General Information

I. SPORTSMANSHIP

1. All participants agree to conduct themselves in a manner displaying good sportsmanship throughout the competition with positive presentation upon entry and exit from the performance area as well as throughout the routine.
2. The gym owner, advisor and/or coach of each team is responsible for seeing that team members, coaches, parents and other persons affiliated with the team conduct themselves accordingly. Severe cases of unsportsmanlike conduct are grounds for disqualification.

II. CHOREOGRAPHY AND MUSIC

1. Choreography and music must be appropriate for family viewing and listening. All profanity and inappropriate language must be eliminated from your music. A safety judge will assess a 10 point penalty per occurrence for inappropriate choreography, music or language.
2. Music should be emailed to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it before the registered event.  The mp3 file name should be your Team Name and Division.  Your music will be waiting for you at the sound table.  You will be able to hear your music on a small speaker at the sound table before it is played for the competition.  A CD, digital music player or USB drive can be used to play your music from.
3. One representative from each team, individual competitor and stunt group will be responsible for running your music during the competition. This person must remain at the sound table throughout the performance.

III. INTERRUPTION OF PERFORMANCE
A. UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES

1. If, in the opinion of the competition officials, a team’s routine is interrupted because of failure of the competition equipment, facilities, or other factors attributable to the competition rather than the team, the team affected should STOP the routine.
2. The team will perform the routine again in its entirety, but will be evaluated ONLY from the point where the interruption occurred. The degree and effect of the interruption will be determined by the competition officials.

B. FAULT OF TEAM

1. In the event a team’s routine is interrupted because of failure of the team’s own equipment, the team must either continue the routine or withdraw from the competition.
2. The competition officials will determine if the team will be allowed to perform at a later time. If decided by officials, the team will perform the routine again in its entirety, but will be evaluated ONLY from the point where the interruption occurred.

C. INJURY

1. In the event that an injury causes the team’s routine to be interrupted, the team must either continue the routine or withdraw from the competition.
2. Competition officials reserve the right to stop the routine if an injury occurs.
3. The competition officials will determine if the team will be allowed to perform at a later time. If decided by officials, the team will perform the routine again in its entirety, but will be evaluated ONLY from the point where the interruption occurred.

IV. SCORING

1. Spirit Solutions scoring system contains several skill sections which allow scores to be given for both difficulty and execution. Sample score sheets for all-star teams, individuals, group stunts, school/recreational teams, as well as, possible deductions can be found under the “Downloads” tab.
2. Score sheets will be available only to gym owners, advisors or coaches at the conclusion of each award ceremony.
3. In the event of a tie, the highest score in the Overall Performance category will determine the winner.  If the tie remains in effect because of identical scores in the Overall Performance, the highest score in Degree of Difficulty will determine the winner.  Should the tie still remain, a judges’ ballot will break the tie.

V. FINALITY OF DECISIONS

1. By participating in a Spirit Solutions competition, each team agrees that the decisions by the judges will be final and results may ONLY be reviewed for clarification.
2. Each team acknowledges the necessity for the judges to make prompt and fair decisions in this competition and each team therefore expressly waives any legal, equitable, administrative or procedural review of such decisions.

All-Star Teams

All-Star teams will follow the USASF/IASF Safety Guidelines. Rule clarifications may be made throughout the competition season. Go to http://www.usasf.net for changes and a complete glossary of terms.

A. GENERAL SAFETY GUIDELINES

1. All teams must be supervised during all official functions by a qualified director/coach.
2. Coaches must require proficiency before skill progression. Coaches must consider the individual, group, and team skill levels with regard to proper performance level placement.
3. All teams, gyms, coaches and directors should have an emergency response plan in the event of an injury.
4. Athletes and coaches may not be under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, performance enhancing substances, or over-the-counter medications while participating in a practice or performance that would hinder the ability to supervise or execute a routine safely.
5. Athletes must always practice and perform on an appropriate surface.
6. Soft-soled shoes must be worn while competing. No dance shoes/boots, and/or gymnastics slippers (or similar) allowed. Shoes must have a solid sole.
7. Jewelry of any kind including but not limited to ear, nose, tongue, belly button and facial rings, clear plastic jewelry, bracelets, necklaces and pins on uniforms are prohibited. Jewelry must be removed and may not be taped over. (Exception: medical ID tags/bracelets, and uniform rhinestones. Rhinestones are illegal when adhered to the skin as opposed to a uniform. Temporary tattoos are also allowed.)
8. Any height increasing apparatus used to propel a competitor is prohibited. (Exception: spring floor)
9. Flags, banners, signs, pom pons, megaphones, and pieces of cloth are the only props allowed. Props with poles or similar support apparatus may not be used in conjunction with any kind of stunt or tumbling. All props must be safely discarded out of harms way (e.g. throwing a hard sign across the mat from a stunt would be illegal). Any uniform piece purposefully removed from the body and used for visual effect will be considered a prop.
10. Casts that are hard and unyielding or have rough edges must be appropriately covered with a padded material. Clarification: The appropriately padded material must be such that it protects both the athlete and fellow athletes from injury.
11. On the level grid, all skills allowed for a particular level encompass all skills allowed in the preceding level.
12. Required spotters for all levels must be your own team’s members.
13. Drops including but not limited to knee, seat, thigh, front, back, and split drops from a jump, stunt, or inverted position are prohibited unless the majority of the weight is first borne on the hands/feet, which breaks the impact of the drop. Shushinovas are allowed.
14. Competition routines shall not exceed 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
15. Athletes must have at least one foot, hand or body part (other than hair) on the performing surface when the routine begins. Exception: Athletes may have their feet in the hands of base(s) if the base(s) hands are resting on the performing surface.

B. COMPETITION AREA

1. Athletes will compete on a 54’ x 42’ spring floor (this includes All Star individuals and stunt groups).

C. ALL STAR PARTICIPATION

1. Individuals are permitted to compete on both an All Star Team and a School Team at the same event.
2. The age of the competitor as of August 31, 2009 will be the age used for competition purposes throughout the 2009-2010 season for all divisions. Exception: The cut-off date for the maximum age of the Senior teams (18) will remain May 31, 2009 for the 2009-10 season. For the 2010-11 competition season, it will change to August 31st.

D. CROSSOVERS

1. A "crossover" is a cheerleader that competes on more than one team from the same gym/organization and at the same event.
2. Crossovers are allowed provided they adhere to the age requirements. 
3. The "crossover" fee does NOT apply to a participant who is on a school team and an all-star team.
4. "Crossover" participants must pay the full registration fee for the first team and will pay the discounted "crossover" fee for each additional team.
5. An individual will not be permitted to crossover from one program to another within the same event.

