Coaching, Featured, Practice Tips

The Winning Formula of Live Oak High School Cheer: A Blueprint for Success

Posted on February 20, 2024February 20, 2024 by Steve Pawlyk

20
Feb

By Steve Pawlyk

Published February 20, 2024

Live Oak High School‘s cheerleading program has once again captured the spotlight, securing their victory at the 2024 UCA High School Cheer Nationals Championship. This triumph is not just a testament to their exceptional skills but a reflection of a meticulously crafted approach that other programs aspire to emulate. The question on everyone’s lips is: What makes Live Oak Cheer so successful?

A Unique Structure: Beyond the Norm

At the heart of Live Oak Cheer’s success is its distinctive operational model, which mirrors that of an All-Star gym while retaining its high school identity. This structure offers unparalleled flexibility and autonomy, allowing for innovative practices that are often constrained in traditional school-based programs. The program’s funding, sourced from parent contributions and a significant annual golf fundraiser, facilitated the purchase of their own gymnasium. This independence from school and state regulations enables a tailored approach to training and development, setting Live Oak apart from its competitors.

Building Champions from the Ground Up

Live Oak’s strategy extends beyond high school; it starts nurturing athletes from a young age through the Live Oak Youth Football and Cheer Organization. This foundational work emphasizes fundamentals, sportsmanship, and teamwork, fostering a culture of dedication and hard work. The program’s “old school” mentality—where achievements are earned, not given—prepares young athletes not just for cheerleading but for life.

Senior leadership in the team plays a crucial role, with experienced cheerleaders offering private tumbling lessons to younger participants. This mentorship builds a strong, interconnected community, ensuring a steady flow of skilled athletes into the high school program.

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Coaching Excellence and Community Support

Under the guidance of Maddi Guidry, a well-known former college athlete, Live Oak’s cheerleaders receive coaching that is second to none. Guidry’s expertise, combined with the support of coaches Madison Guidry and Kate Hornsby, has propelled the team to national prominence. The program’s success is a community effort, with volunteers, parents, and the entire Watson community rallying behind the team. The local support, from electronic signs in the business district to handmade signs along the travel route, underscores the community’s pride in their champions.

A Legacy of Winning

Live Oak High School Cheer’s accomplishments are staggering, with multiple national and world championship titles to their name. Their routines are renowned for their complexity, innovation, and flawless execution. A breakdown of their 2022-2023 competition routine showcases the team’s ambition to push the boundaries of cheerleading, incorporating high-difficulty stunts and tumbling that few can rival.

2024 UCA High School Cheer Championship Winners

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Maddi Guidry coach Live Oak High School Cheer

The Path to Victory: Hard Work, Dedication, and Sacrifice

The journey to the top is paved with hard work, dedication, and, inevitably, sacrifices. The athletes’ commitment is evident in their rigorous training schedule, which intensifies as competitions draw near. The physical toll is significant, with injuries a common hurdle. Yet, the team’s spirit remains unbroken, driven by a collective goal to excel and a supportive environment that nurtures their talents.

Live Oak High School Cheer’s dominance at the 2024 UCA High School Cheer Nationals Championship is no coincidence. It is the result of a well-orchestrated program that values hard work, community support, and a forward-thinking approach to cheerleading. For programs looking to replicate Live Oak’s success, the blueprint is clear: invest in your athletes from a young age, foster a culture of dedication and teamwork, and support them with the best coaching and facilities. The journey to the top may be demanding, but as Live Oak Cheer has shown, the rewards are well worth the effort.

