While the NCAA does not recognize cheerleading as a sport, your squad still has ample opportunity to cheer in competitions through regional and national associations. When in competition, your squad will go head-to-head against other squads in your area and even across the country. Before you register and as you practice, you'll need to remain mindful of the various competition requirements used to keep cheerleaders safe and the playing field fair.
Uniforms
The National Federation of State High School Associations, Universal Cheer Eassociation and the National Cheer Association help to govern cheer competitions, and all have strict rules concerning the type of cheer uniforms allowed. For high school competition, tops must be long enough to cover the midriff when your arms are at your side. Male cheerleaders must wear at least a short sleeve shirt and cheerleaders should be neat in overall appearance. Jewelry and piercings other than stud earrings are prohibited for safety and image reasons.
Levels
Cheerleading is broken into six levels depending on the skill, size and history of a squad. In competition, your squad will compete against squads of the same level to keep the playing field even. You'll be asked to perform certain basic skills for each level. When your squad is evaluated and given a level, you will be responsible for demonstrating all of the skills necessary for any of the levels beneath your squad's, plus the optional skills for your level of competition.
Stunts
When competing, you'll be asked to show off a variety of stunts and skills as part of your routine. It's important to remember that not all stunts are sanctioned by the various cheering organizations, so check ahead of time so you know what is and isn't allowed. For instance, the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators disallows pyramids and pumps that are taller than two people high and spotters are required for pyramids and lifts. Obtain a copy of the stunting rules well in advance of the competition to avoid being disqualified.
Eligibility
When cheering as a member of your school squad, you must have maintained a passing grade-point average to be eligible to compete through certain organizations, such as the NFHS. Squad size and membership also is regulated by cheer associations. The size of your squad might place you in a higher level or different competition for a more even playing field. Since each association will have different eligibility requirements, it's important that you select the various competitions in which your squad will compete and conforming your squad to meet those requirements.
References
- Indiana Association of School Principals: Indiana Cheerleading Competition Rules
- American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators: School Cheerleading Rules for 2010-11
- National Youth Football Championships: National Youth Cheerleading Championships Eastern Division -- Daytona Beach, Florida Competition Rules & Regulations
- NFHS: Participants' Responsibilities
- EpicSports: Cheerleading Uniform Decoration Rules
- Universal Cheer Association: 09-10 Uca School / Youth Rec Competition Rules and Regulations
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