E. RIGHT TO COMBINE/SPLIT DIVISIONS

1. Spirit Solutions reserves the right to add, combine, delete or split divisions as well as to move teams to the appropriate divisions.
2. Refer to the divisions list for further explanation of possible splits.

LEVEL 1 RULES
LEVEL 1 GENERAL TUMBLING

1. All tumbling must originate from and land on the performing surface. (Exception: Tumbler may [without hip-over-head rotation] rebound from his/her feet into a stunt transition. Rebounding to a prone position in a stunt is allowed.) Clarification: Rebounding to a prone position (1/2 twist to stomach) in a stunt is allowed even in Level 1.
2. Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed.
3. Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed.
4. Assisted or connected tumbling is not allowed.
5. Dive rolls are not allowed.

LEVEL 1 STANDING/RUNNING TUMBLING

1. Skills must involve constant physical contact with the performing surface. (Exception: block cartwheels/round offs) Tumbling skills must involve hand support with both hands when passing through the inverted position.
2. Forward and backward rolls, front and back walkovers, and handstands are allowed.
3. Cartwheels and round offs are allowed.
4. Front and back handsprings are not allowed.

LEVEL 1 STUNTS

1. 1. A spotter is required for all stunts at shoulder level and above (exception: shoulder sits and straddle sits). (Example: suspended splits, flat-bodied positions, extension preps, etc). Clarification: The center base in an extended v-sit may be considered a spotter as long as they are in a position to protect the head and shoulders of the top person.
2. 2. Extended stunts are not allowed (see definition of extended stunts in glossary). A stunt may not be held at or pass through an extended position. Clarification: If it is obvious to the safety judge that the intent of the stunt group is to gain a competitive advantage by passing through an extended position, then it is a violation of this rule. Taking the top person above the head of the bases would be illegal. Single leg stunts are only allowed below shoulder (prep) level. Clarification: If the primary bases squat, go to their knees or drop the overall height of the stunt and hold the top person at their shoulder level, this skill would be considered shoulder level and therefore illegal, regardless of the back spot’s positioning.
3. Twisting stunts and transitions are allowed up to ¼ twists by the top person.
4. During transitions, all bases need to remain in contact with the top person. Transitional stunts may not involve changing bases.
5. Free flipping or assisted flipping stunts and transitions are not allowed.
6. No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual (example: shoulder sits walking under prep).
7. Pendulum and pendulum style transitional stunts, where the top person falls away from the original bases, must use at least three stationary catchers, at least two of which are not original bases. Physical contact must be maintained with all of the original base(s).
8. Single based split catches are not allowed.
9. Single based double awesomes/cupies require a separate spotter for each top person.
10. L1 Stunts - Release Moves
    
    1. Release moves are not allowed other than those allowed at Level 1 in "Dismounts".
    2. Release moves may not land in a prone position.
    3. Release moves must return to original bases.
    4. Helicopters are not allowed.
    5. A single full twisting log/barrel roll is not allowed.
    6. Release moves may not intentionally travel.
    7. Release moves may not pass over, under or through other stunts, pyramids or individuals.

K. L1 Stunts - Inversions

1. All inversions must maintain contact with the performance surface (Example: supported handstand).

L. Bases may not support any weight of a top person while that base is in a backbend or inverted position.  (Clarification:  A person standing on the ground is not considered a top person.)

LEVEL 1 PYRAMIDS

1. Pyramids must follow Level 1 "Stunts" and "Dismounts" rules and are allowed up to 2 high.
2. Top person must receive primary support from a base.
3. Two leg extended stunts
   
   1. Two leg extended stunts must be braced by at least two persons at prep level or below with hand/arm connection only.
   2. The connection must be made at or below prep level.
4. Single leg stunts at prep level
   
   1. Single leg stunts at prep level must be braced by at least one person at prep level or below with hand/arm connection only.
   2. The connection must be made prior to executing single leg stunt and must be made at or below prep level.
5. No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual.

LEVEL 1 DISMOUNTS

1. Cradles from single based stunts must have a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.
2. Cradles from multi-based stunts must have two catchers and a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.
3. Dismounts to the performing surface from stunts and pyramids at prep level must be assisted by an original base.
4. Only straight pop downs and basic straight cradles are allowed.
5. Twisting dismounts (including 1/4 turns) are not allowed.
6. No dismounts are allowed from extended stunts in pyramids.
7. No free flipping or assisted flipping dismounts allowed.
8. Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed.
9. When cradling single based double awesome/cupies, 2 catchers must catch each top person.

LEVEL 1 TOSSES

1. No tosses allowed.

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LEVEL 2 RULES
LEVEL 2 GENERAL TUMBLING

1. All tumbling must originate from and land on the performing surface. (Exception: Tumbler may [without hip-over-head rotation] rebound from his/her feet into a stunt transition. Rebounding to a prone position in a stunt is allowed.)
2. Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed.
3. Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed.
4. Assisted or connected tumbling is not allowed.
5. Dive rolls aer allowed:
   
   1. Dive rolls performed in a swan/arched position are not allowed.
   2. Dive rolls that involve twisting are not allowed.

LEVEL 2 STANDING TUMBLING

1. Flips and aerials are not allowed.
2. Series front and back handsprings are not allowed. Clarification: A back walk over into a back handspring is allowed.
3. Jump skills in immediate combination with handspring(s) are not allowed. (Example: toe touch handsprings and handspring toe touches)
4. Non-airborne skills must involve hand support with at least one hand when passing through the inverted position. Example: Front and back walkovers, cartwheels and round offs.
5. Airborne skills must involve hand support with both hands when passing through the inverted position. Example: Front and back handsprings
6. No twisting while airborne. (Exception: Round offs)

LEVEL 2 RUNNING TUMBLING

1. Flips and aerials are not allowed.
2. Series front and back handsprings are allowed.
3. Airborne skills must involve hand support with at least one hand when passing through the inverted position.
4. No twisting while airborne. (Exception: Round offs)