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タイトル: 熊本大学の快挙！日本初の世界チアリーディング選手権金メダル

Posted on January 7, 2024January 8, 2024 by IPP Music

Kumamoto Universitys Remarkable Achievement Japans First World Cheerleading Championship Gold Medal 2024

07
Jan

By Steve Pawlyk

Published January 7, 2024

こんにちは、チアリーディングファンのみなさん！今日は、とってもワクワクするニュースをお届けしますよ。熊本大学が、なんと世界チアリーディング選手権で日本初の金メダルを獲得したんです！これはすごい快挙ですよね。

Japanese Kumamoto University Cheerleading World Championships

もちろんです、こちらがその内容を日常的な日本語での翻訳です。

やあ、みんな！今回は、2023年11月に群馬県の高崎アリーナで開催された第11回世界チアリーディング選手権のすごい話をしよう。この大会、コロナの影響でしばらく開催されなかったんだけど、久しぶりに戻ってきて、18カ国から100以上のチームが集まったんだよ。

そしてね、熊本大学チアリーディングクラブの藤森勇気さんが、混合小グループ部門で金メダルを獲得したんだ。これ、日本人としては初めての快挙なんだよ！コロナのせいで練習もままならない中、彼とチームはあきらめずに頑張って、世界大会で目立つ成績を収めたんだ。

高崎はチアリーディングを熱くサポートする街として知られていて、この大会を3回目の開催。競技はエネルギッシュで、創造性とアスリートの才能が詰まったパフォーマンスで、観客を魅了したんだ。

しかも、この大会は第35回全日本大学選手権と同時に行われて、国際的な選手と国内の選手が同じステージで腕を競い合ったんだよ。そのせいで、もっと多くの人が集まって、さらに盛り上がったんだ。

今年の大会の大成功で、もう次の世界選手権への期待も高まっているよ。これからもチアリーディングの世界は、もっとワクワクする展開が待ってるはずだね！

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チームワークは、熊本大学チアリーディングチームが世界選手権で金メダルを獲得する上で重要な要素でした。チームメンバーは高校生から社会人まで幅広く、関東や関西など遠方から集まっていたため、信頼関係の構築と技術の磨き上げが特に重要でした。これは、チアリーディングが個々の技術だけでなく、メンバー全員の協力によって成り立つスポーツであることを示しています。

藤森勇気さんは、11回目の世界チアリーディング選手権にて混合小グループ部門で日本代表として参加し、金メダルを獲得しました。彼の成功は、チームメンバー間の強い絆と共同の努力の結果でした。大会中、会場からの「日本！日本！」という声援がチーム全員に力を与え、パフォーマンス終了後の勝利発表時には、チームメンバーとコーチが喜びで抱き合いました。

チアリーディングでは、スタントやタンブリングなど、ほとんどの技術が複数人での協力を必要とします。練習や大会でのサポート、意思決定、責任感の共有、指導とフィードバックはチームワークを構築する上で不可欠な要素です。これらの要素は、チームの成功に寄与するだけでなく、個人の成長にも大きく貢献します。日本のチアダンス界では、チームワークが強みとされ、これが国際大会での成功につながっています。

このように、熊本大学チアリーディングチームの成功は、単に技術の高さだけでなく、チームワークという大きな力によってもたらされたものです。彼らの情熱とコミットメントは、学校に誇りをもたらすと同時に、日本のチアリーディング界に新たな光を当てています。

Kumamoto University's Historic Win: Japan's First Gold in World Cheerleading Championships

I’m excited to share the historic achievement of Kumamoto University at the World Cheerleading Championships, where they secured Japan’s first gold medal.

Event Recap:

The 11th World Cheerleading Championships, held in Takasaki Arena, Japan, in November 2023, was a milestone event. Returning after a COVID-19 hiatus, it drew over 100 teams from 18 countries, showcasing the sport’s global appeal.

Standout performer Yuki Fujimori, from Kumamoto University’s Cheerleading Club, made history in the mixed small group division. Overcoming the pandemic’s challenges, his gold medal win marked a first for Japan in this category and highlighted his resilience and dedication.

This victory was more than just a personal success; it was a significant moment for Japan on the international cheerleading stage. Fujimori’s performance, uplifted by enthusiastic audience support, reflected the sport’s competitive spirit and underscored the importance of teamwork and national pride.

