Tag Archives: Cheerleading Journey

Documentary Spotlight: REDEMPTION: USA Cheer vs. The World

REDEMPTION USA Cheer vs The World documentary is it good

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 8, 2024

Since 2018, the Premier US National All Girl Team has fallen short to Team Finland at the ICU World Cheerleading Championships. In this six-episode limited series, REDEMPTION: USA Cheer vs. The World, we follow the team from its inception to the 2023 ICU World Cheerleading Championship.  The team is on their journey to take back the gold medal, and it is not an easy road.

“This film shows cheerleading on a whole other level. I am obsessed!!”Maddy Brum, Netflix CHEER Season 2

In this documentary, you can expect the raw, unfiltered, and true version of what the training experience is like for the athletes and coaches. Every cheerleader responds differently when they hear “cheerleading isn’t a sport” but for these girls, they prove that cheerleaders are athletes too. 

Buckle Up for an emotional roller coaster; this shows the true dedication of blood, sweat, and tears! -Morgan Simianer, Netflix CHEER

Being put on mat in the beginning of training does not solidify your position through the end. Changes are made only days before taking the mat, and the coaches have tough decisions to make to ensure that the right combination take the floor at ICU in Orlando. Let’s meet some of the characters in REDEMPTION: USA Cheer vs. The World.

Head coach Tony Nash is one of the best cheerleading coaches in the world, and he even was a part of innovating cheerleading in the United States. But what many do not know is that Tony is facing a medical battle that puts life into perspective for him and his family. Tony is not only a coach, but a dedicated father and husband whose main focus in life is to be the best he can be for his family. While searching for redemption on the mat, he is also searching for answers when it comes to his health. 

cheer competition music cheap
Licensed Cheer Music for Competition Cheer Music

Mark Coleman, head coach of Morehead State University, plays a complex role in the narrative of the documentary. As a mentor coach for Team Finland, Mark brings his vast experience and expertise to help elevate the Finnish team’s performance at the ICU World Cheerleading Championships. However, this dual role creates a challenging dynamic, as Mark also coaches some athletes on the USA All Girl team who cheer for him over at Morehead State.

Mark’s involvement with both teams adds an intriguing layer to the series, illustrating the interconnected world of competitive cheer. It underscores the importance of integrity, commitment, and the delicate balance required to excel in such a fiercely competitive world.

Madelyn is from the University of West Georgia and the USA Cheer training process is pretty tough on her both physically and mentally. Madelyn is also facing challenges outside of cheer, and something happens right before Finals at ICU in 2022 that could take over her whole demeanor.

Journey is a powerhouse athlete, but even the best of the best face tough challenges. Journey’s back is a constant struggle for her, and ultimately it affects her ability to be able to compete. This results in a chain reaction of events for the team at the 2022 ICU World Cheerleading Championship. 

You will learn that USA All Girl assistant coach, Asia, was also an athlete on the team before becoming a coach. Her first year in 2018 was the first time the team did not win a Gold medal. Asia has never won Gold before, so her will to win is at an all time high. 

Assistant coach, Lindsey, was also an athlete on the team before becoming a coach. But Lindsey has won a Gold medal before, so she knows what it feels like for all of your hard work to be worth it. She is determined to help the team get back to the top where they belong. 

Cora never imagined herself on a team like USA. From being an alternate, to the opportunity to compete, big dreams come true for this NC State athlete.

Blake isn’t just the teams’ choreographer, but a close friend of head coach Tony. Blake is close to Tony’s family and ultimately helped Tony get through a tough stage of his life. 

REDEMPTION USA Cheer vs The World

Blake helped Tony get through a challenging period marked by his medical battle. Tony is one of the best cheerleading coaches globally, but faced significant health issues that added immense pressure and stress to his life. Blake was crucial in his support and friendship to helping Tony navigate this tough stage and stay focused on his family and coaching.

Paige and Michaiah are two strong leaders and exceptional athletes. 

They not only excel in their cheer skills but also play a crucial role in maintaining team cohesion and morale during the grueling training sessions. Their leadership extends beyond mere words of encouragement; they lead by example, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to their craft and pushing their teammates to strive for greatness.

What adds an intriguing layer to their dynamic is that, while they are united as teammates on the USA Cheer National Team, they are still, currently, fierce rivals in the college circuit. This rivalry fuels a healthy competition between them, driving each to perform at their absolute best. Their ability to balance this rivalry with their shared goal of leading the USA team to victory highlights their maturity and dedication. Despite competing against each other in college, Paige and Michaiah put aside their differences to work together, showcasing the true spirit of teamwork and unity.

Their journey in the documentary reveals the complexities of balancing personal ambitions with team objectives, making their story an inspiring testament to the power of leadership and collaboration in achieving common goals.

