Alberta Cheerleading Association School Cheer Rule Book 2016 - 2017
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Competition Policy ....................................................................................................................................... 2
Section 1: General ..................................................................................................................................... 2
Section 2: Routine Stoppage Policy........................................................................................................... 4
School Team Division & General Rules ........................................................................................................ 6
Section 1: Divisions ................................................................................................................................... 6
Section 2: Routine Parameters ................................................................................................................. 7
Section 3: Game Day Routine Parameters ................................................................................................ 7
Section 4: General Safety Rules ................................................................................................................ 8
Section 5: Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association (ASAA)......................................................................... 10
Section 6: Eligibility ................................................................................................................................. 11
Section 7: Rule Infraction Policy ............................................................................................................. 12
Definitions .................................................................................................................................................. 13
School Cheer Rules by Level ....................................................................................................................... 18
Elementary Level 1 .................................................................................................................................. 18
Elementary Level 2/Junior High Level 1 .................................................................................................. 22
Junior High Level 2/Senior High Level 1 .................................................................................................. 30
Junior High Level 3/Senior High Level 2 & Coed ..................................................................................... 39
Alberta Cheerleading Association School Cheer Rule Book 2016 - 2017
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COMPETITION POLICY
SECTION 1- GENERAL
1. The Alberta Cheerleading Association (ACA) rules and regulations will stand for one
competitive season (September 1 to April 30). At the conclusion of each season, the
ACA Technical Coordinator will contact the National Federation of State High School
Associations (NFHS) to determine what, if any changes have been made to their policies
for the upcoming season. The ACA Judging and School Committees will make the
necessary amendments to the manual and provide this information to the ACA
membership.
2. In order to be judged at an ACA-sanctioned event, a team must purchase an ACA
membership.
a. Memberships must be purchased by November 15th of each year in order to
compete that season (the following December – April). Late memberships can
be purchased for double the regular membership fee no later than February
15th. Membership forms are available at www.albertacheerleading.ca.
NOTE: This does not apply to teams from outside of Alberta.
3. A school team must have a School Board employee or School Board designate, 19years or older, designated as the Coach/Advisor who will:
a. Accompany the team to all ACA-sanctioned events.
b. Sign all registration forms and sign in at all ACA-sanctioned events.
NOTE: The School Board designate must declare during registration that he/she has
permission from the Principal or Athletic Director to take sole responsibility for the team’s
activities.
4. All Cheer teams must be accompanied by a cheerleading coach, holding an ACA
Coaching Certification at the level in which the team is performing, and be certified in
the following:
a. ACA Cheerleading Coaching Certification – up to the level they are coaching
b. First Aid and CPR
c. Respect in Sport
d. ASAA Coaching Fundamentals
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NOTE: The ASAA Concussion Course is required for all High School cheer coaches by the
Alberta Schools’ Athletics Association (ASAA). The ASAA Bylaws Course is required by the
ASAA to be taken by the Head Coach for every High School cheer team.
NOTE: A copy of certification documents must be submitted to the ACA by November
15th of that year with the Membership Form. Failure to do so will result in that team
being unable to compete at ACA-sanctioned events for the season.
5. All Pom/Dance teams must be accompanied by a Pom/Dance coach, holding an ACA
Coaching Certification at the level in which the team is performing, and be certified in
the following:
a. ACA Coaches Pom/Dance Certification
b. First Aid and CPR
c. Respect in Sport
d. ASAA Coaching Fundamentals
NOTE: A copy of the certification documents must be submitted to the ACA by
November 15th of that year with the Membership Form. Failure to do so will result in
that team being unable to compete at ACA-sanctioned events for the season.
6. Coaches should be familiar with the ACA Code of Conduct/Ethics Policy. Coaches who
violate this policy may:
a. Receive a warning letter from the ACA, a copy of which will be sent to the School
Principal and the ASAA.
b. Be required to appear before an Ethics Committee comprised of the ACA
President, the ACA Technical Coordinator and a certified teacher if a school team
is involved, to determine an appropriate course of action.
7. School teams, including those traveling to Alberta for competition and those that are
performance only, must follow ACA rules, divisions, and policies.
8. Teams are not permitted to change divisions for competitions after the order of
performance draw has been distributed/published.
9. At the discretion of the Event Producer, registration fees may or may not be refunded
if a team withdraws from an event. In addition, a penalty may be assessed for
withdrawing from events after the registration deadline.
10. Teams traveling to Alberta from out of province must provide proof of insurance to
the ACA. This document must be submitted to the ACA with the event registration
documents.
NOTE: Failure to do so will result in that team being unable to compete at ACAsanctioned events for the season.
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11. All school teams must wear uniforms which cover the athletes’ midriffs when standing
at attention. When a skirt is worn, briefs under the skirt are required. The skirt must
completely cover the briefs and must be at least one inch longer than the briefs when
standing at attention. When shorts are worn as part of the uniform the inseam must
be at least three-inches long.
12. Coaches are permitted on the competition floor but may not physically assist any
athlete(s) in completing a skill or any aspect of the routine.
EXCEPTION: if an athlete is falling from a stunt or skill, the coach may catch them to
ensure the safety of the athlete(s).
13. Refer to the ACA Adjudication Policy in regards to scoring and judging.
SECTION 2- ROUTINE STOPPAGE POLICY
1. Interruption of Performance: A routine may be stopped for one of the following
reasons:
a. Detection of alcohol or illegal substances: If it is detected by the Head Judge or
Safety Judge(s) that a member or members of a team have consumed alcohol
or other illegal substances prior to performance, the team will be disqualified
by the presiding panel Head Judge and event fees will not be refunded to the
team. If consumption of alcohol or illegal substances are reported by another
source (i.e. a coach, Event Producer or athlete) and confirmed by the Head
Judge or Safety Judge(s), the team will be disqualified by the Head Judge and
event fees will not be refunded to the team.
b. Routine is unsafe: If a team’s performance is deemed to be unsafe, the Head
Judge or Safety Judge(s) will stop the routine and the team will not be allowed
to resume their performance.
c. Technical problems: If a technical problem regarding event equipment (not
including personal equipment) or facilities occurs, such as sound equipment,
mats, lighting etc., the Head Judge or Safety Judge(s) will stop the routine. If a
coach deems it necessary to stop the routine due to difficulty with the sound
system (i.e. music skips, starts on the wrong track or has incorrect volume) or
any other concern regarding technical equipment or facilities, they may stop
the routine. The decision to resume or restart the performance will rest with
the Head Judge.
d. Athlete i njury: If an athlete is injured seriously enough to warrant discontinuing
the routine, meaning that the athlete is physically unable to continue
performing, the Head Judge, Safety Judge(s), or Coach may stop the routine.
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2. Notification of Performance Stoppage:
a. In the event that the Head Judge or Safety Judge(s) intends to stop a routine
due to an occurrence outlined above, they must make an obvious gesture to
notify athletes on the floor to stop performing and notify the Coach
immediately of the reason(s) for stopping the routine.
b. If the coach intends to stop a routine due to an occurrence outlined above, they
must enter the performance area and make it known to the Safety/Head
Judge(s) that the routine should be stopped. The coach must then approach the
Safety/Head Judge to explain the reason(s) for the stoppage.
c. If a performance is discontinued, the Event Producer will be notified of the
reason for the routine stoppage and will make an announcement to the
spectators at the event outlining the occurrence and whether or not the team
will repeat their routine.
3. Resuming Performance: If a performance is discontinued due to a circumstance outlined
in Section 2 , S u b se ct io n 1 (c) or (d), the following protocol will be followed:
a. If the team chooses not to perform again, the judges’ scores accumulated up to
the time of the routine stoppage will stand, or the team may withdraw from
the competition entirely. In this case, any event fees will not be refunded to
the team.
b. If the team chooses to perform again, the Head Judge, Safety Judge(s), Coach
and Event Producer will determine when it is appropriate for the team to do
so.
c. If the team chooses to perform again, they must perform the entire routine
from the beginning with all elements included, unless a sustained injury does
now allow for that skill/element to be performed.
d. If the team chooses to perform again, Panel Judges will begin their evaluation
from the time of the stoppage as determined by the Head Judge.
e. If the team chooses to perform again, all penalties assessed prior to the
stoppage will stand. It should be noted that when performing a second time,
a team will not be penalized twice for the same error, but any additional errors
performed from the beginning of the routine will be added to previous
deductions.
NOTE: Please note that this policy attempts to account for all possible situations that
may arise, however, if an unforeseen event occurs which is not outlined in this policy,
the Head Judge and Safety Judge(s) will evaluate the situation and determine the
appropriate course of action. Questions regarding the determined outcome should
follow the standard chain of command: the Head Judge, Safety Judge, Technical
Coordinator, President.
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SCHOOL TEAM DIVISIONS & GENERAL RULES
SECTION 1- DIVISIONS
The ACA recognizes the following competitive divisions for cheerleading. Only these divisions
will be judged by ACA judges unless special arrangements are made. Not all events offer all
divisions. If a division does not have at least three teams entered, the Event Producer may
cancel that division.
