Category Archives: Featured

Featured, Tips

Completion Mode Vs Performance Mode: Answering the age-old question of ‘Why don’t my flyers perform in the air’

Posted on by catweeden
Ipp Cheer Flyers
19
Nov
Cat Weeden Circle

Cat Weedon

 

Published November 19, 2018

Completion Mode Vs Performance Mode

Answering the age-old question of
‘Why don’t my flyers perform in the air’

Of all the valuable lessons I have learned through trial and lots of error in coaching, Completion Mode vs Performance Mode may be the most important. In an industry that not only puts a lot of emphasis on the aesthetic, but also assigns it a competitive value (performance, technique, creativity, showmanship, overall impression scores), teams scores don’t just depend on what they do, they depend on how they do it.

As one of the creators and administrators of the Small Cheer Gym Association Facebook group, which is a fb community dedicated to Small Gym owners and coaches, the question, in many forms, that is asked constantly is “Why don’t my flyers perform in the air?” Its usually followed up with “they are flexible, work hard, the group is good enough to nail the stunt, but for some reason they never turn it on and create ‘A Show.’

For me the answer to this question lies in asking yourself are the focused-on Completion of the Stunt or the Performance of the stunt. Because it’s very hard for kids to do both.

In LuxeLand (the Luxe Cheer universe lol) we define being in Completion mode as: when the stunt group is concerned mainly with making it through the stunt. They are actively focused on getting from the starting point of the stunt or pyramid to the end.

  • The completion phase will vary per group on the team.

  • Some may be out of this phase fast, while others stay in it for a while.

  • In this phase they do not trust that they can make it to the end without concentration on every moving part of the stunt and most likely there’s one or two sticky parts of the sequence that they repeatedly miss.

The most important thing to take away from being in completion mode, is that it will almost ALWAYS lead to:

  • A lack of timing across groups

  • Inaccurate building formations

  • Inconsistent performance from your flyers.

  • Increased stress or anxiety from the group or team

When the athletes are concentrating on just making it through, it leaves no room for details, faces, and growth. And the longer they stay in this place, the more likely you are going to start seeing bad attitudes, frustration, and anxiety from your team members.

As coaches, we put a lot of pressure and stress on ourselves to create and compete the most perfect, win-able routine from the start. We know the grids, the rubrics, the magic numbers and who our competitors are. And we know what skills it takes to be unstoppable. We also know the full potential of the kids in our programs. But knowing their full potential, or how they need to be pushed can cripple us.

So how do we get out of Completion Mode and move into Performance Mode???

1. EDITS

Modify the stunt or section of the pyramid that is causing the issue. If 2 out of the 3 groups have no problem with it, leave theirs and take out the 3rd. Knowing your magic numbers (the number you must hit in that section to score in the range you are going for) helps this tremendously. MAKE THE EDIT

2. KEEP THE KIDS IN THE LOOP

When you modify, explain. “Suzie, were going to take out your switch up lib and just do a straight up one for this event. We only need 2 not 3 to score high and I really need you to focus on nailing the dismount.” The older the team, the more likely they believe they know the scoresheet, remind them that their job is to trust your edits. Trust your gut and your edits.

3. REPETITION WITH POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT

Once you modify and get them on board, repetition is key! Have them do the modified section numerous times and point out the good, you as the coach, need to get excited for the good. Help them celebrate the little achievements and growth.

4. MAKE IT FUN!

Games, contests and candy will make superstars out of your tinys all the way up to your open college level athletes. Break up the monotony.

5. REMEMBER NOT TO MAKE YOUR ROUTINE ABOUT A SINGLE KID, SKILL OR SELECTION

If Suzie cannot hit a skill, or will not throw it, take it out and move on. I know it can be so frustrating, but you are letting the one skill or section define the whole team. You may not be in the range you want if you pull a skill, but what’s the likelihood it will be done correctly, if at all, on a competition day? Find another place on the scoresheet to make up what you lost. I.e Lose .2 in standing tumbling difficulty but gain .3 in technique with the ones who are solid.

Once the kids KNOW they can all hit the routine that’s in front of them, you will immediately see a difference. The anxiety of uncertainty is what keeps them from rising to their full performance potential.

