbourne if you’re from another region.

Oct–Nov 2025 (Pre-Nationals): October is crunch time. Increase full-outs and focus on endurance, as Nationals is a long event day (and if the schedule runs late, teams might perform later than expected). If the team is in a bid-eligible division (Level 5–7), consider that if you place top 3, you might perform again on Monday for Worlds bids – so practice doing an extra routine run after a short break (simulate Sunday performance, then Monday performance). Finalize all details: music proof of licensing, pack spare uniform pieces, etc. Many gyms have a Nationals showcase in early November – perform the routine in front of family/friends for confidence.
Nationals Week (Nov 2025): Arrive in Melbourne with a day to practice on-site or at a local gym. The event spans five days – know which day your division competes and plan your trip accordingly (you may not need to be there all days unless supporting other teams). On competition day, do a solid warm-up and trust your training. Unique consideration: If your division’s awards are Sunday night but you’re in contention for a Worlds bid, be mentally prepared to gear up for Monday’s Road to Worlds event. For a new team, that’s unlikely the first year, but not impossible! Regardless, soak in the spectacle of AASCF Nationals – the size and energy (30,000+ spectators) is like nothing else in Australia. A clean hit routine on that Nationals floor is a victory in itself.

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As you prepare your team for the intense cheer season ahead, remember that a well-planned roadmap can make all the difference. Whether you’re a new program aiming for your first Nationals or a seasoned team looking to defend your title, the right mix of skill progression, strategic choreography, and mental toughness will set you up for success.

Use the downloadable calendars above to keep your training on track, and don’t forget to celebrate every small win along the way. After all, the journey to the mat is just as important as the final performance.

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PREMADE MIXES

New Research Points to a Return-to-Activity Risk

Not Every Return Requires the Same Process

Start Before the First Practice

Check Current Readiness Without Turning Practice Into a Medical Exam

Rebuild the Warmup for the Work Ahead

Return to Stunting From the Ground Up

Spotters Need Their Own Progression

Control Teammate Collisions

Rebuild Tumbling in Layers

Delay Full-Outs Until the Routine Parts Are Ready

A Sample 10-Practice Return Plan

Practices 1 and 2: Assess and Rebuild Basics

Practices 3 and 4: Restore Individual Skills

Practices 5 and 6: Reconnect Skills

Practices 7 and 8: Add Routine Demand

Practices 9 and 10: Evaluate Full-Routine Readiness

Use Readiness Gates Instead of Dates

Watch What Fatigue Changes

Returning After Injury Requires Medical Direction

Concussion Return Follows a Separate Process

Communicate the Plan to Parents and Athletes

Common Return-to-Cheer Mistakes

Starting Where the Team Finished

Using Conditioning as the Entire Return Plan

Chasing New Skills Too Soon

Letting Strong Athletes Pull the Whole Team Forward

Treating Falls as Normal Repetition

Advancing Because Competition Is Close

Frequently Asked Questions About Returning to Cheerleading

How Long Should a Return to Cheerleading Take?

When Should a Team Start Full-Outs After a Break?

Should Athletes Repeat Skills They Already Mastered?

Do Spotters Need Return Training?

What Should a Coach Do When an Athlete Reports Pain?

Can an Athlete Return to Cheer as Soon as Concussion Symptoms Stop?

Do Not Confuse Familiar With Ready

Two Cheer Teams Create One Combined Workload

Coaches Usually See Only Half the Problem

Build a Weekly Cheer Workload Sheet

Count Repetitions, Not Only Practice Hours

Protect Real Recovery Days

Use Age-Based Hours as a Warning Light

Decide Which Coach Adjusts the Load

Set Attendance Priorities Before the Season

Watch for Changes in the Athlete

Sleep and School Still Count

Stop Rewarding Athletes for Hiding Fatigue

Give Dual-Team Athletes a Written Plan

Parents Must Manage the Master Calendar

When Doing Both No Longer Works

Frequently Asked Questions About All-Star and School Cheer

Can You Do All-Star and School Cheer at the Same Time?

How Many Days Per Week Should a Young Cheerleader Practice?

What Should Coaches Count as Cheer Workload?

Which Team Should Take Priority?

What Are Possible Signs of Too Much Training?

The Athlete Has One Body

A Cheer Team Is Not a Tryout Leaderboard

Define What “Placement” Means

Build a Cheer Tryout Rubric That Matches the Job

Measure Safety and Consistency First

Evaluate Athletes in Their Actual Roles

Score Coachability With Observable Evidence

Use More Than One Evaluator

Record Evidence, Not Impressions

Explain When Team Needs Affect the Result

Stop Promising Permanent Positions

Announce Results With Respect