All-star cheerleading differs from traditional cheerleading squads, as the primary purpose of all-star cheerleading is to compete. All-star cheerleading allows males and females to develop athletic abilities, hone teamwork skills and enhance self-esteem. All-star cheerleaders use muscular strength, flexibility, communication skills and performance tactics in preparing and competing in all-star cheerleading events.
Demographics
All-star cheerleaders range from under 5 years of age to 18. Males and females are allowed to join coed squads. Additionally, females may also join all-female squads. All-star squad members unite from local areas at a certified all-star cheerleading gym. Squad members often attend different elementary and high schools and commute from a myriad of areas. Certified all-star cheerleading gyms are located across the United States and worldwide.
Tryouts
Prospective cheerleaders are evaluated on their level of skill and placed into appropriate groups based on age and skill level. Auditions or evaluations usually occur in the months of April, May and June. However, prospective cheerleaders are often allowed to join all-star squads as walkons throughout the year. All-star cheerleading is composed of six levels ranging from one to six with level 6 being the most advanced skill level. Tumbling skills tend to dictate the level at which a cheerleader is placed. For example, if a cheerleader demonstrated the ability to complete a back handspring, she would fulfill the tumbling requirement for level 3. Similarly, if a cheerleader demonstrated a full twist, she would fulfill tumbling requirement for level 5.
Practice
Practice for all-star cheerleaders is intense. For upper-level cheerleaders, practice consists of meeting every weekday for at least two consecutive hours and one weekend day. For lower-level all-star cheerleaders, five or more hours per week of practice is expected. Unlike traditional cheerleading, all-star cheerleaders do not usually attend a regional or national camp. Instead cheerleaders may attend intense week-long practices where the squad learns choreography for routines performed throughout the competition season. Usually squads use the same routine throughout the competition season with minor tweaks and additions.
Competition
The United States All-Star Federation releases rules and regulations cheerleading squads must follow during competition. Safety guidelines are tailored to the each competitive level. If rules or regulations are not followed, points are deducted from the competition scores or disqualification may ensue. Squads may include up to 32 members for competing levels 1, 2, 3 and 4. Up to 36 members are allowed for level 5 and 6. Squads are judged on execution, creativity, synchronization and difficulty. Restrictions issued by USASF list tumbling, stunting, pyramid building, dismounting and toss stipulations for each level. To compete in world competitions, a cheerleader must qualify for level 5 or above.
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