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The Championships also coincided with the 35th Japan National College Championships, creating a unique atmosphere that combined national and international talent. This blend of competitions heightened the excitement and attracted a larger audience, emphasizing cheerleading’s growing recognition as a competitive sport.

Takasaki, known for its vibrant cheerleading community, hosted the event for the third time, providing a perfect setting for the high-energy and creative performances that captivated the audience.

With this year’s championship’s success, anticipation for future World Championships is already building, promising even more thrilling developments in cheerleading.

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Torrey Pines High School Cheer Squad: Triumph at the CIF San Diego Section Championship

Posted on January 4, 2024January 6, 2024 by IPP Music

torrey pines high school cheer champions san diego

04
Jan

By Steve Pawlyk

Published January 4, 2024

The Torrey Pines High School cheer squad etched their name in history on December 2nd by clinching the prestigious CIF San Diego Section championship. This victory was not just a testament to their athletic prowess but also a culmination of dedication, team spirit, and relentless hard work.

@fitness_cheer Torrey Pines High School #torreypines ♬ original sound – FitnessCheer

Journey to the Championship

In an astounding display of athleticism and team spirit, the Torrey Pines High School competitive cheer squad clinched the CIF San Diego Section championship in the Small Group Division II. The event, held at Montgomery High School on December 2nd, witnessed the Falcons showcasing a flawless routine that earned them this prestigious title.

Renowned for their impeccable performances, the team’s winning routine was a product of creative collaboration. Choreographed by Anna Haskell, a former NFL cheerleader and collegiate dancer, the music routine resonated with dynamism and energy. Complementing this, the cheer choreography, crafted by Head Coach Olivia Bogert, who also teaches AP literature and creative writing at Torrey Pines, added layers of sophistication and technique to the performance.

The Championship Day

On December 2nd, the Torrey Pines High School competitive cheer squad delivered a breathtaking performance at the CIF San Diego Section championship in Small Group Division II, held at Montgomery High School. Their routine, a blend of stunts, tumbling, jumping, dancing, and chants, was meticulously crafted over months of preparation. The choreography prepared by Anna Haskell and Head Coach Olivia Bogert, highlighted their exceptional skill in execution, technique, and difficulty. This performance not only won them the championship title but also marked their first victory in Traditional Cheer Competition and their first playoff appearance since competitive cheer was recognized as a sport. Their success at this event is a historic milestone for Torrey Pines and sets the stage for their next challenge: the CIF State Championships.

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torrey pines high school cheerleading san diego win 2023

The CIF Regional Cheer Championships, a gathering of 56 high school squads from across San Diego, is the arena where these teams vied for the top spot at various levels. Torrey Pines High School, standing out among these contenders, marked a historic moment by winning their first Traditional Cheer Competition championship. This victory was even more significant as it was their first playoff appearance since competitive cheer was acknowledged as a sport by the California Interscholastic Federation.

The rigorous preparation for this championship started in early October, with the team dedicating three to four sessions weekly after school and on weekends. Their two-and-a-half-minute routine, encompassing stunts, tumbling, jumping, dancing, and chants, was evaluated on execution, technique, and the difficulty degree. This dedicated preparation period was instrumental in honing their skills to perfection.

With this remarkable achievement, the Torrey Pines competitive cheer team is now gearing up for the next challenge – the CIF State Championships, scheduled at Mira Costa High School in Manhattan Beach, California, on January 27th. Here, they will compete against the top high school cheer teams in the state, aiming to add a California championship title to their accolades.

This triumph not only underscores the team’s exceptional talent and hard work but also sets a new standard of excellence for the Torrey Pines High School cheer program. As they prepare for the upcoming state championships, the squad carries with them the momentum of this victory and the support and pride of their school and community.

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Mastering the Perfect Cartwheel: A Guide for JV Cheerleaders

Posted on July 16, 2023July 16, 2023 by Steve Pawlyk

16
Jul

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 16, 2023

If you’re a Junior Varsity (JV) cheerleader, you may be facing some challenges in perfecting your techniques, especially if you come from a gymnastics background. One of the more common issues is executing a straight cartwheel. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many athletes struggle with this, and we’re here to help you overcome this hurdle.