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Featured, News, Tips

Objectifying a Subjective Sport – How I get such Precision and Timing

Posted on by Cody Woodfell
Objectifying A Subjective Sport Blog Title
06
Nov
Cody Woodfell 2

By Cody Woodfell

Published November 6, 2018

objectifying a subjective sport

How I get such precision and timing

 After doing many coaches workshops from the US to the UK, one of the main questions I’m asked is how I get such precision and timing that stand out from all my Cheer Factory teams. The answer is actually extremely simple. So simple In fact most coaches fail to do it. Make a chart! And don’t stray from it.

There’s an innate problem with all non point based sports like cheerleading and dance (to name a couple). The problem is everything from training to competition is subjective. “Yeah I know you had a good practice today because everything hit.” Thats great, but not only did everything hit not accomplish quantifiable results, but how do you track the process for next practice?

“everything from training to competition is subjective”

Anything in life that one wants to become better in requires a chart. If you own a business, you keep charts in the form of spreadsheets of how much money you take in, how much your spending.

If you want to lose weight, you keep a chart of how much food goes in and how many calories your burning. How precise and detailed you are will determine how much success you have.

The Assembly Line

Knowing this, I left the common practice regimes most coaches follow and created a detailed, objectify able progress chart we call the “Assembly line” for every skill from tumbling to stretching to stunting. Every practice, an objective goal is made and must be completed before leaving.

Stunts no longer just “hit.” No, today every stunt group flyer must point their toes when hitting bows and not wiggle even an inch for a count down of 5.

Next practice we have to do the same but now the bases cannot move even a finger. This process continues everyday for a season like a long game of add on.

RELATED:

RELATED:

Practice Scheduling, Attendance & Motivation

By Cat Weeden      

Thinking about the big picture blurs your perfection. Make a single achievable small goal daily, stick to it as if your life depends on it and do that every day. Keep a chart of these micro goals and eventually, perfection will be achieved.

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CHEER FACTORY, owner-operator

Featured, Tips

How to have a Strong Standing Tuck (step-by-step videos)

Posted on by Matt Kelley
How To Have A Strong Standing Tuck
09
Oct

Matt Kelley Byline

By Matt Kelley

Published on October 9, 2018

Every week I receive questions about how to “make my standing tuck stronger?” I even ask for them to send me videos to give me a better opportunity to truly critique their form. The most consistent issue I see is with the strength of the athlete. 

So in this article I will describe some Core Exercises and some explosive leg movements that i’ve found to help my athletes over the past 15 years. Here are my recommendations to increase your core strength for a strong standing tuck:

Hanging tuck ups

We have a bar at our gym (demonstrated on the video), but if you do not, you can move 2 mats  close together, or 2 chairs and tuck your knees & shins up towards your head.
I truly believe this is the best core exercise for a stronger back tuck. An example of how many to do would be:
10 reps which equals 1 set, and do 4 sets
A variation of this would be to do a tuck up, and hold that tuck position squeezing every muscle you have, and holding for 20 seconds.

Hanging tuck ups

We have a bar at our gym (demonstrated on the video), but if you do not, you can move 2 mats  close together, or 2 chairs and tuck your knees & shins up towards your head.
I truly believe this is the best core exercise for a stronger back tuck. An example of how many to do would be:
10 reps which equals 1 set, and do 4 sets
A variation of this would be to do a tuck up, and hold that tuck position squeezing every muscle you have, and holding for 20 seconds.

Here are a couple of my favorite Explosive Leg Workouts, to help achieve a Strong Back Tuck:

Straight Jump onto an elevated Mat

Start by facing the opposite way of the mat, sit & swing and explode onto the mat. Make sure when you land, you immediately walk backwards.

Tuck Jump onto an elevated Mat

Similar to the straight jump, but add a tuck jump. Make sure your knees & shins go towards your head. Immediately walk backwards when you land on the mat.

Explosive Tuck Jump onto an elevated Mat

Start by sitting on a mat. Make sure your hips are higher than your knees when sitting on the mat. Next, Swing your arms up & jump/ explode through your legs. Hitting a tight tuck position. It is important to remember to land standing straight up & down when you land on the mat.
This is my favorite explosive Leg workout for a stronger standing tuck!
As a beginner, I would start with 20 reps. Doing this twice a week minimum. Each week add 5!

