Tag Archives: all star cheerleading

Featured, News

The Shifting Landscape of Cheer Championships

Posted on by IPP Music
The Shifting Landscape of Cheer Championships
23
Jul
Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 23, 2024

There have been recent legal developments that are reshaping the cheer landscape. One of the most significant recent changes is the ruling by a judge in Florida declaring that the USASF’s claim to trademark the word “worlds” is not exclusive. This decision, which precedes a trial scheduled for September, has significant implications for the All-Star cheerleading community and beyond.

USASF court ruling 2024

The Trademark Ruling: Implications for Cheerleading

For many years, the All-Star cheerleading community has operated under the assumption that there is only one legitimate “world” championship event, a belief strengthened by the ICU’s recognition by the IOC. The ICU World Championships have always been considered the only true world event due to this association. In contrast, other cheerleading events have had to rebrand, often using “cup” instead of “worlds” in their titles. This legal development could indicate a similar shift for All-Star cheerleading events.

The Role of USA Cheer and USASF

In recent years, USA Cheer has emerged as the official governing body for all facets of cheerleading in the United States. Meanwhile, USASF has evolved in its function and authority, continuing to support the All-Star community in various ways. The preliminary ruling on the trademark issue raises several critical questions:

  • If USASF is a membership organization and not a federation, what does this mean for its role in hosting world championships?
  • If the “world championships” are not legally recognized as the official and exclusive world championship, how does this affect event producers (EPs) worldwide who have struggled to secure bids due to their relationship (or lack thereof) with their national federation?
  • The significance of federation relationships may be limited to the ICU Championship and official sport business.

The Need for True Leadership

True leaders bring people together, speak the truth, and do not exploit their authority for personal gain. It’s time to move beyond the playground politics that have plagued our sport. As someone who lives in a federated country, I respect the hierarchical structure and the recognitions gained through the IOC. However, the recent domestic litigation advances American commercial interests at the expense of the global cheerleading community.

Lisa Aucoin, an eight-time World Champion Cheerleading Coach, emphasizes that the international cheerleading community expects more from its leaders. She notes, “It’s time for them to invest the thousands/potentially millions they are spending in legal fees fighting each other and start making our sport better.” If we measure effectiveness by goodwill and progress rather than commercial success, how successful would our leaders be?

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The Global Impact and Future of Cheerleading

We have built an impressive sport for young people worldwide, yet there is still so much more to achieve. If this ruling remains unchallenged, it could have vast implications for the All-Star facet of our sport globally. The world championships are already diluted, and our best wins may be behind us. The landscape of our sport is changing, and it is crucial to consider what we want it to become.

Call to Action

It’s time for our voices to be heard. Speak with your sports leaders, reach out to your federation, and have conversations with your peers. As Margaret Mead famously said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

Key Considerations

  • The full impact of the ruling may not be known until the trial proceeds.
  • Legal interpretations should be considered with a legal expert’s input.
  • A domestic judge in Florida may not have the authority to make a decision impacting an international event and community.
  • An appeal could change the outcome.

Transparency and truth are crucial. All stakeholders in cheer have the capacity to understand this information and deserve the opportunity to ask questions

extreme cheer worlds championship winners

The Commercial Landscape: Varsity’s Antitrust Challenges

The billion-dollar All-Star cheerleading industry, long dominated by Varsity, is beginning to see a more open market. Antitrust litigation against Varsity and the disruptions of covid have created a more competitive landscape. Recent events, such as the Open Championship Series (OCS), have shown that independent productions can rival Varsity’s dominance.

Varsity has faced significant challenges, including antitrust lawsuits accusing the company of monopolistic practices. These lawsuits, filed by parents, gym owners, and event producers, claim Varsity has driven out competition and driven up consumer costs. The Open Championship Series, founded in 2019, represents a collective of independent event producers offering a more price-conscious and flexible option for cheerleading competitions. The face of this movement is undoubtedly Heidi Weber. She has made significant contributions to making cheer competitions more affordable and accessible. Heidi directs the Celebrity Cheer and Dance Championships and is a leader in the All-Star cheer community. She’s also just kinda awesome.

