AMERICAN YOUTH FOOTBALL, INC.
OFFICIAL CHEER RULES AND REGULATIONS
2023 Edition
May 18, 2023
Reproducing this document in whole or in part, without written
permission from American Youth Football, Inc. is strictly prohibited.
© Copyright 2023. American Youth Football, Inc.
All questions should be directed to
tara@americanyouthfootball.com
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PREAMBLE
American Youth Cheer
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(“AYC,”) is a support service organization that provides guidelines, suggestions, and best
practices for its local member organizations to consider, implement and enforce. AYC does not have operational
control over local matters but exerts limited operational control over regional and national championships. Due to
the expansive reach and local nature of youth sports, AYC is not able to ensure compliance with the guidelines,
suggestions and best practices or rules it recommends to its local members. Parents, players, our members and their
respective administrators, staff, participants, and stakeholders should conduct their own inquiries to ensure that local
squads/teams/associations/conferences are operating in accordance with local/state/federal laws, governing body
standards, and appropriate standards of care, including but not limited to the guidelines and best practices
recommended by AYC, in addition to specific personal concerns you may have related to your child and or ward’s
participation in our member organizations’ youth cheer, step and dance programs.
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Operated by American Youth Football, Inc.
RULES - DISTINCTIONS
This Model Rule Book (“Rule Book”) is provided to AYC members as a resource that may be used in connection
with the operation of their organization. Within this Rule Book are model rules, competition eligibility
requirements, recommendations guidelines and best practices. This Rule Book is not all-inclusive and should be
used in conjunction with other external resources, meaning resources which are beyond what is provided to you by
American Youth Cheer. AYC recommends that its members individually and collectively actively seek resources
from governmental entities such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, relating to health and safety, including but
not limited to dehydration, concussions and other medical related items, as well as non-governmental entities,
including but not limited to medical boards, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics. Member organizations
should adopt a variety of policies, including but not limited to risk management, background check, anti-bullying,
document collection and storage as well as ensuring that coaches are properly trained and are aware of proper
coaching and stunting techniques.
Recommendations, suggestions and best practices in addition to reasonable standards of care and industry norms are
important, they protect your participants, our community and the sport of cheerleading and as such it is reasonable to
expect that local member organizations should seek to ensure reasonable compliance with the aforementioned.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
This Rule Book includes certain “Eligibility Requirements”; Eligibility Requirements are a list of requirements
established by AYC to ensure fairness and a level competitive environment among those squads that intend to
participate in AYC inter-mural competitions, specifically AYC Regional tournaments and the American Youth
Cheer National Championships. AYC, in its sole discretion, shall declare ineligible any squad, coach, participant
and or league from participating in any AYC Regional or National tournament, based on a reasonable suspicion,
finding and or a determination, by AYC, that a team, coach, participant and or league has violated and or conspired
to violate one or more of the Eligibility Requirements.
For clarity, during the pre-season and during the playing season and certain parts of the post-season, AYC does not
affirmatively enforce any rules or Eligibility Requirements, instead if an Eligibility Requirement is violated at any
time during the season, upon discovery of the violation, the violating party shall, unless otherwise determined by
AYC, be declared ineligible to compete in the Regional and National Championship Tournaments and or
disqualified from said tournament.
BULLETINS
From time to time during the playing and or off-season, AYC may introduce and or remove, revise and or redact
rules, guidelines, recommendations and or positions on best practices. These changes will be made in the form of
bulletins, which may be distributed and or posted on AYF website(s). Bulletins will be reviewed and may be
discussed, after publication at the next annual AYC leadership meeting for consideration and discussion before
being added to the Rule book.
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Table of Contents
AMERICAN YOUTH FOOTBALL, INC .................................................................................... 1
PREAMBLE ......................................................................................................... 2
RULES - DISTINCTIONS ........................................................................................... 2
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................................... 2
BULLETINS ........................................................................................................ 2
DEFINITION OF AN AMERICAN YOUTH CHEERLEADING TEAM ................................................ 7
Inspiration Division ............................................................................................... 7
AMERICAN YOUTH CHEER – LEAGUE DESCRIPTION .................................................................. 7
REGIONAL AND NATIONAL COMMITMENTS ..................................................................... 8
NATIONAL DROPS ................................................................................................. 8
RESPONSIBILITIES OF REGION, CONFERENCE, AND ASSOCIATION DIRECTOR .............................. 8
Region Cheer and Dance Director (RCDD) ............................................................... 8
Regional Chairperson ....................................................................................... 8
League/Conference Cheer and Dance Director ......................................................... 9
Association Cheer and Dance Director ................................................................... 9
SECTION 1 – AYC RULES ................................................................................................ 9
RULE 1 – COACHES ................................................................................................ 9
Rostered Personnel ........................................................................................ 10
Head Coaches .............................................................................................. 10
Age of Head Coaches ...................................................................................... 10
Age of Assistant Coaches ................................................................................. 10
Age of Junior Demonstrators ............................................................................. 10
RULE 2 – SQUADS WITHOUT FOOTBALL ....................................................................... 10
RULE 3 – FORMATION OF TEAMS ............................................................................... 10
RULE 4 – OUTSIDE COMPETITION ............................................................................... 11
RULE 5 – AGES OF CHEERLEADERS ............................................................................. 11
RULE 6 - ROSTERS ............................................................................................... 11
RULE 7 – DROPPING A CHEERLEADER .......................................................................... 12
RULE 8 – PRACTICE LIMITATIONS ............................................................................... 13
Practice Length ............................................................................................ 13
Choreography Practice Hours ............................................................................ 13
RULE 9 – WARM UP AND COOL DOWN PERIODS ............................................................... 13
RULE 10 – TRADITIONAL AND SPRING CHEER SEASON ....................................................... 13
RULE 11 – CAMPS & CLINICS .................................................................................... 13
RULE 12 - MASCOTS ............................................................................................. 13
RULE 13 – INSURANCE ........................................................................................... 14
RULE 14 – BANNED ACTIVITY ................................................................................... 14
SECTION 2: AYC COMPETITIONS REGIONAL/NATIONAL............................................................ 15
AYC COMPETITIONS - CHEER ................................................................................... 15
AYC NATIONAL QUALIFICATION ................................................................................ 15
AYC CHEER DIVISIONS ........................................................................................... 16
Inspiration Division ........................................................................................ 16
Competing Up - Cheer .................................................................................... 16
SIZE AND SKILL LEVEL DIVISION GUIDELINES .................................................................. 16
CHEER PROGRESSION THROUGH THE LEVELS ................................................................ 17
SECTION 3: AYC CHEER AND DANCE RULES & GUIDELINES ........................................................ 17
Uniforms .................................................................................................... 17
Props ........................................................................................................ 17
Casts/Braces/Glasses/Medical Equipment/Religious Observances .................................. 18
Music Guidelines ........................................................................................... 18
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Unsportsmanlike behavior ................................................................................ 18
In Case of a Tie for Cheer ................................................................................ 18
In Case of a Tie for Dance - Pom ......................................................................... 18
In Case of a Tie for Dance – Hip Hop .................................................................... 18
In Case of a Tie for Dance – Step ........................................................................ 19
Routine Interruption Due to Injury ...................................................................... 19
Injured Participant Returning to Competition ......................................................... 19
REASONS FOR DISQUALIFICATION .............................................................................. 19
SECTION 4 – LEGALITY QUESTIONS for CHEER and DANCE ........................................................ 19
CONTACTING AYC ................................................................................................ 19
SECTION 5: AYC CONFERENCE DIVISION 14 ELITE CHEER. ........................................................ 21
CONFERENCE DIVISION 14 ELITE TEAM GUIDELINES ......................................................... 21
Competition Attire ......................................................................................... 21
Coaching Selection ......................................................................................... 21
Participant Selection ..................................................................................... 22
Conference Requirements ................................................................................ 22
SECTION 6 YCADA YOUTH CHEER, DANCE, STEP RULES & GUIDELINES 2023 ................................... 23
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DEFINITION OF AN AMERICAN YOUTH CHEERLEADING TEAM
The American Youth Football (AYF) League has created a sister League uniquely for its cheerleaders.
The name of this League is American Youth Cheer (AYC). Any cheerleading, dance, or step team who
cheers for, or is affiliated with, an American Youth Football Team is automatically welcomed into this
organization. Cheer, dance, and step squads are required to be members of AYF/AYC. Sign up is at
www.MyAYF.com.
AMERICAN YOUTH FOOTBALL strongly encourages cheerleading for all teams. It also encourages
competition between squads for League (local), regional, and national championships. AYF/AYC
requires that each squad have a responsible adult in charge as outlined in Section 1: AYC Rules. In
addition, the general football rules as stated in the Official Rules and Regulations which apply to
players will also apply to the cheerleaders, except for weight or weigh-ins and, the rules of contact,
except where superseded by the Official Cheer Rules and Regulations. Governing of AYF/AYC Leagues
occurs as stated in Section 3 & 4 of the Football Section.
Inspiration
Division
AYC offers the “Inspiration Division.” The Inspiration Division exists to include any child with a
disability, up to the age of 21. Participation in a sport will not only improve their motor skills but also
inspire them socially and emotionally. Please see AYC Inspiration Division Team Requirements or
contact the National Cheer Commissioner at tara@americanyouthfootball.com
AMERICAN YOUTH CHEER – LEAGUE DESCRIPTION
American Youth Cheer, hereafter known as AYC, is an all-inclusive youth cheerleading, dance, and step
League. As local Leagues enter a national program, they recognize that AYC associations, whether
operated independently or in connection with a football program, are independently run organizations,
typically legal entities, governed by their members, board of directors or as otherwise provided for in
their duly adopted operating documents, including but not limited to by-laws and or statutes.
AYC encourages and expects that local leagues will adhere to the recommendations and best practices
herein, and at a minimum, the youth cheer general safety rules of YCADA, including prohibitions
against the use of trampolines, springboards, and over two-high stunts and pyramids. Local Leagues
may incorporate additional restrictions or guidelines for use during season play and their local
competitions.
In order to be eligible to compete in AYC-sanctioned regional and national competitions, teams shall 1)
follow the AYC cheer, dance, or step rules; 2) where the AYC cheer, dance, or step rules are silent, the
YCADA safety rules shall be followed, and; 3) complete the necessary paperwork listed in the AYF
documents.
AYC is founded and organized on the premise that the same families who gather to watch the AYF/AYC
football players compete on a weekly basis, will also gather to watch the AYC cheerleaders compete on
a local, regional, and national level.
To youth cheerleaders, competition is their time to shine. While they greatly enjoy their primary role
at each local football game, they equally enjoy the opportunity to perform on the competition floor. If
the option of competition is missing from the cheerleading experience, the full benefit of the
experience is lacking. AYC is committed to creating a positive competitive environment, where your
cheerleaders can highlight and showcase their skills, while learning how to win with grace and lose
with honor.
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REGIONAL AND NATIONAL COMMITMENTS
Associations must commit their teams to the Regional and National Championship track by September
15th of each year with the approved form to the appropriate Region Cheer and Dance Director. These
Declarations are then due to the National AYC Cheer Commissioner by the RCDD by 10/1 of the current
year. Failure to submit your intent to participate may jeopardize the association’s participation in the
current year’s AYC National Championships.
Associations that commit to their Conferences to participate in the Regional and National
Championship and then do not fulfill their obligation, may be subject to suspension from the following
year’s competition including but not limited to, Regional and National Championships. Teams finishing
first, second or third at their Regional Championship or Conference Qualifier are expected to attend
the National Cheerleading Championship.
All teams traveling to the AYF/AYC National Championships must book their stay through the AYF
authorized booking agent and stay in AYF-approved accommodations. This ensures that all our members
will receive the discounted accommodations we have secured and allow us to host the tournament in
the chosen location.
NATIONAL DROPS
This policy applies to ALL teams in an association where any team in that association failed to show for
participation at the AYF or AYC National Championship in 2019, or in any future year after committing
to participate in the National Championship either by advancing through regionals, receiving an at large
bid, or being granted a requested invitational bid to participate in the AYF or AYC National
Championship will be subject to the following commitment fee.
In 2021 or any future year, in order to participate at the National Championships, there shall be
$2,500.00 “commitment fee” charged up front to any team from the pertinent association to which this
policy is applicable before the registration is accepted. The $2,500.00 shall be applied as follows:
$550.00 will be applied to the applicable year’s registration fee, and $2,000.00 will be held by AYF to
be applied to the team’s/teams’ hotel bill.
If any team does not show up at registration, the team will forfeit the entire $2,500.00 and it will be
non-refundable unless failure to show and participate is not possible or otherwise unsafe due to
weather event or natural disaster.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF REGION, CONFERENCE, AND ASSOCIATION DIRECTOR
Region Cheer and Dance Director (RCDD)
Serves as a liaison to National AYC for the geographical territory. She/he is the contact person for
disseminating information to the League/Conference level from National AYC, as well as assuring all
paperwork for advancing teams is properly completed with all deadlines met; oversee the Regional
Championships (if applicable); and serve as a delegate to any National Office meetings. Region duties are
as detailed by the Region operating policies (see Section 3 Structure Rule Enforcement/Authority
Football rules). It is highly recommended that each Regional Cheer and Dance Director have an Assistant
RCDD to assist in duties and communication.
Regional Chairperson
Serves as a delegate of the regional committees. Coordinates and corresponds communication to regional
committees and acts as a liaison to local League Conference/Coordinators, if the two are separate.
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League/Conference Cheer and Dance Director
Is a liaison to the Region Cheer and Dance Director, and all association cheer and dance directors.
Serves as a delegate to the regional meetings. Performs League/Conference duties as detailed by the
League/Conference by-laws or constitution. Must be 21 years old by 7/31 of the current year.
Association Cheer and Dance Director
Is a liaison to the League/Conference Director, while serving as a delegate at the League/Conference
meetings. Performs local duties as detailed by their local League by-laws. Must be 21 years old by 7/31
of the current year.
SECTION 1 – AYCRULES
RULE 1 – COACHES
All coaches through their appointment to coach are bound by the “Coaches Pledge,” “Coaches Code,”
and “Standard of Conduct.” All coaches must be approved by and serve at the pleasure of the Local
Association. Coaching assignments are for one season only and are automatically terminated at the
close of each season. Coaches must re-apply for coaching positions annually. The Local Association
determines the close of the season.
Each team must have either the Head Coach, an Assistant Coach or Licensed Trainer who is the holder
of a current Red Cross Certificate in Community CPR and First Aid or its equivalent, present at all
practices. A copy of the certification card must be in the team book.
All Tournament Conference AYC participating HEAD COACHES – are required to complete the AYC
Online Human Kinetics Coaches Course (includes the $2 million coverage) found at
www.ayfcoaching.com. Any Head Coach who has previously completed the course MUST YEARLY
complete the refresher course available at www.ayfcoaching.com. This course must be completed
before the start of the season. (Available 6/1 of the current year) Certificates must be placed in the
team book.
All Tournament Conference AYC participating HEAD and ASSISTANT COACHES – are required to
complete the YCADA Y100 Series found at www.ycada.org/AYC.
Certification courses are as follows:
Y101- First year coaches
Y102- Speed course- focuses more completely on rules & scoring.
Y103- All veteran coaches that have completed Y101 & Y102.
All veteran coaches will then rotate between the Y102 and Y103 courses which will be updated yearly
to reflect any rule and scoring updates/changes.
**In the event of transitioning from another organization outside of AYC, coaches (new or veteran) are
required to start at the Y101 regardless of previous certifications. All courses taken MUST be
completed before the start of the season and each certification must be placed in the team book.
While it is not mandatory for a sideline/spirit only coach to take a YCADA course, it is strongly
recommended that ALL coaches take the Y101 course as it provides all coaches, competing or non-
competing, the most up to date cheer and dance information as well as a serving as a guide for proper
practice, games, coaching tips, etc.