These are my favorite Core & Explosive Leg exercises for a Strong Standing Tuck!
I hope you all enjoy these!
My social media stuff:
Instagram: @KarmaReturns
Instagram: @MattFreakinKelley
Snapchat: Mkells5891

 

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Featured, Practice Wear, Tips

5 Tips for Running A Successful Proshop

Posted on by Heidi Weber
5 Tips For Running A Successful Proshop
01
Oct

Heidi Blog Circle

By Heidi Weber

Published on October 1, 2018

5 Tips for Running A Successful Proshop

RUNNING A SUCCESSFULL PROSHOP IS A GREAT WAY TO INCREASE YOUR GYM’S INCOME
Here are 5 tips on how to create a money making proshop with little to no money or risk!


  1. PLAN AHEAD Pick how many sales you want to create for your gym. If this is new to you maybe start with 2 sales for the season. Fall/winter and Spring/summer.If you are a little more seasoned you may want to split those sales into their own categories.

    Fall

    Winter

    Spring

    Summer

    Each sale having 1-3 items for sale.

    If you’re a true pro try your hand at 10 month proshop.  Offering a new item each month during the 10 busiest months

  2. SHOP LOCAL/SMALL BUSINESSES You can save huge on buying items through small business and local vendors. They don’t have to be down the street but using small business product producers allows for negotiations ( within reason), loyalty discounts, and great customer service. This can save you big and increase your profit margins
  3. CREATE PRE-SALE ITEMS Use pre sales to gage the excitement of your customer. There is no risk to offer a presale and it creates an urgency to buy now or miss out. Be willing to sell an item only once with no opportunity to reorder for the current season.
  4. USE COMPANIES WITH ONLINE PROSHOP LINKS Most companies can provide an online pro-shop link created just for you.At ASCE we provide each customer with their own page and collect all orders, sizes, and can even ship directly to the customer. There’s a small fee per order to cover the admin costs but in the end you have spent no out of pocket money and you get a check at the finality of the order for your gyms portion of the sale. Win win on the online proshop.
  5. BE REASONABLE Different items vary in cost. Some proshop items are inexpensive and others pricey. Remember you are up charging on an item produced for you. Not all items can make you huge profits and you can’t expect the vendor to always take the hit on pricing.So choose items wisely. If a trendy item doesn’t make you as much per sale but you can sell a ton its still worth it.Pick at least 1 item that makes great money and then you can add a fun item with less profit for staying up on the latest trends.Try and respect the vendors pricing and create a positive relationship most vendors will bend where they can and with time you can both benefit from the arrangement



There’s so many great ways to increase income for your gym so focus on the things you can control and you’ll see great return on little to no investment!



Most companies can provide an online pro-shop link created just for you.  At ASCE we provide each customer with their own page and collect all orders, sizes, and can even ship directly to the customer. There’s a small fee per order to cover the admin costs but in the end you have spent no out of pocket money and you get a check at the finality of the order for your gyms portion of the sale.


Most companies can provide an online pro-shop link created just for you.


Here are links to start an ASCE run proshop:


Shop now: www.americanspiritandcheer.com

Social: @asce_asce

Email : sales@ascestaff.com


Heidi Weber Signature Full

Featured, Music, Tips

Best Cheer Music Producers for Competition Mixes

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
best cheer music studios for competition mixes
26
Sep

best cheer music producers for competition mixes

Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 26, 2018

Its a question coaches face every season: What are the best cheer music producers for competition mixes?

A lot has changed in the world of cheer in just a few short years. Perhaps no area of cheer has changed as much as the process of purchasing music.  The last 3 years has brought as many new rules as new producers.

There are a few factors to consider when choosing the best cheer music producers for competition mixes.


BUDGET

Determining your budget is a crucial first step.  Teams with larger budgets may want to explore the custom mix option, while those on a tighter budget (gyms with multiple teams, for instance) may find premade mixes to be a better fit.


CUSTOM or PREMADE

Custom mixes are just that; exclusive mixes made from scratch to your request and/or count sheet.

premade mixes are already built, and therefore more affordable.