The Path Forward

Despite the challenges, the cheerleading community has shown resilience and adaptability. Independent event producers have risen to the occasion, providing alternatives and fostering a more competitive market. The pandemic has highlighted the need for innovation and customer-focused experiences, pushing organizations like Varsity to reexamine and improve their offerings.

The future of cheerleading depends on collaboration, transparency, and a commitment to the sport’s growth and integrity. As we navigate these changes, it is essential to keep the community united and focused on what truly matters: the athletes, the sport, and the shared passion for cheerleading.

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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! 

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1 minute cheer mix
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WAKE UP THE FIRE
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1 minute cheer mix
Featured, Tips, Tryouts

Getting Cut: Bouncing Back from Cheer Setbacks

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Getting Cut A Heart to Heart on Cheerleading Setbacks
29
Mar
Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

By Steve Pawlyk

Published March 29, 2024

So, your superstar didn’t make the team this time around, and you’re both feeling pretty bummed out. Trust me, I get it. Diving into a tough topic today, inspired by a heart-wrenching story shared by a fellow cheer parent on the r/cheerleading subreddit. Their daughter, a seasoned all-star cheerleader, faced a surprising twist in her cheer journey—she didn’t make her middle school cheer team. And just like that, we’re reminded of the rollercoaster ride that competitive sports can be.

Let’s get real for a minute. Not making the team can feel like the world is ending, especially when cheerleading is your life. But here’s the deal: it’s a bump in the road, not the end of the path. So, how do we help our young athletes, and ourselves, navigate these tough times? Let’s dive into some ❤️-to-❤️ advice.

competitive cheerleading emotional resilience

The Feels are Real

First things first, let’s talk feelings. It’s okay to be upset, frustrated, or even angry. These emotions are part of the package deal of caring deeply about something. What matters is what you do with these feelings. Sit down with your cheerleader, grab some ice cream (because ice cream helps, right?), and talk it out. Acknowledge the disappointment but also remind them of their worth and achievements outside of this one tryout.

The Power of Y-O-U

Parents, you’re up! Your role is kinda like being a cheerleader for your cheerleader. Keep the conversation open and positive. Maybe the school team wasn’t in the cards this time, but hey, this isn’t the end. Share stories of your own setbacks and how you bounced back. It’s about showing them that life goes on and sometimes has an even better plan in store.

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Licensed Cheer Music for Competition Cheer Music

Explore and More

Now, for the exciting part—exploring what’s next! Here are a few ideas:

1. Venture into New Cheer Territories

Finding that the school team isn’t the right fit can be a blessing in disguise. It’s the perfect moment to cast the net wider and check out the vibrant world of all-star or recreational cheer teams beyond the school’s borders. Think of it as an adventure in search of a squad where the vibe matches your athlete’s spirit and where respect and teamwork reign supreme.

  • All-Star Cheer Exploration: All-star teams offer a diverse range of levels and styles, making it possible to find a perfect fit for your cheerleader’s skills and personality. Reach out to friends in the cheer community or look up local gyms on social media. Many gyms offer trial classes or open gyms where your athlete can get a feel for the team and coaches. It’s all about finding a place that lights up her passion for cheer anew.
  • Recreational Teams for the Win: Rec teams can be a fantastic option, often focusing more on the joy of cheer and less on the high-stakes competition. It’s a great way to keep engaged in cheerleading while enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere. Plus, rec teams can offer a strong sense of community and belonging.

2. Expand Her Cheer Network

Encourage your cheerleader to chat with friends from the cheer world about their experiences with different programs. This can give her insights into the culture of various teams and help her find a new cheer home that values respect, positivity, and camaraderie. Word of mouth is a powerful tool in the cheer community, and personal testimonials can lead to discovering hidden gems.

3. Cheer Camps and Clinics

Participating in cheer camps and clinics can serve multiple purposes—it’s a way to keep skills sharp, meet new people, and scout out potential teams and coaches. Camps often bring together cheerleaders from a wide area, providing a broader perspective on the cheer community and opening doors to opportunities your athlete might not have considered.

all star cheerleading tryouts

4. Give Other Sports or Activities a Go

Sometimes, a step away from the familiar can open up whole new areas of interest and talent. Encourage your cheerleader to try out other sports or extracurricular activities she’s been curious about. Whether it’s dance, gymnastics, soccer, or even a drama club, exploring different interests can be incredibly enriching and may even enhance her cheer skills in unexpected ways.