As in all rules, Leagues/ Conferences may have stricter rules regarding concussion education. Test
results from completion of the course must be placed in the team book.
This will be confirmed by an affidavit due at the Regional/National Championships for all qualifying
teams.
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Rostered Personnel
Below is the maximum staff allowed on an AYC Roster. Team Moms/Managers are not considered
official, rostered staff for the purpose of staff access at the AYC National Championships.
•
One (1) Head Coach
•
Four (4) Assistant Coaches for a small squad and Five (5) Assistant Coaches for a large squad
•
Four (4) Junior Demonstrators
•
One (1) Licensed Trainer – (Qualifications vary by State – Please consult your state to find out
what constitutes a Licensed Trainer/Medical Examiner in your state) - State License is require
for participation.
Only rostered Coaches, Demonstrators and Trainers will be able to accompany the team at events. All
rostered personnel 18 and older must have a background check completed.
Head Coaches
Head coaches are in complete charge during practices, games, and championships. They are
responsible for their own actions or inactions, their assistants’ actions or inactions and the actions of
their players.
Cheerleading coaches are answerable to and under the supervision of administration of the local
League or Association.
Age of Head Coaches
Must be at least 21 years of age by the start of the season. The coaching staff will be under his/her
direction and supervision.
Age of Assistant Coaches
Must be at least 18 years of age by the start of the season and must have graduated from high school
or hold a GED certificate. They must have a general knowledge of cheerleading and cheerleading
safety rules.
Age of Junior Demonstrators
Are ages 14-17, however, if a junior demonstrator is attending high school, they may be 13 years old.
Junior Demonstrators may only carry out the instructions of the Head or Assistant Coaches. AYC
recommends all Junior Demonstrators work with teams a minimum of 2 years younger than his/her
current age. Junior Demonstrators shall not conduct a practice. Demonstrators are participants; all
required participant paperwork must be filled out, certified, and in the team book. Demonstrators are
NEVER to carry out ANY disciplinary action towards any participant.
RULE 2 – SQUADS WITHOUT FOOTBALL
AYC recognizes cheer, dance or step squads without football.
In an effort to support Youth Cheerleading and help our organization grow, AYC is proud to continue to
encourage Youth Cheerleading squads that are not affiliated with AYF football teams or recreation
football programs to join AYC independently. These Cheer squads are required to join the Conference
nearest to their designated territory. To register squads and become a member visit www.MyAYF.com.
If you have any related questions, please email the National Cheer Commissioner at
tara@americanyouthfootball.com
RULE 3 – FORMATION OF TEAMS
Tryouts are not permitted. The formation of teams is based on a first-come first-serve participation
policy. AYC does allow registration/sign-up for “veteran (returning) players” prior to “open”
registration/sign-up. Each child must be afforded the opportunity to cheer regardless of ability. Once
a participant is registered, the local association may assess the appropriate team levels in which to
place the participant regarding the age requirements. Assessments cannot result in dismissal of any
cheerleader for ability or any other reason other than those listed in Rule 7 Dropping a Cheerleader.
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AYC requires that for the first 12 participants there must be one (1) head coach (adult volunteer who is
at least 21 years of age) assigned to the team. A squad with more than 12 participants (including
mascots), must have one (1) assistant coach (adult volunteer who is at least 18 years old). For any
team with over 24 cheerleaders, there must be one (1) additional assistant coach (adult volunteer at
least 18 years old). (i.e. maximum 12 participants, = one (1) head coach; 13 to 24 = one (1) head coach
and one (1) assistant coach; 36 participants = one (1) head coach and two (2) assistant coaches.)
Teams electing to compete in AYC Regional and National competitions are required to restrict teams to
thirty-six (36) members. Mascots are not included in the total count of thirty-six (36).
RULE 4 – OUTSIDE COMPETITION
Cheer teams may participate in outside cheer competitions in the traditional and spring cheer season.
Cheer teams shall register in outside competitions in the age divisions comparable to AYC. It is the First
Priority of American Youth Cheer teams to support and participate in AYC Local, Regional, and
National Championships. If a scheduled “outside” competition conflicts with an AYC sanctioned event,
the team will be expected to participate in the AYC sanctioned event. The local league shall be notified
of all outside competitions a team is participating in. AYC teams cannot bypass the AYC National
Championship to attend YCADA Globals. Associations that don’t comply may be subject to suspension
from the following year’s AYF/AYC competition including but not limited to, Regional and National
Championships.
RULE 5 – AGES OF CHEERLEADERS
Minimum age of all cheerleaders is 5 years old by July 31
st
of current year. Maximum age is 17 years old
by July 31
st
of current year. However, for Inspiration teams the maximum age is 21 years old by July 31
st
of the current year. 4-year-old athletes are not allowed to participate in AYC as a mascot or participant.
There are no waivers allowed for participants outside this range.
For determining the participant’s age (Protected Age), the term “On or before” and the term “As of” is
intended to have the same definition (Age Cut-Off Date):
An age cutoff date of (on or before as of 7/31) July 31 of the current season is as follows: 14 years
old on July 31, turns 15 years old on August 1, the participant cheers as a 14-year-old. (See the ages
in AYC cheer, dance, and step divisions).
RULE 6 - ROSTERS
Associations must collect, complete, and inspect all AYF Required Participant paperwork for
compliance by August 31. Rosters must be submitted in birth date order beginning with oldest to
youngest participants. Conferences must certify their Associations have met this requirement and
have a system in place for paperwork and roster certification. A Certified Roster means all of the
participants listed on the roster have submitted the AYF Required Paperwork, all paperwork is
authentic and compliant with AYF/AYC Rules and Regulations and the participant fits the criteria
established for the specific team level and age division to which the Participant is certified.
Cheerleaders added to rosters after August 31 must be certified prior to participating in any game or
competition. Any participant moved to another division must be age eligible according to the AYC age
divisions. There must also be room on the roster, as no participant shall be cut or dropped just to
make room. On September 15, the Cheer roster will be final for the remainder of the season. If a
cheer squad should drop participants after September 15, but prior to the Region Cheer Competition
with prior notification being made to the RCCD, the squad may move from the Large Division to the
Small Division but ONLY if the participants quit or drop due to injury. If the roster drops participants
below 19 after the Region Cheer Competition but before the AYC National Championship you cannot
move from the Large to Small Division because you have already qualified through the Region
Competition. In summary, if you compete in the Large Division at the Region Competition, you will
compete in the Large Division at the AYC Nationals, regardless of your squad size. All final rosters are
required to be submitted to AYF on October 1. Conferences must receive all of their Association
rosters and certify all of their player documentation by September 15.
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Below is the required paperwork order for each “AYC Team Book.” Please keep in mind, this is the
book order for cheer, dance, and step only, as football has their own procedure. All AYC teams must
follow this protocol.
•
Team Roster
•
Risk Management & Background Check Affidavit
•
YCADA Course Completions- required for all competitive coaches, strongly encouraged for
sideline only coaches to take (Y101, Y102, or Y103 depending on your coaching
years/experience in AYF/AYC.
•
Head Coach Human Kinetics Coach Education Certification – REQUIRED COURSE COMPLETION
•
All staff Concussion Training Participation Certificate – REQUIRED COURSE COMPLETION
•
One staff member’s CPR/First Aid Certification Certificate – REQUIRED COURSE COMPLETION
•
Scholastic Affidavit
•
Proof of Insurance – ONLY REQUIRED IF YOU ARE NOT A SADLER CUSTOMER
Listed below is the order that all participant paperwork should be filed in the book. Any additional
Association and League paperwork must be placed behind the below required League paperwork.
Participants should be filed in birthdate order OLDEST TO YOUNGEST. Junior Demonstrators will be
placed at the end in alphabetical order.
•
Participant Tracker Card - front and back filled out
•
Emergency Consent Form
•
Medical Release Form
•
Birth Certificate (original or certified copy)
•
Image Release Waiver
•
Waiver and Release of Liability Waiver
•
Concussion Annual Statement and Acknowledgement Form
Conferences must maintain a copy of the final certified copy of all rosters in their possession.
Conferences must then submit all rosters to AYF National via www.MyAYF.com and a copy to the
designated Regional Committee member by October 1. All Conferences must submit rosters to the AYF
National Office by entering them electronically to the www.MyAYF.com system by the deadline of
October 1, of the current playing season. Failure to submit rosters may mean the loss of certain
services provided by AYF, including post-season and championship eligibility.
RULE 7 – DROPPING A CHEERLEADER
Dropping a cheerleader will be acceptable when:
•
A participant is found to have signed up because of parent or guardian pressure, or, he/she
tells team management he/she does not really want to cheer
•
A participant cannot furnish the required documents to be certified to a team roster,
(e.g., Medical, Proof of Birth Date, etc.)
•
A participant shows no interest in /cheer, is disruptive to other participants and the
instructions of the coaching staff and becomes a discipline problem.
•
A participant does not show up for practices. Participants must have a valid excuse from
the parent(s), guardian(s) or a physician.
•
A participant attempts to intimidate fellow participants by word and/or physical act
Coaches are not allowed to do the following to force a cheerleader to drop:
•
Excessive team or individual conditioning drills
•
Disciplinary actions or assigning individual players’ laps
•
Intentionally placing player in intimidating situations for the purpose of encouraging weaker
player to quit
Coaches found to be using these or any other tactic to drop weaker players will be immediately
dismissed for the remainder of the season and may be permanently suspended.
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AYC allows athletes to try-out and practice with a school cheer team or an All-Star team providing it
doesn’t interfere with their AYC team.
RULE 8 – PRACTICE LIMITATIONS
Practice Length
Pre-season practices can be daily until Labor Day, but must not exceed 10 hours per week, and two and
a half (2.5) hours in duration per day. A mandatory 10-minute break (“Mandatory Break”) after each
hour of practice is required. Mandatory Breaks do not count against the hours per week or the
maximum hours per day.
After Labor Day, all practices may not exceed a maximum of eight (8) hours per week, with a maximum
of two and a half (2.5) hours per day. Mandatory Breaks are still required.
All players, regardless of when they join the team, must have at least one week of conditioning (at
least 10 hours) before they can engage in regular practice sessions. This requirement must be met even
if a cheerleader joins the team after the start of the regular season schedule. Conditioning is defined as
basic warm-up exercises; conditioning for jumps & tumbling; arm motion drills; and basic stunting at
prep level; learning of cheers or chants.
Choreography Practice Hours
In addition to the normal practice hours, an additional ten (10) hours of practice throughout the
traditional season may be used for choreography sessions. It is recommended that the 10 hours be
spread over 2–4 additional practice days.
RULE 9 – WARM UP AND COOL DOWN PERIODS
Practice shall include a 15-minute warm up and a 15-minute cool down to minimize risk to your team.
RULE 10 –
TRADITIONAL AND SPRING CHEER SEASON
The traditional AYC season coincides with the football AYF season which is the 4
th
Monday of July
through the National Championship in December. Spring cheer season is from January 1
st
– June 30
th
.
Spring teams should collect the same paperwork as traditional teams, follow the same practice
limitations and age requirements, submit a roster to your league coordinator, and carry the proper
insurance.
RULE 11 – CAMPS & CLINICS
Cheer teams are strongly encouraged, in part or full squad, to attend either a camp or clinic during the
season and off-season. These camps or clinics should be designed as instructional for youth/recreation
Leagues and should not be made mandatory by any coach, League, or personnel associated within an
AYF/AYC program. The focus of such camps should be on safety and proper execution of cheerleading
skills to the team’s age level.
AYC highly recommends all coaches in AYC attend training clinics. AYC can assist your association or
League in hosting a camp/clinic. For more information, please contact your Region Cheer and Dance
Director or the AYC National Cheer Commissioner at [email protected]
It is necessary to secure the proper insurance for any camps or clinics.
RULE 12 - MASCOTS
Mascots are at the discretion of any individual League. The following are guidelines for Leagues that
offer Mascots:
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•
A Mascot must be at least 5 years old by 7/31 current year.
•
A participant can be a Mascot if they are not old enough to be included in any other offered age
division.
•
A Mascot shall register as any other applicant and is required to fill out registration paperwork.
•
Mascots should not perform any stunts or be in the area of stunt groups performing in a
halftime routine due to safety concerns caused by the difference in age, maturity and skill
level between the mascot and rostered participants.
RULE 13 – INSURANCE
All teams/squads must furnish proof of General Liability and Accident Insurance. The required coverage
can be seen at MyAYF.com. Additionally, American Youth Football must be named as an additional
insured. All members, not covered under the AYF/AYC endorsed insurance policy are required to
deliver to AYF/AYC a certificate of insurance prior to conducting any games or practices. For more
information on the AYF/AYC endorsed insurance plan, visit www.MyAYF.com. A Cheer Team without
football must have additional insurance.
RULE 14 – BANNED ACTIVITY
All teams/squads are banned from sideline “cheer battles” at games, pep rallies, competitions etc.
15
SECTION 2: AYC COMPETITIONS REGIONAL/NATIONAL
AYC COMPETITIONS - CHEER
When cheer, dance, and step teams from various regions across the nation come to compete; there
must be a standardized set of rules under which all must comply. The following pages will list the age
divisions, skill divisions, and safety guidelines that will be used in AYC Regional and National
Cheerleading Competitions. AYC requires that Local League competitions follow ages listed in the
Cheer, Dance, and Step Matrix for consistency and safety.
AYC NATIONAL QUALIFICATION
To qualify for the AYC National Championships, competition teams must be affiliated with AYF/AYC
and have entered final rosters by October 1. Teams MUST participate in their League cheer
competition and Region Cheer Championship to qualify for Nationals. AYC National qualifies teams who
place first, second and third in a Regional AYC Competition. If an AYF/AYC Competition is not offered
at the Regional level, ranking of first, second and third place finish must be accomplished at your local
AYF/AYC Conference Competition. Final placement and advancement to AYC National Championships
will be at the discretion of the Regional Cheer, Dance, and Step Director with Approval from the AYC
National Cheer Commissioner. AYC reserves the right to grant a team qualification to the National
Championship should an extraordinary circumstance arise which prevents the team from attending a
qualifying event. For any questions regarding qualification for League, Region and National
competitions, please contact the National Cheer Commissioner at tara@americanyouthfootball.com
Electing to participate in National Championships does obligate participants to follow a list of specific
guidelines for their protection as well as AYF/AYC, note that this list is available at www.MyAYF.com
16
AYC CHEER DIVISIONS
A MAXIMUM AGE GAP FOR ALL DIVISIONS CAN ONLY BE 5 YEARS
IF ENOUGH TEAMS ARE NOT OFFERED.
FOR EXAMPLE: A 10 YEAR OLD CAN NOT WAIVER UP TO A 14U IF A D12 IS OFFERED
AND/OR THERE IS A 15 YEAR OLD ON THE 14U TEAM.
This would make it a 6-YEAR-AGE GAP- NOT 5. (Ages 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)
The Maximum number of waivers if granted should be no more than 3 per team not organization. Any
extreme circumstances will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Waivers for NON-COMPETITIVE TEAMS must also be submitted and followed by the same policy and
procedures for competitive cheer teams regarding waivers.
17/18-Year-Old Participants
For the 2023 season, any participant that is 17 or turning 17 prior to July 31
st
may be waivered down for
D16. Any 17-year-old that turns 18 after July 31
st
and participated in the 2022 season, can be
grandfathered in to participate in the 2023 season.
Inspiration Division
The AYC Inspiration Division enables youth with either cognitive or physical disabilities to participate in
football and cheer.
Competing Up - Cheer
AYC provides an “Age Waiver Request Form” that an association may use for an age waiver. The form is
located on www.MyAYF.com. This Form MUST be signed and approved by the Region Cheer and Dance
Director and then submitted to National Cheer Commissioner prior to the athletes’ placement on a
team. Not having proper waiver could result in the director denying the waiver.
