The rules for school cheerleading and all-star competitive cheerleading are not one and the same. The American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators (AACCA) works closely with the varying governing bodies of school and league cheerleading to recommend unified safety guidelines. When it comes to all-star cheerleading, you must look to the U.S. All-Star Federation for Cheer and Dance Teams (USASF), as it is the governing body of competitive cheer. USASF rules are broken down into six levels and each level is broken down by skill.
Level V Tumbling
Assisted tumbling is permissible in level V, but the judges will favorably score only unassisted tumbling skills. Including jumps in a tumbling pass also is permissible but will count as a break in the tumbling pass itself, which should be taken into consideration. Be cautious when including these into a routine because your score will reflect any faux pas on your part quite harshly. It is important to note that all skills in the previous four levels are acceptable in level V.
Level V Stunts
USASF regulations allow single leg extended stunts, twisting mounts and twisting transitions, as well as release moves as long as they do not end in the inverted position. A cautionary step when it comes to stunting is to look at the amount of spotters needed to pull off any stunt. There is variation, based on the stunt selected, when it comes to inversions as well. It is not OK, however, to perform free flipping mounts and transitions or single-based split catches.
Level V Pyramids
The first thing to consider when building your pyramids is whether you are violating any level V stunt rules. Typically, if it is in alignment with the rules for level V stunting, then the pyramid is acceptable as long as the pyramid is not more than two high. Again, it's important when it comes to the pyramid of choice that you make sure you have determined the appropriate number of spotters and you institute the correct number of braces to make the pyramid acceptable.
Level V Dismounts and Tosses
USASF does not allow free flipping dismounts or tosses. Single-based stunts must have a separate spotter, whereas a multi-based stunt must have a separate spotter as well as two catchers. Tosses may be performed only at the ground level and may have up to four bases. Other no-no's are having more than one flyer in a basket toss and the flyers should never come in contact with one another in two separate basket tosses. Be sure when putting together an all-star cheerleading routine that you thoroughly consult and abide by these guidelines by reviewing the rules (USASF.net).
Member Comments