The Soundtrack of Determination

At IPP Music, we are incredibly proud to be the official music provider for the USA Cheer National Team. Our custom mixes, designed to inspire and energize, play a pivotal role in this documentary, underscoring the intense training and triumphant moments of the team. It’s an honor to contribute to such an extraordinary journey.

Watch REDEMPTION: USA Cheer Vs The World on FloCheer 

The series is a FloStudios production, sponsored by EZ Flex Mats. 

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

From Silver to Gold: The Remarkable Journey of Extreme All Stars Lvl X

The Remarkable Journey of Extreme All Stars Lvl X

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 14, 2024

For Extreme All Stars gym owner Mandy Field, winning a world championship was a dream that seemed almost unreachable. The team has always worked tirelessly, season after season, but the talent pool in competitive cheer is vast… and let’s say…formidable. However, after clinching the silver medal at the 2023 Cheerleading Worlds, she sensed that her team was on the cusp of something extraordinary.

extreme cheer worlds transformed

A Season Fueled by Determination

“Every single athlete after awards were like, ‘We’re doing it next year. Next year is our year!’” Field recalls. “From our first practice, they were declaring they were going to be World Champions.” This unwavering confidence set the tone for the entire season, with the team adopting the motto, “Speak it into existence.”

Overcoming Adversity

The road to the 2024 Cheerleading Worlds was anything but smooth. The season was marked by significant challenges, including numerous injuries. As a D2 gym, Extreme All Stars didn’t have the luxury of a large pool of substitute athletes. This meant long, grueling practices and additional training days. Despite these hurdles, the team’s dedication never wavered.

“We had a time in the season that we practiced for 30 days straight,” Field explained. “We never had a day off because we were having one injury after another. We are a smaller gym, so it was a big challenge, but the kids never batted an eye. It’s been their mission all season, and they made sure it happened. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

cheer competition music cheap
Licensed Cheer Music for Competition Cheer Music

Building Momentum

The team’s determination began to pay off at the CHEERSPORT Nationals, where Lvl X hit zero deductions on both days and secured first place out of 11 teams. This victory was a turning point and a manifestation of their world champion aspirations. “We passed around a piece of paper, and everyone wrote on it, ‘I am going to be a World Champion,’” Field said. “We ended every practice saying, ‘We are World Champions.’”

The Final Push

As the 2024 Cheerleading Worlds approached, the team faced yet another setback: a serious injury to a key athlete. The uncertainty was palpable, but the athlete managed to compete, albeit without tumbling, delivering an incredible performance.

“It was a stressful weekend for us,” Field said. “She was able to compete but just not tumble and pulled off an amazing routine.”

The Moment of Truth

All the stress, hard work, and determination culminated in a defining moment. Lvl X was in first place after the semi-finals in the L6 Limited Senior XSmall Coed division. They returned for the finals and delivered a flawless zero-deduction routine. The anticipation was electric as the announcers declared, “And your 2024 World Champions… Extreme All Stars Lvl X!”

extreme cheer worlds championship winners
Extreme All Stars Lvl X

“It took 26 years of building the gym for that to happen,” Field reflected. “It was always my ultimate goal with coaching, but it almost didn’t seem real. You work so hard for that moment, put in so much time and passion, and then when it happens, you almost need to pinch yourself to make sure it’s real. I was so grateful that the kids actually got to see the reward of hard work.”

A Journey Come Full Circle

This victory marked the program’s first-ever World Championship win, a testament to the team’s perseverance and belief. From D2 Summit titles, NCA titles, competing in level 6, stepping back to level 5, and ultimately taking second place in 2023, the journey of Extreme All Stars Lvl X has been nothing short of remarkable.

“They stuck with it. They didn’t go somewhere else; they trusted that we would one day pull it back together. They worked every day just as hard on a level 5 team as they did when we got to level 6 again,” Field said.

The story of Extreme All Stars Lvl X is a powerful reminder that hard work and determination do pay off. Their journey from silver to gold, overcoming countless obstacles, and achieving their dream of becoming world champions, is an inspiration to cheerleaders everywhere. As Field puts it, “It’s been their mission all season, and they made sure it happened. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

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

The Remarkable Ascendancy of Saucon Valley High School’s Cheer Squad

Saucon Valley High Schools Cheer Squad

By Steve Pawlyk

Published January 11, 2024

The Saucon Valley High School Competition Cheerleading Team‘s journey is a tale of resilience, determination, and team spirit. From a hiatus to making a striking comeback, the team has not only returned to the competitive cheerleading landscape but has also carved a name for itself in prestigious championships.