SIZE AND SKILL LEVEL DIVISION GUIDELINES
Splitting Divisions into Small and Large Teams
At the National Championship, divisions may be combined from small and large to an open division when
there are fewer than three teams that will ultimately compete in each division.
•
Small Cheer Team: 5-18 members, male and/or female
•
Large Cheer Teams: 19-36 members, male and/or female
17
CHEER PROGRESSION THROUGH THE LEVELS
There are four skill levels in AYC, level 1, 2, 3, and 4. The levels are for our athletes as they begin
learning the basic safety and technical skills associated in cheerleading and then continue to follow a
safe skill progression. The goal of cheer progression is to learn a skill, succeed at the skill, in hopes to
begin learning the next logical skill that follows. One must master the basic skills then work toward
next challenging skill.
Level 1 is for teams with athletes and coaches that have little to no experience. This level is for
Novice athletes and coaches.
Level 2 is for teams with athletes and coaches where a majority of the team has mastered level 1
skills. This level is for Beginner to Intermediate skilled athletes and coaches.
Level 3 is for teams with athletes and coaches where a majority of the team has mastered level 2
skills. This level is for Intermediate to Advanced athletes and coaches.
Level 4 is for teams with athletes and coaches where a majority of the team has mastered level 2&3
skills. This level is for Advanced athletes and coaches.
SECTION 3: AYC CHEER AND DANCE RULES & GUIDELINES
(See YCADA penalty sheet or safety infraction breakdown)
Uniforms
Midriffs and/or sheer/nude color uniforms are prohibited. All participants should have proper coverage
no exposing the chest, belly, tummy, or midriff areas. Sheer or nude panels may be used on SMALL
areas of the uniform such as the shoulders or arms while NOT exposing any inappropriate areas that
should be properly covered. An AYC patch is NOT required on any section of the uniform.
Bows
It is not deducted in AYC; however, you can have a deduction safety related for the bow being on the
performance surface. There is No specific rule and traditionally we don’t take safety deductions (same
as signs or poms using in routine). If you discard them and they are in the way, an athlete might step
on it (not a safety issue) However if it presents a safety hazard it can potentially get a deduction.
Cheer Shoes
Cheer shoes must be secure. If a shoe comes off a penalty will be issued if an athlete stunts, tumbles,
or jumps without proper footwear. Shoes worn for dance are NOT permitted to have taps.
Dance Props
All poms and props brought on the performance area must be used during the routine. There is no
limit on the number of props you use in your routine, BUT make sure they are legal and properly
incorporated in the routine to earn value in your scoring. Any prop (including a sign/banner) brought
onto the performance surface must be used during the routine or you are subject to a deduction.
Items that may damage the performance surface are prohibited. Standing in/on props is prohibited
in ANY dance category. Poms are required for at least half of the routine in the pom category.
Also, be sure the team properly disposes to avoid any safety issues/deductions.
18
Casts/Braces/Glasses/Medical Equipment/Religious Observances
•
Glasses may be worn but must be secure. If they fall off, they must be quickly retrieved, a sport
strap for all participants wearing eyeglasses is highly recommended. If glasses are not retrieved a
penalty will be issued.
•
Any participant requiring a medical device shall be allowed to participate as long as medical
documentation allowing participation is available.
•
Any participant requiring modification to any safety rule based on their religious practice
will require prior written approval.
MUSIC GUIDELINES
•
There cannot be a “bleep” over an inappropriate lyric.
•
Lyrics cannot lead up to an inappropriate word which then has a voiceover on the inappropriate
word or cuts off right at the inappropriate word.
•
Music legalities cannot be based on “meaning of the song”, although specific lyrics should be
appropriate for family listening. i.e. avoid lyrics in-regards to drugs, sex, drinking, etc.
•
When there is a music malfunction during a performance that is not the result of the coach or team
representative error, the team may be offered the option to perform again. It will be up to the
competition officials’ if the team will perform again and from what starting point.
Unsportsmanlike behavior
A team whose administrators, coaches, participants, and/or spectators are displaying unsatisfactory
sportsmanlike conduct before or during an event may be subject to a 5-point deduction.
In Case of a Tie for Cheer
All ties will be broken at Regional/National competitions by using the Degree of Difficulty scores from:
Jumps, Stunts, Pyramids, Dismounts, Tumbling, and Tosses. If it is necessary to break a second tie, the
Choreography/Overall Performance score will be used.
In Case of a Tie for Dance - Pom
All ties will be broken at Regional/National competitions by using the Pom/Motion Technique/
Sharpness, and Synchronization scores. If it is necessary to break a second tie, the Choreography-
formations score will be used.
In Case of a Tie for Dance – Hip Hop
All ties will be broken at Regional/National competitions by using the Routine Execution/team
Uniformity and Routine Execution/Performance Presentation and Execution. If it is necessary to break
a second tie, the Choreography/formations score will be used.
In Case of a Tie for Dance – Step
All ties will be broken at Regional/National competitions by using the Synchronization/precision scores.
If necessary, a second tiebreaker will consist of Synchronization/precision plus Appearance, Uniforms &
Costumes/Props scores.
19
Routine Interruption Due to Injury
In case of an injury, the competition officials, event medical personnel, a coach of the performing
team, or one of the judges can stop the performance. It is up to the competition officials’ if the team
will perform again and from what starting point.
Any injury where there is blood present must be stopped and the injured athlete must not return until
the bleeding has stopped, the wound is covered, and uniform appropriately cleaned or changed.
Injured Participant Returning to Competition
An injured participant must not return to the performance until the competition official receives
clearance from all of the representatives listed below.
•
Event Medical personnel attending to the athlete
•
Parent/Guardian (if present)
•
Head Coach of competing team
In the event of a suspected head injury, the participant cannot return to perform without clearance
from a licensed medical professional that has training related to head injuries.
REASONS FOR DISQUALIFICATION
Teams with illegal competitor(s) will be disqualified. Reasons for disqualification include but are not
limited to overage competitor(s), competitor(s) not listed on official AYF/AYC League roster, and/or
illegal competitor(s) listed on AYF/AYC official League roster. If a team is found with unregistered
competitors, the team will be disqualified. Teams registering and performing in incorrect divisions
and/or categories will be disqualified.
SECTION 4 – LEGALITY QUESTIONS for CHEER and DANCE
Coaches and Coordinators are responsible to comprehend and comply with all AYC Age Division
Requirements, AYC General Safety Rules, YCADA Safety Rules, Routine Guidelines pertaining to the
competing division. Any Questions concerning any YCADA Safety Rule should be submitted to YCADA
at https://www.ycada.org/AYC a YCADA form must be filled out and you must attach a video. Further
information can be located in the coaches’ resource center on the YYCADA site listed above.
CONTACTING AYC
All AYC members can communicate directly with the AYF National Staff. The AYF National Staff will
not tolerate disciplinary actions being taken against members or parents who choose to contact the
National Office directly. Contact information can be found online at
www.AmericanYouthFootball.com. You May contact AYC via email at tara@americanyouthfootball.com
A complimentary monthly electronic newsletter will be sent to each AYC member wishing to receive
one. The Huddle will contain information on AYC programs and details of upcoming events.
20
SECTION 5: AYC CONFERENCE DIVISION 14 ELITE CHEER
AYC CONFERENCE DIVISION 14 ELITE
DIVISION AGES
SKILL LEVELS
14 Elite 11, 12, 13, 14 Level 2 or 4
CONFERENCE DIVISION 14 ELITE TEAM GUIDELINES
The Conference Elite team is a competitive division at the AYC National Championship. Each AYC
National Conference has the opportunity to create a level 2 and or level 4 Conference Elite team(s) for
the purpose of competing at the National AYC Championship. Teams are encouraged to perform at local
and regional competitions if they are ready, however, a team cannot be formed unless they are
committed to attend the AYC National Championship.
• Conference Elite teams are considered a division 14 Elite team with no more than 18 athletes per
team
• Division 14 Elite is made up of cheer athletes that are on the current year’s cheer roster and are 11
– 14 years old, on a division 12, 14, or 16 team. Athletes can be from level 1, 2, 3, or 4 teams at
their local association.
• Athletes may compete at the AYC National Championship for their Local Association and their
Conference Elite team, cross competing is allowed. However, athletes may not compete on both a
level 2 and a level 4 Conference Elite team.
•
Each Conference must submit all required paperwork to their Regional Cheer and Dance
Director no later than September 15. Regional Cheer and Dance Directors must confirm
approved team participation no later than September 18th. Commitment means that each
participant’s parent/guardian has committed and understands the financial, practice and
travel obligations. You must have a committed team of players and coaching staff prior to
making your commitment to the national office.
• There must be at least two teams in division 14 Elite level 2/level 4 to hold a National
Championship.
A determination will be made if there are enough teams on September 18th.
• Conference Division 14 Elite teams will be required to pay the tournament registration fee upon
commitment and acceptance into the AYC National Championship. This fee is non-refundable and
therefore forfeited should a team back out of the championship. In addition, any Conference that
commits to sending a team to the AYC National Championship and does not send a team, will be
suspended from participation for 1 year.
Competition Attire
• Attire will be a performance tank or t-shirt, shorts with briefs underneath. - No sports bras or
midriff tanks exposing the stomach may be worn for performance. If your team chooses to perform
in a tank, make sure each performer is properly covered for family viewing.
Coaching Selection
• Conferences will develop their own system for nominating and selecting coaches and participants,
utilizing the minimum guidelines set forth below.
• Coach nominees must be currently rostered in that Conference and have a positive history with the
organization.
•
Nominees must be coaches who have demonstrated not only the competence one would expect
from cheer coach, but one who demonstrates the understanding that “It’s for the Kids” and
demonstrates the highest moral integrity and character.
• The Conference cheer director should oversee coach selection, with the assistance of other
Conference board members and/or Elite team coaching staff.
• Participant Selection
• The Conference cheer director shall have final approval of all participants of the team to ensure
minimum participation requirements are met.
• At least three different associations within the Conference must be represented. No single
association can dominate in participation. Conferences needing an exception to this rule should
contact their Regional Cheer and Dance Director for approval.
• Only participants who, by the September 15 deadline, were certified, listed on the final roster and
are actively participating with their team during the regular season are eligible.
• The participant selection process should include a scholastic component.
• It is recommended that selection and formation of the team be done between week 4 and week six
of the traditional season.
• Conference Requirements
• The Conferences’ cheer director must certify that each player selected is properly listed on the final
roster and certify and submit all required documentation to their respective Regional Cheer and
Dance Director by the September 15 deadline.
• The Conferences must ensure that each participant is actively participating with their team for the
entire season.
• The Conference is to complete a roster for the Conference division 14 Elite team via the
documentation provided by the national office.
• The Conference is required to guard that the practice rules are adhered to. They are as follows:
Practice may not start sooner than September 1st.
No more than 6 hours practice per week, 3 hours max, with the exception of choreography.
Water and bathroom breaks must be incorporated into the practice time.
Each participant’s first priority is their main cheer team and elite coaches must keep that in
mind during scheduling practices and other elite events.
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
1
AYC RULES
&
SCORING PACKET
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FIND WHAT YOU NEED BASED ON YOUR CATEGORY AND/OR LEVEL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FIND WHAT YOU NEED BASED ON YOUR CATEGORY AND/OR LEVEL
YOUTH CHEER
Categories................................................................................pg 3
General Safety Rules
...........................................................
pgs 4-6
Penalty Info............................................................................pg 26
.......................................................
pg 27
Score System 411.....................
..........
.............................
....
.pg 28
......................
................
.pgs 29-30
Scoring Criteria
......................................................................
pg 31
Glossary...........................................................................pgs 32-37
LEVEL 1
Level 1 Rules Grid............
.......................................................
pg 7
Level 1 Scoring Grid
.............................................................
pgs 8-9
LEVEL 2
Level 2 Rules Grid
...................................................................
pg 11
Level 2 Scoring Grid........
................................................
.pgs 12-13
Level 2 (D8 ONLY) Scoring Grid
.......................................
pgs 14-15
..
pg 17
LEVEL 3
Level 3 Rules Grid
...................................................................
pg 18
Level 3 Scoring Grid.
.......................
..............................
pgs 19-20
...............................
...............
.
..
pg 21
LEVEL 4
Level 4 Rules Grid
...................................................................
pg 22
Level 4 Scoring Grid
.........................................................
pgs 23-24
YOUTH DANCE
Categories................................
..
......................
.................pg 38
General Rules...................................................................pg 40
Penalty Info.............................
...
.................
.....................
pg 47
Score System 411.........................
....................................
pg 48
..........................
..............
pg 49
Glossary...............................
.......
...............................pgs 50-52
POM
Pom Scoring Grid..........
....
............................................
pg 41
......
..................
.........................
pg 42
HIP HOP
Hip Hop Scoring Grid........................................................pg 43
........................................................
pg 44
STEP
Step Dance Scoring Grid
.................................................
pg 45
......
...............
..............
pg 46
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
3
YOUTH
CHEER CATEGORIES
CATEGORY
New changes from last year’s packet are marked in RED.
SHOW CHEER: (Time Limit: 2 min 30 sec)
ailure to perform
and props
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
4
YOUTH CHEER GENERAL SAFETY RULES
RED.
(a) No
(b) Casts and Braces
1.
2.
3.
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f) Entrances & Exits
1. SHOW CHEER -
(g) Timing
1. SHOW CHEER -
(h)
(i)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
(j) Poms and Props
1.
2.
3.
ms in regard to pom rules.
4.
5.
6. poms and props(s).
7. poms or
8. poms or
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
5
YOUTH CHEER GENERAL SAFETY RULES
RED.
Partner assisted jumps
2.
4.
individuals.
(ii)
surface.
6. Pendulums
1.
Connuous Back Spoer
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
6
YOUTH CHEER GENERAL SAFETY RULES
RED.
Connuous Back Spoer (connued)
Connuous Back Spoer
Spoer for Single Based Stunts
11.
(i)
(ii)
12.
(p) Bases
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
7
SHOW CHEER LEVEL 1 RULES GRID
RED.
STANDING & RUNNING
TUMBLING
Allowable Skills:
•
•
•
STUNTS
Allowable Skills:
•
•
•
•
•
•
INVERSIONS
ALL INVERSIONS ARE PROHIBITED
DISMOUNTS
Allowable Skills:
•
•
•
•
•
RELEASE
MOVES
Allowable Skills:
• B
TOSSES
ALL TOSSES ARE PROHIBITED
PYRAMIDS
Allowable Skills:
Pyramids must follow Level 1 stunts, release moves, dismounts, and inversions rules and are allowed up to 2-high with the following allowances:
•
• at least
• both sides
PRIOR
YCADA Show Cheer Level 1
CHOREOGRAPHY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - pace/flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
7.5 - 7.9
MODERATE - pace/flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
8.0 - 8.9
GOOD - pace and flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
9.0 - 10.0
EXCELLENT - pace and flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE AND/OR USE OF CHEER (IF INCLUDED) - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership,
confidence, crowd appeal .