LEVEL 2 STUNTS

1. A spotter is required for all extended stunts.
2. Single leg stunts may not be held at or pass through an extended position. Clarifications: 1. If it is obvious to the safety judge that the intent of the stunt group is to gain a competitive advantage by passing through an extended position, than it is a violation of this rule. Taking the top person above the head of the bases would be illegal. 2. If the primary bases squat, go to their knees or drop the overall height of the stunt while extending their arms, this skill would be considered extended and therefore illegal, regardless of the back spot’s positioning.
3. Twisting mounts and transitions are allowed up to a total of 1/2 twist between the bases and the top person combined. Clarification: a half twist performed with an additional half turn by the bases would be illegal if performed simultaneously.
4. During transitions, at least one base must remain in contact with the top person.
5. Free flipping or assisted flipping stunts and transitions are not allowed.
6. No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual (e.g. shoulder sits walking under prep).
7. Pendulum and pendulum style transitional stunts, where the top person falls away from the original bases, must use at least three stationary catchers, at least two of which are not original bases. Physical contact must be maintained with all of the original base(s).
8. Single based split catches are not allowed.
9. Single based double awesomes/cupies require a separate spotter for each top person.
10. Log rolls are allowed and may only be assisted by a base. Clarification: The log roll may not be assisted by another top person.
11. L2 Stunts - Release Moves
    
    1. No release moves allowed other than those allowed at Level 2 in "Dismounts" and "Tosses."
    2. Release moves may not land in a prone position.
    3. Release moves must return to original bases.
    4. Helicopters are not allowed.
    5. A single full twisting log/barrel roll is allowed as long as it starts and ends in a cradle position. Clarification: Log/Barrel roll may not include any skill other than the twist (ex: no kick full twists).
    6. Release moves may not intentionally travel.
    7. Release moves may not pass over, under or through other stunts, pyramids or individuals. 
       

L. L2 Stunts - Inversions

1. All inversions must maintain contact with the performance surface. Exception: Transitions from ground level inversions to non-inverted positions are allowed. Clarifications: Legal: Going from a handstand on the ground to a non-inverted stunt such as a shoulder sit. Illegal: Going from a cradle to a handstand or from a prone position to a forward roll.

M. Bases may not support any weight of a top person while that base is in a backbend or inverted position.  (Clarification:  A person standing on the floor is not considered a top person)

LEVEL 2 PYRAMIDS

1. Pyramids must follow Level 2 "Stunts" and "Dismounts" rules and are allowed up to 2 high.
2. Top persons must receive primary support from a base. Clarification: Anytime a top person is released by the bases during a pyramid transition, the top person must land in a cradle or dismount to the performing surface.
3. Extended single leg stunts may not brace or be braced by any other extended stunts.
4. No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual (e.g. shoulder sits walking under prep).
5. Extended single-leg stunts
   
   1. Must be braced by one top person at prep level or below with hand/arm connection only.
   2. The connection must be made prior to executing single leg stunt and must be made at or below prep level.
   3. Prep level top persons must have both feet in bases’ hands. (Exception: prep level top persons do not have to have both feet in the bases' hands if they are in a shoulder sit, double base thigh stand, flat back, straddle lift or shoulder stand)

LEVEL 2 DISMOUNTS

1. Cradles from single based stunts must have a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.
2. Cradles from multi-based stunts must have two catchers and a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.
3. Dismounts to the performing surface from stunts and pyramids from prep level and above must be assisted by an original base.
4. Only straight pop downs, basic straight cradles and 1/4 turns are allowed.
5. Twisting dismounts exceeding 1/4 turn are not allowed. All other positions (e.g. toe touch, pike, tuck, etc) are not allowed.
6. Cradles from extended single leg stunts in pyramids are allowed.
7. No free flipping or assisted flipping dismounts allowed.
8. Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed.
9. When cradling single based double awesomes/cupies, 2 catchers must catch each top person. Catchers and bases must be stationary prior to the initiation of the dismount.

LEVEL 2 TOSSES

1. Tosses are allowed up to a total of 4 tossing bases. One base must be behind the top person during the toss and may assist the top person into the toss.
2. Tosses must be performed from ground level and must land in a cradle position. Top person must be caught in a cradle position by at least 3 original bases one of which is positioned at the head and shoulder area of the top person. Bases must remain stationary during the toss (i.e. No intentional traveling tosses).
3. Flipping, inverted or traveling tosses are not allowed.
4. No stunt, pyramid, individual, or, prop may move over or under a toss, and a toss may not be thrown over, under, or through stunts, pyramids, individuals, or props.
5. The only body positions allowed are straight rides.
6. During the straight body ride, the top person may use different arm variations such as (but not limited to) a salute or blowing a kiss but must keep the legs and body in the straight ride position.

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LEVEL 3 RULES
LEVEL 3 GENERAL TUMBLING

1. All tumbling must originate from and land on the performing surface. (Exception: Tumbler may [without hip-over-head rotation] rebound from his/her feet into a stunt transition. Rebounding to a prone position in a stunt is allowed.)
2. Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed.
3. Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed.
4. Assisted or connected tumbling is not allowed. Clarification: double cartwheels and double forward rolls are allowed because they will be interpreted as stunts, not assisted tumbling.
5. Dive rolls are allowed:
   
   1. Dive rolls performed in a swan/arched position are not allowed.
   2. Dive rolls that involve twisting are not allowed.

LEVEL 3 STANDING TUMBLING

1. Flips are not allowed.
2. Series front and back handsprings are allowed.
3. Airborne skills must involve hand support with at least one hand when passing through the inverted position.
4. No twisting while airborne (Exception: round offs)

LEVEL 3 RUNNING TUMBLING

1. Flips:
   
   1. Flips may ONLY be performed in tuck position only from a round off or round off back handspring(s). (Exception: aerial cartwheels, running tuck fronts, and ¾ front flips are allowed). The following tumbling skills are examples of skills not allowed: X-outs, layouts, layout step outs, whips, pikes, aerial walkovers, and arabians.
   2. Other skills with hand support prior to the round off or round off back handspring are allowed. Example: front handsprings and front walkover through to round off back handspring back tucks
   3. Cartwheel tucked flips are not allowed.
2. No tumbling is allowed after a flip or an aerial cartwheel. (Exception: a forward or backward roll is allowed after a tuck flip; however, no tumbling is allowed after the roll.)  (Clarification:  If any tumbling follows a forward or backward roll, at least one step into the pass must be included the seperate the two passes.)
3. No twisting while airborne. (Exception: round offs)

LEVEL 3 STUNTS

1. A spotter is required for all extended stunts.
2. Single leg extended stunts are allowed.
3. Twisting mounts and transitions:
   
