National High School Cheerleading Rules

The American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators sets the rules for all star, school and college cheerleaders. The AACCA was founded in 1988 and has more than 70,000 cheerleading coaches nationwide. Cheerleading rules cover everything from attire to safety. All rules are published on an annual basis.

Safety

All practice sessions must be supervised by a coach and proper training is required before attempting any kind of tumbling, jobs or stunts. All cheerleading squads are required to incorporate a comprehensive conditioning and strength-building program according to the AACCA. Before any performance, cheerleaders are required to participate in a warmup routine to ensure their muscles have had time to stretch and prepare.

Tumbling

Dive rolls are not allowed in any high school cheerleading program. When tumbling during a routine cheerleaders should not complete any more than one rotation in a twist. The AACCA does not allow tumbling over props, including pompoms unless completing a forward roll.

Stunts

A high school cheerleader should not attempt stunts that are more than two people high. Any stunt higher than a shoulder stand must have a continuous spotter. Swan dives and three falling flips shall never be attempted. Cradle dismounts also require a spotter.

Attire

Cheerleaders must remove all jewelry other than religious medallions that must be taped underneath their uniform or medical alert jewelry, which can be taped where it is visible. Any rigid athletics supports, including knee braces, must be covered so that they do not become a hazard to other cheerleaders. At all times cheerleaders will wear athletic shoes and not gymnastics slippers.

Indoor Restrictions

When performing at an indoor court or arena, all performance areas must be freed of any instructions and non-cheerleading personnel, according to the Universal Cheerleaders Association. Skills, such as tosses, partner stunts with only one arm, released twist and twisting tumbling skills, are required to be performed on a matted surface.