PERSONALIZATION

Custom Mixes come complete with personal voiceovers and routine-timed fx.  However, premade mixes are also often customizable via voiceover/fx/edit add-ons


LICENSING

This is usually less of an option these days as most competitions require licensing. However, some producers still provide licensing, optionally, for an additional fee.  Alternatively, other sites (like IPP Music), provide licensing free with all purchases, custom or premade


The following is a list of the industry’s best cheer music producers for competition mixes



USA CHEER PREFERRED MUSIC PROVIDERS

USA Cheer provides their own list of approved vendors on their Preferred Music Providers page

VISIT USA CHEER



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Featured, Tips

Coaching tips to help keep your team injury free and more powerful

Posted on by Jason Mason
Coaching Tips To Help Keep Your Team Injury Free And More Powerful
21
Sep

Coaching Tips


Jason Mason Signature

By Jason Mason

Updated September 21, 2018

You know what’s one thing that can really throw a wrench in your season?


An Injury


It always seems that just as all the gears are turning and your team is starting to gel that someone gets hurt.  Depending on the severity of the injury, you may now have to go back to the drawing board.  You know what this means.



New stunt groups, rearranging spots, athlete from ripple 1 now needs to remember ripple 3 – which she always forgets.  It’s basically a brand new routine.  You know what’s probably more frustrating than an unexpected an injury?  The fact that it probably could have been prevented.  How you ask?  Properly conditioning your team may be monumental in keeping your athletes injury free.  We’ve provided you with an easy-to-follow guide that help to reduce injury and keep your athletics more powerful.




Develop a Dynamic Warm-Up/Dynamic Stretch.


This is to get your athletes muscles warm. It is best to stretch when muscles are warm versus static stretching.  This is also a great way to mimic movements that are performed during routines….and perfect them :)



Take a step back


Many times we go into a season with high expectations. This is great unless you skip over the basics.  Take a step back and look at your athletes movements and their strengths.


Do you see anything common among your athletes?  If so, that is a great place to start.  A couple common issues I see are Squatting ability, Shoulder/back flexibility, Core activation.



PROGRAM OUT YOUR PRACTICE


Set time limits or set time aside for things that are important and must be accomplished. One being constant improvement on the athletes stamina and power production.  Yes, you are challenged when running a routine full out over and over….However, if your athletes are tired and start to practice bad form.  They are now teaching themselves improper mechanics which lead to injuries.  Save time at the end of practice or don’t be afraid to drop something from your practice and condition where the athletes can be successful by performing at their top ability at that time versus lifting, flipping, twisting etc.





Open to change


The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result.  If you tend to have drops, weak tumbling, a sloppy second half of your routine or a mixture of these.  Then it might be time to have a second opinion review your teams.  This consultant should be knowledgeable both in fitness/health as well as understand the cheerleading/gymnastics/dance requirements.


Don’t be afraid of what they might tell you

It could be anything from a couple quick tips for fitness to changing/firing/moving staff members around so they are best utilized.  Sometimes people are placed or hired for a certain part of the job but are a better fit somewhere else.  By putting them where they belong it increases moral and helps them be a better coach.  This gets the athletes excited and doing what they need.  When athletes do what they need and are excited to be there….Well the results speak for themselves.



Add a strength training day


  • On this day your athletes will work on just strengthening their body. Athletes tend to do the same movements in a sport over and over again.  Strength training allows the athlete to increase the activation/strength of the opposite muscles that are typically used.  These create balance which not only will make them stronger but balance helps prevent injury!



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Featured, Tips

How to Progress during the Back to School Crunch – Practice Scheduling, Attendance, Motivation

Posted on by catweeden
Surviving Sept Fixt2
13
Sep

HOW TO PROGRESS DURING THE BACK TO SCHOOL CRUNCH - Practice Scheduling, Attendance, & Motivation

Cat Weeden Circle

By Cat Weeden

Published September 13, 2018

As a Small Gymer, we all know the end of summer is a time of celebration! Church Retreats, Overnight Camps, Family Vacations, Trips to the Lake and the distractions of summer are finally gone and done. We are finally going to get full attendance back at practices which means stunts can solidify, tumbling can be finalized, and Pyramids can finally be created. 

Life is GREAT, you and your coaches are on a roll. Stuff is getting done. Then 3 weeks later school starts… and a whole new set of attendance problems start up!


In the Small Gym world, it is crucial to maximize the month of September by following these 4 tricks:



Anticipate the potential practice conflicts


Maximize practice efficiency through pre-planning


Encourage & Create additional opportunities for Bonus Team Work


Mentally Just Keep Swimming



Maximize Practice Efficiency Through Pre Planning


Every practice in the month of September is incredibly important. This is the last month before our internal clocks ding that its “Competition Season”. 

