2008-09 NCA All*Star Divisions
NCA has released their 2008-2009 All*Star Nationals divisions on Varsity.com. They consisted of 7 Level 1’s, 8 L2’s, 10 L3’s, 9 L4’s, 10 L5’s, 2 L6’s, 2 International, and Special Needs, for a total of 49. NCA will also offer some small gym divisions.
Update: Justin Carrier sent an email saying the initial release had an error with the International Open divisions that has since been corrected.
Coach of the Year
The following was sent to cheer coaches towards the end of March:
Dear Cheer Coach,
We are excited to announce that Cheer Coach & Advisor magazine has again partnered with the USASF and together we are offering an award for the 2008 World’s Top U.S. Cheer Coach and new this year, an award for the 2008 World’s Top International Cheer Coach.These awards are a bit unique in that the nominees will be voted upon by their peers. That’s right, you get to choose who will receive the 2008 World’s Top U.S. Cheer Coach Award and the 2008 World’s Top International Cheer Coach. The process is easy, just fill out the attached form and return it to us by April 6, 2008. The coaches with the most nominations/votes will become the recipients of the annual 2008 World’s Top U.S. Cheer Coach Award and the 2008 World’s Top International Cheer Coach Award.
(Attachments - International Nomination Form & US Nomination Form)
The rules are simple. The nominees must be planning to attend the 2008 USASF World’s in Orlando, FL, on April 26-27 and they must have been an active coach during the 2007-2008 season.The winning coaches will receive an award at the 2008 USASF World’s ceremony and will be recognized and featured in an upcoming issue of Cheer Coach & Advisor magazine.
Do you know of a coach worthy of this special honor; someone that works tirelessly to promote the sport of cheerleading? A person that other coaches admire and that young people look up to as a mentor and role model? If so, then don’t delay, complete the attached form and return it to (email address omitted) by April 6, 2008.
Valerie, Editor
Cheer Coach & Advisor Magazine
www.cheercoachmagazine.com
2 Horse Race
Does it seem like the industry is becoming a 2 horse race? Will any of the neutrals get together and form a 3rd major group, CheerSport maybe?
Varsity Brands:
- ACA
- American Championships
- Athletic Championships
- Cheer Power
- NCA
- Spirit Sports
- UCA
- WSF
JAM Brands:
- America’s Best
- Atlantic Championships/Coastal
- Great Lakes
- JAMfest
- Golden State Spirit Association
Independents:
- All Star Challenge
- America Cheer Express
- American Spirit Championships
- Cheer America
- Cheer Ltd
- Cheer Sport
- Cheer Tech
- COA (ties to JAM Brands)
- Connecticut Spirit Assocociation
- JAMZ
- Mardi Gras
- Nation’s Best
- PacWest (ties to Varsity)
- Spirit Cheer
- Universal Spirit
- UPA
- US Spirit
- Valley of the Sun
- WCA
- WSA
- Xtreme Spirit
Varsity Brands’ International All Level Championship Update
It seems like the Varsity Brands’ All Level Championship is going to include non-Varsity brands. Rumors are linking CheerSport, JAMZ, Deep South, All*Star Challenge, American Spirt Championships, Spirit Cheer, and Pac West to the All Levels Championship. No word on if Jammy was invited to the party.
Addition by Subtraction
There are 51 USASF recognized All*Star divisions for the 2007-2008 competition season. Of course, this count ignores the 7-8 Small Gyms divisions in the Southwest.