CHEER (if included): MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection,
ability to lead crowd
7.5 - 7.9
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: MODERATE - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence,
crowd appeal
CHEER (if included): MODERATE/CONSISTENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection,
ability to lead crowd
8.0 - 8.9
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: GOOD - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd
appeal
CHEER (if included): GOOD - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to lead crowd
9.0 - 10.0
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: EXCELLENT - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence,
crowd appeal
CHEER (if included): EXCELLENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to lead
DANCE - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 9.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
6.0 - 6.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - dance technique and placement. Lacking sharpness and overall motion control. Low energy/slow paced. Lacking
creativity/variety in dance. Weak incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
6.5 - 6.9
MODERATE - dance technique and placement. Moderate motion strength and sharpness in dance. Moderate energy/pace. Moderate creativity/variety in
dance. Moderate incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
7.0 - 7.9
GOOD - dance technique and placement. Good motion strength and sharpness in dance. Good energy/pace. Good creativity/variety in dance. Good
incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
8.0 - 9.0
EXCELLENT - dance technique and placement. Strong sharp dance. Excellent energy/pace. Excellent creativity/variety in dance. Excellent incorporation of
dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
MOTIONS - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 16.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
13.0 - 13.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - motion technique. Lacking sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Lacking variety with minimal to zero
transitions and level changes
13.5 - 13.9
MODERATE - motion technique. Moderate sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Moderate variety with minimal transitions and level
changes
14.0 - 14.9
GOOD - motion technique. Good sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Included variety and visuals with some transitions and level
15.0 - 16.0
EXCELLENT - motion technique. Strong and sharp motions with excellent, controlled placement, pace and energy. Excellent variety and visuals with
multiple transitions and level changes
SKILL CATEGORIES TECHNIQUE/EXECUTION - Max Score: 1.0 (APPLY TO ALL CATEGORIES BELOW & ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE)
0.0
Zero skills performed
0.1 - 0.2
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT
0.3 - 0.4
MODERATE
0.5 - 0.7
GOOD
0.8 - 1.0
EXCELLENT
JUMPS DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 10.0
Basic Jumps include: pencil jump, tuck jump, spread eagle/X jump
Advanced jumps include: Right Herkie, Left Herkie, Right Front Hurdler, Left Front Hurdler, Right Side Hurdler, Left Side Hurdler, Toe Touch, Pike, Double Nine
Consecutive connected jumps will be defined as two or more jump(s) following continuously in an unbroken sequence.
Variety will be defined as 2 or more different jumps.
0.0
Zero skills performed
6.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Basic jump(s
)
• 1 advanced jump by LESS THAN
majority of team
7.0
• 1 synchronized advanced jump by majority of team
8.0
Must perform at least ONE of the following:
• 2 or more synchronized non-consecutive advanced jumps by LESS THAN majority of team performed in the SAME sequence/section
• 2 synchronized non
-consecutive advanced jumps by majority of team performed in DIFFERENT sequences/sections
9.0
Must perform at least ONE of the following:
• 2 synchronized non-consecutive advanced jumps by majority of team performed in the SAME sequence/section
• 2 synchronized consecutive connected advanced jumps with NO VARIETY by majority of team
10.0
2
synchronized consecutive connected
advanced jumps
WITH VARIETY
by majority
- GRID 1 OF 2 -
YCADA Show Cheer Level 1
STUNTS DIFFICULTY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 15.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
10.0 - 10.9
Knee level two leg stunts
11.0 - 11.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Waist level two leg stunts
• Thigh level two leg stunts
• Shoulder Sits
• Extended V-Sits
• Swedish Falls
12.0 - 12.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Shoulder Stands
• Prep level two leg stunt
• Below prep level single leg stunt (i.e. Liberty, Torch, Stretch(s), Arabesque, Scorpion, Scale - multiple variations encouraged)
13.0 - 15.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Prep level two leg stunt AND below prep level single leg stunt(s) (i.e. Liberty, Torch, Stretch, Arabesque, Scorpion, Scale - multiple variations
encouraged)
• 1/4 twist mount to below prep level single leg
• 1/4 twist mount to prep level two leg stunt
• Single based waist level single leg stunt
PYRAMIDS DIFFICULTY - Must Perform Skill at Least Once - Max Score: 15.0
A pyramid will be defined as stunt(s) connected to other stunt(s) OR ground level individual(s).
0.0
Zero skills performed
10.0 - 10.9
Below prep level two leg stunts braced on both or one side
11.0 - 11.9
Below prep level single leg stunts braced on both or one side
12.0 - 12.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Prep level two leg stunts
• Prep level single leg stunts braced on both sides
13.0 - 15.0
This point range will be awarded to teams performing the highest skill LEGALLY possible with consideration given to teams with 5 or less members. Must
perform at least ONE
of the following:
• Prep level single leg stunts braced on only one side
• Extended two leg stunts braced on both or one side
• 1/4 turn stunt transitions to prep level and above stunts braced on only one side
DISMOUNTS DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 5.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
1.0 - 1.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following by LESS THAN majority of team:
• Step Offs
• Bump Downs
• Shove Wraps
• Pop Offs
2.0 - 2.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following by MAJORITY of team:
• Step Offs
• Bump Downs
• Shove Wraps
• Pop Offs
3.0 - 3.9
Straight Ride Cradles by majority of team
4.0 – 5.0
1/4 Turn Cradles by majority of team
TUMBLING DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 5.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
0.5 - 0.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following by LESS THAN 1/4 of team:
• Forward Rolls
• Backward Rolls
•
Handstands
1.0 - 1.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following
by AT LEAST 1/4 of team:
• Forward Rolls
• Backward Rolls
•
Handstands
2.0 - 2.9
Cartwheels
3.0 - 3.9
Round Offs
4.0 - 5.0
Must perform at least ONE of the following by AT LEAST 1/4 of team:
• Back Limbers to Back Walkovers
• Front/Back Walkovers
• Valdezes
- GRID 2 OF 2 -
SCORING ELEMENTS & CRITERIA COMMENTS
MAX
POINTS
YOUR SCORE
Choreography
10
Performance of Routine and/or
Use of Cheer (if included)
10
Dance
9
Motions
16
Jumps Difficulty
10
Jumps Execution/Technique
1
Stunts Difficulty
15
Stunts Execution/Technique
1
Pyramids Difficulty
15
Pyramids Execution/Technique
1
Dismounts Difficulty
5
Dismounts Execution/Technique
1
Tumbling Difficulty
5
Tumbling Execution/Technique
1
General Comments:
SHOW CHEER LEVEL 1
100
MAX
TOTAL
YOUR TOTAL:
TEAM NAME: _____________________________________ DIVISION: _____________________________________
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
11
SHOW CHEER LEVEL 2 RULES GRID
RED.
STANDING & RUNNING
TUMBLING
Allowable Skills:
•
•
• Series Handsprings
Standing
STUNTS
Allowable Skills:
•
•
•
•
•
INVERSIONS
Allowable Skills:
•
•
DISMOUNTS
Allowable Skills:
• ¼
• ½
•
½
RELEASE
MOVES
Allowable Skills:
•
•
•
TOSSES
Allowable Skills:
•
PYRAMIDS
Allowable Skills:
Pyramids must follow Level 2 stunts, release moves, dismounts, and inversions rules and are allowed up to 2-high with the following allowances:
•
•
•
•
YCADA Show Cheer Level 2
CHOREOGRAPHY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - pace/flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
7.5 - 7.9
MODERATE - pace/flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
8.0 - 8.9
GOOD - pace and flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
9.0 - 10.0
EXCELLENT - pace and flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE AND/OR USE OF CHEER (IF INCLUDED) - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership,
confidence, crowd appeal
CHEER (if included): MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to
lead crowd
7.5 - 7.9
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: MODERATE - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd
appeal
CHEER (if included): MODERATE/CONSISTENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to
lead crowd
8.0 - 8.9
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: GOOD - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd
appeal
CHEER (if included): GOOD - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to lead crowd
9.0 - 10.0
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: EXCELLENT - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd
appeal
CHEER (if included): EXCELLENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to lead crowd
DANCE - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 9.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
6.0 - 6.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - dance technique and placement. Lacking sharpness and overall motion control. Low energy/slow paced. Lacking creativity/variety in
dance. Weak incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
6.5 - 6.9
MODERATE - dance technique and placement. Moderate motion strength and sharpness in dance. Moderate energy/pace. Moderate creativity/variety in dance.
Moderate incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
7.0 - 7.9
GOOD - dance technique and placement. Good motion strength and sharpness in dance. Good energy/pace. Good creativity/variety in dance. Good
incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
8.0 - 9.0
EXCELLENT - dance technique and placement. Strong sharp dance. Excellent energy/pace. Excellent creativity/variety in dance. Excellent incorporation of dance
visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
MOTIONS - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - motion technique. Lacking sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Lacking variety with minimal to zero transitions and
level changes.
7.5 - 7.9 MODERATE - motion technique. Moderate sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Moderate variety with minimal transitions and level changes.
8.0 - 8.9
GOOD - motion technique. Good sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Included variety and visuals with some transitions and level changes.
9.0 - 10.0
EXCELLENT - motion technique. Strong and sharp motions with excellent, controlled placement, pace and energy. Excellent variety and visuals with multiple
transitions and level changes.
SKILL CATEGORIES TECHNIQUE/EXECUTION - Max Score: 1.0 (APPLY TO ALL CATEGORIES BELOW & ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE)
0.0
Zero skills performed
0.1 - 0.2
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT
0.3 - 0.4
MODERATE
0.5 - 0.7
GOOD
0.8 - 1.0
EXCELLENT
JUMPS DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 10.0
Advanced jumps include: Right Herkie, Left Herkie, Right Front Hurdler, Left Front Hurdler, Right Side Hurdler, Left Side Hurdler, Toe Touch, Pike, Double Nine
Basic Jumps include: pencil jump, tuck jump, spread eagle/X jump
Consecutive connected jumps will be defined as two or more jump(s) following continuously in an unbroken sequence.
Variety will be defined as 2 or more different jumps.
0.0
Zero skills performed
6.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Basic jump(s)
• 1 advanced jump by LESS THAN
majority of team
7.0
1 synchronized advanced jump by majority of team
8.0
Must perform at least ONE of the following:
• 2 or more synchronized non-consecutive advanced jumps by LESS THAN majority of team performed in the SAME sequence/section
• 2 synchronized non
-consecutive advanced jumps by majority of team performed in DIFFERENT sequences/sections
9.0
Must perform at least ONE of the following:
• 2 synchronized non-consecutive advanced jumps by majority of team performed in the SAME sequence/section
• 2 synchronized consecutive connected advanced jumps with NO VARIETY by majority of team
10.0
2
synchronized consecutive connected
advanced jumps
WITH VARIETY
by majority
- GRID 1 OF 2 -
YCADA Show Cheer Level 2
STUNTS DIFFICULTY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 15.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
9.0 - 9.9
Knee level two leg stunts
10.0 - 10.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Thigh level two leg stunts • Single twisting Barrel Rolls • Shoulder Sits • Superman transitions • Swedish Falls
11.0 - 11.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Prep level two leg stunts
• Below prep level single leg stunt(s) (multiple variations encouraged)
12.0 - 12.9
Must perform at least ONE of the following:
• Prep level two leg stunt AND below prep level single leg stunt(s) (multiple variations encouraged)
• 1/4 twist mounts to prep level sing
le leg stunts
• 1/4 twist mounts to extended two leg stunts
13.0 - 15.0
Must perform at least ONE
of the following:
• Prep level single leg stunt(s) (one variation required but multiple encouraged) AND extended two leg stunt
• 1/2 twist mounts to prep level two leg stunts
• Ground level inversions to load-in/sponge/below prep level stunt
• 1/2 twist mounts to prep level single leg stunts
• 1/2 twist mounts to extended level two leg stunts
PYRAMIDS DIFFICULTY - Must Perform Skill at Least Once - Max Score: 15.0
A pyramid will be defined as stunt(s) connected to other stunt(s) OR ground level individual(s).
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
10.0 - 10.9
B
elow prep level stunts
braced on both or one side
11.0 - 11.9
P
rep level two leg stunts
braced on both or one side
12.0 - 12.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Extended two leg stunts braced on both or one side
• P
rep level single leg stunts
braced on both or one side
13.0 - 15.0
This point range will be awarded to teams performing the highest skill LEGALLY possible with consideration given to teams with 5 or less members.
• 1/2 twist pyramid transition to prep level two leg stunt
• Braced release move to cradle braced on both sides.
• Extended single leg stunts braced on both or one side
• Extended two leg stunts braced to other extended two leg stunts
• 1/2 twist pyramid transition to prep level single leg stunt
• 1/2 twist pyramid transition to extended level stunt
DISMOUNTS DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 5.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
1.0 - 1.9
Must perform
ONE
of the following:
• Bump Down
• Shove Wrap
• Pop Off
2.0 -2.9
Straight Ride Cradles by majority of team
3.0 - 3.9
1/4 Turn Cradles from prep level two leg stunt by majority of team
4.0 - 5.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• 1/4 Turn Cradles from prep level single leg OR extended two leg stunt by majority of team
• Non-twisting Alternate Cradles (i.e. Toe Touch, Kick, Ball, Pike etc.) by majority of team
TUMBLING DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 5.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed.
0.1 - 0.4
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following by LESS THAN 1/4 of team:
• Forward/Backward Rolls
•
Handstands
0.5 - 0.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following by AT LEAST 1/4 of the team:
• Forward/Backward Rolls
•
Handstands
1.0 - 1.9
Cartwheels by 1/4 of team
2.0 - 2.9
Round Offs by 1/4 of team
3.0 - 3.9
Front/Back Walkovers by 1/4 of team
4.0 - 5.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following by AT LEAST 1/4 of the team:
• Single Front/Back Handspring
• Advanced Jump(s) to Single Handspring
• Front Walkover through to Single Back handspring
• Running Handspring Series
TOSSES DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 5.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
3.0
Straight Ride tosses (i.e. Sponge, Basket, Squishy, or Scrunch) by LESS THAN 1/4 of team
4.0
Straight Ride tosses (i.e. Sponge, Basket, Squishy, or Scrunch) by LESS THAN majority but MORE THAN 1/4 of team
5.0
Straight Ride tosses (i.e. Sponge, Basket, Squishy, or Scrunch) by MAJORITY of team
- GRID 2 OF 2 -
YCADA Show Cheer Level 2 (D8 ONLY)
CHOREOGRAPHY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - pace/flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
7.5 - 7.9
MODERATE - pace/flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
8.0 - 8.9
GOOD - pace and flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
9.0 - 10.0
EXCELLENT - pace and flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE AND/OR USE OF CHEER (IF INCLUDED) - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership,
confidence, crowd appeal
CHEER (if included): MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to
lead crowd
7.5 - 7.9
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: MODERATE - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd
appeal
CHEER (if included): MODERATE/CONSISTENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to
lead crowd
8.0 - 8.9
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: GOOD - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd appeal
CHEER (if included): GOOD - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to lead crowd
9.0 - 10.0
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: EXCELLENT - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd
appeal
CHEER (if included): EXCELLENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to lead crowd
DANCE - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 9.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
6.0 - 6.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - dance technique and placement. Lacking sharpness and overall motion control. Low energy/slow paced. Lacking creativity/variety in
dance. Weak incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
6.5 - 6.9
MODERATE - dance technique and placement. Moderate motion strength and sharpness in dance. Moderate energy/pace. Moderate creativity/variety in dance.
Moderate incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
7.0 - 7.9
GOOD - dance technique and placement. Good motion strength and sharpness in dance. Good energy/pace. Good creativity/variety in dance. Good
incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
8.0 - 9.0
EXCELLENT - dance technique and placement. Strong sharp dance. Excellent energy/pace. Excellent creativity/variety in dance. Excellent incorporation of dance
visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
MOTIONS - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 16.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
13.0 - 13.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - motion technique. Lacking sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Lacking variety with minimal to zero transitions and
level changes
13.5 - 13.9
MODERATE - motion technique. Moderate sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Moderate variety with minimal transitions and level changes
14.0 - 14.9
GOOD - motion technique. Good sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Included variety and visuals with some transitions and level changes
15.0 - 16.0
EXCELLENT - motion technique. Strong and sharp motions with excellent, controlled placement, pace and energy. Excellent variety and visuals with multiple
transitions and level changes
SKILL CATEGORIES TECHNIQUE/EXECUTION - Max Score: 1.0 (APPLY TO ALL CATEGORIES BELOW & ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE)
0.0
Zero skills performed
0.1 - 0.2
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT
0.3 - 0.4
MODERATE
0.5 - 0.7
GOOD
0.8 - 1.0
EXCELLENT
JUMPS DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 10.0
Advanced jumps include: Right Herkie, Left Herkie, Right Front Hurdler, Left Front Hurdler, Right Side Hurdler, Left Side Hurdler, Toe Touch, Pike, Double Nine
Basic Jumps include: pencil jump, tuck jump, spread eagle/X jump
Consecutive connected jumps will be defined as two or more jump(s) following continuously in an unbroken sequence.