In order to get the very most out of this month, plan out each practice! Break your practice down into 10 minute sections and stick to the schedule. 


If your team is struggling in a section, planning ahead ensures that you think about this before practice starts, and you then create a plan to relieve the concern. You will be shocked how fast 10 minutes has previously been wasted once you start scheduling out practices.


“You will be shocked how fast 10 minutes has previously been wasted once you start scheduling out practices.”





Mentally Just Keep Swimming


Absences are very hard on the team, but they are the hardest on the coaches! We have hopes, dreams and plans for practices, and 1 missed kid can throw that haywire….. if you choose to let it.

Coaches, I challenge you to take a “just keep swimming’ approach to these practices. Continue with your practice plan, work every section you need, let the missing stunt group do conditioning during the stunt run or even encourage the other groups. Whatever you do, don’t let 1 absent cheerleader distract you.

Intentionally include 3-4 full run throughs on your practice plan, and each practice continue to add sections to the “ run through” if you keep this up the kids will become acclimated to a 75% run overtime instead of drastically.

Even though there seems to be a million distractions in the month of September, by anticipating potential practice conflicts, maximizing your practice time through detailed scheduling, creating and encouraging extra bonus opportunities for your allstars and mentally continuing to advance your routines and readiness, you can excel and progress in the toughest month of the season!  



-Cat Weeden

LuXe CheeR

Featured, Tips

Top 5 Practice Wear Trends for 2018-2019

Posted on by Heidi Weber
Top 5 Practice Wear Trends For 2018-2019
10
Sep

Heidi Blog Circle

By Heidi Weber

Published on September 10, 2018

HERE ARE My Top 5 practice wear trends for 2018-2019

Our athletes are walking billboards for our gyms everyday. We dress our athletes for success at practice, showcases, and events so getting our items lined up early is key

Here’s a list of some of the hottest trends for practice/gym wear this season.


Looking Great

without Breaking the Bank!



1. Sublimation is back

In the current competitive market you can pick up a completely custom designed sublimated practice set from $30-$45 from most companies.

You can design your wear to be simple and clean or busy and colorful the sky is the limit and now it won’t cost you an arm and a leg.



2. Jerseys

Baseball jerseys were all the rage last season and you’ll continue to see them this year too.
But take into consideration all the Jersey possibilities out there:
Soccer, Basketball, Hockey, Baseball…
All these jerseys can be customized for your gym and teams… start the next trend with a new Jersey style.


3. Cover Up Tanks

Tanks are hot hot hot and aren’t going anywhere. You can mix and match your gyms brand and team names with cover up tanks design specifically for your brand and your message.

Remember youth and adult tanks that match don’t always come in tons of color options so be creative with your ink colors instead of the tank color itself




4. Crop Tees/Tanks

Taking it back to the Old School you’ll be so cool. Crop boxy tanks and tees are back and great for uniform cover ups and gym practice wear. They are loose and comfy and have that 90’s appeal that you see in fashion this season.



5. Crew Neck Sweatshirts

Hoodies are a thing of the past and oversized crew neck sweatshirts are the go to.

These are easy to get over your hair and have a variety of color options and even better a much larger canvas for design and branding.


Not all designs are created equal.

So shop with companies that get who you are. ASCE is always looking for new trends and new ways to help you distinguish your brand and your gym vibe.

We offer sales and specials every month on various products. Shop smart with specials and sell more with rad designs that everyone loves.

“In an industry where your name is your brand, design matters”

You can look amazing in every design when you shop with companies that take the time to  know you, your style, and your message.

In an industry where your name is your brand, design matters.  You don’t have to break the bank for great apparel that your athletes and coaches will love to wear!

Shop now: www.americanspiritandcheer.com

Social: @asce_asce

Email : sales@ascestaff.com



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Featured, News, Tips

6 Exercises To Strengthen and Improve Your Back Tuck

Posted on by Jason Mason
Back Tuck Excersises
04
Sep

Jason Mason Signature

By Jason Mason

Updated September 4, 2018

6 Excercises to strengthen and improve your back tuck

We all remember that first time landing our standing back tuck.