Cheer Divisions
Grade
Female/Male
Athlete #
Elementary Pom
4–6
N/A
4 - 28 athletes
Elementary Level 1
1-3
N/A
4 - 28 athletes
Elementary Level 2
4-6
N/A
4 - 28 athletes
Junior High Pom *
7-9
N/A
4 - 28 athletes
Junior High Level 1*
7-9
N/A
4 - 28 athletes
Junior High Super Large Level 1
7-9
N/A
29+ athletes
Junior High Level 2*
7-9
N/A
4 - 28 athletes
Junior High Super Large Level 2
7- 9
N/A
29+ athletes
Junior High Level 3*
7-9
N/A
4 - 28 athletes
Junior High Super Large Level 3
7-9
N/A
29+ athletes
Senior High Pom
10 - 12
N/A
4 - 28 athletes
Senior High Level 1**
10 - 12 May include max. 1 male
4 - 28 athletes
Senior High Level 1 Super Large
10 - 12 May include max. 1 male
29+ athletes
Senior High Level 2**
10 - 12 May include max. 1 male
4 - 28 athletes
Senior High Level 2 Super Large
10 - 12 May include max. 1 male
29+ athletes
Senior High Coed**
10 - 12
2 or more males
4 - 28 athletes
Senior High Super Coed
10 - 12
2 or more males
29+ athletes
Senior High Game Day **
10 - 12
N/A
4-28 athletes
See below
4-31
Post-Secondary***
* For Junior High Zone and Provincial Competitions there are only four competitive divisions:
Levels 1, 2, 3, and Pom
** For Senior High Zone and Provincial Competitions there are only four competitive
Divisions: Levels 1, 2, 2-Coed, and Game Day.
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*** This division may be broken down further (All-Girl, Coed, etc.) at the Event Producer’s
discretion. Post-Secondary teams follow the USASF rules up to and including L evel 6.
1. When to Split Divisions:
a. Small/Large Splits: Event Producers may split a division into "Small" and "Large"
divisions when there are at least three teams that will ultimately be registered
in each respective division. The designation of "Small" and "Large" divisions
must follow the team sizes below:
Small = 4 - 15 members
Large = 16 - 28 members
b. A/B Splits: If, after splitting divisions into "Small" and "Large", there are ten (10)
or more teams in the "Small" or "Large" division, then Event Producer may split
that division further by team size. If splitting further by size, then Event
Producers must use a name such as "Division A", "Division B" to denote the
split and must clearly define the number of competitors permitted on the team
for each of these particular divisions. No division may be subdivided further
from the "Small" (4-15) and "Large" (16-28) classification if it means that only
one team will be left in a division.
c. Individual/Group Stunt/Partner Stunt Competition: The divisions of "Group
Stunt", "Partner Stunt" and "Individual" may be offered by an Event Producer
at their discretion. The age, level and female/male restrictions designated
above must remain in place for stunt divisions (i.e. no Junior High athlete may
perform with a High School Group Stunt).
SECTION 2- ROUTINE PARAMETERS
1. Time begins with the first obvious word, motion, stunt, or beat of music and will stop
when it is obvious to the officials (with the last stunt, motion, or beat of music).
NOTE: Timing of the routine will stop, but the Safety Judges will continue judging until
the athletes leave the floor. Safety Judges can still deduct for infractions after the
timing has stopped.
2. The routine time limit is two-minutes thirty seconds straight time duration and must
include a cheer. The cheer portion of the routine must be at least ten (10) seconds in
length.
SECTION 3- GAME DAY ROUTINE PARAMETERS
1. Time begins with the first obvious word, motion, stunt, or beat of music and will stop
when it is obvious to the officials (with the last stunt, motion, or beat of music).
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NOTE: Timing of the routine will stop, but the Safety Judge(s) will continue judging
until the athletes leave the floor. Safety Judge(s) can still deduct for infractions after
the timing has stopped.
2. The routine time limit is 3-minutes straight time duration.
3. Routines will include a Time-Out Cheer, Band Dance, and a Game Situation Cheer
(offence or defence cheer).
4. Each component should not exceed 60 seconds.
5. The Time-Out Cheer and Game Situation Cheer can comprise of stunting, motions,
jumps, and tumbling. These should not be set to music.
6. The Band Dance can comprise of dance, motions, tumbling, and jumps. This must be
set to music.
7. Teams will compete three of the four above mentioned routines, but teams will not be
aware in advance which four will be competed. Teams will be notified during their
scheduled warm up at the earliest and when on the competition floor at the latest.
SECTION 4- GENERAL SAFETY RULES
1. These rules are to be in effect for all practices, games, competitions and other
performances.
2. Pom/Dance follows USASF General Safety Rules.
3. Jewellery and piercings must not be worn except for religious medals or medical alerts,
which shall be taped (medical tape only) to the body (without a chain) under the
uniform.
4. Fingernails, including artificial nails, must be kept at an appropriate length (short, near
the end of the fingers) to minimize risk for the participants.
5. The hair must be worn in a manner to minimize risk for the participant. Hair devices,
if worn, must be secure and appropriate for the activity.
6. Apparel and accessories must be appropriate for the activity involved to minimize risk
for the participants.
7. Cheer team members must wear athletic shoes (not gymnastics slippers).
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8. An athlete in full head and/or body costume must not spot, stunt, or tumble except for
a forward roll or cartwheel.
9. Glitter that does not readily adhere on the hair, face, uniform, costume or the body is
not permitted. Glitter may be used on signs, props or backdrops if laminated or sealed.
10. Supports, braces, etc. that are hard and unyielding or have rough edges or surfaces
must be appropriately covered. An athlete wearing a cast (excluding a properly covered
air cast) must not be involved in building elements or tumbling.
11. A single partial/whole manufacturer’s logo/trademark (no more than 5cm square with
no dimension exceeding 5cm square) is permitted on the apparel.
12. A flag, not to exceed 5 cm x 7 .5 cm , and either a commemorative or memorial patch,
not to exceed 10cm square, and with written association approval, may be worn on
the uniform/costume.
13. The Technical Coordinator may authorize the use of artificial limbs which in its opinion
are no more dangerous to participants than the corresponding human limb and do not
place an opponent at a disadvantage.
14. Cheerleading apparel must be conducive to safe performance. The Safety Judge has
the right to check any participant for jewellery or other potentially unsafe attire. The
following items are considered unsafe for competition and will be assessed a penalty:
a. False eyelashes
b. Pantyhose/nylons
c. High-heeled or canvas shoes
d. Unsafe hair accessories
e. Gum
f. Pins on uniforms
g. Other items deemed unsafe by the Safety Judge(s).
N OTE: Check with the Technical Coordinator or Safety Judge prior to the competition
for clarification.
15. Cheerleading teams should be placed under the direction of a qualified and
knowledgeable coach.
16. All practice sessions should be supervised by the coach and held in a location suitable for
the activities of cheerleaders (i.e. use of appropriate mats, away from excessive noise and
distractions, etc.).
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17. Coaches should recognize a squad's particular ability level and should limit the squad's
activities accordingly. "Ability level" refers to the squad's talents as a whole and
individuals should not be pressed to perform activities until safely perfected.
18. All cheerleaders should receive proper training before attempting any form of
cheerleading gymnastics (tumbling, partner stunts, pyramids and jumps).
19. Professional training in correct spotting techniques should be mandatory for all squads.
20. All cheerleading squads should adopt a comprehensive conditioning and strengthbuilding program.
21. An appropriate warm-up routine should precede all cheerleading activities.
22. Prior to the performance of any skill, the immediate environment for the activity should
be taken into consideration including, but not limited to, proximity of non-squad
personnel, performance surface, lighting and/or precipitation. Technical skills should not
be performed on concrete, asphalt, wet or uneven surfaces or surfaces with obstructions.
23. Programs should qualify cheerleaders according to generally accepted teaching
progressions. Appropriate spotting should be used until all performers demonstrate
proficiency of the skill.
24. When discarding props (signs, etc.) that are made from solid material or have sharp
edges/corners, team members must gently toss or place the props so that they are under
control.
25. The use of mini-trampolines, springboards, spring-assisted floors or any other heightincreasing apparatus is prohibited for competition or performance. These devices may be
used for skill development and practice under the supervision of a coach trained in their
use.
SECTION 5- ALBERTA SCHOOLS’ ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (ASAA)
NOTE: Applies to Senior High School Level 1, Level 2, Level 2 Coed and Game Day teams only.
1. Coaches are responsible for reading and understanding all policies as they relate to
High School cheer teams. Please refer to the ASAA Handbook or visit www.asaa.ca.
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SECTION 6- ELIGIBILITY
1. Each competitor must be enrolled at the school he/she is competing for, at the time
of competition and must compete for one school for the competition season.
2. In the event that a school is unable to field a team, individuals may participate on
another school’s team within their ASAA Zone. Students from more than one school
within the same zone may form a single competitive team. Participation of this nature
on a High School team may only occur with the written consent of the participating
school Principals, the Athletic Directors, and the respective ASAA Zone Director. At
the Junior High School level and for all Pom divisions, participation can only occur with
the mutual written consent of the two school Principals and the Technical Coordinator.
3. Grade 9 students who are registered as students of an ASAA member school,
regardless of classification, are eligible to participate on the competitive school team
with the consent of the Principal and Athletic Director. This includes ASAA Zone and
Provincial competitions.
4. Grade 6 students who are registered as students of a K-9, Junior High School or Middle
School (Grades K-9, 5-8, 5-9, or 6-9) may participate on their school’s Junior High cheer
team only when there is no Elementary team available. Special permission may be
granted in certain circumstances but must be requested in writing, and approved by
the ACA Technical Coordinator at the time of membership registration.
5. Grade 4 students who are registered as students of an “early years” school, where the
highest grade at the school is grade 4, may participate on their school’s Elementary
Level 1 team.