5. Self-Care and Personal Development

This period could also be an opportunity for your athlete to focus on personal growth and self-care. Encouraging activities like yoga, meditation, or creative pursuits can help maintain physical fitness while also providing emotional balance and stress relief. It’s a chance to build resilience, confidence, and a strong sense of self outside of any team identity.

Keep the Spirit Alive

Finally, remind your cheerleader (and yourself) that their value isn’t determined by making a team. Their dedication, hard work, and love for cheer are what truly define them. Encourage them to keep their head high, spirits up, and to never stop cheering, in one way or another.

Remember, every setback is just a setup for a comeback. Keep cheering, keep supporting each other, and keep shining bright!

Steve Pawlyk Signature Full

Need Competition Music Blue

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

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, Tips

Starting All Star Cheer Late? Here’s How to Nail Your Tryouts and Find Your Place

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
Starting All Star Cheer Late? Here's How to Nail Your Tryouts and Find Your Place
20
Jun
Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

Steve Blog Circle

Byline Steve Pawlyk

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 20, 2023

So, you’re 17 and just about to dive into the world of All Star Cheerleading for the first time? This can be a thrilling yet nerve-wracking experience, especially if you’ve taken a break from stunting for a few years. But fret not. Whether you’re worried about your skills, or your ability to fit in with your peers, remember: You’re not alone. In fact, many successful cheerleaders have walked this path before you and found their place in the team.

1. Refreshing Your Skills

First, let’s address the tumbling and stunting. It’s fantastic that you’ve retained your tumbling skills around level 4. That’s a solid starting point, and it shows that you’ve put in the work and commitment before. Before tryouts, make sure you spend time each day practicing, but don’t push yourself too hard that you risk injury.

Stunting, however, can be a bit more daunting if you haven’t done it in a while. If you have the opportunity, consider attending a couple of stunting workshops or classes. If that’s not an option, use YouTube tutorials and practice at home using a safe set-up. Focus on your basics and ensure you’re comfortable and confident in those before trying anything more complex. Remember, it’s okay not to have everything down perfectly, coaches will be looking for potential as well as existing skills.

2. Dealing with Social Anxiety

Now, let’s tackle the social aspect. Having social anxiety can make this experience feel even more daunting. It’s important to know that it’s okay to be nervous. The key is to try and use this nervous energy to fuel your performance. Show up to the tryouts, present yourself confidently, and do your best. That’s all anyone can ask of you.

Starting All Star Cheer Late in Life

When it comes to dealing with the other cheerleaders, remember that everyone has their own story and battles to fight. Some of the girls may seem intimidating, but they could be dealing with their own insecurities. Approach them with an open mind, be kind and genuine, and most importantly, be yourself. If you stay true to who you are, you’ll attract the right kind of people to you.

3. Embracing Your Individuality

Speaking of being yourself, let’s discuss your unique look. Having piercings and different makeup might make you feel like you stick out, but remember, the cheer world values individuality and expression. Embrace your style. It might even help you stand out in a positive way.

However, for the tryouts and during practices, you may need to adjust your look to meet safety guidelines. Piercings could pose a risk during stunts, and heavy makeup might be uncomfortable during a sweaty practice. You could consider using clear piercings or removing them during practice, and possibly minimizing your makeup. But this doesn’t mean you need to abandon your style altogether. Find a balance that allows you to feel comfortable and safe while staying true to who you are.

4. Setting Expectations

Lastly, be prepared for both acceptance and rejection. Not making the team doesn’t mean you’re not good enough or that you’ll never be a successful cheerleader. It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and come back stronger next time. If you do make the team, that’s fantastic, but remember that every new journey comes with its own set of challenges. Be patient with yourself as you navigate this new experience.

Starting All Star cheerleading later than others can indeed be intimidating. But with a clear mind, the right preparation, and an open heart, you can not only make it into the team but also carve out

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