The frustrating part is that in some locations there are no options for the kids. They work hard under one set of rules from a young age hoping to be on an advanced team. Then the rules suddenly change, and they are no longer able to achieve those goals.

The biggest problem is that all the gyms within 90 minutes are facing the same issues with the new age structure. Unfortunately, that’s not an option. There are no options. No other teams would offer her the chance to fly due to the fact that she is the same size as many 12 year olds. No other gyms offer non-senior level 3 teams, so she is not able to “use” her tumbling in competition. We are willing to take her to another gym if that’s what it takes.

No, she does not spend time with older kids outside the gym. However, that is irrelevant. She spends very little non-school time outside the gym, period. She has friends her age in the gym, and they are on the same team. That, however, will soon change. Her friends will soon be on a senior team as mentioned above.

Why 2?

I’ve heard small gyms talk about how this will hurt small gyms and large gyms talk about how this will hurt large gyms. In order to be a successful business you must be able to adapt. Those that can’t will go out of business and I don’t think I will miss them.

Do you push for your child to be around older, high school age kids in other areas of her life or is that restricted to cheer?

My suggestion would be to choose whatever you think is best. If she can’t fly on a team at your current gym and flying is most important to you, then find a gym that will allow her to fly. If the family atmosphere of your gym is most important, stay. Either way you’re going to have to make compromises with they gym you choose and which compromises to make is up to you. The hindering team bonding comment makes little sense to me. Your daughter will still be on a team and able to bond with them. I don’t see what will hinder that.

Cheerleading has made great strides. Small gyms have created an image of cheerleading in communities across the country and around the world. These gyms should be encouraged to thrive and continue to grow and succeed. The new rules will hinder this, and thus hinder the progress of cheerleading in general. Small gyms need major TLC. They are in danger of failing!

As for the concern about my young child being around much older team mates, that is not a concern. She practices with them whether they are on the same team or not. Parents are an active presence in our gym, and the older athletes (usually) enjoy and are often motivated by the spirit and drive of the younger team members.

My daughter will not be eligible for a senior team for two years. During this time her friends who are a year or two older will be eligible. One of the neat things about cheerleading is the bond that forms on the teams. These kids perfect individual skills for the benefit of the team. Team bonding is drastically hindered by this rule. My daughter has developed a strong sense of self, because she has accomplished so much. Now those accomplishments will have no use for two years. Her gym will not be able to form a Level 3 youth or junior team; it is too small. Also, she is tall for her age (taller than most 10 year olds). Flying is her passion, and her height is a limitation at the junior and youth level. What suggestions do you have for these athletes?