Variety will be defined as 2 or more different jumps.
0.0
Zero skills performed
6.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Basic jump(s)
• 1 advanced jump by LESS THAN
majority of team
7.0
• 1 synchronized advanced jump by majority of team
8.0
Must perform at least ONE of the following:
• 2 or more synchronized non-consecutive advanced jumps by LESS THAN majority of team performed in the SAME sequence/section
• 2 synchronized non
-consecutive advanced jumps by majority of team performed in DIFFERENT sequences/sections
9.0
Must perform at least ONE of the following:
• 2 synchronized non-consecutive advanced jumps by majority of team performed in the SAME sequence/section
• 2 synchronized consecutive connected advanced jumps with NO VARIETY by majority of team
10.0
2
synchronized consecutive connected
advanced jumps
WITH VARIETY
by majority
- GRID 1 OF 2 -
YCADA Show Cheer Level 2 (D8 ONLY)
STUNTS DIFFICULTY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 15.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
9.0 - 9.9
Knee level two leg stunts
10.0 - 10.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Thigh level two leg stunts
• Single twisting Barrel Rolls
• Shoulder Sits
• Superman transitions
• Swedish Falls
11.0 - 11.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Prep level two leg stunts
• Below prep level single leg stunt(s) (multiple variations encouraged)
12.0 - 12.9
Must perform at least ONE of the following:
• Prep level two leg stunt AND below prep level single leg stunt(s) (multiple variations encouraged)
• 1/4 twist mounts to prep level single leg stunts
• 1/4 twist mounts to extended two leg stunts
13.0 - 15.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Prep level single leg stunt(s) (one variation required but multiple encouraged) AND extended two leg stunt
• 1/2 twist mounts to prep level two leg stunts
• Ground level inversions to load-in/sponge/below prep level stunt
• 1/2 twist mounts to prep level single leg stunts
• 1/2 twist mounts to extended level two leg stunts
PYRAMIDS DIFFICULTY - Must Perform Skill at Least Once - Max Score: 15.0
A pyramid will be defined as stunt(s) connected to other stunt(s) OR ground level individual(s).
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
10.0 - 10.9
B
elow prep level stunts
braced on both or one side
11.0 - 11.9
P
rep level two leg stunts
braced on both or one side
12.0 - 12.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Extended two leg stunts braced on both or one side
• P
rep level single leg stunts
braced on both or one side
13.0 - 15.0
This point range will be awarded to teams performing the highest skill LEGALLY possible with consideration given to teams with 5 or less members.
• 1/2 twist pyramid transition to prep level two leg stunt
• Braced release move to cradle braced on both sides.
• Extended single leg stunts braced on both or one side
• 1/2 twist pyramid transition to prep level single leg stunt
• Extended two leg stunts braced to other extended two leg stunts
• 1/2 twist pyramid transition to extended level stunt
DISMOUNTS DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 5.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
1.0 - 1.9
Must perform
ONE
of the following:
• Bump Down
• Shove Wrap
• Pop Off
2.0 -2.9
Straight Ride Cradles by majority of team
3.0 - 3.9
1/4 Turn Cradles from prep level two leg stunt by majority of team
4.0 - 5.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• 1/4 Turn Cradles from prep level single leg OR extended two leg stunt by majority of team
• Non-twisting Alternate Cradles (i.e. Toe Touch, Kick, Ball, Pike etc.) by majority of team
TUMBLING DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 5.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed.
0.1 - 0.4
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following by LESS THAN 1/4 of team: • Forward/Backward Rolls •
Handstands
0.5 - 0.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following by AT LEAST 1/4 of the team: • Forward/Backward Rolls •
Handstands
1.0 - 1.9
Cartwheels by 1/4 of team
2.0 - 2.9
Round Offs by 1/4 of team
3.0 - 3.9
Front/Back Walkovers by 1/4 of team
4.0 - 5.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following by AT LEAST 1/4 of the team:
• Single Front/Back Handspring
• Advanced Jump(s) to Single Handspring
• Front Walkover through to Single Back handspring
• Running Handspring Series
- GRID 2 OF 2 -
SCORING ELEMENTS & CRITERIA COMMENTS
MAX
POINTS
YOUR SCORE
Choreography
10
Performance of Routine and/or
Use of Cheer (if included)
10
Dance
9
Motions
10
Jumps Difficulty
10
Jumps Execution/Technique
1
Stunts Difficulty
15
Stunts Execution/Technique
1
Pyramids Difficulty
15
Pyramids Execution/Technique
1
Dismounts Difficulty
5
Dismounts Execution/Technique
1
Tumbling Difficulty
5
Tumbling Execution/Technique
1
Tosses Difficulty
5
Tosses Execution/Technique
1
General Comments:
SHOW CHEER LEVEL 2
MAX
TOTAL
YOUR TOTAL:
100
TEAM NAME: _____________________________________ DIVISION: _____________________________________
SCORING ELEMENTS & CRITERIA COMMENTS
MAX
POINTS
YOUR SCORE
Choreography
10
Performance/Use of Cheer (if included)
10
Dance
9
Motions
16
Jumps Difficulty
10
Jumps Execution/Technique
1
Stunts Difficulty
15
Stunts Execution/Technique
1
Pyramids Difficulty
15
Pyramids Execution/Technique
1
Dismounts Difficulty
5
Dismounts Execution/Technique
1
Tumbling Difficulty
5
Tumbling Execution/Technique
1
General Comments:
SHOW CHEER LEVEL 2 (D8 ONLY)
MAX
TOTAL
YOUR TOTAL:
100
TEAM NAME: _____________________________________ DIVISION: _____________________________________
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
18
SHOW CHEER LEVEL 3 RULES GRID
RED.
STANDING & RUNNING
TUMBLING
Allowable Skills:
• Series Handsprings
•
• RUNNING TUMBLING
Handspring Series
STUNTS
Allowable Skills:
•
•
•
•
•
•
INVERSIONS
Allowable Skills:
•
•
•
DISMOUNTS
Allowable Skills:
•
•
•
•
•
RELEASE
MOVES
Allowable Skills:
•
transition.
• Half Helicopters
TOSSES
Allowable Skills:
•
PYRAMIDS
Allowable Skills:
Pyramids must follow Level 3 stunts, release moves, dismounts, and inversions rules and are allowed up to 2-high with the following allowances:
•
•
•
•
YCADA Show Cheer Level 3
CHOREOGRAPHY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - pace/flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
7.5 - 7.9
MODERATE - pace/flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
8.0 - 8.9
GOOD - pace and flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
9.0 - 10.0
EXCELLENT - pace and flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE AND/OR USE OF CHEER (IF INCLUDED) - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership,
confidence, crowd appeal
CHEER (if included): MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to lead
crowd
7.5 - 7.9
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: MODERATE - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd
appeal
CHEER (if included): MODERATE/CONSISTENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to lead
8.0 - 8.9
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: GOOD - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd appeal
CHEER (if included): GOOD - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to lead crowd
9.0 - 10.0
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: EXCELLENT - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd
appeal
DANCE - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 9.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
6.0 - 6.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - dance technique and placement. Lacking sharpness and overall motion control. Low energy/slow paced. Lacking creativity/variety in
dance. Weak incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
6.5 - 6.9
MODERATE - dance technique and placement. Moderate motion strength and sharpness in dance. Moderate energy/pace. Moderate creativity/variety in dance.
Moderate incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
7.0 - 7.9
GOOD - dance technique and placement. Good motion strength and sharpness in dance. Good energy/pace. Good creativity/variety in dance. Good incorporation of
dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
8.0 - 9.0
EXCELLENT - dance technique and placement. Strong sharp dance. Excellent energy/pace. Excellent creativity/variety in dance. Excellent incorporation of dance
visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
MOTIONS - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - motion technique. Lacking sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Lacking variety with minimal to zero transitions and
level changes.
7.5 - 7.9
MODERATE - motion technique. Moderate sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Moderate variety with minimal transitions and level changes.
8.0 - 8.9
GOOD - motion technique. Good sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Included variety and visuals with some transitions and level changes.
9.0 - 10.0
EXCELLENT - motion technique. Strong and sharp motions with excellent, controlled placement, pace and energy. Excellent variety and visuals with multiple
transitions and level changes.
SKILL CATEGORIES TECHNIQUE/EXECUTION - Max Score: 1.0 (APPLY TO ALL CATEGORIES BELOW & ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE)
0.0
Zero skills performed
0.1 - 0.2
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT
0.3 - 0.4
MODERATE
0.5 - 0.7
GOOD
0.8 - 1.0
EXCELLENT
JUMPS DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 10.0
Advanced jumps include: Right Herkie, Left Herkie, Right Front Hurdler, Left Front Hurdler, Right Side Hurdler, Left Side Hurdler, Toe Touch, Pike, Double Nine
Basic Jumps include: pencil jump, tuck jump, spread eagle/X jump
Consecutive connected jumps will be defined as two or more jump(s) following continuously in an unbroken sequence.
Variety will be defined as 2 or more different jumps.
0.0
Zero skills performed
6.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Basic jump(s)
• 1 advanced jump
• 2 synchronized non-consecutive advanced jumps by LESS THAN majority of team
7.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• 2 synchronized non-consecutive advanced jumps by majority of team
8.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• 2 synchronized consecutive connected advanced jumps by LESS THAN majority of team, PLUS one additional advanced jump
9.0
Must perform at least ONE of the following by majority of team:
• 2 or 3 synchronized consecutive connected advanced jumps with NO VARIETY
• 2 synchronized consecutive connected advanced jumps with NO VARIETY by majority of team, PLUS one additional advanced jump by MAJORITY of team.
10.0
2 synchronized consecutive connected advanced jumps WITH VARIETY by majority of team, PLUS one additional advanced jump by MAJORITY of team. (Variety
MUST be in the connected jumps).
- GRID 1 OF 2 -
YCADA Show Cheer Level 3
STUNTS DIFFICULTY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 15.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
8.0-8.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Knee level two leg stunts • Thigh level two leg stunts • Shoulder Sits • Swedish Falls • Non-twisting Superman transitions
9.0 - 9.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Prep level two leg stunts
• Below prep level single leg stunt(s) (i.e. Liberty, Torch, Stretch(s), Arabesque, Scorpion, Scale - multiple variations encouraged)
• Ground level inversions to load-in/Sponge
10.0 - 10.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Prep level two leg stunt AND below prep level single leg stunt(s) (i.e. Liberty, Torch, Stretch(s), Arabesque, Scorpion, Scale - multiple variations encouraged)
• 1/4 twist mounts to prep level stunts
• 1/4 twist mounts to extended level stunts
11.0 - 11.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Prep level single leg stunt(s) (multiple variations encouraged)
• Two leg extended stunts
• 1/2 twist mounts to prep level stunts
• Leap Frogs
12.0 -12.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Extended Liberties
• Ground level inversions directly to below prep level stunts
• Cradle Back Walkover Outs
• 1/2 twist Superman transitions
• 1/2 twist mounts to two leg extended stunts
• Forward Suspended Rolls
13.0 - 15.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Extended single leg stunt(s) (i.e. Stretch(s), Arabesque, Scorpion, Scale - multiple variations encouraged)
• Free standing release moves that land at prep level
• Full twist mounts to prep level stunts
• Ground level inversions directly to prep level stunts
• 1/2 twist mounts to extended single leg stunts
PYRAMIDS DIFFICULTY - Must Perform Skill at Least Once - Max Score: 15.0
A pyramid will be defined as stunt(s) connected to other stunt(s) OR ground level individual(s).
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
8.0-8.9
B
elow prep level
stunts braced on both or one side
9.0-9.9
P
rep level stunts
braced on both or one side
10.0-10.9
E
xtended two leg stunts
braced on both or one side
11.0-11.9
E
xtended single leg stunts
braced on both or one side
12.0-12.9
Release moves braced on both or one side that land in prep level or below stunts or land in load-in/sponge position
13.0 - 15.0
This point range will be awarded to teams performing the highest skill LEGALLY possible with consideration given to teams with 7 or less members
Must perform at least ONE of the following:
• Braced release moves to a cradle braced on one side
• Braced release moves to an upright body position braced on both or one side that land at the extended level
• 1/2 twist release moves braced on both sides that land in prep level or above stunts
• Extended single leg stunts braced to other extended two leg stunts
DISMOUNTS DIFFICULTY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 5.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
0.5-0.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following: • Bump
Downs
• Shove Wraps • Pop Offs
1.0-1.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Straight Ride Cradles from prep level or below stunts
• 1/4 Turn Cradles from prep level or below stunts
• Non-twisting Alternate Cradle (i.e. Toe Touch, Kick, Ball, Pike etc.)
2.0-2.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following: • Straight Ride Cradles from extended stunts • 1/4 Turn Cradles from extended stunts
3.0-3.9
Single twist cradles
from
prep level
two leg
stunts
4.0 - 5.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Single twist cradles
from extended
two leg
stunt
s • Single twist cradles
from prep
level
single leg stunts
• Two trick non-twisting cradles from Extension Prep
TUMBLING DIFFICULTY - By 1/4 of Team - Max Score: 5.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
0.5-0.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following: • Forward/Backward Rolls
• Handstands
1.0 - 1.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following: • Cartwheels • Round Offs
2.0 - 2.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following: • Front Walkovers • Back Walkovers
• Single Round Off Back Handspring
3.0 - 3.9
Must perform at least ONE of the following:
•
Standing
Single non-consecutive
Front/Back
Handsprings
• Front Walkover(s) through to single back handspring
• Running Handspring Series
4.0 - 5.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Standing Consecutive Handsprings Series • Advanced Jump(s) continuously to Back Handspring Series • Running Front Tuck
• Round Off Back Tucks • Side Aerials
• Round off Back Handspring Back Tuck
TOSSES DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 5.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
2.0
Straight Ride tosses
(i.e. Sponge, Basket, Squishy, or Scrunch) by LESS THAN majority of team
3.0
Straight Ride tosses
(i.e. Sponge, Basket, Squishy, or Scrunch) by majority of team
4.0
Single trick non-twisting tosses (i.e. kick, pike, tuck, toe touch) by LESS THAN majority of team
5.0
Single trick non-twisting tosses (i.e. kick, pike, tuck, toe touch) by majority of team
- GRID 2 OF 2 -
SCORING ELEMENTS & CRITERIA COMMENTS
MAX
POINTS
YOUR SCORE
Choreography
10
Performance of Routine and/or
Use of Cheer (if included)
10
Dance
9
Motions
10
Jumps Difficulty
10
Jumps Execution/Technique
1
Stunts Difficulty
15
Stunts Execution/Technique
1
Pyramids Difficulty
15
Pyramids Execution/Technique
1
Dismounts Difficulty
5
Dismounts Execution/Technique
1
Tumbling Difficulty
5
Tumbling Execution/Technique
1
Tosses Difficulty
5
Tosses Execution/Technique
1
General Comments:
SHOW CHEER LEVEL 3
MAX
TOTAL
YOUR TOTAL:
100
TEAM NAME: _____________________________________ DIVISION: _____________________________________
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
22
SHOW CHEER LEVEL 4 RULES GRID
RED.
STANDING & RUNNING
TUMBLING
Allowable Skills:
•
•
STUNTS
Allowable Skills:
•
•
INVERSIONS
Allowable Skills:
•
•
•
•
DISMOUNTS
Allowable Skills:
•
•
•
•
•
RELEASE
MOVES
Allowable Skills:
•
3) Returns to a stunt/load in.