   1. Twisting mounts and transitions are allowed up to one twist by the top person.
   2. Full twisting transitions may land or originate from prep level or below only. (ex: full up to an extended stunt would not be allowed. )
   3. Twisting transitions to and from an extended position may not exceed a ½ twisting rotation. Clarification: a half twist performed with an additional half turn by the bases to an extended position would be illegal if performed simultaneously.
4. During transitions, at least one base must remain in contact with the top person.
5. Free flipping stunts and transitions are not allowed.
6. No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual (e.g. shoulder sits walking under prep).
7. Prep level or above pendulum and pendulum style transitional stunts where the top person falls away from the bases requires three stationary catchers, at least two of which are not original bases. During pendulum and pendulum style transitional stunts at least one base must remain in contact with the top person.
8. Single based split catches are not allowed.
9. Single based double awesomes/cupies require a separate spotter for each top person.
10. L3 Stunts - Release Moves
    
    1. No release moves allowed other than those allowed at Level 3 in "Dismounts" and "Tosses." Exception: Single based, coed style toss stunts to prep level are allowed.
    2. Release moves may not land in a prone position.
    3. Release moves must return to original bases.
    4. Helicopters are not allowed.
    5. A single full twisting log/barrel roll is allowed as long as it starts and ends in a cradle position. Clarification: Log/Barrel roll must return to original bases and may not include any skill other than the twist (ex: no kick full twists).
    6. Release moves may not intentionally travel.
    7. Release moves may not pass over, under or through other stunts, pyramids or individuals.

K. L3 Stunts – Inversions

1. No inverted stunts above shoulder level. The connection and support of the top person with the base(s) must be at shoulder level or below. (Exception: Multi base suspended forward roll dismount to a cradle or the performing surface is allowed. Multi base suspended forward rolls must be supported by two hands. Both hands of the top person must be connected to a separate hand of the base(s). See Glossary for Multi Base Suspended Forward Role)
2. Downward inversions are only allowed below prep level and must be assisted by at least two bases positioned at the head and shoulder area. Top person must maintain contact with an original base. Clarification: The stunt may not pass through prep level and then become inverted below prep level (the momentum of the top person coming down is the primary safety concern). Clarification: Catchers must physically catch the top person at the head and shoulder area.

L. Bases may not support any weight of a top person while that base is in a backbend or inverted position.  (Clarification:  A person standing on the ground is not considered a top person)

LEVEL 3 PYRAMIDS

1. Pyramids must follow Level 3 “Stunts” and "Dismounts" rules and are allowed up to 2 high.
2. Top persons must receive primary support from a base.
3. Extended single leg stunts may not brace or be braced by any other extended stunts.
4. No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual (ex: shoulder sits walking under prep).
5. L3 Pyramids - Release Moves
   
   1. During a pyramid transition, a top person may pass above 2 persons high while in direct physical contact with at least two persons at prep level or below.
   2. Top person must remain in direct arm-to-arm contact with at least two different top persons at prep level or below. Clarification:
      
      1. Being braced on one side with both arms and the other side by hand-foot connection is NOT allowed.
      2. If top person is braced on each side with arm-to-arm connection and a THIRD bracer with hand-foot connection, the skill would be legal.
   3. These release transitions may not involve changing bases.
   4. These transitions must be caught by at least 2 catchers.
      
      1. Both catchers must be stationary.
      2. Both catchers must maintain visual contact with the top person throughout the entire transition.
6. L3 Pyramids - Inversions
   
   1. Must follow L3 Stunt Inversions rules
   2. A top person may pass through an inverted position, during a pyramid transition, if the top person remains in contact with a base(s) that is direct weight bearing contact with the performing surface. The base that remains in contact with the top person may extend their arms during the transition, if the skill starts and ends in a position at prep level or below. Example 1: A flat back split which rolls to a load in position would be legal even if the base extends their arms during the inversion skill. Example 2: A flat back split which rolls to an extended position would be illegal because it did not first land in a prep level or below position.
7. L3 Pyramids - Release Moves w/ Braced Inversions
   
   1. Pyramid transitions may not involve inversions while released from the bases.

LEVEL 3 DISMOUNTS

1. Cradles from single based stunts must have a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.
2. Cradles from multi-based stunts must have two catchers and a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.
3. Dismounts to the performing surface from stunts and pyramids at prep level and above must be assisted by an original base.
4. Only straight pop downs, basic straight cradles and quarter turns are allowed from any single leg stunt.
5. Up to 1-1/4 twists are allowed from any two leg stunts.
6. Up to 1 trick allowed during a dismount from any two leg stunt.
7. No free flipping dismounts allowed.
8. Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed.
9. When cradling single based double awesomes/cupies, 2 catchers must catch each top person. Catchers and bases must be stationary prior to the initiation of the dismount.

LEVEL 3 TOSSES

1. Tosses are allowed up to a total of 4 tossing bases. One base must be behind the top person during the toss and may assist the top person into the toss.
2. Tosses must be performed from ground level and must land in a cradle position. Top person must be caught in a cradle position by at least 3 original bases one of which is positioned at the head and shoulder area of the top person. Bases must remain stationary during the toss (i.e. No intentional traveling tosses).
3. Flipping, inverted or traveling tosses are not allowed.
4. No stunt, pyramid, individual, or, prop may move over or under a toss, and a toss may not be thrown over, under, or through stunts, pyramids, individuals, or props.
5. Up to 1 trick allowed during a toss. Twisting tosses may not exceed 1 twisting rotation. (Legal: toe-touch, ball out, pretty girl, etc…) (Illegal: Switch kick, pretty girl-kick, double toe-touch) Clarification: The ‘arch’ does not count as a trick. Exception: a Ball X is allowed at this level.
6. During a twisting toss, no skill other than the twist is allowed. (e.g. kick fulls, ½ twist toe touches, etc… are not allowed)

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LEVEL 4 RULES
LEVEL 4 GENERAL TUMBLING

1. All tumbling must originate from and land on the performing surface. (Exception: Tumbler may [without hip-over-head rotation] rebound from his/her feet into a stunt transition. Rebounding to a prone position in a stunt is allowed.)
2. Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed.
3. Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed.
4. Assisted or connected tumbling is not allowed. Clarification: double cartwheels and double forward rolls are allowed because they will be interpreted as stunts, not assisted tumbling.
5. Dive rolls are allowed:
   
   1. Dive rolls performed in a swan/arched position are not allowed.
   2. Dive rolls that involve twisting are not allowed.

LEVEL 4 STANDING TUMBLING

1. Standing flips and flips from a back handspring entry are allowed.
2. Skills are allowed up to 1 flipping and 0 twisting rotations. (Exception: aerial cartwheel, Onodi)
3. Consecutive flip-flip combinations are not allowed (ex: back tuck-back tuck, back tuck-punch front, etc).
4. Jump skills are not allowed in immediate combination with a standing flip (Example: toe touch back tucks, back tuck toe touches, pike jump front flips) Clarification: toe touch back handspring back tucks are allowed because the flip skill is not connected immediately after the jump skill.