Understanding the Cartwheel

Before we delve into the solution, it’s essential to understand what a cartwheel is and why it’s crucial in cheerleading and gymnastics. A cartwheel is a basic gymnastic move where you rotate your body sideways in a wheel-like motion. It’s a fundamental skill that forms the foundation for more complex gymnastic moves. In cheerleading, a flawless cartwheel can add a wow factor to your routine, making it more dynamic and engaging.

Common Mistakes in Performing a Cartwheel

One common issue that many gymnasts and cheerleaders face is twisting to the side during a cartwheel. This issue often arises due to a lack of body alignment or incorrect hand placement. Here are some common mistakes that might be causing your cartwheel to go off course:

Incorrect Hand Placement: Your hands play a crucial role in maintaining the direction of your cartwheel. If your hands are not placed correctly, it can cause your body to twist.
Poor Body Alignment: If your body is not aligned properly, it can lead to a twisted cartwheel. Your body should form a straight line from your hands to your feet.
Insufficient Momentum: A lack of momentum can cause your body to fall to the side, resulting in a twisted cartwheel.

Tips to Perfect Your Cartwheel

Now that we’ve identified the possible issues, let’s look at some tips to help you perfect your cartwheel:

Proper Hand Placement: When you start your cartwheel, your hands should be parallel to each other. As you kick your legs up, your hands should turn so that your fingers point towards the direction you’re coming from.
Maintain Body Alignment: Imagine a straight line running from your hands to your feet. Your body should follow this line throughout the cartwheel. Practicing in front of a mirror or recording your cartwheel can help you see if you’re maintaining proper alignment.
Generate Enough Momentum: A good run-up can help generate the momentum needed for a straight cartwheel. Practice your run-up to ensure you’re getting enough speed.
Practice with a Spotter: Having a spotter can be incredibly helpful when you’re trying to perfect your cartwheel. They can provide real-time feedback and help correct your form.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Keep working on your cartwheel, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right immediately. With time and practice, you’ll be able to perform a flawless cartwheel that will add sparkle to your cheerleading routine.

A cartwheel might seem like a simple move, but it requires proper technique and practice. By focusing on your hand placement, body alignment, and momentum, you can perfect your cartwheel and enhance your cheerleading performance. So, keep practicing, stay positive, and you’ll soon master the perfect cartwheel!

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Mastering the Back Walkover: Expert Tips and Drills for Cheerleaders

Posted on July 14, 2023July 14, 2023 by Steve Pawlyk

14
Jul

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 14, 2023

Today, we’re addressing a common challenge that many cheerleaders face: mastering the back walkover. This skill is a fundamental part of many routines and can be a hurdle for some athletes. Often cheerleaders struggle with back walkovers, despite regular practice and stretching. So let’s dive into some tips and drills that can help you conquer this move.

Understanding the Back Walkover

The back walkover is a gymnastic skill that requires a combination of strength, flexibility, and balance. It involves starting from a standing position, reaching backwards into a bridge, and then kicking over to return to a standing position. The cheerleader who posted her frustration with this on Reddit mentioned that she can fall into a bridge but struggles with the kick over. This suggests that she may need to focus on building strength and improving technique.

Building Strength

While flexibility is crucial for a back walkover, strength is equally important. You need strong shoulders, back, and core muscles to control your body as you kick over from the bridge position. Here are a few exercises to help build this strength:

1. Planks: Planks are excellent for strengthening your core. Try to hold a plank for 30 seconds to a minute, and gradually increase your time as your strength improves.

2. Push-ups: Push-ups can help build shoulder and arm strength. If regular push-ups are too challenging, start with knee push-ups and gradually progress to full push-ups.

3. Bridge push-ups: These target your shoulders, back, and core. Start in a bridge position and try to push your body up and down.