Saucon Valley High School

Comeback and Recent Achievements

In 2023, the cheerleading team, under the leadership of head coach KristiJoy Lutte, embarked on a remarkable journey that would leave an indelible mark in the world of competitive cheerleading. Their return to the competitive circuit was met with exceptional performances, leading to a series of achievements that drew the attention of the cheerleading community.

UCA Regionals: A Striking Comeback

The team’s resurgence was most evident at the UCA Regionals held in Harrisburg in November 2023. Despite their relatively short time back in the competitive arena, they clinched an impressive third place in their division. This outstanding performance not only showcased their talent but also secured them a coveted spot at the National High School Cheerleading Championship in Orlando, Florida.

National High School Cheerleading Championship: The Ultimate Stage

Competing at the National High School Cheerleading Championship is a dream for many, and this cheerleading team made it a reality. Their journey from a comeback to a national stage was an inspirational tale of dedication and hard work.

District XI Championship: Historic Achievement

As 2024 dawned, the team continued to shine. At the District XI championship in January 2024, they achieved a remarkable second-place finish. This was more than just another medal; it was a historic moment for their school. For the first time in its history, the team earned the opportunity to compete at the PIAA State Championship in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

PIAA State Championship: A Triumph of Determination

The PIAA State Championship is the pinnacle of high school sports in Pennsylvania. For this cheerleading team, it was a testament to their determination and resilience. Competing on this grand stage was a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the unwavering guidance of Coach KristiJoy Lutte.

cheer competition music cheap
Licensed Cheer Music for Competition Cheer Music

Team Spirit and Dedication

What sets the Saucon Valley cheerleaders apart is their unyielding spirit and commitment to the sport. Their drive to learn new skills, adapt to changes, and unite as a cohesive unit on the mat underscores their dedication. The coaching team, comprising KristiJoy Lutte, Gianna Corda, and Tara Matus, takes pride in mentoring these young athletes, guiding them towards excellence in cheerleading.

Community and Fundraising Efforts

The team’s journey to championships like the Nationals is self-funded, emphasizing their commitment and the community’s support. They have engaged in various fundraising activities, including organizing events at local eateries and setting up a GoFundMe page to cover competition entry fees and travel expenses.

The Saucon Valley High School Competition Cheerleading Team‘s story is more than just about winning titles; it’s about a group of young athletes who have shown remarkable perseverance and team spirit. Their story serves as an inspiration not just to aspiring cheerleaders but to all young athletes who dare to dream big and work tirelessly towards their goals.

Saucon Valley High School Cheer Team

For those interested in supporting the Saucon Valley High School Cheerleading Team, please visit their GoFundMe page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/saucon-valley-cheerleading-team-nationals-2024 and consider contributing to their journey.

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

Feeling Overlooked: Overcoming Challenges and Growing as a Cheerleader

Feeling Overlooked: Overcoming Challenges and Growing as a Cheerleader

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 17, 2023

Cheerleading is a sport that requires not only physical strength and agility but also a strong spirit and a resilient mindset. It’s a journey filled with ups and downs, triumphs, and setbacks. One such challenge that many cheerleaders face is the feeling of not being good enough, especially when they see their peers advancing faster. This article aims to provide advice and guidance to those cheerleaders who are facing such situations, using a real-life example of a sophomore cheerleader on a Junior Varsity (JV) team who posted about her situation on reddit.

feeling overlooked in cheer team

The Struggle

Our cheerleader, a dedicated sophomore on the JV team, recently faced a setback when she didn’t make it to the competition team, while some of her JV teammates, including freshmen, did. This situation can be disheartening and can lead to feelings of inadequacy. However, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s journey in cheerleading is unique, and progress can vary from person to person.

Overcoming First Impressions

Our cheerleader had a challenging time picking up cheers during her first year due to personal reasons, which might have led to a less-than-stellar first impression. However, it’s important to remember that first impressions aren’t everything. Coaches understand that everyone has off days or even off seasons. What matters more is your commitment to improvement and your dedication to the sport.

Improving Skills and Building Confidence

Despite her initial struggles, our cheerleader has seen significant growth in her skills and confidence. She has mastered all the cheers during the basketball season and improved her toe touch significantly. This is a testament to her hard work and dedication. It’s crucial to celebrate these victories, no matter how small they may seem. Every step forward is a step towards becoming a better cheerleader.

Dealing with Fear and Uncertainty

The fear of not making the team in a future season is a common concern among cheerleaders. However, it’s important to remember that setbacks are a part of the journey. They are not a reflection of your worth or your abilities as a cheerleader. Instead of focusing on the fear of failure, focus on what you can control: your effort, your attitude, and your commitment to improvement.