6. Athletes who are participating on a High School cheer team are not permitted to
participate on an All-Star team during the same competition season.
7. Post-Secondary athletes must be a registered student at the competing school in the
term of competition.
8. Elementary schools that field two (2) cheer teams will be permitted to have cross-overs
between teams. Athletes are still required to complete in the division of their grade level.
These cross-overs are limited to no more than 10% of the combined total of both teams
fielded by the school.
9. Junior High schools that field two (2) cheer teams will be permitted to have cross-overs
between teams. Athletes are still required to complete in the division of their grade level.
These cross-overs are limited to no more than 10% of the combined total of both teams
fielded by the school.
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10. Elementary and Junior High schools may field two (2) teams in the same division. High
Schools may only field one (1) team per division.
SECTION 7- RULE INFRACTION POLICY
1. Deductions: Please refer to www.albertacheerleading.ca for deductions and infractions
guidelines.
2. Warnings: Warnings shall only be given if the Safety Judge is at all unsure of the skill
performed. Giving a warning as opposed to a rule infraction is solely at the discretion
of the Safety Judge.
3 . ACA Additional Safety Judge Policy: At the request of the Event Producer a Safety Judge
may be present on the warm-up mat prior to competitions. During that time the
Additional Safety Judge can be asked rule clarification questions and view specific
routine portions at the request of the coach. The assigned judge will also be monitoring
warm-ups for any rule infractions. Should the Additional Safety Judge see an infraction,
he/she will notify the coach immediately and communicate this with the competition
Safety Judge(s). Once notified the coach must choose whether to change the routine or
omit the illegal skill(s). If the skill(s) are still performed following a warning during warmup, the Safety Judge has the right to disqualify the team from the competition. This is a
decision that must be carefully made by the coaches with the athletes’ safety in mind.
The Additional Safety Judge is there as an advisor to the coaches should they request
the judge’s assistance. If the Additional Safety Judge does not see a rule infraction on
the warm up mat this does not indemnify the team from receiving the penalty on the
competition floor.
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DEFINITIONS
Airborne: A type of skill performed free of contact with a person or the performance surface.
Assisted Inverted Floor Skill: An inverted participant on the performance surface that is
partially supported by non-inverted participant(s) who is/are also on the performance
surface.
Band Dance: A dance choreographed to a school fight song/school song/music that does not
exceed 60 seconds in length. May include dance, motions, tumbling, and jumps. Props may be
utilized.
Base: A person in direct weight-bearing contact with the performance surface who provides
primary support for another person. A prop that provides primary support for a person(s) is
also considered a base.
Base of Support: Weight-bearing point or points between the top person and base(s).
Basket Toss: A person loads into interlocked hands/wrists and is tossed by multiple bases.
Bracer: A top person who is connected to another top person.
Chair: A prep level stunt in which the base(s) supports the ankle of the top person with one hand
and underneath the seat of the top person with the other hand. The supported leg must be in a
vertical position underneath the torso of the top person.
Chorus-Line Flip: A stunt in which an athlete on the performance surface performs a backward
flip while being supported by the connected arms of other participants.
Cradle: A dismount from a partner stunt, pyramid or toss in which the catch is completed
below prep height by a base or bases with the top person in a face-up open-pike position.
Cradle Position: A face-up open-pike position.
Cupie/Awesome: A stunt in which both feet of a top person are in one hand of a base.
Dismount: Ending a stunt by releasing the top person to the performance surface or releasing
to a cradle.
Dive roll: An airborne forward roll. Hand-to-floor contact should still be maintained as the
initial tuck position happens.
Double Base: A stunt involving two bases, not including the spotter.
Downward Inversion: A stunt or pyramid in which an inverted person’s center of gravity
moves toward the performance surface.
Drop: Landing on the performance surface from an airborne position.
Extended Stunt/Position: When the entire body of the top person is above the head of the
base(s). Examples of “Extended Stunts”: Extension, Extended Liberty, Extended Cupie. Examples
of stunts that are not considered “Extended Stunts”: Chairs, torches, flat-backs, arm-n-arms,
straddle lifts, suspended rolls and leap frogs. (These are stunts where the base(s) arm(s) are
extended overhead, but are NOT considered “Extended Stunts” since the height of the body of
the top person is similar to a shoulder/prep level stunt.)
Extension: An extended stunt in which the top person has both feet in the hands of a base(s).
Flat-back: A stunt in which a top person is in a face-up or face-down, horizontal position, with
hips and shoulders in alignment. May be considered a prep or waist-level stunt.
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Flip: An airborne skill involving hip-over-head rotation in a tuck, pike or layout position.
Fold-Over Stunt: An inverted stunt in which the top person bends at the waist and is caught
on his/her back by multiple catchers while one or both of the top person’s ankles/feet remain
in the grip of the base(s) (e.g. yo-yo, pancake, etc.).
Forward/Backward Roll: A foot-over-head rotation that is executed on the performance
surface.
Front Drop: See “Drop” definition.
Game Situation (Offence and Defence Cheers): Teams will prepare one Offence and one
Defence cheer that may be used at a football or basketball game. These cheers may incorporate
stunting, motions, jumps, tumbling, and props. Must not exceed 60 seconds in length.
Handstand: An inverted position in which the arms are extended and beside the head and
the hips are directly over the head and shoulders.
Hanging Pyramid: A pyramid in which a top person(s) is suspended by another top person(s)
who is/are in a shoulder stand.
Helicopter: A top person in a horizontal position is popped then rotates like helicopter blades
in a horizontal plane before being caught by the original bases.
Inverted Position: An athletes’ shoulders are below their waist.
Knee/Seat/Thigh Drop: See “Drop” definition.
Layout Position: A straight-body position.
Leap Frog: A stunt in which the top person moves over a front or back post while maintaining
hands-to-hands contact with the post; or a skill in which an athlete on the floor places hands
on the back of another person on the floor, vaults over his/her back in a straddle and returns
to the floor, landing on their feet.
Liberty: A stunt in which the flyer is on one leg and may include variations such as a hitch, torch,
heel stretch, arabesque, etc.
Lift: See “Stunt/Partner Stunt” definition.
Loading Position/Load: Bases support a non-extended top person under the foot/feet in
preparation for a stunt or toss.
Log Roll: A top person in a horizontal position or a cradle that is popped then twists parallel
to the performance surface before being caught by the original base(s) in a horizontal position
or a cradle.
Multi Base(d): A stunt having two or more bases not including the spotter.
Non-Release Stunt: A stunt in which contact is maintained between a top person and base(s).
Non-Release Transition: A top person is moved from one stunt to another while maintaining
physical contact with original base(s), new base(s) or a post.
Open Pike Position: Legs are straight and hips are bent approximately half way between a
full pike position and a full layout position.
Pike Position: Bent at the hips with legs straight and together.
Pitch: A toss in which the base(s) push upward on a single foot or leg of the top person.
Pop: A controlled upward release by the base(s) to initiate a dismount or a release transition.
Post: A person in direct weight-bearing contact with the performance surface who temporarily
supports the top person during the execution of a stunt.
Prep: The base(s) hold(s) a standing top person at approximately shoulder height.
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Prep Level: The lowest connection between the base(s) and the top person is above waist level
and below extended level, i.e. prep, shoulder level hitch, shoulder sit. A stunt may also be
considered at prep level if the arm(s) of the base(s) are extended overhead, but are NOT
considered “Extended Stunts” since the height of the body of the top person is similar to a
shoulder/prep-level stunt. i.e. flatback, straddle lifts, chair, T-lift. A stunt is considered below
prep level if at least one foot of the top person is at waist level, as determined by the
height/positioning of the base. (Exception: chair, T-lift and shoulder sit are considered prep level
stunts).
Primary Support: Bearing the majority of a top person’s weight during the execution of a
partner stunt, pyramid, cradle dismount or the initiation of a toss.
Prone position: Face-down straight body.
Prop: Any item that is manipulated (e.g. poms, signs, etc.).
Prop as Base: Any object primarily supports a performer’s weight. A single, unfolded mat on the
performance surface is not considered to be a base.
Pyramid: Connected partner stunts.
Quick Toss: A release that begins with the top person having both feet in weight-bearing contact
with the performance surface and ends in a partner stunt or pyramid.
Release Stunt: Any stunt in which the top person becomes free of contact from all personnel
on the performance surface.
Release Transition/Release Pyramid Transition: A top person changes from one stunt to
another (including loading positions) during a temporary loss of physical contact with his/her
base(s).
Roll: A hip-over-head rotation that is executed either on the performance surface or in a
partner stunt in which the top person is in contact with a person on the performance surface.
Shoulder height/level: See “Prep Height” definition.
Shoulder Sit: A stunt in which a top person sits on the shoulder(s) of a base(s). This is considered
a prep-level stunt.
Side T-Lift: A stunt in which the base(s) extend(s) a top person overhead in a forward facing,
horizontal straight body position.
Single Base: A stunt using a single base for support.
Split Drop: See “Drop” definition.
Splits Position: Legs extended in opposite directions at right angles to the trunk.
Sponge: T he base(s) absorb(s) the top person’s downward momentum to push/lift the top
person into position for the next stunt/skill.
Sponge Toss: A person loads into a sponge/load position and is tossed by multiple bases.
Spotter: A person in direct, weight-bearing contact with the performance surface whose
primary function is to protect the top person’s head, neck and shoulders.
Straddle Position: Bent at the hips with legs straight and apart.
