American Youth Cheer (AYC), a sister league of American Youth Football, and the U.S. All Star Federation for Cheer and Dance are two of the organizations that oversee the rules and regulations for cheerleading, including those for 13-year-olds. Both organizations work closely with the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches & Administrators (AACCA) to provide a safe environment for the sport in compliance with age and division rules.
Age Group
Based on the American Youth Cheer guidelines, a 13-year-old can compete in one of two divisions: 12 and under or 15 and under. The reason given for allowing 13-year-olds in the 12 and under division is that some might not be ready to transition to high school squads with the older kids. The U.S. All Star Federation for Cheer and Dance has a slightly different system, putting 13-year-olds in the 14 and under category.
Division
AYC works with two skill levels, blue and red. A 13-year-old can compete in the 12 and under category if she is at the lower blue skill level. If you choose to compete in 15 and under, you may do so with red or blue skills. USASF has five levels -- labeled from one to five -- that 13-year-olds may compete in. Level five is for the highest-skilled team members and allows for additional tumbling and twisting rotations.
Safety
Safety always is an issue when it comes to rules and regulations for 13-year-old cheerleaders. The American Association of Cheerleading Coaches & Administrators has a safety month every March. American Youth Cheer prohibits the use of trampolines, certain pyramiding and springboards. If you consider playing in an older division, be sure that you are strong enough and able to handle the routines. Consult your doctor for a physical before performing to make sure you are physically able to handle the routines expected on your team.
Warning
Rules and regulations for 13-year-olds who would like to be cheerleaders are put in place for a reason. They should be respected or you might face consequences. American Youth Cheer warns that falsifying proof of birth documents to play in a category you would not normally be eligible in can cause you to be permanently suspended from participating. The organization also can request that criminal charges be filed against you. Be sure to have correct documentation that states your age accurately.
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