•
TOSSES
Allowable Skills:
•
PYRAMIDS
Allowable Skills:
Pyramids must follow stunts, dismounts, inversions, and release moves rules and are allowed up to 2-high only, with the following allowances:
•
•
•
•
YCADA Show Cheer Level 4
CHOREOGRAPHY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - pace/flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
7.5 - 7.9
MODERATE - pace/flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
8.0 - 8.9
GOOD - pace and flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
9.0 - 10.0
EXCELLENT - pace and flow of routine, transitions, visual effects, level changes, roll offs, creativity, percent of team incorporation
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE AND/OR USE OF CHEER (IF INCLUDED) - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership,
confidence, crowd appeal
CHEER (if included): MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability
to lead crowd
7.5 - 7.9
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: MODERATE - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd
appeal
CHEER (if included): MODERATE/CONSISTENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice p
rojection/inflection, ability
to lead crowd
8.0 - 8.9
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: GOOD - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd
appeal
CHEER (if included): GOOD - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to lead crowd
9.0 - 10.0
PERFORMANCE OF ROUTINE: EXCELLENT - quality of presentation, synchronization, enthusiasm, showmanship, routine attitude/ownership, confidence, crowd
appeal
CHEER (if included): EXCELLENT - incorporation of cheer, crowd effective material/props, crowd leading skills, voice projection/inflection, ability to lead crowd
DANCE - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 9.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
6.0 - 6.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - dance technique and placement. Lacking sharpness and overall motion control. Low energy/slow paced. Lacking creativity/variety in
dance. Weak incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
6.5 - 6.9
MODERATE - dance technique and placement. Moderate motion strength and sharpness in dance. Moderate energy/pace. Moderate creativity/variety in
dance. Moderate incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
7.0 - 7.9
GOOD - dance technique and placement. Good motion strength and sharpness in dance. Good energy/pace. Good creativity/variety in dance. Good
incorporation of dance visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
8.0 - 9.0
EXCELLENT - dance technique and placement. Strong sharp dance. Excellent energy/pace. Excellent creativity/variety in dance. Excellent incorporation of dance
visuals, transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork
MOTIONS - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 10.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
7.0 - 7.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - motion technique. Lacking sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Lacking variety with minimal to zero transitions
and level changes.
7.5 - 7.9
MODERATE - motion technique. Moderate sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Moderate variety with minimal transitions and level changes.
8.0 - 8.9
GOOD - motion technique. Good sharpness and controlled placement, pace and energy. Included variety and visuals with some transitions and level changes.
9.0 - 10.0
EXCELLENT - motion technique. Strong and sharp motions with excellent, controlled placement, pace and energy. Excellent variety and visuals with multiple
transitions and level changes.
SKILL CATEGORIES TECHNIQUE/EXECUTION - Max Score: 1.0 (APPLY TO ALL CATEGORIES BELOW & ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE)
0.0
Zero skills performed
0.1 - 0.2
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT
0.3 - 0.4
MODERATE
0.5 - 0.7
GOOD
0.8 - 1.0
EXCELLENT
JUMPS DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 10.0
Advanced jumps include: Right Herkie, Left Herkie, Right Front Hurdler, Left Front Hurdler, Right Side Hurdler, Left Side Hurdler, Toe Touch, Pike, Double Nine
Basic Jumps include: pencil jump, tuck jump, spread eagle/X jump
Consecutive connected jumps will be defined as two or more jump(s) following continuously in an unbroken sequence.
Variety will be defined as 2 or more different jumps.
0.0
Zero skills performed
6.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• B
asic jump
(
s
) • 1 advanced jump • 2 synchronized non-consecutive advanced jumps by LESS THAN majority of team
7.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• 2 synchronized non-consecutive advanced jumps by majority of team
8.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• 2 synchronized consecutive connected advanced jumps by LESS THAN majority of team, PLUS one additional advanced jump
9.0
Must perform at least ONE of the following by majority of team:
• 2 or 3 synchronized consecutive connected advanced jumps with NO VARIETY
• 2 synchronized consecutive connected advanced jumps with NO VARIETY by majority of team, PLUS one additional advanced jump by MAJORITY of team.
10.0
2 synchronized consecutive connected advanced jumps WITH VARIETY by majority of team, PLUS one additional advanced jump by MAJORITY of team. (Variety
MUST be in the connected jumps).
- GRID 1 OF 2 -
YCADA Show Cheer Level 4
STUNTS DIFFICULTY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 15.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
8.0 - 8.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Below prep level single leg stunt(s) (i.e. Liberty, Torch, Stretch(s), Arabesque, Scorpion, Scale - multiple variations encouraged)
9.0 - 9.9
Must perform
ONE
of the following: • Prep level two leg stunts • Ground level inversions to below prep level
10.0 - 10.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Downward/Exit Inversions • 1/4 twist mounts to prep level stunts • 1/4 twist mounts to extended level stunts • 1/2 twist Superman
transitions
11.0 - 11.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Extended two leg stunts • 1/2 twist mounts/transitions to prep/extended level stunts
• Forward Suspended Rolls • Inversion to prep Level 2 leg stunts
12.0 - 12.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Extended single leg stunt(s) (i.e. Liberty, Torch, Stretch(s), Arabesque, Scorpion, Scale -
multiple variations encouraged)
• Full twist stunts/transitions
to prep level stunts
• Forward Flipping Leap F
rogs
• Full twist Superman transitions
• Inversion to prep level 1 leg stunts
13.0-15.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Full twist stunts/transitions to extended level stunt
• Ground level inversions directly to extended level stunt
• Twisting Stunts to prep level greater than one full twist
• Release moves to extended level (Tic Tocs, Switch Ups, Ball Ups, etc.)
PYRAMIDS DIFFICULTY - Must Perform Skill at Least Once - Max Score: 15.0
A pyramid will be defined as stunt(s) connected to other stunt(s) OR ground level individual(s).
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
8.0 - 8.9
Pyramids involving prep level stunts or lower
9.0 - 9.9
Pyramids involving extended two leg stunts
10.0 - 10.9
Pyramids involving extended single leg stunts braced on both sides
11.0 - 11.9
Pyramids involving extended single leg stunts braced on only one side
12.0 - 12.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Pyramids involving Tic-Tocs
braced on BOTH sides
• Braced inversion transitions (Flat Back, Roll Up) that roll up directly to Prep
• Braced Roll to cradle position
• Single leg extended stunts braced to other two leg extended stunts
13.0 - 15.0
This point range will be awarded to teams performing the highest skill LEGALLY possible with consideration given to teams with 5 or less members.
Must perform at least ONE
of the following:
•Non-released Full Twist to Extended Level • Release moves braced on ONE side to cradle
• Twisting release moves greater than half twist • Braced inversion transitions (Flat Back, Roll Up) that roll up directly to Extension
• Braced Flips braced on BOTH Sides
• Single leg extended stunts braced to other single leg extended stunts
DISMOUNTS DIFFICULTY - By MAJORITY of Team - Max Score: 5.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
0.5 -0.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following: • Bump
Downs • Shove Wraps • Pop Offs
1.0 - 1.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following: • Straight Ride cradles • 1/4 turn cradles
2.0 -2.9
Alternate non twisting cradles (i.e. Toe Touch, Pike Arch)
3.0 - 3.9
Single twist cradles from prep level single leg stunts or extended double leg stunts
4.0 - 5.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Non-twisting two trick cradles from Extension Prep
• Single twisting cradles from extended single leg stunts
• Two Trick Cradles that include a Single Twist from Prep Level
TUMBLING DIFFICULTY - By 1/4 of Team - Max Score: 5.0
0.0 - 0.0
Zero skills performed
0.5 - 0.9
Forward
/
Backward Rolls
,
Handstands
, Cartwheel or Round Off
1.0 - 1.4
Front/back
Walkovers
1.5 - 1.9
Single non-consecutive
Front/Back
Handsprings
2.0 - 2.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Front walkover through to single
Back Handspring • Consecutive Handspring Series • Jump(s) continuously to Back Handspring
3.0 - 3.9
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Running Tucks/Flips • Standing Handspring Back Tuck •
Side Aerial
• Jump(s) continuously to Back Handspring Series
4.0 - 5.0
Must perform at least
ONE
of the following:
• Jump Continuously to Back Handspring Back Tuck • Standing Tuck • Jump Continuously to Back Tuck • Pike • Layout • X-Out
• Front Aerial • Full Twist Flips
TOSSES DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 5.0
0.0
Zero skills performed
1.0
Straight Ride tosses by less than majority of tea
m
2.0
Straight Ride tosses
by majority of team
3.0
Single trick non-twisting tosses by majority of team (examples: kick, pike, tuck, toe touch)
4.0
Non-twisting two trick toss
by majority of team (examples: Pike-Star, Pretty Flyer-Kick)
5.0
Must perform at least ONE of the following by majority of team:
• Single twisting toss • Two trick toss that includes a single twist (example: Kick Full)
- GRID 2 OF 2 -
SCORING ELEMENTS & CRITERIA COMMENTS
MAX
POINTS
YOUR SCORE
Choreography
10
Performance of Routine and/or
Use of Cheer (if included)
10
Dance
9
Motions
10
Jumps Difficulty
10
Jumps Execution/Technique
1
Stunts Difficulty
15
Stunts Execution/Technique
1
Pyramids Difficulty
15
Pyramids Execution/Technique
1
Dismounts Difficulty
5
Dismounts Execution/Technique
1
Tumbling Difficulty
5
Tumbling Execution/Technique
1
Tosses Difficulty
5
Tosses Execution/Technique
1
General Comments:
SHOW CHEER LEVEL 4
MAX
TOTAL
YOUR TOTAL:
100
TEAM NAME: _____________________________________ DIVISION: _____________________________________
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
26
YOUTH CHEER PENALTY INFO
RULES PENALTIES:
1.5 POINTS
2.5 POINTS
EXECUTION PENALTIES:
TUMBLING
0.25 POINT
0.5 POINT
STUNT SKILLS*
STUNT BOBBLE 0.25 POINT
STUNT FALL 1.0 POINT
1.5 POINTS
*
BOUNDARY PENALTY:
0.5 POINT
TIME LIMIT PENALTIES:
1.0 POINT
2.0 POINTS
3.0 POINTS
RULES PENALTIES:
Deductions
Section # Deductions
Section # Deductions
EXECUTION PENALTIES:
Skill Category Deductions
Tumbling
Tumbling
Stunts
Stunts
Stunts
Major Falls on Stunt Skills:
_____________
x (1.5)
TOTAL POINTS DEDUCTED:
Falls on Tumbling Skills:
_____________
x (0.5)
Bobbles on Stunt Skills:
_____________
x (0.25)
Falls on Stunt Skills:
_____________
x (1.0)
_____________
x (2.5)
Deduction Description # of Occurrences x Penalty for Violation
Touch on Tumbling Skills:
_____________
x (0.25)
_____________
x (2.5)
_____________
x (2.5)
_____________
x (2.5)
_____________
x (1.5)
Cheer Levels Grid/Dance General Rules
Deduction Description # of Occurrences x Penalty for Violation
_____________
x (2.5)
_____________
x (1.5)
_____________
x (1.5)
_____________
x (1.5)
11+ seconds (3.0)
Cheer General Safety/Dance Routine Guidelines
Deduction Description # of Occurrences x Penalty for Violation
_____________
x (1.5)
OVERTIME
Total Time of Routine: _______________ 4-7 seconds (1.0)
8-10 seconds (2.0)
# of Occurrences x Penalty for Violation
Boundary Violation
_____________
x (0.5)
TEAM NAME: __________________________________________________________________________________________
CHEER & DANCE PENALTY/DEDUCTION SHEET
DIVISION: ________________________________________________________________ TEAM SIZE: S M L
CHEER CATEGORY: SC DANCE CATEGORY: DPM DHH DSTEP LEVEL: 1234
(circle one) (circle one) (circle one)
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
28
SCORE SYSTEM 411
YOUTH CHEER DIVISIONSYOUTH CHEER DIVISIONS
HOW IS A ROUTINE SCORED?...
THIS IS OUR FAVORITE PART!
WHAT ARE SCORING GRIDS AND CRITERIA?
SCORING GRIDS
SCORING CRITERIA
TUMBLING
JUMPS
PYRAMIDS = ONCE.
HOW ARE TOTAL SCORES CALCULATED?... !
For example:
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
29
COACH’S CHEAT SHEET
YOUTH CHEER DIVISIONSYOUTH CHEER DIVISIONS
HOW DO YOU USE YCADA SCORING GRIDS?...
1. FIND YOUR TEAM’S SCORING GRID.
Example:
2. LOOK AT EACH SKILL ELEMENT ON THE SCORING GRID.
may
Example 1:
MAJORITY
majority
MAJORITY
Example 2:
team members in order for a team to score in the corresponding scoring range
YOUTH LEVEL
1
- SHOW CHEER SCORING GUIDELINE
WHAT ARE JUDGES LOOKING FOR?...
HERE’S A QUICK CHECKLIST
Examples:
Pyramids containing pyramid transitions
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
30
COACH’S CHEAT SHEET
YOUTH CHEER DIVISIONSYOUTH CHEER DIVISIONS
• mustsame
• mustsame
• mustsame
•
# OF
ATHLETES
STANDING/RUNNING TUMBLING
JUMPS & MOTIONS
STUNTS
6 1 4 1
7 1 4 1
8 2 5 1
9 2 5 1
10 2 6 2
11 2 6 2
12 3 7 2
13 3 7 2
14 3 8 2
15 3 8 2
16 4 9 2
17 4 9 2
18 4 10 2
19 4 10 2
20 5 11 3
21 5 11 3
22 5 12 3
23 5 12 3
24 6 13 3
25 6 13 3
26 6 14 3
27 6 14 3
28 7 15 3
29 7 15 3
30 7 16 4
31 7 16 4
32 8 17 4
33 8 17 4
34 8 18 4
35 8 18 4
36 9 19 4
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
31
SCORING CRITERIA
YOUTH CHEER DIVISIONS YOUTH CHEER DIVISIONS
tory for your level of
SCORING CRITERIA FOR EACH POINT RANGE...
MAXIMIZE THESE TO SCORE THE MOST POINTS IN EACH SECTION!
STANDING/RUNNING TUMBLING DIFFICULTY:
STANDING/RUNNING TUMBLING EXECUTION/TECHNIQUE:
Landings
JUMPS EXECUTION/TECHNIQUE:
Landings
Arm movements
Pointed toes
Level of jumps
TOSS EXECUTION/TECHNIQUE:
STUNTS DIFFICULTY:
STUNTS EXECUTION/TECHNIQUE:
DISMOUNTS DIFFICULTY:
DISMOUNTS EXECUTION/TECHNIQUE:
PYRAMIDS DIFFICULTY:
PYRAMIDS EXECUTION/TECHNIQUE:
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
32
YOUTH CHEER GLOSSARY
REFERENCE GUIDE FOR SKILLS MENTIONED IN THE YOUTH CHEER LEVELS GRID & GENERAL SAFETY RULES.REFERENCE GUIDE FOR SKILLS MENTIONED IN THE YOUTH CHEER LEVELS GRID & GENERAL SAFETY RULES.
1/4 Turn Cradle:
1/4 Up (Stunt):
180 (Stunt):
360 (Stunt):
Aerial:
Airborne Tumbling Skill:
Alternate Cradles:
Alternate Flipping Body Positions (Tumbling):
Arabesque:
Arabian:
Back Handspring: See Handspring
Back Limber:
Back Limber to Back Walkover:
Back Spotter:
Back Walkover:
Ball Up:
Barrel Roll:
Base:
Basket Toss:
Bow N’ Arrow:
Brace/Bracer:
Braced Flip:
Braced Roll:
Building: See stunt
Bump Down:
Cartwheel:
Chair:
Consecutive Front/Back Handsprings: See Handspring series.