Straight Ride: The body position of a top person performing a toss or dismount that does not
involve any trick in the air. It is a straight line position which teaches the top to reach and to
obtain maximum height on toss.
Stunt/Partner Stunt/Lift: One or more bases support one or more top persons off the
performance surface.
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Suspended Roll: A stunt in which upright base(s) or post(s) hold a top person’s hand(s)/ arm(s)
while the top person performs a continuous hip-over-head rotation.
Stunt/Partner Stunt: One or more bases support one or more top persons off the
performance surface. A stunt is determined to be "one-leg" or "two-leg" by the number of feet
that the top person has supported by a base(s). If the top person is not supported under any foot,
then the number of legs with which the top person is supported will determine if it is a “one-leg"
or a “two-leg" stunt. If a top person is in a non-upright position, which is not supported under
any foot, then the stunt will be considered a "two-leg" stunt.
Suspended Splits: A top person is supported in a split position between multiple bases.
Swan Dive: A top person is released by base(s) or leaves the performance surface of a prop
and is caught in a prone position.
Swedish Fall: An extended stunt in which the top person in a prone position supports her
own upper body by placing her hands on the shoulders of a base while her lower body is
supported by another base’s extended arms.
Swinging Stunt: A top person is suspended and swung by multiple bases.
Switch Liberty: A top person starts with one foot on the ground, is tossed and lands in a liberty
on the other foot. Also known as a ‘Switch-Up’.
T-Lift: A prep-level stunt in which a top person with arms in a T-motion is supported by two bases,
one on either side that connects with each of the hands and under the arms of the top person.
The top person remains in a non-inverted, vertical position while being supported in the stunt.
Tension Drop: A partner stunt (e.g. shoulder stand) in which the base leans forward until the
top person dismounts to the performance surface without assistance.
Tick-tock: A stunt in which a top person switches from one support leg to the other.
Thigh level: See “Waist Height/Level” definition.
Time-Out Cheer: A crowd-involvement cheer that does not exceed 60 seconds in length; may
incorporate stunting, motions, jumps, tumbling, and props. This should not include music.
Top Person: A person who is free of contact with the performance surface and is supported by
another person(s), or is in direct, weight-bearing contact with a prop. Also referred to as a ‘Flyer’.
Toss: A release stunt in which the base(s)’s hands begin underneath the top person’s foot/feet
and execute a throwing motion from below prep level to increase the height of the top person.
The top person becomes free from all bases, spotters, posts or bracers.
Totem Pole: A pyramid that creates a tiered appearance by connecting stunts of increasing
height, one behind the other.
Tuck Position: Bent at the hips and knees with knees drawn toward the torso.
Tumbling: Gymnastics skills which begin and end on the performance surface including rolls,
inverted extended skills (cartwheels, handstands, walkovers, handsprings, etc.), aerials, twists
and flips. NOTE: Jumps, leaps and side-rolls on the performance surface are not considered
to be tumbling.
Twist: An airborne skill involving lateral rotation perpendicular to parallel to the performance
surface in a straight body position.
Waist Height/Level: A stunt in which the lowest connection between the base(s) and the top
person is above ground level and below prep level, and/or at least one foot of the top person is
below prep level, as determined by the height/positioning of the base. A nugget-based stunt is
considered waist level. A chair and a shoulder sit are considered prep-level stunts, not waist level.
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The following diagram illustrates the different stunt levels as referred to in the ‘Definitions’
section. NOTE: You must consult the rules for further specifications, explanations and
restrictions when interpreting the stunt levels.
Extended
Level
Prep
Level
Waist
Level
Ground
Level
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SCHOOL CHEER RULES BY LEVEL
ELEMENTARY LEVEL 1
SECTION 1 – STUNTING PERSONNEL
1. A base must not:
a. Assume a back-bend, headstand, or handstand position.
b. Hold objects in a hand that is supporting a top person.
2. A bracer must not provide primary support for a top person.
3. A spotter may help control the building of, or dismounting from, a partner stunt,
pyramid or toss but must not provide primary support for the top person.
4. In stunts that require a spotter, a spotter must:
a. Be in the proper location with the appropriate body position to help minimize
risk to the top person.
b. Remain visually focused on the head, neck and shoulders of the top person,
except when it is necessary to briefly check other stunts and/or personnel.
5. In stunts that require a spotter, a spotter must not:
a. Grasp the sole of the top person’s foot.
b. Grasp the base’s hand(s) under the top person’s foot.
c. Place his/her torso underneath the stunt.
d. Hold objects in her/his hands.
e. Stand with hands behind his/her back.
6. A spotter is required for all stunts.
SECTION 2 – INVERSIONS
1. A top person must not be in an inverted position.
NOTE: An athlete can be in an inverted position on the performance surface with
someone supporting their body.
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SECTION 3 – NON-RELEASE STUNTS
1.
All partner stunts and pyramids are limited to waist level. Bases must have both feet
on the ground at all times.
EXCEPTION: The following prep level stunts are permitted at Elementary Level 1:
a. Multi-base chair.
b. Multi-base flat-back.
c. Multi-base straddle lift.
2. An athlete must not move over or be under a partner stunt or pyramid except when
helping to build, stabilize or dismount that partner stunt or pyramid.
3. A pendulum, or pendulum-type stunt is not permitted.
4. A hanging pyramid is not permitted.
5. In transitional stunts, physical contact must be maintained between the top person
and the base(s).
6. Transitional stunts must not involve changing bases.
7. Single-base stunts are only permitted up to waist level.
8. Single-base stunts in which the top person is supported under the legs in a split or
straddle position are not permitted
9. An athlete must not jump unassisted onto the back of a base who is in a horizontal
position.
10. A top person may twist up to 90 degrees in stunts and transitions that start and end at
waist level and below.
SECTION 4 – RELEASE STUNTS/TOSSES
1. Release stunts are not permitted.
2. Tosses of any kind are not permitted.
3. Toe/leg pitches to a jump or tumbling skill are not permitted.
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4. Swan dives are not permitted.
SECTION 5 – SUSPENDED STUNTS
1. A swinging stunt is not permitted.
2. Suspended splits at any level are not permitted.
3. A top person must not be in a face down position between bases in which the top
person’s torso is suspended below the arms and legs.
SECTION 6 – DISMOUNTS
1. Bases/catchers must not move during dismounts unless necessary for safety
adjustments.
2. Dismounts to the performance surface require assistance from a base or spotter. This
assistance must be sufficient to slow the momentum of the top person.
3. No skill, e.g. toe touch, twists, etc., shall be performed prior to landing on the
performance surface.
4. Cradle dismounts are not permitted.
5. Dismounts from, or passing through, an inverted position are not permitted.
6. Tension drops are not permitted.
SECTION 7 – TUMBLING
1. Tumbling or rebounding over or under a stunt, person or a prop is not permitted with
the exception of non-airborne tumbling over a person or prop on the performance
surface.
2. Tumbling while holding props is not permitted except for a forward roll, backward roll
or holding pom(s) in the free hand during a one-hand cartwheel. Skills performed must
involve constant physical contact with the performance surface.
3. A dive forward roll is not permitted.
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4. A tumbling pass must not include any flip or twisting element.
EXCEPTION: Athletes may perform a round-off.
5. A flip that lands in a partner stunt or cradle is not permitted.
SECTION 8 – DROPS
1. Drops that go directly to the thighs, splits, knees or seat on the performance surfaced are
not permitted unless the majority of the weight is first borne on the hands or feet or the
descent is controlled.
2. Airborne drops to a push-up position are not permitted.
EXCEPTION: Springing from a crouch to a push-up position is permitted.
3. Falling from a stand directly to the stomach or back onto the performance surface is not
permitted without first bearing weight on the hands.
4. Dropping to the performance surface from a handspring or flip is not permitted.
SECTION 9 – PROPS AS BASES
1. The height of the prop must not exceed 3 feet.
2. Jumps and/or stunts are not permitted on props.
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Elementary Level 2/Junior High Level 1
SECTION 1 – STUNTING PERSONNEL
1. A base must not:
a. Assume a back-bend, headstand, or handstand position.
b. Hold objects in a hand that is supporting a top person.
2. Base(s) of extended stunts must have both feet in direct weight-bearing contact with
the performance surface.
3. A bracer must not provide primary support for a top person.
4. A spotter may help control the building of, or dismounting from, a partner stunt,
pyramid or toss but must not provide primary support for the top person.
5. In stunts that require a spotter, the spotter must:
a. Be in the correct location with the appropriate body position to help minimize
risk to the top person.
b. Remain visually focused on the head, neck and shoulders of the top person,
except when it is necessary to briefly check other stunts and/or personnel.
6. In stunts that require a spotter, the spotter must not:
a. Grasp the sole of the top person’s foot.
b. Grasp the bases hand(s) under the top person’s foot.
c. Place his/her torso underneath the stunt.
d. Hold objects in her/his hands.
e. Stand with hands behind his/her back.
7. A spotter is required for all stunts at prep level or above, except for the following:
a. Multi-base chair.
b. Multi-base flat-back.
c. Multi-base straddle lift.
d. Multi-base vertical t-lift.
SECTION 2 – INVERSIONS
1. Unless allowed under the rules in this section a top person must not be in an inverted
position.
2. A top person may be moved from a weight-bearing, inverted position on the
performance surface to a non- inverted position where the hips of the top person
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remains at prep level or below, provided that at least one base or spotter is in a position
to protect the head and shoulders of the top person. This base or spotter must maintain
contact with the top person until he/she is no longer inverted.