Building Relationships with Teammates

Our cheerleader is close with some of the freshmen but hasn’t had much interaction with her peers or the upperclassmen. Building relationships with teammates can be a great source of support and camaraderie. Don’t hesitate to reach out and get to know them better. You’re all part of the same team, working towards the same goals.  It’s also good to remember that upperclassmen are just as nervous/insecure as you are.  Everybody in high school is. I realize it’s hard to see at this age, but trust me, a good rule of thumb is that the more bravado/mean-girlish attitude they display, the more scared they are.  Don’t try to win these ones over.  Find the athletes on your team who don’t behave like this and be genuine with them, they will almost certainly reciprocate.

feeling overlooked by cheer team

Being a cheerleader is about more than just the cheers and the stunts. It’s about resilience, perseverance, and personal growth. So, to our JV cheerleader and all others facing similar challenges, remember: every setback is a setup for a comeback. Keep pushing, keep improving, and most importantly, keep cheering. Your journey as a cheerleader is just beginning, and there’s so much more to look forward to.

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

The 3 Key Moves in Cheerleading: Boosting Your Routine with IPP Music

Boost your cheer routine with key moves: High V, T-Jump, Liberty Stunt

By Steve Pawlyk

Published May 30, 2023

When it comes to mastering the art of cheerleading, understanding key moves is crucial. These moves form the basis of any routine, and perfecting them can take your cheerleading performance from good to exceptional. At IPP Music, we understand the power of rhythm and music in enhancing these moves, which is why we provide tailored cheerleading music to support and uplift your performance.

Cheerleading is an energetic, powerful, and dynamic sport that requires skill, agility, and precision. With the combination of tumbling, jumps, stunts, and dance, cheerleading is as much about athleticism as it is about spirit and synchronization. 

To help you boost your cheerleading routine, we will outline three key moves in cheerleading that every cheerleader should know. These moves are the High V, the T-Jump, and the Liberty Stunt. With the right music from IPP Music, you can make these moves pop and make your performance unforgettable.

The High V

The High V is a foundational move in cheerleading, often used in cheers, chants, and routines. It’s a move that every cheerleader learns early in their training. Here’s how to perfect your High V:

  1. Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart.
  2. Extend your arms up and out in a V shape. 
  3. Keep your arms straight, and make sure your palms face outward.
  4. Maintain a tight, sharp position, with your thumbs facing the back.

The High V is great for creating a dramatic effect, especially when matched with powerful, beat-driven music. IPP Music offers a range of tracks that can help you make the most of this move, helping to create a captivating and exciting performance.

The T-Jump

The T-Jump, or toe touch, is a classic cheerleading jump that demands flexibility and precision. Here’s how to perform a T-Jump:

  1. Start with your feet together and arms in a High V.
  2. Bend your knees and jump off both feet.
  3. At the peak of your jump, split your legs into a V shape.
  4. Reach your hands towards your toes, creating a T shape with your body.
  5. Land safely with your knees slightly bent to absorb the impact.
perfecting cheer stunts

Matching the T-Jump with the right music can add a significant impact to your routine. At IPP Music, we provide a diverse selection of music to suit any cheerleading routine, whether you’re looking for fast-paced tracks to match the energy of the T-Jump or slower beats for a graceful execution.

mastering the art of cheerleading

The Liberty Stunt

The Liberty Stunt is a popular move that involves a flyer balancing on one foot, held up by bases. It’s a move that showcases teamwork and trust among cheerleaders. Here’s how to perform a Liberty Stunt:

  1. The flyer stands on one foot, while the bases support the flyer’s foot with their hands.
  2. The flyer keeps the other leg bent at the knee, creating a 90-degree angle.
  3. The back spot supports the flyer’s back and helps to keep her steady.
  4. The flyer extends her arms into a High V for balance and effect.

The Liberty Stunt is a dramatic and impactful move that requires just the right music to match its intensity. IPP Music provides a range of music that can help accentuate this stunt, making your routine stand out from the rest.

In conclusion, there are six main levels in cheerleading, each with its unique set of skills and requirements. These levels provide a roadmap for cheerleaders, helping them progress from beginners to advanced athletes. Understanding these levels is essential for anyone interested in cheerleading, whether they’re aspiring cheerleaders, parents, or fans of this dynamic sport.

So, next time someone asks you, “How many levels of cheer are there?” you’ll be ready with an informed answer that will illuminate the complex and fascinating world of cheerleading. Stay tuned for more insights into the sport of cheerleading!

Conclusion

The High V, the T-Jump, and the Liberty Stunt are three key moves in cheerleading that, when executed correctly and paired with the right music, can take your cheerleading routine to the next level. IPP Music is dedicated to providing the best cheerleading music that complements your routine

Steve Pawlyk Signature Full

SHARE YOUR CART