Cheerleader doing pushups to build core strength for back walkovers

Improving Technique

The technique is key in a back walkover. Here are a few drills to help improve your technique:

Spotter assisting a cheerleader during a back walkover practice

1. Bridge kickovers: Start in a bridge position with your feet on an elevated surface like a mat or a step. Kick over one leg at a time. This drill can help you get the feel of the kickover motion.

2. Spotter-assisted back walkovers: Ask a coach or a teammate to spot you as you attempt your back walkover. They can provide support as you kick over, helping you understand the movement and build confidence.

3. Wall walkovers: Stand a few feet away from a wall, facing away from it. Reach back into a bridge against the wall and use it to push off and kick over. This drill can help you practice the kickover motion with some support.

Increasing Flexibility

Even though our cheerleader friend has been stretching daily, she might need to incorporate some specific stretches to increase her back and shoulder flexibility:

1. Doorway stretch: Stand in an open doorway, place your hands on the door frame slightly above your head, and lean forward to stretch your shoulders.

2. Cobra pose: This yoga pose is great for increasing back flexibility. Lie on your stomach, place your hands under your shoulders, and push your upper body off the ground.

3. Bridge stretch: Regularly practicing your bridge can also help improve your flexibility. Try to hold the position for longer periods and work on straightening your legs and pushing your shoulders over your hands.

Cheerleader-demonstrating-the-bridge-position,-a-crucial-starting-point-for-a-back-walkover

Perfecting the Back Walkover: A Detailed Breakdown

The back walkover can be a challenging skill to master, but breaking it down into smaller, more manageable movements can make it easier to understand and execute. Let’s delve into a more detailed explanation of the back walkover, focusing on the bridge position and the transition to the kickover.

Cheerleader performing a plank exercise to build core strength for back walkovers

The Bridge Position

When you’re in the bridge position, it’s important to push your shoulders forward as far as possible. This movement will naturally start to straighten your legs. The goal here is to create a strong, stable base from which you can initiate the kickover.

The Kickover Transition

Once your legs are close to straight, bring one foot in, so one leg is bent and the other is straight. This is the starting position for the kickover. From here, you’ll want to look at your hands and aggressively push the bent leg straight while lifting the other leg up.

It’s crucial to think of this movement less as a “kick” and more as a “push and swing.” You’re pushing through the bent leg so it extends fully, and simultaneously swinging the straight leg up and over. This combination of movements creates the momentum you need to complete the back walkover.

Working with a Spotter

If you’re still finding the back walkover challenging, working with a spotter can be very helpful. They can provide physical support and guidance as you practice the movement, helping you build confidence and improve your technique.

The Bridge Position

The Kickover Transition

Working with a Spotter

You can also practice back walkovers going down a cheese mat (an incline mat) with a spotter. The incline can help make the movement easier by using gravity to assist with the momentum. This can be a great way to get a feel for the back walkover and understand how the movements should flow together.

The Back Walkover vs. The Kickover

Interestingly, many cheerleaders find the back walkover easier to perform than a kickover from a bridge. This is because the momentum going backwards in a back walkover naturally makes your legs follow, making the movement feel more fluid and less forced.

So, if you’re struggling with the kickover, try practicing back walkovers instead. You might find that the backwards momentum helps you understand and execute the movement more easily

Remember, mastering a skill like the back walkover takes time, patience, and lots of practice. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right away. Keep practicing, stay consistent with your strength training and stretching, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from your coach or teammates. You’re not alone in this journey, and with dedication and perseverance, you’ll be able to nail that back walkover in no time 👍

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The Essential Guide to Cheerleading Tumbling Progression

Posted on June 29, 2023July 4, 2023 by Steve Pawlyk

29
Jun

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 29, 2023

Tumbling is an integral part of cheerleading. It enhances the visual appeal of routines and showcases the athletic prowess of the cheerleaders. However, learning tumbling skills is a gradual process that requires consistency, patience, and above all, a clear understanding of progression levels. In this article, we will walk through the tumbling progression guide, breaking down each level to help cheer coaches better structure their athletes’ training.

