Choosing the right cheerleading competition means matching the event to your squad’s level, rules, budget and goals. Compare the divisions offered, which rulebook the event follows, how routines are scored, the total cost including travel, the location and dates, the performance surface, and whether the event awards bids to larger championships. First time squads usually do best at a well organized local event, while experienced teams may target competitions that qualify them for national or world championships. Reading the event packet carefully and talking to other coaches prevents most surprises.
Types of cheer competitions
| Type | Who competes | Typical features |
|---|---|---|
| Local or regional events | School, recreational and all star teams | Lower cost, shorter travel, good for first timers |
| State championships | School teams, often run by state associations | State specific rules and qualification |
| National championships | School, college and all star teams | Larger scale, often require qualification |
| Bid events | Mostly all star teams | Award invitations to major championships |
| World championships | Elite all star and national teams | Highest level, qualification required |
| Virtual competitions | Teams submitting video routines | Lower cost, no travel, different atmosphere |
What to compare
| Factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Divisions and levels | You want to compete against teams of similar age, size and skill |
| Rules followed | School rules and all star rules differ in allowed skills |
| Scoring system | Shows what judges reward, such as difficulty or execution |
| Cost and fees | Registration, spectator tickets, travel and lodging add up |
| Location and dates | Must fit travel budgets and the school calendar |
| Bids | Some teams need qualification to national or world events |
| Performance surface | Spring floors and mats feel different for tumbling |
| Event reputation | Organization, timing and judging quality vary between producers |
Understanding divisions and levels
Divisions group teams by factors such as age, team size, gender makeup and program type, while levels define which stunts and tumbling skills are allowed. Entering the right division is important for fairness and safety. A team that enters a level above its skills may attempt risky elements, while a team that enters too low may not be allowed to show its best skills. School teams often compete in divisions based on school size or squad type, while all star teams follow level systems set by their governing body. Always confirm your team’s division before registering.
Rules and scoring
Competitions follow specific rulebooks. School focused events often use the NFHS Spirit Rules or state association rules, while all star events generally follow USASF rules. The event packet usually states which rules apply, along with time limits, music requirements, prop rules and deductions.
Scoring systems also vary. Many score sheets include categories such as stunts, pyramids, tumbling, jumps, dance, overall routine composition and, for school teams, crowd leading or game day elements. Some events emphasize difficulty, while others weigh execution and presentation more heavily. Studying the score sheet before choreographing helps you design a routine that plays to your team’s strengths.
Rulebook note: rules, levels and scoring are updated regularly. Always review the current rulebook and the specific event’s score sheet rather than relying on past seasons.
How to choose a competition step by step
- Set goals. Decide whether the season is about experience, bids, state titles or national championships.
- Check your level and division. Confirm where your team fits based on skills, ages and size.
- Build a budget. Include registration, uniforms, music, choreography, travel, lodging and spectator costs.
- Research events. Compare dates, locations, divisions, rules and scoring systems.
- Ask other coaches. Learn about each event’s organization, schedule reliability and judging.
- Read the event packet. Note deadlines, music rules, time limits, surfaces and check-in procedures.
- Register early. Popular events and divisions can fill quickly, and early registration may cost less.
- Plan logistics. Arrange travel, warm-up times, chaperones and a schedule for competition day.
Budgeting for competition season
Competition costs can grow quickly, so planning early helps families and programs avoid surprises. Common expenses include registration fees per athlete or per team, music editing and licensing, choreography, competition uniforms and accessories, travel, hotels, meals and spectator admission for families. Some events also charge coaching or parking fees. Build a full season budget before committing to events, and share it with families early. Fundraising, sponsorships from local businesses and choosing events closer to home can make competing more affordable.
Music deserves special attention. Many competitions require that routine music is properly licensed, and rules on music can change. Check the event’s music requirements well before the deadline and work with a reputable music provider.
Preparing athletes for competition day
Competition days can be long, loud and stressful, especially for new athletes. Share a detailed schedule covering arrival, check-in, warm-up, performance time and awards. Pack water, healthy snacks, spare hair ties, bows, safety pins, athletic tape and a basic first aid kit. Plan a warm-up that includes light cardio, stretching, jumps and a few stunt and tumbling repetitions, following the event’s warm-up rules. Remind athletes to focus on hitting the routine cleanly and supporting one another, rather than comparing themselves to other teams. After performing, celebrate effort and review the score sheet together to set goals for the next event.
Evaluating an event afterward
After each competition, take a few minutes with coaches and athletes to evaluate the experience. Was the schedule on time? Were warm-up areas safe and well organized? Was the scoring clear and the feedback useful? Did the division feel like a fair match? Notes from each event make it much easier to choose next season’s competitions and to recommend reliable events to other programs.
What is a bid?
A bid is an invitation to compete at a larger championship event, such as a major national or world level competition. Bids are usually awarded at designated qualifying events based on placement or scores. Some bids cover part or all of certain costs, while others simply grant entry. Bid rules differ by championship and season, so coaches should check the qualifying process for the event they are targeting.
Tips for first time competitors
First competitions are about learning. Choose a nearby, well run event with a division that fits your team comfortably. Practice full outs of the routine many times before competition day, including on a surface similar to the event’s floor. Prepare athletes for the experience with a clear schedule, from arrival and check-in to warm-up and awards. Focus team goals on hitting the routine cleanly rather than placement, and use judges’ feedback to plan improvements.
Common mistakes
- Entering a division or level that does not match the team’s skills.
- Ignoring the event’s specific rules and score sheet.
- Underestimating total costs and travel time.
- Missing registration, music or roster deadlines.
- Choosing too many competitions and exhausting athletes.
- Not preparing athletes for long competition days.
Frequently asked questions
What is a bid in cheerleading?
An invitation, earned at a qualifying event, to compete at a larger championship such as a national or world level competition.
Can school teams compete in all star competitions?
Many all star events offer school or recreational divisions, but rules and eligibility vary. Check the event packet and your school or state association’s policies.
How many competitions should a team attend?
It depends on goals, budget and athlete workload. Many school teams attend a few events per season, while all star teams often compete more frequently.