The feeling was amazing.  The set, the flip, everything finally clicked.  The moment you landed you heard all of your teammates and coaches screaming for you!  It was unreal.  Now it’s time to perfect that back tuck so that you can gain consistency, confidence and move on up the progression ladder to standing fulls.  Not sure of what exercises to do to strengthen your mind, body and tuck?  We’ve laid it out for you below.  Follow these awesome back tuck exercises to strengthen you back tuck so that can be ready to advance your skills to the next level!


Back Tuck Exercises

Back Tuck Excersises


  1. Box Jumps – This exercise helps change the distance in which an athlete sits.  Maximum height for a tuck is not achieved when they sit the same way they sit for a back handspring.  Typically the tuck is taught after the back handspring so teaching the athlete proper jump technique for maximum height is a must!
  2. Backward rolls – If you can’t do a backward roll how do you expect to be able to do it in the air and then land back on you feet?
  3. Snatch, Clean, Deadlift – These exercises promote triple extension.  That is full extension of the ankles, knees, and hips.  These movements done at a fast speed and with or without weight help promote the body mechanics needed.  Have you ever been jealous of someone who has never tumbled but is athletic and played other sports who just out of the blue throws a standing tuck?  It’s usually because they have all the building blocks from other sports.  Drill Drill Drill and your Skill will follow!





4. Knees over shoulders/Toes to bar (core)  a strong core and hip flexors are a must!  A standing tuck requires speed when rotating.  A strong core and hip flexors help increase your how fast you rotate.  If you do not have a bar or need less resistance to start.  Grab a panel mat, squeeze it above your head (smallest way), then roll up/leg lift getting your shins to touch the mat.

5. Hip Thrust/Glute Bridge –  Glutes are one of the assistant muscles that complement your quads and hamstrings in increasing your jump height

6. Jump Rope – Increasing calve strength and in a plyometric form.  Quick contractions, endurance, and improving upon another assistant muscle for jumping!


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Featured, Tips

Can I start Cheering in College?

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Can i start Cheering in college
15
Aug

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Byline Steve Pawlyk

Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 15, 2018

Can I start cheering in college?

Yes you can!  I am living proof!!

I played all types of sports growing up such as hockey, baseball and football.  When I stepped on to a college campus for the first time that all changed.  Despite being recruited to play hockey at numerous colleges, i chose to attend a university that didn’t recruit me.  I pressed my luck and tried out as a walk-on.  Even though I made the practice team I was dissatisfied and chose not to continue.  Turns out that this was the best decision of my life.  Why you ask?  Because I was introduced to (college) cheerleading!  And I haven’t looked back.

Let me tell you how it all started.  One day I was walking out of the cafeteria and noticed some people engaging in what I could only describe at the time as a circus act.  These guys and girls were throwing each other around like rag dolls.  I thought this was interesting and continued watching.  As I was about to walk away one of the female athletes approached me and asked if I wanted to give it a try.  I declined at first, but she followed with the line that changed my life forever.  What did she say that completely altered my life and has led me to writing this right now?  She said, “if you try, you’ll get to touch my butt”.  With a twinkle in my eye and excitement surging through my body I said, “yes, yes I would like to touch your butt.  Please show me how”.


College cheerleading is one of the few sports that you can really learn and perfect in a couple short years.

Although I was extremely athletic and strong, nothing could have prepared me for the journey on which I was about to embark.  Cheerleading, especially college cheer, if very nuanced, but can be learned with no prior experience.  When you’re surrounded by other high-level athletes, learning almost becomes contagious.  In one year I went from knowing absolutely nothing to being a pretty good coed stunter.  Although there was much to still learn, I was well on my way.

College cheerleading is one of the few sports that you can really learn and perfect in a couple short years.  When you ask around as to how many athletes, guys in particular, started cheering in college the numbers are staggering.  Although guys are becoming involved with  cheer at younger and younger ages with the rise and popularity of allstar cheer, you will find that at least 50% of guys don’t start until they are in college. 

This is less true for female athletes, but there are still a number that I have encountered that hadn’t cheered until the college level.  Most were prior gymnasts wanting to continue using their skills despite their school not offering a gymnastics program.   Therefore, they end up on the cheer team.


When it comes to college cheer, it’s never too late. 

It seems that in most cases there is no prior skill needed.  There are some amazing teams that require some prior involvement, but a super majority of college teams are happy to take any guy or girl off the street who are willing to work and put the time into perfect their skills.