Level 1.0: The Foundation
The first level focuses on basic gymnastic skills that lay the groundwork for more advanced moves. At this level, athletes will learn forward and backward rolls, handstands, and cartwheels, as well as handstand snap-downs, bridge downs, and opposite cartwheels. Each of these moves builds core strength, flexibility, and body awareness, critical attributes for future progress.

Level 1.5: Building Momentum
At Level 1.5, the focus is on slightly more complex skills that build on the foundations set in Level 1.0. Here, athletes start learning moves like 2-step round-offs, power hurdle round-offs, backward roll press ups, and front and back walkovers. The Valdez, a graceful move performed from a seated position, also makes its debut at this level.

Level 2.0: Introducing the Back Handspring
The back handspring – a cheerleading staple – is introduced at Level 2.0. Also added to the repertoire are round-off back handsprings, front handsprings, front walkover-round-offs, and back extension rolls. These moves require and help develop upper body strength, better control, and enhanced spatial awareness.

Level 2.5: Mastery of the Back Handspring

Level 2.5 emphasizes the mastery and integration of the back handspring. The goal is to perform multiple back handsprings and seamlessly transition from a front walkover to a round-off back handspring. This level encourages fluidity in motion and lays the foundation for complex tumbling sequences.

Level 3.0: Daring Heights
By Level 3.0, cheerleaders should be comfortable performing solo and sequence back handsprings. They’re now ready for high-flying moves like round-off back handspring tucks, standing tucks, and aerials. The cheerleader will also start working on coin tosses, punch fronts, and toe touch back handsprings, further expanding their tumbling skill set.
Level 4.0: Layouts & Advanced Skills
Level 4.0 focuses on layouts and more advanced skills. Athletes start to incorporate skills like the round-off back handspring layout, cartwheel tuck, T-jump tuck, and whip throughs into their repertoire. They will also work on punch front step-outs, front handspring front punches, and Onodis.

Level 5.0: Full Twisting and Arabians

With a strong foundation in place, Level 5.0 cheerleaders are ready for full twists and Arabians. They’ll also learn whip tucks, toe touch tucks, and standing fulls. At this level, athletes also start practicing fulls with kicks, further enhancing their flexibility and control.

Level 6.0: Elite Tumbling
Level 6.0 is the final and most advanced stage in this tumbling progression. Athletes at this level are expected to execute difficult skills like back handspring fulls, whip punch double twists, and Arabian step outs to double twists. They also continue practicing fulls with kicks. Mastery at this level reflects the pinnacle of tumbling proficiency.

Conclusion

The process of learning and mastering tumbling in cheerleading is a journey that requires patience, practice, and persistent effort. By understanding and following this tumbling progression guide, cheer coaches can ensure their athletes develop the necessary skills in a safe and systematic manner. Remember, each level forms the foundation for the next – it’s important to master each skill before moving on to more advanced moves. Happy tumbling!

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Mastering Cheer Stunting 101: A Comprehensive Guide for New Cheer Coaches

Posted on June 28, 2023June 28, 2023 by Steve Pawlyk

28
Jun

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 28, 2023

Every cheerleading performance is a mesmerizing blend of rhythm, athleticism, and sheer enthusiasm, with stunting taking center stage. Stunting, the act of lifting a team member during a performance, is not just about the high-flying spectacle; it requires precision, strength, and an intricate understanding of cheerleading guidelines. For any new cheer coach looking to ensure their team’s stunting routines are not only breathtaking but also adhere to American cheerleading rules and regulations, this guide offers a step-by-step breakdown.

Understanding the Key Roles in Cheer Stunting

Each stunt in cheerleading is made possible by the combined effort of the flyer, the bases, the backspot, and, sometimes, the front spot. All roles are bound by the safety guidelines set forth by the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators (AACCA) and the U.S. All Star Federation (USASF).