The 2007-2008 divisions break down like this:
- Tiny Level 1s - 1
- Mini Level 1s - 1
- Mini Level 2s - 1
- Mini Level 3s - 1
- Youth Level 1s - 2
- Youth Level 2s - 2
- Youth Level 3s - 2
- Youth Level 4s - 2
- Youth Level 5s - 1
- Junior Level 1s - 2
- Junior Level 2s - 2
- Junior Level 3s - 3
- Junior Level 4s - 3
- Junior Level 5s - 3
- Senior Level 1s - 1
- Senior Level 2s - 3
- Senior Level 3s - 4
- Senior Level 4s - 4
- Senior Level 5s - 6
- International Level 5s - 4
- Special Needs - 1
- Open Level 6s - 2
Or by Levels, like this:
- Level 1 - 7
- Level 2 - 8
- Level 3 - 10
- Level 4 - 9
- Level 5 - 14
- Level 6 - 2
- Special Needs - 1
Or by Age, like this:
- Tiny - 1
- Mini - 3
- Youth - 9
- Junior - 13
- Senior - 18
- International Open - 4
- Special Needs - 1
- Open - 2
USASF Uniform Survey Clarification II
David Hanbery of Deep South Cheer had the following response to USASF’s Jim Chadwick.
I commend the effort on trying to make our sport as respectable as possible. I also feel that if we plan on expanding our sport we must do this through providing an education for the youth that are involved. That said, I think that education is the key. Has anyone explained that much like swimming and gymnastics that the outfits that we wear are are not always determined by style but also by safety of those involved? I am the first to state that our uniforms should not place our children in an unsafe environment, but I also understand that in track and field, swimming, gymnastics, and many other sports that rely on strength, flexibility, and the art of body movement, that the outfits worn are determined by not only by fashion but the safety of the athlete.
Any coach understands that spotting a tumbling pass or catching a flyer is much easier with gymnastics or acrobatic type attire. Have you ever witnessed different in a gymnastics meet or an acrobatic performance? I truly feel that education to not only the participants, but also the parents of those participants is the key. I would never want any of our participants to be put in a vulnerable position, but I feel that communication versus rules may be a better way of relaying a position on the matter. I also feel that judges and event providers could easily explain to a coach this position as I have done in the past. As cheerleading continues to follow the steps of diving, gymnastics, and acrobatics, I have noticed the uniforms have done the same. While we all should take precautions to protect our youth, I feel that this must be said.
Thank you for your time,
David Hanbery
President and CEO
Deep South, Inc.
USASF Uniform Survey Clarification
USASF director Jim Chadwick sent the following email on March 12th:
In our efforts to better understand the opinions and points of view of members of this organization that now number over 12,000, we have been conducting a number of e-mail surveys. The most recent survey regarding uniforms has created some misconceptions that need to be clarified.
- What you received was only a survey, nothing more.
- There is nothing in the 2008-09 rules, soon to be released, that is new regarding uniforms.
- The purpose of the uniform survey was to collect information to be discussed at the National Advisory Board (NAB) meeting in April. The NAB is made up of individuals you elect to represent you with the goal of helping set the agenda for the USASF. A listing of the NAB membership follows. Please contact your representatives if you have any suggestions regarding any aspect of possible uniform guidelines.
- Before any uniform rules would be passed, the USASF would first need to decide this is an area that would benefit from USASF governance. There has not been any decision on this one way or the other. On one hand, there is a concern that some parents may view some of the uniforms on our youngest athletes as sexual exploitation, do not allow their children to join an all star program, and thus limit the overall size of the market. On the other hand, most of the parents with their children already in all star programs probably think the uniforms are fine. The truth may lie somewhere in the middle.
- The mission of the USASF is to increase the number of participants benefiting from the positive life experience of all star cheer and dance. Would there be more participants if we provide uniform guidance to gyms or should we let the gyms make the decision? I am sure that most would prefer to let gyms choose but the concern is how many will make poor choices and the potential this creates to limit the size of the market.
- One of the strategies the USASF employs to accomplish its mission is to strengthen the actuality and perception of all star as a safe sport. While we tend to think of safety from an avoidance of injury standpoint, we should also consider the importance of protecting our athletes from sexual predators.
- Our goal is to have a clear and transparent rules development process that includes everyone with a point of view. The January NACCC rules meeting was webcast and a vote was taken worldwide. The USASF Rules Committee, 25 experts strong, has considered every point of view. Any issues that are still cloudy after the worldwide vote and the analysis of experts, will go to the NAB for input. The end product is every member of this organization that wants to express an opinion regarding any rule has the opportunity so the idea that there will be a surprise rule on uniforms this or any year is totally false.