So don’t fret.

If you want to give college cheer a try, then do it!  You’ll never know what could happen unless you try.  I couldn’t imagine that one stunt in front of the cafeteria my freshman year would have turned into a career in cheerleading.  If you want it, go do it!



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CHEER WIKI

PREMADE MIX ARTWORK Glow Up

Premade Cheer Mix – Glow Up [2:15]

$181.00

Stand out with Glow Up, a 2:15 cheer mix with Cardi B & Young Thug energy, styled like Oklahoma State University All Girl

SKU: 114072 Categories: , Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Read more
PREMADE MIX ARTWORK Glow Up

Premade Cheer Mix – Glow Up [2:30]

$258.00

Shine brighter with Glow Up, a 2:30 cheer mix with Cardi B & Young Thug energy, inspired by Oklahoma State University All Girl

SKU: 114071 Categories: , Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Read more
PREMADE MIX ARTWORK Glow Up

Premade Cheer Mix – Glow Up [1:30]

$102.00

Rise higher with Glow Up, a 1:30 cheer mix with Cardi B & Young Thug energy, inspired by Oklahoma State University All Girl

SKU: 114070 Categories: , Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Read more

Featured, News, Tips

College Cheerleading Scholarships Are A Thing!

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
College Cheerleading Scholarships Are A Thing!
06
Aug

College Cheerleading Scholarships

Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 6, 2018

Picture this: It’s your senior year of high school...

You’ve been cheering for most of your life. You’re not ready to hang up your pom poms. You’re thinking, what’s next? Can I cheer college? Well of course you can, but…college, especially your dream school, can be so expensive.  Then it hits you like a fabulous toe touch! College Cheerleading Scholarships!  But wait…







Do schools actually offer scholarships for cheer?

of course they do!



All full of excitement like you just received your cheer mix for the current season you run to your computer and google “college cheer scholarships”. You quickly realize that you can’t find a complete list of schools that offer some sort of scholarships. Now you feel defeated like you just dropped your group stunt and your responsible for another full out! But, hey. Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered :)

Here is the 2018 list of university and college cheerleading scholarships!





Keep in mind that scholarships can come in many forms.

Some school may offer money (full rides available), stipens for books & materials, room and board, name brand apparel, free travel and more. If you want to know more about a school’s program or what they offer just contact the coach from that school and ask! :)

Not sure who that is?

Contact us and we’ll help to put you in touch!



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Featured, Tips

10 Simple tips for a productive season

Posted on by Heidi Weber
10 Simple Tips For A Productive Season
26
Jul

Heidi Blog Circle

By Heidi Weber

Published on July 26, 2018

10 Simple Tips for a Productive Season

For the Love of Coaching…

For most of us gym owners, directors and coaches, the love of cheerleading has been the driving force for a die-hard commitment to competitive cheerleading over the past 30 years. The passion for the development and growth of the sport has kept us motivated work tirelessly for the advancement of cheerleading for the future generations.

Going into the 2018-2019 season we have put together a list of 10 simple tips for a productive season. These are reminders that passion and love is inspiring, but won’t pay your rent, practice wear and competition fees.
With an ever competitive marketplace growing around us, we must always remind ourselves that the industry we love is also a business full of overhead, increasing variable costs, and demanding customers. The ever real pressure of staying competitive and relevant exists daily so why not start the new season with a plan that allows for goals, boundaries, and peace of mind.