LEVEL 4 RUNNING TUMBLING

1. Skills are allowed up to 1 flipping and 0 twisting rotations. (Exception: aerial cartwheel, Onodi)

LEVEL 4 STUNTS

1. A spotter is required for all extended stunts.
2. Single leg extended stunts are allowed.
3. Twisting mounts and transitions are allowed up to 1-1/2 twists by the top person.  (Clarification: a 1 and 1/2 twist by the top person performed with any additional turn by the bases to an extended position would be illegal if performed simultaneously.)
4. No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another, separate stunt, pyramid or individual (e.g. shoulder sits walking under prep).
5. Free flipping mounts or transitional stunts are not allowed.
6. During transitions, at least one base must remain in contact with the top person. (Exception: See "Release Moves")
7. Prep level or above pendulum and pendulum style transitional stunts where the top person falls away from the bases requires three stationary catchers, at least two of which are not original bases. During pendulum and pendulum style transitional stunts at least one base must remain in contact with the top person.
8. Single based split catches are not allowed.
9. Single based double awesomes/cupies require a separate spotter for each top person.
10. L4 Stunts - Release Moves
    
    1. Release moves are allowed but must not exceed extended arm level (exception: cradles). (I.e. Tick-tocks are allowed.)
    2. Release moves may not land in a prone position.
    3. Release moves must return to original bases.
    4. Helicopters are not allowed.
    5. Release moves may not intentionally travel.
    6. Release moves may not pass over, under or through other stunts, pyramids or individuals.
11. L4 Stunts - Inversions
    1. Extended inverted stunts allowed. Also, see “Stunts” and “Pyramids.”
    2. Downward inversions are allowed at prep level or below and must be assisted by at least three bases, at least two of which are positioned to protect the head and shoulder area. Clarification: The stunt may not pass above prep level and then become inverted at prep level. (The momentum of the top person coming down is the primary safety concern.) Clarification: Catchers must make contact with the head and shoulder area. (Exception: In side rotating downward inversions (i.e. cartwheel-style transition dism ounts), the original base may lose contact with the top person when it becomes necessary to do so)
    3. Downward inversions must maintain contact with an original base.
12. Bases may not support any weight of a top person while that base is in a backbend or inverted position.

LEVEL 4 PYRAMIDS

1. Pyramids must follow Level 4 “Stunts” and "Dismounts" rules and are allowed up to 2 high.
2. Top persons must receive primary support from a base.
3. Extended single leg stunts may not brace or be braced by any other extended stunts.
4. 1. No stunt or pyramid may move over or under another separate stunt or pyramid (e.g. shoulder sits walking under prep).
   2. In a pyramid transition, a top person may travel over another top person while connected to that top person at prep level or below.
5. L4 Pyramids Release Moves
   
   1. During a pyramid transition, a top person may pass above 2 persons high while in direct physical contact with at least one person at prep level or below.
   2. Primary weight may not be borne at second level. Clarification: The transition must be continuous.
   3. Non-inverted pyramid release moves must be caught by at least 2 catchers.
      
      1. RULE ADJUSTMENT: In pyramids where the top person travels over their bracer (i.e. leap frogs or wolf wall transitions), both catchers must be stationary.
      2. Both catchers must maintain visual contact with the top person throughout the entire transition.
   4. Non-inverted transitional pyramids may involve changing bases. When changing bases:
      
      1. The top person must maintain physical contact with a person at prep level or below.
      2. The top person must be caught by at least 2 catchers. Both catchers must be stationary and may not be involved with any other skill or choreography when the transition is initiated.
6. L4 Pyramids- Inversions
   
   1. Must follow L4 Stunt Inversions rules.
7. L4 Pyramids - Release Moves w/ Braced Inversions
   
   1. Pyramid transitions may involve braced inversions (including braced flips) while released from the bases if contact is maintained with at least 2 persons at prep level or below. Contact must be maintained throughout entire transition with either the top person(s) or the base(s).
   2. Braced inversions (including braced flips) are allowed up to 1-¼ flipping rotations, 0 twisting rotations.
   3. Braced inversions (including braced flips) may not involve changing bases.
   4. Braced inversions (including braced flips) must be in continuous movement.
   5. All braced inversions (including braced flips) must be caught by at least 3 catchers.
      
      1. All catchers must be stationary
      2. All catchers must maintain visual contact with the top person throughout the entire transition.
      3. The 3 catchers may not be involved with any other skill or choreography when the transition is initiated.
   6. Braced inversions (including braced flips) may not travel downward while inverted.

LEVEL 4 DISMOUNTS

1. Cradles from single based stunts must have a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.
2. Cradles from multi-based stunts must have two catchers and a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.
3. Dismounts to the performing surface from stunts and pyramids prep level and above must be assisted by an original base.
4. Up to a 2-1/4 twisting rotation allowed from all two leg stunts.
5. Up to a 1-1/4 twisting rotation allowed from all single leg stunts.
6. During a cradle that exceeds 1-1/4 twists, no skill other than the twist is allowed.
7. No free flipping dismounts allowed.
8. Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed.
9. When cradling single based double awesomes/cupies 2 catchers must catch each top person. Catchers and bases must be stationary prior to the initiation of the dismount.

LEVEL 4 TOSSES

1. Tosses are allowed up to a total of 4 tossing bases. One base must be behind the top person during the toss and may assist the top person into the toss.
2. Tosses must be performed from ground level and must land in a cradle position. Top person must be caught in a cradle position by at least 3 original bases one of which is positioned at the head and shoulder area of the top person. Bases must remain stationary during the toss (i.e. No intentional traveling tosses). (Exception: A 1/2 turn is allowed by bases as in a kick full basket.)
3. Flipping, inverted or traveling tosses are not allowed.
4. No stunt, pyramid, individual, or, prop may move over or under a toss, and a toss may not be thrown over, under, or through stunts, pyramids, individuals, or props.
5. Up to 2 tricks allowed during a toss. (e.g. kick full, full up toe touch, etc.)
6. During a toss that exceeds 1-1/2 twisting rotations, no skill other than the twist is allowed. (e.g. kick doubles are not allowed)
7. Tosses may not exceed 2 twisting rotations.