- Finally, and probably most importantly, all star is composed of equal parts sports and entertainment. Uniforms that fail to support the entertainment component would be as counterproductive to growth as uniforms that are perceived as sexually exploitative. As with all things, keeping a balanced perspective on this issue is critically important.
NAB Membership
Cheer Coach Representatives
Terms expire in December 2009
- Jeff Miller, Pro Spirit, TX
- Cheryl Pasinato, East Elite, MA
- Courtney Pope, Cheer Extreme, NC
- Robin Norko, Spirit All Stars, CT
- Abel Rosa, Premier Athletics, TN
Terms expire in December 2008
- Rhonda Durham, Quakes, CA
- Kim Braasch, Cheer Tyme, PA
- Debbie Love, Pep Club, KY
- Jamie Parrish, Stingrays, GA
- Don Collins, choreographer, NC
Dance Coach Representatives
Terms expire in December 2009
- Lisa Greco, ACE, OH
- Dan Sapp, PACE, CA
- Amy Goldberg, Star Performance Center, OH
- Todd Sharp, Planet Dance, IN
- Carol Lloyd, Memphis Elite, TN
Competition Event Producers
Terms expire in December 2009
- Dan Kessler, JAMfest, KY
- Kevin Brubaker, Cheersport, NC
- Justin Carrier, NCA, TX
- Kiki Bittner, Pacwest, WA
- Mike Pare, Spirit Cheer, FL
Terms expire in December 2008
- Serena Andrews, Coastal Alliance, MD
- Bill Patterson, NCA, TX
- Tammy VanVleet, GSSA, CA
- Gwen Holtsclaw, Cheer LTD, SC
- Rey Lasano, U.S. Spiritleaders
Affiliate Members
Terms expire in December, 2009
- Marisa Walker, American Cheerleader Magazine, NY
- Stasia Ohmie, Dollamur, TX
Terms expire in December 2008
- Carolyn Silberman, Cheer Coach and Advisor
- Ross Morreale, Ross Athletics
- Tate Chalk, Nfinity Shoes
Thank you for your attention to this important matter,
Jim Chadwick
USASF Uniform Survey for Coaches
The following survey was recently sent by USASF Representative, Gena Evans. The survey closes March 16th. A similar survey was sent to USASF event producers.
USASF Dress Code and Proposal:
Based on the recommendation of the NAB, we propose the following guidelines and time frame for implementation:
Uniform Changes by the Fall of 2009:
- No midriff/bra tops for participants on Tiny, Mini or Youth Level and under teams. The bottom of the uniform top should meet the waistband of the skirt when standing straight.
- Skirt length should visibly cover the briefs when standing straight.
Uniform changes by the Fall of 2010:
- No midriff/bra tops for participants on Junior Level teams. The bottom of the uniform top should meet the waistband of the skirt when standing straight.
- Skirt length should visibly cover the briefs when standing straight.
Uniform Changes by the Fall of 2011:
- No midriff/bra tops for participants on Senior Level teams. The bottom of the uniform top should meet the waistband of the skirt when standing straight.
- Skirt length should visibly cover the briefs when standing straight.
There are currently no restrictions proposed for Open Level teams
The following 5 question were asked:
1. Do you agree with the proposed change from midriff to a full length top?
- Yes
- No
2. Do you agree with the proposed skirt length?
- Yes
- No
3. When would you propose to start making changes to the uniform?
- Fall of 2009
- Fall of 2010
- Fall of 2011
- Fall of 2012
- Do not see need for change
4. This proposal involves a yearly progression. At which level of teams do you think this progression should begin?
- Senior
- Junior
- Youth
- Tiny & Mini
5. Should Open All Star levels be included in this proposal?
- Yes
- No
Double Competing
The following email was sent to the USASF by a parent. USASF’s Gena Evans’ response follows the parent’s email:
Good Morning,
I am concerned about something that happened this last weekend in Mobile, Alabama. Jamfest held a National Competition in Mobile. Let me state here, that I am biased. My daughter competed in the Senior Level Two Division. My daughter cheers for Arkansas Cheer Company. Their only competition was World Xtreme Vipers from McDonough, Georgia.