EXCEPTION: The top person may end in a shoulder sit position provided that a spotter
is in place for the entire duration of the shoulder sit.
SECTION 3 – NON-RELEASE STUNTS
1. All partner stunts and pyramids are limited to prep level height. Bases must have both
feet on the ground at all times.
EXCEPTION: Two leg extended stunts are allowed in pyramids only when braced by
hand to hand/arm contact with a top person at prep level or below and the connection
must be initiated at prep level or below. Contact with a bracer must be maintained
throughout the execution of the stunt.
3. An athlete must not move over or be under a partner stunt or pyramid except when
helping to build, stabilize or dismount that partner stunt or pyramid.
4. All extended stunts require both feet of the top person to be in the hands of the bases.
5. In braced partner stunts/pyramids, all bracers must be at prep level or below.
6. A top person may be moved from a vertical position to a horizontal position (straight
body or cradle) provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. The top person maintains contact with at least one original base or spotter.
b. At least two (2) additional catchers/bases catch the upper body of the top
person.
c. The top person does not begin in, or pass through, an extended overhead
position.
d. The catchers must be to the side or front of the person(s) moving the top
person.
e. When the catchers are not the original bases, they remain close to the original
bases and are in place prior to the movement to horizontal.
f. The base(s) do not turn and must remain stationary.
g. No participant is standing between the base(s) and catchers.
h. The catchers and spotters must be in place before the skill is initiated.
i. A half or full pendulum must have a designated spotter facing the top person
if he/she returns to vertical in a straight body position at the end of the stunt.
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RESTRICTION: Elementary Level 2 may NOT perform pendulum, or pendulum-like
stunts.
7. A hanging pyramid is not permitted.
8. Single-base stunts are only permitted at waist level or below.
EXCEPTION: A shoulder sit is permitted provided there is a spotter.
9. Single-base stunts in which the top person is supported under the legs in a split or
straddle position are not permitted.
10. In non-release transitions in which the top person is moved to new base(s), all of the
following conditions must be met throughout the transition:
a. The top person maintains physical contact with the original base(s) or a post
until establishing contact with the new base(s)
b. The person(s) moving the top person does not turn more than 180 degrees (half
turn) to face the new bases.
c. The new base(s) are to the side or front of the person moving the top person
except when the top person remains vertical.
11. In non-release transitions in which the top person is moved by a post back to the
original bases, both the following conditions must be met throughout the transition:
a. The top person maintains physical contact with an original base or a post.
b. The bases move to a position that is either to the side or front of the post except
when the top person remains vertical.
12. A flip from the performance surface that lands in a partner stunt or cradle is not
permitted.
13. An athlete must not jump unassisted onto the back of a base who is in a horizontal
position.
14. A twist performed in a stunt may not involve more than a 180 degree rotation and must
start and end at prep level or below.
EXCEPTION: Stunts may include a twist up to 180 degrees to a two-foot extended stunt
provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. The top person is braced by hand-to-hand/arm contact with a top person who is
at prep level or below.
b. The connection is made at waist height or below.
c. Contact with a bracer is maintained throughout the execution of the stunt.
d. The top person who is twisting starts at waist height or below.
e. The top person does not invert.
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RESTRICTION: Elementary Level 2 may NOT perform extended stunts.
15. A twist performed on the performance surface (jump-twist-land) must not involve more
than one complete rotation.
SECTION 4 – RELEASE STUNTS/TOSSES
1. Unless permitted in this section, a top person must not be released to a stunt or toss.
2. Release stunts are not permitted.
EXCEPTION: See Section 6 - Dismounts.
3. Basket tosses and other similar multi-base tosses are permitted only on appropriate
mats, grass, rubberized and soft-yielding surfaces.
4. Tosses are permitted provided all the following conditions are met:
a. The toss is executed only on grass (real or artificial), a mat or a rubberized
track.
b. The toss does not involve more than four tossers, including the person who may
set or ‘load’ the top person.
a. One of the tossers is behind the top person throughout the toss.
b. The top person is cradled by at least two of the original tossers and a separate
head-and-shoulders spotter who was one of the original tossers.
c. The top person does not hold objects in her/his hands (e.g., poms, signs, etc.).
RESTRICTION: Tosses of any kind are NOT permitted for Elementary Level 2.
5. During a toss only a straight ride may be performed.
6. Quick tosses are not permitted.
7. A helicopter is not permitted.
8. A log roll is permitted provided it does not involve more than one complete rotation
and the top person is not in contact with a person in another stunt.
a. A single-base log roll is not permitted.
b. In a multi-base log roll the top person must begin and end in a face-up position.
9. A top person in a horizontal position at prep level or below or in a cradle may be
released to a loading position.
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10.
Toe/leg pitches to a jump or tumbling skill are not permitted.
11. Swan dives are not permitted.
SECTION 5 – SUSPENDED STUNTS
1. Non-braced suspended splits that originate below prep level are permitted provided
there are at least two bases and the top person has both hands in contact with at least
one base or post.
2. Non-braced suspended splits that originate from or pass through prep level are permitted
provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. At least three bases slow the momentum of the top person.
b. The top person has both hands in contact with a base(s) once the top person
reaches the full split position.
c. At least two of the bases support under the top person’s legs, and the third base
may support under the legs or be in contact with the top person’s hands.
3. Braced suspended splits are permitted provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. The top person has at least two bases.
b. The top person has both hands in contact with the bracer(s).
c. The top person and the bracer(s) each have a separate spotter with the exception
of bracers in thigh stands.
d. The bracer(s) maintain hand/arm contact with the top person until he/she is no
longer in a split position.
4. Suspended splits originating or ending above prep level are not permitted.
5. A swinging stunt is permitted provided the following conditions are met:
a. Any downward movement begins from and remains below prep level.
b. The top person is in a face up position.
c. The top person begins and ends on the performance surface.
d. The top person may not be inverted.
e. The top person may not be released.
6. A top person must not be in a face down position between bases in which the top
person’s torso is suspended below the arms and legs.
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SECTION 6 – DISMOUNTS
1. Bases/catchers must not move during dismounts except as necessary for safety
adjustments.
2. Dismounts to the performance surface from prep level must have assisted landings.
The assistance must be sufficient to slow the momentum of the top person.
a. No skill, e.g. toe touch, twists, etc., shall be performed prior to landing on the
performance surface.
3. Dismounts to the performance surface from waist height may perform up to one
skill but the landing must be assisted. This assistance must be sufficient to slow
the momentum of the top person.
4. A twist may not be performed to a cradle.
5. A twist performed to the performance surface must not involve more than one complete
rotation, and may not be performed from any single leg stunt.
6. For all cradle dismounts:
a. The base(s)/catcher(s) must have continuous visual contact with the top
person.
b. The top person must not hold props that are made of hard material or have
sharp corners or edges.
c. No skill may be performed to a cradle.
7. Cradle dismounts from multi-base stunts must have at least two bases/catchers and an
additional head and shoulders catcher/spotter.
8. Dismounts from, or passing through an inverted position, are not permitted.
9. Cradle dismounts from single-base stunts to single-base cradles must have an
additional catcher/spotter who is responsible for the head-and-shoulder area of the
top person.
10. Dismounts must be to catchers who are the original bases.
11. In cradle dismounts where a bracer is involved after the bases release the top person,
all of the following conditions must be met:
a. There are at least two bases.
b. Constant hand-to-hand/arm contact is maintained between the top person and
at least one bracer until the top person is descending.
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c. Each top person and bracer has a separate spotter with the exception of bracers
in thigh stands.
d. The bracers do not provide primary support for the top person.
e. The release is a continuous vertical up-and-down movement in which the top
person remains over the original base(s).
f. The top person is not released to new catchers.
g. Bases and bracers remain in place during the dismount.
a. The bracers do not intentionally increase the height of the top person.
12. Tension drops are not permitted.
SECTION 7 – TUMBLING
1. Tumbling or rebounding over or under a stunt, person or a prop is not permitted with
the exception of non-airborne tumbling over a person or prop on the performance
surface.
2. Tumbling while holding props is not permitted except for a forward roll, backward roll
or holding pom(s) in the free hand during a one-hand cartwheel.
3. A dive forward roll is not permitted.
4. A flip that lands in a partner stunt or cradle is not permitted.
5. A tumbling pass may not include any flip or twisting element.
EXCEPTION: Aerials cartwheels and round-offs are permitted.
6. Airborne twisting tumbling skills are permitted only on grass (real or artificial), a mat
or a rubberized track, with the exception of round-offs and aerial cartwheels.
7. Airborne skills without hip-over- head rotation may not involve jumping from a
standing or squatting position backwards onto the neck, shoulders or hands. This rule
refers to a type of entrance into the “kip-up/rubber band” skills.
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SECTION 8 – DROPS
1. Drops that go directly to the thighs, splits, knees or seat on the performance surface are
not permitted unless most of the weight is first borne on the hands or feet or the descent
is controlled.
2. Airborne drops to a push-up position are not permitted.
EXCEPTION: Springing from a crouch to a push-up position is permitted.
3. Falling from a stand directly to the stomach or back on the performance surface is not
permitted without first bearing weight on the hands.
SECTION 9 – PROPS AS BASES
1. The height of the prop must not exceed 3 feet.
2. Jumps and/or stunts are not permitted on props.
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Junior High Level 2/Senior High Level 1
SECTION 1 – STUNTING PERSONNEL
1. A base must not:
a. Assume a back-bend, headstand, or handstand position.
b. Hold objects in a hand that is supporting a top person.