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LEVEL 5 RULES
LEVEL 5 GENERAL TUMBLING

1. All tumbling must originate from and land on the performing surface. (Exception: Tumbler may [without hip-over-head rotation] rebound from his/her feet into a stunt transition. Rebounding to a prone position in a stunt is allowed.)
2. Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed.
3. Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed.
4. Assisted or connected tumbling is not allowed. Clarification: double cartwheels and double forward rolls are allowed because they will be interpreted as stunts, not assisted tumbling.
5. Dive rolls are allowed:
   
   1. Dive rolls performed in a swan/arched position are not allowed. 
   2. Dive rolls that involve twisting are not allowed.

LEVEL 5 STANDING/RUNNING TUMBLING

1. Skills are allowed up to 1 flipping and 2 twisting rotations. The following skill restrictions apply for Senior Open Level 5: In tumbling, only single twisting skills are allowed. During a full-twisting tumbling skill, no trick other than the twist is allowed (i.e. including but not limited to: split fulls, hitch kick fulls, XFulls, Full-Xouts, etc) and both feet must land and finish on the performing surface. (i.e. no full twisting tumbling to seat, prone body landings or similar).  Clarification:  All skills up to a full twist are also allowed.  i.e. half twist and arabians.
   

LEVEL 5 STUNTS

1. A spotter is required for all extended stunts.
2. Single leg extended stunts are allowed.
3. Twisting mounts and twisting transitions are allowed up to 2 twisting rotations by the top person.
4. Free flipping stunts or transitional are not allowed.
5. Prep level or above pendulum and pendulum style transitional stunts where the top person falls away from the bases requires three stationary catchers, at least two of which are not original bases. During pendulum and pendulum style transitional stunts at least one base must remain in contact with the top person.
6. Single based split catches are not allowed.
7. Single based double awesomes/cupies require a separate spotter for each top person.
8. L5 Stunts - Release Moves
   
   1. Release moves are allowed but must not exceed more than eighteen inches above extended arm level. (Example: Tic-tocks are allowed.)
   2. Release moves may not land in a prone position.
   3. Release moves must return to original bases.
   4. Helicopters are allowed up to a 180 degree rotation with a ½ twist and must be caught by at least 3 catchers, one of which is positioned at head and shoulder area of the top person.
   5. Release moves may not intentionally travel.
   6. Release moves may not pass over, under or through other stunts, pyramids or individuals.

I. L5 Stunts - Inversions

1. Extended inverted stunts allowed. Also, see “Stunts” and “Pyramids.”
2. Downward inversions are allowed from prep level and above and must be assisted by at least three bases, at least two of which are positioned to protect the head and shoulder area. Contact must be initiated at the shoulder level (or above) of the bases. (Exception: A controlled power pressing of an extended inverted stunt (i.e. needle) to shoulder level is allowed). Clarification: Catchers must make contact with the head and shoulder area.
3. Downward inversions must maintain contact with an original base.  (Exception: In side rotating downward inversions (i.e. cartwheel-style transition dism ounts), the original base may lose contact with the top person when it becomes necessary to do so)
4. Downward inversions from above prep level may not be caught and/or land in an inverted position. Clarification: Top person may not be caught or land with their shoulders below their hips.

J. Bases may not support any weight of a top person while that base is in a backbend or inverted position.

LEVEL 5 PYRAMIDS

1. Pyramids must follow Level 5 "Stunts" and "Dismounts" rules and are allowed up to 2 high.
2. Top persons must receive primary support from a base.
3. L5 Pyramids - Release Moves
   
   1. During a pyramid transition, a top person may pass above 2 persons high while in direct physical contact with at least one person at prep level or below.
   2. Primary weight may not be borne at second level. Clarification: The transition must be continuous.
   3. Non-inverted pyramid release moves must be caught by at least 2 catchers.
      
      1. RULE ADJUSTMENT: In pyramids where the top person travels over their bracer (i.e. leap frogs or wolf wall transitions), both catchers must be stationary.
      2. Both catchers must maintain visual contact with the top person throughout the entire transition.
   4. Non inverted transitional pyramids may involve changing bases. When changing bases:
      
      1. The top person must maintain physical contact with a person at prep level or below.
      2. The top person must be caught by at least 2 catchers. Both catchers must be stationary and may not be involved with any other skill or choreography when the transition is initiated.
4. L5 Pyramids - Inversions
5. Must follow L5 Stunt Inversions rules.
6. L5 Pyramids - Release Moves w/ Braced Inversions
7. Pyramid transitions may involve braced inversions (including braced flips) while released from the bases if contact is maintained with at least 1 person at prep level or below. Contact must be maintained throughout entire transition with either the top person(s) or the base(s).
8. Braced inversions (including braced flips) are allowed up to 1-¼ flipping rotations.
9. Braced inversions (including braced flips) are allowed up to 1 twist if contact is maintained with 2 top persons at prep level or below.
10. Inverted transitional pyramids may involve changing bases.
11. Braced inversions (including braced flips) must be in continuous movement.
12. All braced inversions (including braced flips) must be caught by at least 3 catchers.
13. All catchers must be stationary.
14. All catchers must maintain visual contact with the top person throughout the entire transition.
15. The 3 catchers may not be involved with any other skill or choreography when the transition is initiated.
16. Braced inversions (including braced flips) may not travel downward while inverted.

LEVEL 5 DISMOUNTS

1. Cradles from single based stunts must have a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.
2. Cradles from multi-based stunts must have two catchers and a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the head and shoulder area through the cradle.
3. Dismounts to the performing surface from stunts and pyramids must be assisted by an original base.
4. Up to a 2-1/4 twisting rotations allowed from all stunts.
5. No free flipping dismounts allowed.
6. Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed.
7. When cradling single based double awesomes/cupies 2 catchers must catch each top person.

LEVEL 5 TOSSES

1. Tosses are allowed up to a total of 4 tossing bases. One base must be behind the top person during the toss and may assist the top person into the toss.
2. Tosses must be performed from ground level and must land in a cradle position. Top person must be caught in a cradle position by at least 3 original bases one of which is positioned at the head and shoulder area of the top person. Bases must remain stationary during the toss (i.e. No intentional traveling tosses). (Exception: A 1/2 turn is allowed by bases as in a kick full basket.)
3. Flipping, inverted or traveling tosses are not allowed.
4. No stunt, pyramid, individual, or prop may move over or under a toss, and a toss may not be thrown over, under, or through stunts, pyramids, individuals, or props.
5. Up to 2-1/2 twisting rotations allowed.

Individual Competition Rules

1. Performance cannot exceed one minute and 30 seconds in length. Timing will begin with the first note of music.
2. Each individual’s presentation should be a routine choreographed to music and should include good motion technique, tumbling, jumps, and dance skills.
3. Participants must start the routine in the competition area.
4. Individuals may participate in only one individual division.
5. All individuals must follow the competition Safety Rules and Guidelines.

