With respect to cheerleading, the term "top level" is relative to your age group, league and state you are in. While there are a plethora of schools that feature cheerleading squads that cheer on their favorite teams, it is the competition arena that features the top-level squads. There are several unique categories and factors that translate into what makes up a top-level cheer squad.
Top-Level Stunts
Top-level stunts are the ones that are the most difficult to execute and that garner the most points. They range from extended one-leg stunts to single twist dismounts. In addition to the proper execution of these basic stunts, squads can also combine them with tosses in an effort to get additional points for the team. Double twist tosses performed simultaneously with advanced transitions will help you score top-level points with respect to stunts.
Top-Level Competitions
Top-level cheerleading competitions are broken up by age group, as well as by school level. Despite a small amount of cheerleading squads that cater to individuals older than college age, the top-level competitions are delegated to high school and collegiate cheerleading squads. The competitions themselves, often referred to as Nationals, bring the top teams from all over the country to compete for first place. The National High School Cheerleading Championship, created by Varsity, is the top-level competition for high school kids across the country. For college competition, the top competition is the NCA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship.
Top-Level Squads
The top-level cheerleading squads vary on a yearly basis, as well as on your age group. Despite this, there are certain schools that have a reputation for being at the top level of college cheer. The University of Kentucky, University of Louisville and University of South Carolina are three of the top schools in collegiate cheerleading. There are various high schools that consistently turn out championship cheering squads, including Tulsa Union High School in Oklahoma and Putnam City North High School in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Top-Level Jumps
In order to perform top-level jumps in cheerleading, you and your team must be able to execute a variety of advanced jumps of varying heights and jump sequences. All the members of the team must perform toe touches, pikes and spread eagles in perfect synchronization. In addition to the actual jump moves you perform, the height of your jumps and landings will also be judged.
References
- Rhode Island Interscholastic League: 2010-2011 RIIL Cheerleading Skill Levels
- Varsity: 2009 National High School Cheerleading Championship
- Alamo Gymnastics Center: Cheer/Tumble
- Massachusetts Secondary School Administrators' Association: MSAA Cheerleading Skill Levels
- Electro-Mech Scoreboard Company: Best College Cheerleading Teams
- National Cheerleaders Association: Wall of Fame -- High School Nationals
Member Comments