2. Base(s) of extended stunts must have both feet in direct weight-bearing contact with
the performance surface.
3. A bracer must not provide primary support for a top person.
4. A spotter may help control the building of or dismounting from a partner stunt,
pyramid or toss but must not provide primary support for the top person.
5. In stunts that require a spotter, a spotter must:
a. Be in the proper location with the appropriate body position to help minimize
risk to the top person.
b. Remain visually focused on the head, neck and shoulders of the top person,
except when it is necessary to briefly check other stunts and/or personnel.
6. In stunts that require a spotter, a spotter must not:
a. Grasp the sole of the top person’s foot.
b. Grasp the base’s hand(s) under the top person’s foot.
c. Place his/her torso underneath the stunt.
d. Hold objects in her/his hands.
e. Stand with hands behind his/her back.
7. A spotter is required for stunts above prep level.
8. A spotter is required for single-base prep-level stunts in which the foot/feet of the top
person are in the hands of the base.
SECTION 2 – INVERSIONS
1. Unless allowed under the rules in this section a top person must not be in an inverted
position.
2. In specific situations, a top person may be inverted in partner stunts/pyramids as long as
the base of support begins and remains below prep level:
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a. When a top person is inverted off the performance surface:
i. At least one base must be in a position to protect the
head/neck/shoulder area of the top person.
ii. A base or a spotter must maintain contact with the top person's upper
body (waist or above, including arms) until the top person is no longer
inverted or his/her hands are on the performance surface. The contact
must be sufficient to stabilize/ control the top person’s position.
iii. An additional spotter must be in a position to protect the
head/neck/shoulder area of the top person. This person may assist but
is not required to maintain constant contact.
b. In inversions starting from the performance surface:
i. At least one base must be in a position to protect the
head/neck/shoulder area of the top person.
ii. This base or spotter must maintain contact with the top person's upper
body (waist or above, including arms) until the top is no longer inverted.
3. Downward inversions initiated below prep level are permitted.
4. An inverted top person must not hold objects (poms, signs, etc.) in his/her hands,
except during a transition from an inverted position on the performance surface to a
non-inverted stunt.
SECTION 3 – NON-RELEASE STUNTS
1. All partner stunts and pyramids are limited to extended height. The top person(s)
receive(s) primary support from one or more base(s) who is/are in direct, weightbearing contact with the performance surface. Bases must have both feet on the
ground at all times.
2. An athlete must not move over or be under a partner stunt or pyramid except when
helping build, stabilize or dismount that partner stunt or pyramid.
3. In pyramids where one static extended stunt braces another static extended stunt, the
connection must be hand/arm to hand/arm.
4. All extended stunts require both feet of the top person to be in the hands of the
base(s).
EXCEPTION: Single leg extended stunts are allowed in pyramids only when braced by
hand to hand/arm contact with a top person at prep level or below and the connection
must be made at prep level or below. Contact with a bracer must be maintained
throughout the execution of the stunt.
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5. In braced partner stunts/pyramids, all bracers must be at prep level or below.
EXCEPTIONS: The following extended stunts may brace any other extended stunt,
except during release or t wi st ing transitions:
a. Two foot extended stunt.
Extensions may brace only other extensions.
6. A top person may be moved from a vertical position to a horizontal position (straight
body) or cradle position provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. The top person maintains contact with at least one original base or spotter.
b. At least two (2) catchers and/or bases catch the upper body of the top person.
c. The catchers are to the side or front of the person(s) moving the top person.
d. When the catchers are not the original bases, they remain close to the original
bases and are in place prior to the movement to the horizontal position.
e. When the catchers are not the original bases and the top person begins or
passes through an extended overhead position, three catchers are in place.
f. A half or full pendulum has a designated spotter facing the top person when
he/she returns to vertical in a straight body position at the end of the stunt.
7. A hanging pyramid is not permitted.
8. Single-base stunts in which the top person is supported under the legs in a split or
straddle position are not permitted.
9. A spotter is required during a roll down from a side T-Lift.
10. In non-release transitions in which the top person is moved to new base(s), all of the
following conditions must be met throughout the transition:
a. The top person maintains physical contact with the original base(s) or a post
until establishing contact with the new base(s).
b. The person moving the top person does not turn more than 180 degree (half
turn) to face the new bases.
c. The new base(s) are to the side or front of the person moving the top person
except when the top person remains vertical.
11. In non-release transitions in which the top person is moved by a post back to the
original bases, both of the following conditions must be met throughout the transition:
a. The top person maintains physical contact with an original base or a post.
b. The bases move to a position that is either to the side or front of the post except
when the top person remains vertical.
12. A flip from the performance surface that lands in a partner stunt or cradle is not
permitted.
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13. An athlete must not jump unassisted onto the back of a base who is in a horizontal
position.
14. A twist performed in a stunt may not involve more than one complete rotation. Twists of
over 180 degrees must start and end at prep level or below. Twists of 180 degrees or less
may end in a two foot extended stunt.
Exception: Stunts may perform a twist of over 180 degrees to a two foot extended stunt,
or a twist of 180 degrees or less to an extended one leg stunt provided all of the following
conditions are met:
a. Braced by hand-to-hand/arm contact with a top person at prep level or below.
b. The connection is made at prep level or below.
c. Contact with a bracer is maintained throughout the execution of the stunt.
d. The top person who is twisting start at prep level or below.
e. The top person is not inverted.
SECTION 4 – RELEASE STUNTS/TOSSES
1. Unless permitted in this section, a top person must not be released to a stunt or toss.
2. In all release stunts and tosses:
a. The top person must be braced or cradled except in a quick toss or log roll or
when a top person in a cradle or horizontal position is at prep level or below.
b. The top person must be directed vertically and be caught by the original bases.
c. The top person must not land in an inverted position.
d. Participants must not pass over or under other participants or through a prop.
e. The tossers/catchers and spotter must remain in their original locations unless
making necessary safety adjustments, except bases of release transitions who
may move as outlined in Section 4, Rule 5.
f. In all release stunts the release and catch must be at prep level or below.
3. Tosses are permitted provided all the following conditions are met:
a. The toss is executed only on grass (real or artificial), a mat, or a rubberized track.
b. The toss does not involve more than four tossers, including the person who may
set or ‘load’ the top person.
c. One of the tossers is behind the top person throughout the toss.
d. The top person is cradled by at least two of the original tossers and a separate
head-and-shoulders spotter who was one of the original tossers.
e. The top person does not hold objects in her/his hands (e.g., poms, signs, etc.).
4. During a toss only one skill may be performed
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5. Quick tosses (load-in) tosses to a stunt are permitted provided all of the following
conditions are met:
a. The toss does not significantly exceed the height of the intended stunt.
b. The top person is not caught under the legs in a split or straddle position in a
stunt prep level or above.
c. Must not exceed prep level.
6. A helicopter is not permitted.
7. A log roll is permitted provided it does not involve more than one complete rotation
and the top person is not in contact with a person in another stunt.
a. A single-base log roll is not permitted.
b. In a multi-base log roll with fewer than four catchers, the top person must begin
and end in a face-up position.
c. In multi-base log roll with four catchers, the top person may begin in a face-up
or face-down position. The top person may be caught face-up in a cradle, in a
layout position, or face-down in a layout position.
8. Toe/thigh pitches to a jump or tumbling skill are not permitted.
9. Swan dives are not permitted.
10. A top person in a horizontal position at prep level or below or in a cradle may be
released to a loading position or stunt at prep level or below.
SECTION 5 – SUSPENDED STUNTS
1. Non-braced suspended splits that originate below prep level are permitted provided
there are at least two bases and the top person has both hands in contact with at least
one base or post.
2. Non-braced suspended splits that originate from or pass through prep level are permitted
provided all the following conditions are met:
a. At least three bases slow the momentum of the top person.
b. The top person has both hands in contact with a base(s) once the top person
reaches the full split position.
c. At least two of the bases support under the top person’s legs, and the third base
may support under the legs or be in contact with the top person’s hands.
3. Braced suspended splits at prep level are permitted provided all of the following
conditions are met:
a. The top person has at least two bases.
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b. The top person has both hands in contacts with the bracer(s).
c. The top person and the bracer(s) each have a separate spotter with the exception
of bracers in shoulder sits or thigh stands.
d. The bracer(s) maintain hand-to-hand/arm contact with the top person until
he/she is no longer in a split position.
4. Suspended splits originating or ending above prep level are not permitted.
5. A swinging stunt is permitted provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. Any downward movement begins from and remains below prep level.
b. The top person is face-up.
c. The top person begins on the performance surface or in a stunt that is below prep
level.
d. The top person ends on the performance surface or in a stunt that is at prep level
or below.
e. The top person is not inverted.
f. The top person is not released.
6. A top person must not be in a face-down position between bases where the top
person’s torso is suspended below the arms and legs.
SECTION 6 – DISMOUNTS
1. Bases/catchers must not move during dismounts unless necessary for safety
adjustments.
EXCEPTION: The bases may make a ¼ turn to catch a cradle.
2. Dismounts to the performance surface from prep level or above require assistance
from a base or spotter. This assistance must be sufficient to slow the momentum of
the top person.
3. Dismounts to the performance surface from prep level or above that involve a skill
(e.g. toe touch, twists, etc.) require two bases or a base and a spotter. Assistance is
required from at least one base or spotter. This assistance must be sufficient to slow
the momentum of the top person.