Flyer: Flyers need a solid sense of balance, flexibility, and confidence. They must follow safety guidelines, such as not reaching out to the crowd or performing any dangerous dismounts without proper support.
Bases: Bases must be strong enough to lift and catch the flyer. They should always watch the flyer and not the crowd or competition, as stipulated by AACCA safety guidelines.
Backspot: The backspot’s responsibility extends to ensuring the stunt’s timing, protecting the flyer’s head and neck, and maintaining constant awareness of the stunt group’s stability.
Front Spot: This optional role can add an extra layer of safety, aiding in lifting the flyer, and providing additional stability to the stunt.

Stunt Conditioning Drills: Building Strength and Stability

The next step is conditioning your cheerleaders for stunting. Strength, flexibility, and balance exercises should be part of your team’s regular workout regimen, in line with the conditioning guidelines of the USASF.

Core Strength Exercises: The core is fundamental for all stunting roles. Exercises such as planks, sit-ups, and Russian twists can help build core strength.
Leg and Arm Strength Workouts: Squats, lunges, and push-ups can help bases and spotters develop the power they need to support flyers.
Balance Drills: Balance exercises, such as yoga poses or balance beam exercises, are important for flyers to maintain their poise while aloft.
Flexibility Training: Stretching routines, straddle stretches, and split routines help flyers achieve the flexibility they need to perform various stunts.

Stunt Progressions: Learning to Stunt Safely

Safety is paramount in cheerleading, and stunt progressions allow your squad to build confidence and skills while adhering to the AACCA’s risk management guidelines. Here are a few progression steps:

Thigh Stand: This beginner-friendly stunt helps team members understand the basics of balance and coordination.
Prep or Half Elevator: Here, the flyer stands on the bases’ hands at chest level. This stunt introduces height and requires more strength from bases.
Full Elevator or Extension: This full-height stunt is a test of your team’s stunting abilities and should only be performed once the other levels are mastered.

It is essential to incorporate these progressions into your training regimen, making sure to adhere to the USASF Level Rules and Age Grids.

When teaching stunts, remember that every cheerleader’s safety is your priority. Use appropriate safety mats and spotting until your squad is fully comfortable with their stunts. As a cheer coach, your primary goal should be to foster an environment where your cheerleaders can safely learn, grow, and shine under your guidance.

The art of stunting is one of the many elements that make cheerleading performances compelling and breathtaking. By incorporating the right drills, exercises, and safety practices into your coaching, and always adhering to the cheerleading rules and regulations, you can ensure your squad delivers not just a great performance, but a safe one. Keep the spirit high, the music inspiring, and let the joy of cheerleading resonate with every stunt your team executes.

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Essential Tips and Rules for First-Year British Cheer Coaches

Posted on June 23, 2023June 23, 2023 by Steve Pawlyk

23
Jun

By Steve Pawlyk

Published June 23, 2023

Cheerleading is an art and sport that fosters unity, promotes physical fitness, and instils a sense of leadership among participants. If you’re a first-year coach of a British cheer team, you might find the role challenging yet rewarding. This blog post is your handy guide, brimming with advice, tips, and insights into the rules specific to cheerleading in the United Kingdom

1. Understanding the Basics of Cheerleading

The first tip, which may sound obvious but is worth emphasizing, is understanding the basics of cheerleading. It’s not all about pom-poms and high-energy chants. Cheerleading in the UK, like any other sport, demands discipline, teamwork, athleticism, and creativity. The British Cheerleading Association (BCA) provides an excellent resource for coaches and athletes alike to understand the rules and basics of cheerleading.

2.Ensuring Athlete Safety

The safety of your athletes should always be your top priority. Always ensure they are properly warmed up before practice and cool down afterwards. Ensure your team learns and perfects basic cheerleading skills before moving on to more complex stunts. Know the regulations regarding the mats and other equipment, which need to be compliant with BCA and UKCA (United Kingdom Cheerleading Association) rules.

3. Encourage and Motivate

Your team’s morale will play a significant role in their performance. As a coach, it’s your responsibility to keep the team motivated. Recognize each team member’s strengths and build on them. Constructive criticism is a great tool, but make sure it’s balanced with praise and encouragement.