Continuous Connected Jumps:
Continuous Spotter:
Cradle: A released
GO TO VIDEO GLOSSARY
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
33
YOUTH CHEER GLOSSARY
(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)
Cupie:
Dismount:
Dive Roll:
Downward Inversion:
Drop:
Eighteen Inches above Extended Arm /Level:
Extended Position:
Extension:
Extension Prep:
Extension Prep Hitch:
leg stunts.
Fallback: Also
Flat Back:
Flip (Tumbling):
Flip Body Positions:
Floorwork:
Flyer:
Footwork:
Forward Flipping Leap Frog:
Forward Roll:
Forward Suspended Roll:
Front Aerial:
Front Base (Spotter):
Front Handspring: See Handspring
Front Limber:
Front Tuck:
Front Walkover:
Full Twist:
Full Up:
GO TO VIDEO GLOSSARY
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
34
YOUTH CHEER GLOSSARY
(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)
Group Based Stunts:
Half:
Hand Support (Tumbling):
Hand/Arm Connection:
Handspring:
Handspring Series:
Handstand:
Handstand Fall to Bridge:
Heel Stretch:
Helicopter:
Horizontal T-Lift:
Inversion/Inverted: and
Inversion Entry:
Inversion Exit:
Jump:
Layout: (Tumbling):
Leap Frog:
Liberty:
Limber:
Load in:
New Base(s):
Nugget:
Original Base(s):
Partner Assisted Jumps:
standard style jump.
Partner Pick Up:
Pendulum:
Pike:
Pop:
Pop Off:
Post:
Power Press:
GO TO VIDEO GLOSSARY
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
35
YOUTH CHEER GLOSSARY
(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)
Prep:
Pretty Flyer:
Primary Support:
Prone Position:
Prop:
Pyramid:
Release Move:
Reload:
Round Off:
Running Tumbling:
Scale:
Scorpion:
Seated Position:
Shove Wrap:
Show and Go:
Shushunova:
Side Aerial:
Single Front/Back Handspring:
Single Based Stunt:
Single Leg Stunt:
Single Leg Stunt Variations:
Single Trick Non-Twisting Cradles:
Single Trick Non-Twisting Toss Skills:
Split Stunts
Sponge:
Sponge Toss: A toss
Spotter:
remain in the air.
Standing Tumbling:
Step Off the Front/Back:
GO TO VIDEO GLOSSARY
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
36
YOUTH CHEER GLOSSARY
(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)
Step Out (tumbling):
Handspring Stepout, Layout Step Out.
Stepping Stone Transition:
Straight Cradle:
Straight Ride:
Stunt:
Stunt Elevation/Stunt Building:
Stunt Height Levels
•
•
•
•
•
•
Stunt Transition:
Superman Transiton:
Supine:
Supporting Leg:
Suspended Roll:
Swedish Falls:
Swing Dance Stunts:
to side.
Swing Stunts:
Switch Up:
T-Lift:
Tension Roll/Drop:
Thigh Stand Level:
Tic Tock:
Toe/Leg Pitch:
Top Person:
Toss Stunts:
Transitional Stunt:
GO TO VIDEO GLOSSARY
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
37
YOUTH CHEER GLOSSARY
(CONTINUED)(CONTINUED)
Tuck (Tumbling):
Tumbling:
Turn:
Two High Pyramid:
Two and One Half (1/2) High Pyramid:
Twist Cradle(s):
Twist (stunt):
Upright:
V-Sit/V-Sit Variations:
Valdez:
Walkover:
Working Leg:
X-Out:
GO TO VIDEO GLOSSARY
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
38
YOUTH DANCE CATEGORIES
CATEGORY
New changes from last year’s packet are marked in RED.
POM:
(Time Limit: 2 min 30 sec)
• POM:
• JAZZ TECHNIQUE:
HIP HOP: (Time Limit: 2 min 30 sec)
• CHEER FUNK:
• POPPING:
• LOCKING:
music.
• BREAKING:
• KRUMPING:
• WAACKING:
•
• URBAN:
STEP: (Time Limit: 3 min)
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
39
YOUTH DANCE ROUTINE GUIDELINES
THE GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR DANCE ROUTINETHE GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR DANCE ROUTINE
RED.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f) Teams
(g)
(h)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
1.
2.
3.
4.
(k) Props
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
40
YOUTH DANCE GENERAL RULES
THE GENERAL SKILL REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR DANCE ROUTINETHE GENERAL SKILL REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR DANCE ROUTINE
RED.
1.
ALLOWED SKILLS:
Headsprings
Stalls Windmills
Handstands/Headstands Side Aerials
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
(
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
ROUTINE EXECUTION: OVERALL IMPRESSION - Max Score: 10.0
6.0 - 6.4 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Complete lack of energy, audience appeal, showmanship, confidence, or emotion.
6.5 - 6.9 FAIR - Little energy and showmanship. Routine lacks confidence and audience appeal. Emotion is not properly conveyed or does not feel authentic.
7.0 - 7.9 MODERATE - Moderate energy and showmanship. Basic audience appeal. Confidence and emotion are inconsistent throughout performance.
8.0 - 8.9 GOOD - Good energy and showmanship, audience appeal and consistent confidence from majority. Emotion is present in majority of dancers.
9.0 - 10.0
GREAT - Great energy and showmanship, engaging performance and audience appeal. Ownership of routine and confidence felt from the entire team. Emotion is
authentically conveyed from entire team.
CHOREOGRAPHY: CREATIVITY AND VARIETY - Max Score: 10.0
6.0 - 6.4 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Little to no variety in style. Choreography is without personality and creative movements.
6.5 - 6.9 FAIR - Lacks variety. Movements are repetitive and fall short of creativity.
7.0 - 7.9 MODERATE - Standard incorporation of creative choreography. Average variety displayed throughout routine
8.0 - 8.9 GOOD - Good variety in styles and movements. Choreography displays creativity.
9.0 - 10.0 GREAT - Great incorporation of variety, interpretation and variety in movements. Routine is creative and unique.
CHOREOGRAPHY: FORMATIONS - VARIETY, SPACING AND TRANSITIONS - Max Score: 12.0
7.0 - 7.9 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Little to no formation changes. Spacing off throughout routine. Lacking awareness of floor spacing. Transitions are chaotic and confusing
8.0 - 8.9 FAIR - Lacking in knowledge of routine spacing. Formations are short of variety. Transitions are sometimes chaotic and lack in variety.
9.0 - 9.9 MODERATE - Basic incorporation of formation changes. Standard transitions. Spacing is inconsistent throughout routine.
10.0 - 10.9 GOOD - Good use of various formations and floor space. Minor inconsistent spacing issues. Majority of transitions smooth with some creativity displayed.
11.0 - 12.0
GREAT - Creative and seamless transitions between formation changes. Great use of the floor with proper spacing. Great variety in formations. Formations and
transitions enhance overall visuals.
POM: VISUAL EFFECT - Max Score: 12.0
7.0 - 7.9 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Complete lack in visual appeal. No incorporation of level changes, ground work, roll-offs etc.
8.0 - 8.9 FAIR - Few level changes, ground work and roll-offs. Routine lacks visual appeal.
9.0 - 9.9 MODERATE - Standard incorporation of visual effects. Moderate use of roll-offs, level changes and/or ground work.
10.0 - 10.9 GOOD - Good incorporation of visual movements throughout majority of routine. Level changes, ground work and/or roll-offs add to the visual appeal of routine
11.0 - 12.0
GREAT - Great visual effects and variety of level changes incorporated. Creative incorporation of ground work and/or roll-offs. Routine is visually appealing throughout
performance.
POM: SYNCHRONIZATION - Max Score: 12.0
7.0 - 7.9 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Entire performance lacks proper timing and knowledge of routine synchronization
8.0 - 8.9 FAIR - Lacks knowledge of routine timing. Synchronization is off throughout majority of performance and makes it difficult to visually understand routine movements.
9.0 - 9.9
MODERATE - Average timing displayed throughout routine. Standard synchronization maintained. Areas of routine lack team uniformity and knowledge of proper
counts.
10.0 - 10.9
GOOD - Good understanding and knowledge of proper timing and routine counts. Proper synchronization maintained throughout majority of routine. Minor timing
errors.
11.0 - 12.0 GREAT - Great synchronization and timing. Uniformity and timing maintained throughout entire routine.
POM: MOTION TECHNIQUE - PLACEMENT - Max Score: 12.0
7.0 - 7.9 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Lacks complete knowledge of proper motion placement and technique
8.0 - 8.9 FAIR - Motions lack proper placement. Motions and movements not clear throughout routine
9.0 - 9.9
MODERATE - Average understanding of proper motion placement. Standard knowledge of placement maintained periodically throughout routine but inconsistent at
times.
10.0 - 10.9 GOOD - Good motion technique. Majority of routine executed with proper placement of motions.
11.0 - 12.0 GREAT - Great motion technique. Movements and motions are executed with proper placement throughout entire routine
POM: MOTION TECHNIQUE - SHARPNESS - Max Score: 12.0
7.0 - 7.9
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Motions are executed without strength and proper technique. Slow paced, drawn out lengthy sections are executed throughout entire
routine
8.0 - 8.9 FAIR - Motions do not maintain proper strength and technique. Lacking sharpness and control throughout majority of routine.
9.0 - 9.9 MODERATE - Basic technique performed at a moderate pace. Areas of routine lacking in motion strength
10.0 - 10.9 GOOD - Good technique and control. Sharp motions performed at a good pace. Majority of motion sequences include strength
11.0 - 12.0 GREAT - Great motion technique and placement. Strong sharp motions are consistently being executed throughout entire routine.
JAZZ: INCORPORATION OF JAZZ TECHNIQUE/PERFORMANCE SKILLS - Max Score: 5.0
2.5 - 2.9 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Little to no incorporation of skills. Minimal team participation in jazz technique throughout routine. Little to no variety in jazz skill
3.0 - 3.9 MODERATE - Moderate jazz skills/technique incorporated within routine. Jazz skills lack variety. Minimal team participation.
4.0 - 5.0 GREAT - Great incorporation of technique. Routine includes solid combinations. Great variety and team participation.
JAZZ: EXECUTION OF JAZZ TECHNIQUE - Max Score: 5.0
2.5 - 2.9 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Lacking proper technical execution. Poor body placement. Skills are too rushed/too slow and not being performed at proper pace
3.0 - 3.9
MODERATE - Basic knowledge of proper technique and execution. Few issues with incorrect body placement and timing of skills. Standard skills with some being
performed at improper pace (too fast/too slow).
4.0 - 5.0 GREAT - Great execution and presentation. Minor timing errors. Great body placement/extensions. Appropriately paced jazz skills executed properly by majority.
ROUTINE DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 10.0
6.0 - 6.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Routine difficulty level is too easy/too hard and causes confusion throughout routine. Routine displays a complete lack in knowledge of
proper difficulty level.
6.5 - 6.9
FAIR - Routine difficulty is not apparent throughout the routine. Routine difficulty is minimal or above team ability. Routine lacks dance technique and challenging
choreography. Majority of routine not executed properly.
7.0 - 7.9
MODERATE - Routine difficulty is age appropriate. Average emphasis on technical skills and choreography. Need to focus on proper execution of routine. Standard
incorporation of difficulty.
8.0 - 8.9
GOOD - Good difficulty level and incorporation of challenging movements and technical dance skills . Routine difficulty level is age appropriate yet challenging. Majority
of team executing routine correctly.
9.0 - 10.0
GREAT - High level of routine difficulty including challenging choreography, innovative movements and technical dance skills. Technique and choreography executed
properly throughout routine. Difficulty level keeps audience engaged and performance exciting.
YCADA Dance - Pom
- GRID 1 OF 1 -
SCORINGELEMENTS&CRITERIA COMMENTS
MAX
POINTS
YOURSCORE
RoutineExecution‐OverallImpression
10
Choreography‐Creativity&Variety
10
Choreography‐Formations‐
Variety,Spacing&Transitions
12
Pom‐VisualEffect
12
Pom‐Synchronization
12
Pom‐MotionTechnique‐Placement
12
Pom‐MotionTechnique‐Sharpness
12
Jazz‐IncorporationofJazz
Technique/PerformanceSkills
5
Jazz‐ExecutionofJazzTechnique
5
RoutineDegreeofDifficulty
10
GeneralComments:
DANCE‐POM
100
MAX
TOTAL
YOURTOTAL:
TEAMNAME:_____________________________________DIVISION:_____________________________________
ROUTINE EXECUTION: OVERALL IMPRESSION - Max Score: 5.0
2.5 - 2.9
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Little energy and showmanship. Routine flow and presentation is inconsistent. Routine short of proper execution and lacks confidence and
audience appeal.
3.0 - 3.9 MODERATE - Average presentation of routine. Performance is standard and lacks energy throughout. Standard routine execution.
4.0 - 5.0
GREAT - Great entertainment value, crowd appeal, energy and presentation. Routine performed with great execution, consistent confidence from majority and great
flow throughout.
ROUTINE EXECUTION: TEAM UNIFORMITY - Max Score: 10.0
6.0 - 6.4
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Lacks team uniformity and synchronization. Major timing errors throughout the entire routine. Team is unsure of choreography and
timing. Routine personality lost.
6.5 - 6.9 FAIR - Lacking in uniformity and synchronization. Team is not working as one to convey choreography to audience. Many timing errors throughout the routine.
7.0 - 7.9 MODERATE - Moderate team uniformity and synchronization. Timing errors throughout routine.
8.0 - 8.9 GOOD - Good team synchronization and uniformity. Minimal timing errors.
9.0 - 10.0 GREAT - Great team synchronization and team uniformity. Very clean and precise throughout. Team moves as one for majority of performance.
CHOREOGRAPHY: CREATIVITY AND VARIETY - Max Score: 10.0
6.0 - 6.4 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Complete lack of personality and innovative movements. Little to no creativity and variety throughout entire routine choreography.
6.5 - 6.9 FAIR - Lacks creative style throughout majority of routine. Movements are repetitive and personality is lost.
7.0 - 7.9 MODERATE - Average creativity displayed throughout routine. Choreography lacks innovative style and displays minor variety in movements.
8.0 - 8.9 GOOD - Good display of creative choreography. Routine holds personality and varied movements throughout majority of routine.
9.0 - 10.0 GREAT - Great incorporation of creative choreography. Routine created with a unique and clever style. Personality and diversity maintained throughout entire
CHOREOGRAPHY: FORMATIONS - VARIETY, SPACING AND TRANSITIONS - Max Score: 10.0
6.0 - 6.4 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Little to no formation changes. Spacing off throughout routine. Lacking awareness of floor spacing. Transitions are chaotic and confusing.
6.5 - 6.9 FAIR - Lacking in knowledge of routine spacing. Formations are short of variety. Transitions are chaotic and/or repetitive.
7.0 - 7.9 MODERATE - Basic incorporation of formation changes. Standard transitions. Spacing is inconsistent throughout routine.
8.0 - 8.9 GOOD - Good use of various formations and floor space. Minor inconsistent spacing issues. Majority of transitions smooth
9.0 - 10.0 GREAT - Tricky/creative transitions between formation changes. Great use of the floor with proper spacing and variety in formations.
CHOREOGRAPHY: VISUAL EFFECT - Max Score: 5.0
2.5 - 2.9 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Little to no visually appealing choreography incorporated. Routine lacks level changes, roll-offs, group work, etc.
3.0 - 3.9 MODERATE - Moderate visual effects. Routine incorporates basic levels, roll-offs, group work, etc. Standard visual appeal.
4.0 - 5.0
GREAT - Great incorporation of visual movements, amount of level changes, roll-offs, group work, etc. Routine contains sections that are visually appealing and
entertaining.