 Group Stunt Rules

1. Performance cannot exceed one minute in length. The timing will begin with the first note of music.
2. The routine must be performed to music.
3. You may provide your own spotters for the competition.
4. Tumbling into a stunt is allowed.
5. You are required to follow the competition Safety Rules & Guidelines.
6. Participants can compete on more than group stunt team.

School and Recreational Teams

Spirit Solutions Safety Rules and Guidelines comply with the NFHS Spirit Safety Rules. For the most up-to-date rule changes go to http://www.nfhs.org.

A)     SCHOOL TEAM GUIDELINES

1)       All members of the cheerleading squad must be current members of the official school spirit squad and must attend the school they are representing. (Exception: this will not preclude participation from sister schools for same gender schools as long as they are official members of the squad.)

2)       Individuals are not permitted to compete on two School Teams, but are permitted on both a School Team and an All-Star Team at the same event.

3)       All teams must be directly supervised by at least one knowledgeable coach.

4)       Coaches must require proficiency before skill progression.

5)       All coaches should have an emergency response plan in the event of an injury.  Participants must be made aware of these procedures.

B)      RECREATIONAL TEAM GUIDELINES

1)       These divisions were created for teams whose main purpose is cheering and supporting a recreational team (i.e. youth football, pee wee sports, community sport teams, etc.) Competitive only youth programs would follow the All-Star Rules and Guidelines. Youth divisions are determined by the age of the oldest team member.

2)       The competitor’s age on August 1, 2009 shall be the competitor’s age throughout the season.

3)       All teams must be directly supervised by at least one knowledgeable coach.

4)       Coaches must require proficiency before skill progression.

5)       All coaches should have an emergency response plan in the event of an injury.  Participants must be made aware of these procedures.

C)      TIME LIMITATIONS

1)       Each team’s presentation must include at least one cheer or sideline chant. The musical portion must not exceed one minute and thirty seconds, total time limit is two minutes and thirty seconds. Timing will begin with the first movement, voice, or note of music, whichever comes first.

2)       All organized introductions (tumbling, entrances, chants, spell-outs, etc.) are considered part of the routine and are timed as part of the performance. There should not be any organized exits or other activities after the official ending of the routine.

D)      COMPETITION AREA

1)       Scholastic and Recreation teams will compete on a 54' x 42' cheer mat (non spring floor).

2)       Signs or props may be placed or dropped outside the competition area by a team member who must remain inside the competition area.

E)       APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES

1)       Jewelry of any kind (including ear, nose, tongue, facial, and belly button rings, plastic jewelry, bracelets, pins, necklaces, rings, etc.) must not be worn during a performance. It is not acceptable to cover jewelry with an adhesive bandage or tape; jewelry must be removed. Medical alert and/or religious medals, bracelets, or necklaces may be worn, but should be removed from the neck/wrist area and be secured to the body under the uniform with tape. Rhinestones are illegal when adhered to the skin. Temporary tattoos are allowed. (NFHS 2:2:1)

2)       Fingernail, including artificial nails, must be kept at an appropriate length (Short, near the end of the fingers) to minimize risk for the athletes. (NFHS 2:2:2)  

3)       Hair must be worn in a manner to minimize risk for the athlete. Hair devices, if worn, must be secure and appropriate for the activity. (NFHS 2:2:3)

4)       Apparel and accessories must be appropriate for the activity involved to minimize risk for the athletes. Athletes must wear athletic shoes (not gymnastics slippers). (NFHS 2:2:4)

5)       An athlete in full head and/or body costume must not spot or stunt except for a legal forward roll or cartwheel. (NFHS 2:2:5)

6)       Athletes may wear glitter on their face, hair, uniform, costume, or body as long as it readily adheres. (NFHS 2:2:7) Signs and props with glitter do not need to be laminated.

7)       Supports, braces, etc., which 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 a stunt. (NFHS 2:2:8)

8)       Athletes may use artificial limbs. (NFHS 2:2:11)

F)       BASES/BRACERS

1)       A base shall not assume a backbend, headstand, or handstand position. (NFHS 2:5:1)

2)       Bases of extended stunts must have both feet in direct weight-bearing contact with the performing surface. (NFHS 2:5:2)

3)       A bracer must not provide primary support for a top person. (NFHS 2:5:3)

4)       In braced partner stunts/pyramids, at least one bracer of each pair must be at shoulder height or below.

a)       Exception 1: The following extended stunts may brace any other extended stunt:

(1)     Chair

(2)     Multi-base deadman lift

(3)     Multi-base straddle lift

b)       Exception 2: Extensions may brace the stunts listed above and other extensions (except a totem pole.) (NFHS 2:8:3)

G)      DISMOUNTS

1)       Dismounts to the performing surface from shoulder height or above must have assisted landings. Extension prep is considered shoulder height. (NFHS 2:6:1)

2)       For all catch/cradle dismounts, the catcher(s) must have continuous visual contact with the top person. (NFHS 2:6:2)

3)       Bases/catchers must not move during dismounts except for safety purposes. For all cradles dismounts, the flyer, must not hold props that are made of solid material and have corners or sharp edges i.e. signs (NFHS 2:6:3)

4)       No skill (i.e. toe touch, twist, etc.) without constant hand-to-hand contact with a base(s) shall be performed prior to landing on the performing surface. (NFHS 2:6:4)

5)       A skill may be performed to a cradle except on dismounts to separate catchers. (NFHS 2:6:5)

6)       A twist to cradle (including a log roll) must not involve more than two complete rotations. When dismounting to a cradle from a side facing stunt, 2 ¼ rotations are permitted. (NFHS 2:6:6)

7)       Dismounts from multi-base stunts to a cradle must be cradled by at least two catchers and an additional head and shoulders catcher/spotter. (NFHS 2:6:7)

8)       Dismounts from single base stunts to a single base cradle must have an additional catcher/spotter who is responsible for the head and shoulder area of the top person. No additional catcher/spotter is required when cradling a chair or torch. (NFHS 2:6:8)

9)       Dismounts to catchers who are not the original bases (with or without the feet of the top person being held) must have at least three catchers, one being a head and shoulders catcher/spotter. Following the pop to release the top person, no skill, (i.e., toe touch, twists, etc.,) shall be performed into the cradle. (NFHS 2:6:9)

10)    Dismounts from, or padding through, an inverted position are illegal. Exception forward suspended roll. (NFHS 2:6:10)

11)    In dismounts where a bracer is involved after the release of the top person, all the following conditions must be met:

a)       The top person does not become inverted.

b)       The top person has at least two bases.

c)       Each top person and bracer has a separate spotter.

d)       The loss of contact is a continuous up and down movement.

e)       The top person’s center of gravity remains directly over the bases.

f)        The top person’s weight is not supported by the bracer(s).

g)       The bracers do not intentionally increase the height of the top person.