The World Xtreme Vipers performed phenomenally. I was very impressed with jumps, timing, motion sequences, tumbling and teamwork. They were very impressive.
The outcome was about what we expected. While our squad performed flawlessly and great. They were just not as clean as WXV. We were under the mindset that to lose to a squad of their caliber was an honor. They were just that good.
During awards, the announcer called the WXV as the winners and their squad stood to go receive the trophy and banner. As always, we applauded the other squad that won. We were not real surprised when the announcer called WXV as the winners of another division that we knew the gym was competing in (Senior Level Four). Now, imagine our surprise, disgust and shock when all the same athletes stood to receive the trophy for that division. The same squad was competing at a Level Four and a Level Two!
Now, as I understand it, double competing is not against any rules. As a matter of fact, we have a few athletes that do this to help squads when another competitor quits or can’t make a competition for health reasons. But, how outrageous is it for a Level Four Competition squad to compete at a Level Two as well. In the Competition Martial Arts Industry, they call this sand-bagging. And, it’s equated to Pete Rose, Barry Bonds and Michael Vick type behavior.
What are they teaching athletes and students when they approve, or furthermore support, this kind of behavior?
I am writing to make USASF aware of such horrible behavior and to petition for a rule change. I would love to see a number or percentage quote that would limit the number of double competitors to a squad.
Please tell me of any possibilities. I am encouraging parents from our gym to petition your governing body and Jamfest. It’s just ridiculous to see what some gym owners and coaches will pull to win trophies and titles.
Gena Evans’ response:
I appreciate you information and want to commend you on such a well-written letter. I am equally impressed to hear that your program encourages such great sportsmanship. That isn’t always the case these days.
However, the cross-competing rules are up to each individual Event Producer to decide how they choose to handle that for their events. I am going to forward your email to each of the Event Producers so that they will have this valuable information as they start their planning process for next season.
Cheers,
Gena Evans
USASF Area Director
More on the Varsity Family Plan
Scott Cole of Varsity Brands sent the following email in early March:
All Star Gym Owner/Director:
Hello, my name is Scott Cole and I am excited to inform you that I will be the new Varsity Family Plan Regional Development Director for Alabama. I will be your direct contact for anything Varsity Family Plan related and look forward to helping you take advantage of this tremendous revenue opportunity. The average rebate check for the 2007-2008 season was around $10,000 and the 2008-2009 rebates start with $1.
Attached to this email is a detailed description of the Varsity Family Plan for the 2008-2009 season, a tentative listing of all qualifying events, a rebate calculator to help you estimate your potential May 2009 rebate, and a step-by-step on how to register.
Win a free trip to the 2008-2009 World Cheerleading Championships and USASF Conference in Orlando, FL!!! All you need to do is fill out the attached Pre-Season Commitment Form.
Please return your completed form via Fax: (number omitted) or Email: (email omitted) before April 7th to be eligible!
If you have any questions concerning the new program, please do not hesitate to contact me via email or phone. Additional information is also available on our website: www.varsityfamilyplan.com. Thank you for your time and I look forward to helping you utilize the new program to its fullest potential.
Attachments: Varsity Family Plan Rebate Calculator, 2008-2009 Varsity Events, Introduction to Family Plan Letter, Varsity Family Registration Letter, & Pre-Season Commitment Form
Regards,
Scott Cole
UCA All-Star / Varsity Family Plan
Regional Development Director
6745 Lenox Center Court
Memphis, TN 38115A NEW REVENUE SOURCE FOR GYMS!
www.varsityfamilyplan.com
New IASF Website
The IASF has a new website at IASFWorlds.org.
UCA All*Star Scoring System
UCA has sent out detailed information on their scoring system:
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