10 Simple Tips for a Productive Season

  • Accept now that you can never make everyone happy. You are not a cupcake.  You can’t bring happiness to everyone. Some people just can’t be satisfied. This can be a huge time and energy sucker so decide now to let that go.
  • Identify your best customer. Who is your best customer and the easiest to recruit to your gym? If it’s your mini level 1 and beginning rec tumblers who are excited then spend extra time encouraging them to invite friends and even highlight them on social media pages, newsletters and etc. A little recognition goes a long way.
  • Make extra money. Plan additional money making activities that are good for your customers and your bottom line. Parents night out, drop in gym time during black friday, preschool or homeschool classes. Plan a minimum of 1 event per month to drive up additional income. This can be done in about 15 minutes on a downloadable blank calendar for the whole year.
  • Don’t compare yourself to nearby Gyms. You are your own brand. People are buying you and everything that comes with you. Sell yourself and don’t worry about others around you. Repeat this to yourself every time the opportunity arises to feel less than the other guy.
  • Laugh and Smile. Laughter and smiling is contagious. Your staff will follow and then your athletes make it a habit to bring a positive vibes to your gym daily.
  • Find and Assign. Everyone on your staff has a special talent and strength. Find it and assign them a task within your program that highlights this strength. If you don’t know what their strengths are …. Ask them. Let them lead in the areas they are strongest and you will grow and relieve your own stress.
  • Share your vision. People love to buy into a vision for success. Share your vision and passion out loud with your staff, kids and parents. Set reasonable goals that bring satisfaction.
  • Don’t sweat the small stuff. It’s easy to lose an entire day or week on small tedious problems that arise in everyday gym life. Look at your circumstances and decide where they land on a scale of 1-10 in term of long-term importance. If they are less than a 6 let them go.
  • Be open to Change. If something comes your way that seems like it would be a great fit for your gym, athletes and families then try it. You can always switch back.
  • HAVE FUN. Only 1 team per division can win at each competition you attend. You may be that winner most times or it may be few and far between, but the enjoyment of your program comes from the year long journey each season. Don’t forget the FUN and your families and athletes won’t either.

Cheers to 2018-2019 take a deep breathe and enjoy a laugh!

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WifF0kZ0zp4″ thumbnail=”46677″ /]

 

Heidi Weber Signature 2019

Featured, Music

Best 16 Cheer Songs of 2018 to keep you cool

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Best 16 Cheer Songs Of 2018 To Keep You Cool
18
Jul

16 Best Cheer Songs of 2018

Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 18, 2018

The 2018 season is here! Seems like just yesterday you were at Worlds and/or Summit. Boy does time fly. You’ve taken you “vacation”, evaluations are done and teams are set. Now it’s time to practice. I know you love being back in the gym with your amazing athletes. But, I know one thing you could do without…this summer heat! Let us share the 16 Best Cheer Songs of 2018 to keep you cool this summer. Your kids will thank you!

  1. One Kiss – Dua Lipa
  2. The Middle – Maren Morris
  3. No Tears Left To Cry – Ariana Grande
  4. God’s Plan – Drake
  5. Flames – Sia
  6. Freaky Friday – Little Dickey
  7. All The Stars – Kendrick Lamar
  8. Love Lies – Khalid & Normani
  9. Nice For What – Drake
  10. This Is America – Childish Gambino
  11. Friends – Anne-Marie
  12. I like It – Cardi B
  13. Solo – Clean Bandit
  14. Back To You – Selena Gomez
  15. Make Me Feel – Janelle Monae
  16. Havana – Camilla Cabello








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

SLAM artwork
Full_Out_130 mp3 image
1 minute cheer mix
WAKE UP THE FIRE
SLAM artwork
WAKE UP THE FIRE
Full_Out_130 mp3 image
1 minute cheer mix




Featured, Music

10 Cheer Songs of 2016 To Motivate Your Team

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
10 Cheer Songs Of 2016 To Motivate Your Team
21
Aug

2-4-6-8 it’s your time to Motivate!

Hey coaches! This one’s for you. Among your many duties, one of the most important thing you can do is motivate your team.  As we know, not every practice or performance will go as planned. It’s at these time that you must rise up and be the leader that your team needs.  One sure way to light a fire under your team is to pick songs for your mix that really keep your kiddos going. Music is a key element to your practice and performance so we thought that we’d help you out and prepare a must have list of cheer songs for your routine.

So here we go! These are our Top 10 essential cheer tracks of 2016!

1. Don’t Let Me Down – The Chainsmokers

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Io0fBr1XBUA” /]

2. Controlla – Drake

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76qwpyMRamg” /]

3. Into You – Ariana Grande

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ekZEVeXwek” /]

4. Send My Love – Adele

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fk4BbF7B29w” /]

5. Panda – Designer

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5ONTXHS2mM” /]

6. Cold Water – Major Lazer

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a59gmGkq_pw” /]

7. Treat You Better – Shawn Mendes

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lY2yjAdbvdQ” /]

8. Work From Home – Fifth Harmony

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GL9JoH4Sws” /]

9. Needed Me – Rihanna

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfN4PVaOU5Q” /]

10. Cheap Thrills – Sia

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31crA53Dgu0″ /]

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