4. Teaching Teamwork

Cheerleading is all about teamwork. Facilitate exercises that foster trust, cooperation, and communication among your team members. Remember, a successful stunt isn’t just about athleticism—it’s about impeccable timing and unyielding trust in each other.

5. Understanding Cheer Rules Specific to the UK

In the UK, cheerleading is governed by organizations such as BCA and UKCA, which enforce rules to ensure the sport is safe and enjoyable. Familiarise yourself with their guidelines, especially if your team participates in competitions.

– Age Groups: The BCA outlines specific age groups for cheerleading teams: Peewee (6 and under), Mini (8 and under), Youth (11 and under), Junior (14 and under), and Senior (10 and above). Ensure your team members fit within the correct age bracket.

– Team Sizes: Depending on the competition category, team sizes may vary from one (for individual categories) to 36 athletes.

– Routine Duration: For most categories, routines should be a maximum of 2 minutes and 30 seconds.

– Music: If you use music in your routine, it must be licensed for use. The BCA and UKCA have strict rules on music copyright.

– Costumes: Costumes should be modest, tasteful, and provide enough coverage. They must also allow for the safe execution of cheerleading moves.

– Stunts and Tumbling: Certain stunts and tumbling moves are prohibited in specific age categories for safety reasons. Always check the latest BCA or UKCA rules before incorporating a new move into your routine.

As Vince Lombardi once said, “”Coaches who can outline plays on a blackboard are a dime a dozen. The ones who win get inside their player’s heads.” Embrace this philosophy, and you’re already halfway to success.

6. Continuous Learning

As a first-year coach, never shy away from learning opportunities. Attend coaching seminars, engage with experienced cheer coaches, and stay updated with the latest cheerleading trends and techniques. Both the BCA and UKCA regularly offer training and educational resources to help you become a more effective coach.

7. Focusing on Fitness

Cheerleading is a physically demanding sport, and thus it’s critical for your athletes to maintain a high level of fitness. Focus on strength, flexibility, and endurance training. Regular conditioning can help prevent injuries and improve performance.

8. Managing Time

Managing your time and your team’s time effectively is crucial. Your practice sessions should be structured and efficient, with a clear goal in mind. Be punctual, respect your athletes’ time, and encourage them to do the same.

9. Ethical Considerations

As a cheer coach, you play a vital role in shaping young athletes’ attitudes and behaviours. It’s important to exhibit ethical behaviour both on and off the cheer mat. This includes fair play, respect for all team members, and a strong commitment to the team’s success.

10. Building a Community

Finally, fostering a sense of community can help your team achieve greater success. Encourage parents to get involved, reach out to local businesses for sponsorship, and participate in community events. A supportive community can greatly enhance your team’s morale and provide necessary resources.

Being a first-year British cheer coach might be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to inspire young athletes, create memorable experiences, and instill lifelong values. Keep the above advice and rules in mind, and remember, the key is not to strive for perfection but progress. You’re embarking on a journey filled with cheers, challenges, and triumphs – embrace it wholeheartedly!

In conclusion, your journey as a first-year British cheer coach will undoubtedly be a learning curve. Remember, every experienced coach was once a beginner, and with dedication, persistence, and a positive mindset, you’ll be leading your team to new heights. Stick to the rules, prioritize safety, foster an environment of mutual respect, and above all, don’t forget to have fun!

May your first year of coaching be the beginning of a rewarding journey filled with cheers, passion, and unparalleled success. Now, get out there and let your cheer spirit shine!

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Stunt Progressions: Learning to Stunt Safely

1. Understanding the Basics of Cheerleading

2.Ensuring Athlete Safety

3. Encourage and Motivate

4. Teaching Teamwork

5. Understanding Cheer Rules Specific to the UK

6. Continuous Learning

7. Focusing on Fitness

8. Managing Time

9. Ethical Considerations

10. Building a Community