4. Only one skill may be performed to a cradle or the performance surface.
5. A twist to cradle may not be performed from any single-leg stunt.
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6. In all cradle dismounts:
a. The base(s)/catcher(s) must have continuous visual contact with the top
person.
b. The top person must not hold props that are made of hard material or have
sharp corners or edges.
7. Cradle dismounts from multi-base stunts must have at least two (2) bases/catchers and
an additional head and shoulders catcher/spotter.
8. Cradle dismounts from single-base stunts to single-base cradles must have an
additional catcher/spotter who is responsible for the head-and-shoulder area of the
top person.
EXCEPTION: An additional catcher/spotter is not required when cradling a chair.
9. A twist performed to a cradle or to the performance surface must not involve more than
one complete rotation.
10. Dismounts must be to catchers by original bases.
11. Dismounts from, or passing through an inverted position, are not permitted.
12. In cradle dismounts where a bracer is involved after the bases release the top person,
all of the following conditions must be met:
a. There are at least two bases.
b. Constant hand-to-hand/arm contact is maintained between the top person and
at least one bracer until the top person is descending.
c. Each top person and bracer has a separate spotter with the exception of bracers
in shoulder sits or thigh stands.
d. The bracers do not provide primary support for the top person.
e. The release is a continuous vertical up-and-down movement in which the top
person remains over the original base(s).
f. The top person is not released to new catchers.
g. Bases and bracers remain in place during the dismount.
h. The bracers do not intentionally increase the height of the top person.
i. The top person does not become inverted
13. Tension drops are not permitted.
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SECTION 7 – TUMBLING
1. Tumbling or rebounding over or under a stunt, person or a prop is not permitted with
the exception of non-airborne tumbling over a person or prop on the performance
surface.
2. Tumbling while holding props is not permitted except for a forward roll, backward roll
or holding pom(s) in the free hand during a one-hand cartwheel.
3. A dive forward roll is not permitted.
4. A flip that lands in a partner stunt or cradle is not permitted.
5. A flip in a tumbling pass must not involve more than one complete hip-over-head
rotation and may not include a twist.
EXCEPTION: Aerials and round-offs are permitted.
6. Airborne skills without hip-over- head rotation may not involve jumping from a
standing or squatting position backwards onto the neck, shoulders or hands. This rule
refers to a type of entrance into the “kip-up/rubber band” skills.
SECTION 8 – DROPS
1. Drops that go directly to the thighs, splits, knees or seat on the performance surface are
not permitted unless most of the weight is first borne on the hands or feet or the descent
is controlled.
2. Airborne drops to a push-up position are not permitted.
EXCEPTION: Springing from a crouch to a push-up position is permitted.
3. Falling from a stand directly to the stomach or back on the performance surface is not
permitted without first bearing weight on the hands.
4. Dropping to the performance surface from a handspring or flip is not permitted.
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SECTION 9 – PROPS AS BASES
1. The height of the prop must not exceed 3 feet.
2. Jumps and/or stunts are not permitted on props.
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Junior High Level 3/Senior High Level 2 & Coed
SECTION 1 – STUNTING PERSONNEL
1. A base must not:
a. Assume a back-bend, headstand, or handstand position.
b. Hold objects in a hand that is supporting a top person.
2. Base(s) of extended stunts must have both feet in direct weight-bearing contact with
the performance surface.
3. A bracer must not provide primary support for a top person.
4. A spotter may help control the building of or dismounting from a partner stunt,
pyramid or toss but must not provide primary support for the top person.
5. In stunts that require a spotter, a spotter must:
a. Be in the correct location with the appropriate body position to help minimize
risk to the top person.
b. Remain visually focused on the head, neck and shoulders of the top person,
except when it is necessary to briefly check other stunts and/or personnel.
6. In stunts that require a spotter, a spotter must not:
a. Grasp the sole of the top person’s foot.
b. Grasp the base’s hand(s) under the top person’s foot.
c. Place his/her torso underneath the stunt.
d. Hold objects in her/his hands.
e. Stand with hands behind his/her back.
7. A spotter is required for stunts in which the supporting hand(s) of the base(s) is (are)
above the head, except for the following::
a. Chair.
b. Russian lift.
c. Torch.
d. Double-base split catch.
e. Double-base vertical T-lift.
f. Triple-base stunts in which the top person is in a horizontal position.
g. Triple-base suspended splits.
h. Triple-base straddle sit provided the top person has both hands in contact with a
post.
8. A spotter is required for single-base prep-level stunts in which the foot/feet of the
top person are in the hands of the base.
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SECTION 2 – INVERSIONS
1. Unless allowed under the rules in this section a top person must not be in an inverted
position.
2. An inverted top person may pass through an extended position but must not begin, end,
pause, or stop in a static extended inverted position.
3. Suspended Rolls are allowed provided:
a. Two people on the performance surface control the top person with continuous
hand-to-hand/arm contact to a stunt, two-person cradle, loading position or
performance surface.
b. A single base or post controls the top person with continuous hands-to-hands
contact to a stunt, two-person cradle, loading position or the performance
surface. A single base/post suspended roll that ends on the performance surface
requires a spotter.
c. If caught in a cradle, load or stunt by catchers who are not original bases, the
new catchers are in place and are not involved with any other skill when the
suspended roll is initiated.
d. The feet/ankles of the top person are released.
RESTRICTION: Junior High Div. 3, BACKWARDS suspended rolls/flips are NOT permitted
unless the top person begins and ends on the performance surface.
4. Braced inversions in a pyramid that do not flip are permitted provided the following
conditions are met:
a. Braced inversions that release must follow the Release Transition Rule (Section
4, Rule 5).
b. Braced inversions that do not release must follow the Transition Rules (Section
3).
5. Braced flips in a pyramid are permitted provided all of the following conditions are
met:
a. The top person maintains continuous hand-to-hand/arm contact with two bracers
who are in multi-base preps with a spotter. Each arm is connected to/by a
separate bracer. The top person is not behind the bracers.
b. At least three (3) catchers (one base and two spotters or two bases and one
spotter) who were the original bases/spotters catch the top person in a loading
position, stunt or cradle, or assist the top person to the performance surface. If
the flip ends in a cradle, the bracers may release the top person once he/she
begins to descend and is no longer inverted.
c. The top person ends in a non-inverted position.
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d. The top person does not perform more than one and one quarter (1 ¼) flipping
rotations and does no more than one half (½) twist.
e. The bases/catchers remain stationary except as necessary for safety
adjustments.
NOTE: Bracers can be to the back or to the side of the top person.
RESTRICTION: Junior High Level 3 may NOT perform braced backward flips in
pyramids.
6. In all other inversions:
a. A top person in an inverted position on the performance surface may be released
to a loading position below prep level.
b. Static inversions at prep level require two bases or a base and spotter. The spotter
is not required to be in contact with the top person.
c. A release transition from a static inverted position is permitted provided:
i. The top person lands at or below prep level.
ii. The top person does not twist more than ¼ rotation.
iii. There is a spotter.
d. In inversions where the base of support begins and remains below prep level:
i. At least one base or spotter must be in a position to protect the head/neck
of the top person.
ii. The base or spotter must maintain contact with the top person’s upper
body (waist and above, which may include arms/hands) until the top
person is no longer inverted or his/her hands are on the performance
surface. The contact must be sufficient to stabilize/control the top person’s
position.
e. In inversions where the base of support begins at or passes through prep level:
i. At least two people on the performance surface must be in a position to
protect the head/neck of the top person.
ii. The bases/spotters must maintain contact with the top person’s upper
body (waist and above, which may include arms/hands) until the top
person is no longer inverted or his/her hands are on the performance
surface. The contact must be sufficient to stabilize/control the top person’s
position.
EXCEPTION: A fold-over that begins at or below prep level and does not
stop in an extended position is allowed.
iii. The top person must not go directly to an inverted position on the
performance surface from prep level or higher.
f. When a stunt begins in an inversion and transitions to a non-inverted position, the
upper body contact may be released before the top person is no longer inverted.
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g. Dismounts from inverted stunts to a cradle or an upright position on the
performance surface are permitted provided the top person begins in a static
or ‘pump and go’ position. (i.e. handstand) and does no more than a one-quarter
turn. Dismounts to the performance surface from prep level or above must
follow the Dismount Rule (Section 6, Rule 2).
7. An inverted top person must not hold objects (poms, signs, etc.) in his/her hands,
except during a transition from an inverted position on the performance surface to a
non-inverted stunt.
SECTION 3 – NON-RELEASE STUNTS
1. All partner stunts and pyramids are limited to extension level, meaning that the top
person(s) receive(s) primary support by one or more bases who is/are in direct, weightbearing contact with the performance surface.
2. An athlete must not move over or be under a partner stunt or pyramid except when
helping build, stabilize or dismount that partner stunt or pyramid.
3. In pyramids where one static extended stunt braces another static extended stunt, the
connection must be hand/arm to hand/arm.
4. A top person may be moved from a vertical position to a horizontal position (straight
body) or cradle position provided all the following conditions are met:
a. The top person maintains contact with at least one original base or spotter.
b. At least two (2) catchers and/or bases catch the upper body of the top person.
c. The catchers must be to the side or front of the person(s) moving the top
person.
d. When the catchers are not the original bases, they remain close to the original
bases and are in place prior to the movement to the horizontal position.
e. When the catchers are not the original bases and the top person begins or
passes through an extended overhead position, three catchers are in place.