CHOREOGRAPHY: DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 12.0
7.0 - 7.9
MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Routine difficulty level is too easy/too hard and causes confusion throughout routine. Displays a complete lack in knowledge of proper
difficulty level.
8.0 - 8.9 FAIR - Minimal difficulty displayed throughout performance. Athletic elements are not present.
9.0 - 9.9
MODERATE - Standard level of difficulty in movements and choreography. Difficulty level maintained thorughout majority of choreography. Athleticism is
inconsistent throughout performance.
10.0 - 10.9
GOOD - Good difficulty level and incorporation of challenging movements. Difficulty level is age appropriate yet challenging. Athleticsm is present through majority of
performance.
11.0 - 12.0
GREAT - Great level of routine difficulty including intricate and innovative movements. Challenging choreography and athletic skills maintained throughout entire
routine. Difficulty level keeps audience engaged and performance exciting.
HIP HOP FUNDAMENTALS: INTERPRETATION OF HIP HOP STYLES - Max Score: 12.0
7.0 - 7.9 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Little to no understanding of hip hop styles. Poor interpretation and knowledge of movements.
8.0 - 8.9 FAIR - Lacks knowledge of basic hip hop styles and is not properly conveying styles present in routine.
9.0 - 9.9 MODERATE - Average understanding of hip hop styles. Interpretation is inconsistently executed.
10.0 - 10.9 GOOD - Good awareness and interpretation of hip hop styles. Styles are clear and properly conveyed for majority of routine.
11.0 - 12.0
GREAT - Great knowledge and interpretation of hip hop styles. Team demonstrates total comprehension of all styles incorporated and clearly conveys each style for
entire routine.
HIP HOP FUNDAMENTALS: INCORPORATION OF HIP HOP STYLES - Max Score: 12.0
7.0 - 7.9 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Little to no diversity or style variety incorporated.
8.0 - 8.9 FAIR - Minimal style variety present. Routine style is largely repetitive.
9.0 - 9.9 MODERATE - Basic incorporation of style variety throughout routine. Movements are somewhat repetitive and lack in diversity.
10.0 - 10.9 GOOD - Good variety in styles. Diversity and variety maintained throughout majority of routine.
11.0 - 12.0 GREAT - Great variety in styles and movement. Routine incorporates diversity and demands attention through entire performance.
HIP HOP FUNDAMENTALS: EXECUTION OF HIP HOP STYLES - Max Score: 12.0
7.0 - 7.9 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Majority of routine is executed improperly. Hip hop styles are lost throughout routine.
8.0 - 8.9 FAIR - Routine lacks proper execution of hip hop styles throughout performance. Majority of team lacking body control, intensity, and basic rhythm
9.0 - 9.9 MODERATE - Standard rhythm and body control demonstrated. Hip hop styles and movements are inconsistently executed throughout
10.0 - 10.9
GOOD - Good body control and rhythm demonstrated throughout routine. Most movements and styles are executed properly and with strength and intensity by
majority
11.0 - 12.0
GREAT - Great execution of all incorporated movements. Variety of styles executed with strength, emotion and personality. Moves contain body control and natural
rhythm.
HIP HOP FUNDAMENTALS: MUSICALITY/RHYTHM/BODY ISOLATION - Max Score: 12.0
7.0 - 7.9 MINIMAL/INCONSISTENT - Routine displays no musicality, natural rhythm and/or body isolations.
8.0 - 8.9 FAIR - Minimal musicality and body isolations present throughout routine. Majority of team lacking basic rhythm.
9.0 - 9.9 MODERATE - Standard rhythm demonstrated. Basic level of musicality and body isolations demonstrated.
10.0 - 10.9 GOOD - Good natural rhythm demonstrated throughout routine. Musicality is present throughout routine and body isolations are appropriately utilized.
11.0 - 12.0
GREAT - Great demonstration of natural rhythm and musicality. Moves display intricacy in relation to the music and choreo and body isolations maintain routine
fluidity throughout.
YCADA Dance - Hip Hop
- GRID 1 OF 1 -
SCORINGELEMENTS&CRITERIA COMMENTS
MAX
POINTS
YOURSCORE
RoutineExecution‐OverallImpression
5
RoutineExecution‐TeamUniformity
10
Choreography‐Creativity&Variety
10
Choreography‐Formations‐
Va
riety,Spacing&Transitions
10
Choreography‐VisualEffect
5
Choreography‐Difficulty
12
HipHopFundamentals‐
InterpretationofH ipHopStyles
12
HipHopFundamentals‐
In
corporationofHipHopStyles
12
HipHopFundamentals‐
E
xecutionofHipHopStyles
12
HipHopFundamentals‐
Mu
sicality/Rhythm/BodyIsolation
12
GeneralComments:
DANCE‐HIP‐HOP
MAX
TOTAL
YOURTOTAL:
100
TEAMNAME:_____________________________________DIVISION:_____________________________________
INTRODUCTION & EXIT - Max Score: 10.0
6.0 - 6.9
Below average of step beginning and ending. Unclear of when the routine begins or ends throughout routine. Below average concept interpretation. Unclear of
concept. Below average meaning and storyline portrayed to audience. Unclear of concept meaning.
7.0 - 7.9
Average clarification of step beginning and ending at times throughout routine. At times uncertain of ending point or direction routine is evolving into. Average
concept interpretation. Unclear of the concept, meaning and storyline portrayed to audience at times throughout the routine.
8.0 - 8.9
Good clarification of step beginning and ending. For majority of routine. Uncertain at times of ending point. Good theme interpretation. Clear understanding, meaning
and storyline portrayed to audience for majority of routine.
9.0 - 10.0 Excellent clarification of step beginning and ending. Excellent concept interpretation. Excellent meaning and storyline portrayed to audience.
APPEARANCE, UNIFORMS AND COSTUMES/PROPS - Max Score: 10.0
6.0 - 6.9
No use of props. Below average costume selection. Standard costume selection very basic. Costumes does not coincide with concept portrayed to the audience. Issues
with costumes; ex. to small, excessive skin showing, undergarments revealed etc.
7.0 - 7.9
Some use of props. Standard costume selection. Costumes convey concept portrayed to the audience, but is a basic costume. Costumes are in good taste, not very
creative but meet standards with minimal costume issues.
8.0 - 8.9
Good incorporation of props throughout majority of routine. Good costume selection. Costumes convey concept portrayed to the audience throughout majority of
routine. Costumes are in good taste and creative but meet standards.
9.0 - 10.0
Excellent incorporation of props within routine. Excellent costume selection. Costumes covey the concept portrayed to the audience. Costumes are in good taste and
are outside the box, very creative but meet standard requirements.
ORIGINALITY & CREATIVITY - Max Score: 10.0
6.0 - 6.9 Team lacking in knowledge of routine spacing. Formations are short of variety. Transitions are chaotic and/or repetitive.
7.0 - 7.9 Basic incorporation of formation changes. Standard transitions. Spacing is inconsistent throughout routine.
8.0 - 8.9 Good use of various formations and floor space. Minor inconsistent spacing issues. Majority of transitions smooth
9.0 - 10.0 Tricky/creative transitions between formation changes. Great use of the floor with proper spacing. Great variety in formations.
ROUTINE EXECUTION & DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY - Max Score: 10.0
5.0-5.9 Routine execution is inconsistent. Performance lacks energy and audience appeal. Displays no showmanship or confidence. Flow of routine is lost.
6.0-6.9 Little energy and showmanship. Routine flow and presentation is inconsistent. Routine short of proper execution, lacks confidence and audience appeal.
7.0-7.9 Average presentation of routine. Performance is standard and lacks energy throughout. Standard routine execution.
8.0-8.9
Nice entertainment value and crowd appeal. Good energy and presentation. Routine performed with good execution and consistent confidence from majority. Routine
carries good flow throughout.
9.0-10.0
High level of routine difficulty including challenging choreography, innovative movements and technical dance skills. Technique and choreography executed properly
throughout routine. Difficulty level keeps audience engaged and performance exciting.
OVERALL PERFORMANCE - Max Score: 10.0
6.0-6.9
Below average effectiveness. Unable to create positive and memorable moments throughout routine. Below average innovative, visual, unique, intricate ideas
incorporated through step. Below average concept selection and costumes that are age appropriate and coincide with the routine.
7.0-7.9
Average effectiveness in performing a memorable performance creating positive and memorable moment at times. Average innovative, visual, unique, intricate ideas
incorporated through step. Average concept selection and costumes that are age appropriate and coincide with the routine at times.
8.0-8.9
Effective in performing a memorable performance creating positive and memorable moment throughout the majority of the routine. Good innovative, visual, unique,
intricate ideas incorporated through step. Good concept selection and costumes that are age appropriate and coincide with the majority of the routine.
9.0-10.0
Very effective in performing a memorable performance leaving a lasting impression. Excellent innovative, visual, unique, intricate ideas incorporated through step.
Excellent concept selection and costumes that are age appropriate and coincide with overall routine concept.
SYNCHRONIZATION/PRECISION - Max Score: 15.0
11.0-11.9 Below average uniformity amongst steppers. Voices, movements, sounds and steps are not in sync throughout entire routine. Timing is off throughout routine.
12.0-12.9
Average uniformity amongst steppers. Voices, movements, sounds and steps are in unison with some synchronization errors throughout routine. Timing is off for a
portion of the routine.
13.0-13.9
Good uniformity amongst steppers. Voices, movements, sounds and steps are in unison with minimal synchronization errors throughout routine. Minimal to no timing
issues.
14.0-15.0
Excellent uniformity amongst Steppers. Voices, movements, sounds and steps are in unison with minor to no synchronization errors throughout routine. Timing is on
point for all aspects of the routine.
SHOWMANSHIP - Max Score: 10.0
6.0-6.9
Below average passion and zeal for routine displayed. Athletes are not engaged or confident in routine. Low energy maintained throughout routine with burst of
energy at times. Did not capture the crowd’s attention and create excitement throughout routine.
7.0-7.9
Average passion and zeal for routine displayed at times during routine. Athletes are engaged in routine and confident at times within routine. Average energy
maintained. Captured crowd’s attention and created excitement at times throughout routine.
8.0-8.9
Good passion and zeal for routine displayed through majority of team. Athletes are engaged in routine and confident throughout majority of routine. Excellent energy
maintained throughout majority of routine. Captured crowd’s attention and created excitement for most of the routine.
9.0-10.0
Excellent passion and zeal for routine displayed through each athlete. Athletes are engaged in routine and confident throughout routine. Excellent consistent energy
maintained. Captured crowd’s attention and created excitement.
VOICE CLARITY - Max Score: 10.0
6.0 - 6.9 Below average projection of voices. Volume is low and pace is too fast or too slow throughout routine. Hard time understanding what is being said.
7.0 - 7.9 Average projection of voices. Average volume is utilized and voices are clear at times. Average pace. Words and phrases can be clearly and easily understood at times.
8.0 - 8.9
Good projection of voices. Voices are loud and clear throughout routine. Good pace. Words and phrases can be clearly and easily understood through most of the
routine.
9.0 - 10.0 Excellent projection of voices. Voices are loud and clear throughout routine. Words and phrases can be clearly and easily understood.
TRANSITIONS - Max Score: 15.0
11.0-11.9 Major issues during transitions (excessive travel; bumping) Minimal incorporation of skills during transition.
12.0-12.9 Some issues during transitions (excessive travel; bumping) Average incorporation of skills during transition.
13.0-13.9 Minor issues during transitions. Good coordination among all elements of the routine.
14.0-15.0
Clean, complicated, creative and seamless transitions. Excellent incorporation of skills during transitions. Uncluttered changes between segments. Strong coordination
among all elements of the routine.
YCADA Dance - Step
- GRID 1 OF 1 -
SCORING ELEMENTS & CRITERIA COMMENTS
MAX
POINTS
YOUR SCORE
Introduction & Exit
10
Appearance, Uniforms & Costumes/Props
10
Originality & Creativity
10
Routine Execution & Degree of Difficulty
10
Overall Performance
10
Synchronization/Precision
15
Showmanship
10
Voice Clarity
10
Transitions
15
General Comments:
DANCE - STEP
MAX
TOTAL
YOUR TOTAL:
100
TEAM NAME: _____________________________________ DIVISION: _____________________________________
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
47
YOUTH DANCE PENALTY INFO
PROTECTING INTEGRITY AND PERFECTION OF ROUTINE EXECUTION.PROTECTING INTEGRITY AND PERFECTION OF ROUTINE EXECUTION.
New changes from last year’s packet are marked in RED.
RULES PENALTIES:
1.5 POINTS
2.5 POINTS
TIME LIMIT PENALTIES:
1.0 POINTS
2.0 POINTS
3.0 POINTS
INAPPROPRIATE MUSIC/CHOREOGRAPHY:
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
48
SCORE SYSTEM 411
YOUTH DANCE DIVISIONSYOUTH DANCE DIVISIONS
-
HOW IS A ROUTINE SCORED?... THIS IS OUR FAVORITE PART!
-
ample, a Hip HopHip Hop
concept Hip Hop
-
WHAT ARE SCORING GRIDS?
SCORING GRIDS may
HOW ARE TOTAL SCORES CALCULATED?...
For example:
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
49
COACH’S CHEAT SHEET
YOUTH DANCE DIVISIONSYOUTH DANCE DIVISIONS
HOW DO YOU USE YCADA SCORING GRIDS?...
1. FIND YOUR TEAM’S SCORING GRID.
Example:
2. LOOK AT EACH ELEMENT ON THE SCORING GRID.
•
Your
your
majority
•Scoring Example:
WHAT ARE JUDGES LOOKING FOR?... HERE’S A QUICK CHECKLIST
Examples:
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
50
DANCE GLOSSARY
REFERENCE GUIDE FOR ALL SKILLS MENTIONED IN THE GENERAL SAFETY RULES.
Aerial: See Side Aerial
Airborne:
A la Seconde Turns (Turns in Second):
Arabesque (air-u-besk):
Attitude:
Axle:
Back Walkover:
Backward Roll:
Break Dancing:
performance surface.
Calypso:
Cartwheel:
Chainé Turns (sha-nay):
repeat.
Chassé (sha-say):
Chorus Line Flips:
.
Dance Lifts:
Elevated:
Elevated Dancer:
Flying Squirrel:
Fouetté Turns (fweh-tay):
Forward Roll:
Front Heel Stretch:
Front Walkover:
Front Leap/Grand Jeté (Leap):
Hand/Arm Contact:
Handstand:
Head Spin:
Headspring:
GO TO VIDEO GLOSSARY
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
51
DANCE GLOSSARY
(CONTINUED)
Headstand:
Heel Stretch:
Hip Over Head Rotation:
Inverted:
Jump:
feet and legs.
Kick and Hold:
Kip Up:
Krumping:
Lift/Partner Lift:
Lifting Dancer:
Liquid Dancing:
Partner Lift:
Passé (pah-say):
Piqué Turns (pee-kay):
Pirouette Turns (pir-o-et):
Plié (plee-ay):
Pony Sit:
Pop & Lock:
Prop:
Pyramid: A grouping of connected stunts.
Relevé (reh-la-vay):
Round Off:
Scale:
Shoulder Roll:
Shoulder Sit:
Side Leap/Jeté a la Seconde: -
Side Aerial:
Spotting:
Stall:
GO TO VIDEO GLOSSARY
2023-2024
(VALID UNTIL 5/31/2024)
Copyright © 2023 YCADA - Youth Cheer & Dance Alliance. All rights reserved.
www.ycada.org |
REVISED 4/30/23
52
DANCE GLOSSARY
(CONTINUED)
Standing Prop:
Street Dancing:
Supporting Dancer:
Switch Leap:
Switch Second:
Thigh Stand:
Trick:
Tumbling:
Turning Kick and Hold:
Turning Switch:
Whack Back
Weight Bearing:
Windmill:
GO TO VIDEO GLOSSARY