5. A hanging pyramid is permitted provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. The base(s) remain stationary and maintain(s) constant contact with the
suspended top person.
b. Spotters are present for each shoulder stand.
c. Suspended top person is lower than the shoulder stand(s) with feet hanging
free.
d. Suspended top person does not rotate on the dismount.
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6. Single-base stunts in which the top person is supported under the legs in a split or
straddle position prep level or above are not permitted.
7. A spotter is required during a roll down from a side T-Lift.
8. In non-release transitions in which the top person is moved to new base(s), all of the
following conditions must be met throughout the transition:
a. The top person maintains physical contact with the original base(s) or a post
until establishing contact with the new base(s).
b. The person moving the top person does not turn more than 180 degree (half
turn) to face the new bases.
c. The new base(s) are to the side or front of the person moving the top person
except when the top person remains vertical.
EXCEPTION: A backward leapfrog to a prone position is permitted provided there are
at least two catchers and the top person maintains continuous hands-to-hands contact
with the post throughout the transition. The original bases, post and catchers must
remain stationary.
9. In non-release transitions in which the top person is moved by a post back to the
original bases, both of the following conditions must be met throughout the transition:
a. The top person maintains physical contact with an original base or a post.
b. The bases move to a position that is either to the side or front of the post except
when the top person remains vertical.
10. A single base must not be the only primary support for two extended top persons with
the exception of double cupie/awesome. If dismounted to cradles there must be three
catchers for each top person being cradled.
11. Single-based partner stunts in which the base uses only one arm to support the top person
are permitted only on grass (real or artificial), a mat or a rubberized track.
12. A flip from the performance surfaced that lands in a partner stunt or cradle is not
permitted.
13. An athlete must not jump unassisted onto the back of a base who is in a horizontal
position.
SECTION 4 – RELEASE STUNTS/TOSSES
1. Unless permitted in this section, a top person must not be released to a stunt or toss.
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2. In all release stunts and tosses:
a. The top person must be directed vertically and be caught by the original bases.
b. The top person must not land in an inverted position.
c. Participants must not pass over or under other participants or through a prop.
d. The tossers/catchers and spotter must remain in their original locations unless
making necessary safety adjustments, except that bases of release
transitions may move as outlined in Section 4, Rule 5.
e. The top person must not make more than 1 ¼ twists during release.
3. Tosses are permitted provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. The toss is executed only on grass (real or artificial), a mat or a rubberized
track.
b. The toss does not involve more than four tossers, including the person who may
set or ‘load’ the top person.
d. One of the tossers is behind the top person throughout the toss.
e. The top person is cradled by at least two of the original tossers and a separate
head-and-shoulders spotter who was one of the original tossers.
f. The top person does not hold objects in her/his hands (e.g., poms, signs, etc.).
4. A switch liberty is permitted as an exception to Section 4, Rules 2 and 3.
5. Release transitions are permitted provided all of the following conditions are met
throughout the transition:
a. The skills/stunts before and after the release are permitted.
b. The top person maintains hand-to-hand/arm contact with at least on bracer
except for the following:
i. A non-braced top person in a vertical position at prep level may be
released to a stunt at any level provided the top person remains vertical.
ii. A non-braced top person in a cradle position or horizontal position at prep
level or below may be released to a loading position or stunt prep level or
below.
c. The top person and each bracer have a separate spotter with the exception of
bracers in shoulder sits and thigh stands.
d. The bracers do not provide primary support for the top person.
e. The released top person and base(s) make no more than a ¼ turn around the
bracer in a continuous movement in which the top person remains vertical over
the base(s).
f. The top person is caught by the original bases.
6. A helicopter is permitted, provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. The rotation in the horizontal plane is not greater than 180 degrees.
b. The top person does not twist.
c. The top person is in a face-up position.
d. There are at least four bases who serve as both tossers and catchers.
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e. A tosser/catcher must be in position to support the top person’s head and
shoulders at both the beginning and end of the stunt.
7. A log roll is permitted provided it does not involve more than one complete rotation
and the top person is not in contact with another released top person.
a. In a single-base log roll, the top person must rotate toward the base and begin
and end in a face-up position.
b. In multi-base log roll, the top person may begin and end in a face-up or facedown position.
8. Toe/leg pitches to a jump or tumbling skill are not permitted.
9. Swan dives are not permitted.
10. Quick tosses are permitted.
SECTION 5 – SUSPENDED STUNTS
1. Non-braced suspended splits that originate below prep level or above are permitted
provided there are at least two bases and the top person has both hands in contact with
at least one base or post.
2. Non-braced suspended splits that originate from or pass through prep level or above are
permitted provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. At least three bases slow the momentum of the top person.
b. The top person has both hands in contact with a base(s) once he/she reaches the
full split position.
c. At least two of the bases support under the top person’s legs, and the third base
may support under the legs or be in contact with the top person’s hands.
3. Braced suspended splits are permitted provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. The top person has at least two bases.
b. The top person has both hands in contacts with the bracer(s).
c. The top person and the bracer(s) each have a separate spotter with the exception
of bracers in shoulder sits or thigh stands.
d. The bracer(s) maintain hand-to-hand/arm contact with the top person until
he/she is no longer in a split position.
4. If the top person in braced suspended splits is released by the bases, all conditions of
the release transition rule (Section 4, Rule 5) must be met.
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5. A swinging stunt is permitted provided all of the following conditions are met:
a. Any downward movement begins from below prep level.
b. The top person is face-up.
c. The top person begins on the performance surface or in a stunt that is below
prep level.
6. A top person must not be in a face-down position between bases in which the top
person’s torso is suspended below the arms and legs.
SECTION 6 – DISMOUNTS
1. Bases/catchers must not move during dismounts unless necessary for safety
adjustments.
EXCEPTION: The bases may make a ¼ turn to catch a cradle.
2. Dismounts to the performance surface from prep level or above require assistance
from a base or spotter. This assistance must be sufficient to slow the momentum of
the top person.
3. Dismounts to the performance surface from prep level or above that involve a skill
(e.g. toe touch, twists, etc.) require two bases or a base and a spotter. Assistance is
required from at least one base or spotter. This assistance must be sufficient to slow
the momentum of the top person.
4. In all cradle dismounts:
a. The base(s)/catcher(s) must have continuous visual contact with the top
person.
b. The top person must not hold props that are made of hard material or have
sharp corners or edges.
5. Cradle dismounts from multi-base stunts must have at least two (2) bases/catchers and
an additional head and shoulders catcher/spotter.
6. Cradle dismounts from single-base stunts to single-base cradles must have an
additional catcher/spotter who is responsible for the head-and-shoulder area of the
top person.
EXCEPTION: An additional catcher/spotter is not required when cradling a chair or
torch.
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7. A skill (e.g., toe touch, twist, etc.) may be performed to a cradle except during
dismounts to separate catchers.
8. A twist to a cradle or to the performance surface must not involve more than 1¼
rotations.
9. In all dismounts to catchers who are not the original bases, the following conditions
must be met:
a. The top person must be cradled by two catchers and a head-and-shoulders
spotter/catcher.
b. The new catchers must remain close to the original bases.
c. The new catchers must be in place and must not be involved in any other skill
when the release is initiated.
d. The top person must not execute any skill (twist, toe touch, etc.) following the
release.
10. In cradle dismounts where a bracer is involved after the bases release the top person,
all the following conditions must be met:
h. There are at least two bases.
i. Constant hand-to-hand/arm contact is maintained between the top person and
at least one bracer until the top person is descending.
j. Each top person and bracer has a separate spotter with the exception of bracers
in shoulder sits or thigh stands.
k. The bracers do not provide primary support for the top person.
l. The release is a continuous vertical up-and-down movement in which the top
person remains over the original base(s).
m. The top person is not released to new catchers.
n. Bases and bracers remain in place during the dismount.
11. Tension drops are not permitted.
SECTION 7 – TUMBLING
1. Tumbling or rebounding over or under a stunt, person or a prop is not permitted with
the exception of non-airborne tumbling over a person or prop on the performance
surface.
2. Tumbling while holding props is not permitted except for a forward roll, backward roll
or holding pom(s) in the free hand during a one-hand cartwheel.
3. A dive forward roll is not permitted.
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4. A flip that lands in a partner stunt or cradle is not permitted.
5. A flip in a tumbling pass must not involve more than one complete hip-over-head
rotation or more than one complete twist.
6. Airborne twisting tumbling skills are permitted only on grass (real or artificial), a mat
or a rubberized track, with the exception of round-offs and aerial cartwheels.
7. Airborne skills without hip-over- head rotation may not involve jumping from a
standing or squatting position backwards onto the neck, shoulders or hands. This rule
refers to a type of entrance into the “kip-up/rubber band” skills.
SECTION 8 – DROPS
1. Drops that go directly to the thighs, splits, knees or seat on the performance surface are
not permitted unless most of the weight is first borne on the hands or feet or the descent
is controlled.
2. Airborne drops to a push-up position are not permitted.
EXCEPTION: Springing from a crouch to a push-up position is permitted.
3. Falling from a stand directly to the stomach or back on the performance surface is not
permitted without first bearing weight on the hands.
4. Dropping to the performance surface from a handspring or flip is not permitted.
SECTION 9 – PROPS AS BASES
1. The height of the prop must not exceed 3 feet.
2. Jumps and/or stunts are not permitted on props.
Alberta Cheerleading Association School Cheer Rule Book 2016 - 2017
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