H)      DROPS

1)       Knee, seat, thigh, front, back, and split drops from an airborne position are illegal unless most of the weight is first borne on the hands/feet or is controlled to absorb the impact of the drop. Front drops from an airborne position are illegal. (NFHS 2:7:1, 2:7:2)

2)       Tension drops/rolls are illegal. (NFHS 2:7:3)

3)       A handspring/flip over to any drop is illegal. (NFHS 2:7:4)

I)       PENDULUMS AND FLATBACKS

1)       A pendulum is legal provided: (NFHS 2:8:5)

a)       The top person begins at shoulder height or below

b)       The top person does not pass through an extended overhead position

c)       The top person is caught in a face-up or face-down position

d)       There are at least three stationary catchers who remain in their original positions

e)       Catchers remain in their original position except for safety purposes

f)        No one is between the base(s) and the catchers

g)       The base(s) has constant visual contact with the catchers, therefore all full pendulums require two bases.

h)       The bases remain stationary

i)         Only the top person may turn

2)       Any pendulum may end in an extension. (NFHS 2:8:6)

3)       A half or full pendulum must have a separate spotter on the opposite side of the base(s) from the catchers if the top person is returned to vertical in a straight body position. When a top person is returned to vertical in a straight body position at the end of a pendulum, there must be a spotter who is facing the top person with arms in a ready or extended position. (NFHS 2:8:7)

4)       A flatback is legal when: (NFHS 2:8:8)

a)       A top person in a vertical position is transitioned to a horizontal straight body position between two bases;

b)       And a minimum of two catchers catch the head and shoulders of the top person.

J)        PROPS AND EQUIPMENT

1)       Flags, banners, signs, pom pons, and megaphones are the only props permitted. Props with poles or similar support apparatus may not be used in conjunction with any kind of stunt or tumbling. When discarding props (signs, etc.) that are made of solid material, or have corners or sharp edges, team members must gently toss or place the props. (NFHS 2:1:4) 

2)       Wearable articles (i.e. hats, gloves, sunglasses, and tear away uniforms) are not considered to be hand held props and are permitted.

3)       Use of mini-tramps, springboards, spring-assisted floors or any height increasing apparatus is strictly prohibited. (NFHS 2:1:7)

4)       Tumbling over or under a prop is illegal. Tumbling with a prop is considered tumbling over a prop, and therefore is illegal (i.e. back handsprings and back tucks with poms are illegal). A forward roll over a prop is legal. (NFHS 2:9:4)

5)       Tosses through a prop are illegal. (NFHS 2:10:4)

6)       Mascots must use at least one prop and are permitted to use any props except fire, liquids, confetti, glitter, and live animals.

K)      PYRAMIDS, MOUNTS, AND PARTNER STUNTS

1)       All stunts and/or pyramids are limited to two levels high. Any top person must receive primary support from a base(s) who is/are in direct, weight bearing contact with the performing surface. (NFHS 2:3:1)

2)       Tension drops/tension rolls are prohibited. (NFHS 2:7:3)

3)       No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over, or under a stunt or pyramid. (i.e. A stunt/person cannot move under an extension prep.) (NFHS 2:8:1)

4)       A top person must not be in an inverted position except for the following:

a)       During a forward suspended roll

b)       When beginning a stunt from an inverted position on the performing surface, that goes directly to a non-inverted position shoulder height or below. This stunt must include a base or spotter who protects the head/neck/shoulder area of the top person. This base or spotter must maintain contact with the top person from the inverted position until the top person is no longer inverted. (NFHS 2:8:2)

5)       A forward suspended roll is legal provided the following conditions are met:

a)       The top person begins from the performing surface or from a stunt shoulder height or below

b)       In multi-base stunts, the top person maintains continuous hand-to-hand/arm contact with two bases/posts.

c)       In single base stunts, the top person maintains continuous hand-to-hand/arm contact with two posts.

d)       In suspended rolls from the performing surface, the top person maintains continuous hand-to-hand contact with two bases. (NFHS 2:9:1)

6)       A backward suspended roll is illegal (NFHS 2:9:2)

7)       In braced partner stunts/pyramids, at least one bracer of each pair must be at shoulder height or below.

a)       Exception 1: The following extended stunts may brace any other extended stunt:

(1)     Chair

(2)     Multi-base deadman lift

(3)     Multi-base straddle lift

b)       Exception 2: Extensions may brace the stunts listed above and other extensions (except a totem pole.) (NFHS 2:8:3)

8)      A hanging pyramid is legal provided: (NFHS 2:8:4)

a)       The base(s) remain stationary.

b)       Spotters are present for each shoulder stand.

c)       Base(s) shall maintain constant contact with the suspended person.

d)       Suspended person is lower than the shoulder stand(s).

e)       Suspended person’s feet are hanging free.

f)        Suspended person is not inverted.

g)       Suspended person does not rotate on the dismount.

9)       A totem pole is legal provided: (NFHS 2:8:10)

a)       Each top person leaning forward is stabilized/supported by the stunt directly in front

b)       No extended stunt stabilizes/supports another top person

c)       A spotter is present for each extended stunt

10)    A swinging stunt is legal provided the following conditions are met: (NFHS 2:8:11)

a)       The top person is swung in an upward direction.

b)       The top person is in a face-up position.

11)    Suspended splits are legal provided the following conditions are met: (NFHS 2:8:12; 2:8:13)

a)       There are at least two bases.

b)       The top person has both hands in constant contact with a base(s).

c)       When dropping to suspended splits, four bases must slow the momentum of the top person by supporting under her thighs and legs prior to reaching the full split position; or three bases support her under her thighs and legs and the fourth base holds her hands. The top person must have both hands in contact with a base(s) one she reaches the full split position.

12)    Single-base split catches or straddle catches are illegal. (NFHS 2:8:14)

13)    Tosses to any split or straddle position are illegal. (NFHS 2:10:6)

14)    In transitional stunts, physical contact must be maintained between the top person and the base(s) except when all of the following conditions are met: (2:11:1)

a)       The top person is braced.

b)       The top person does not become inverted.

c)       The top person has at least two bases and a spotter/catcher.

d)       Each bracer has a separate spotter.

e)       The loss of contact is a continuous up and down movement that is not supported by the bracer(s) and does not pause at the top.

f)        The top person is not released to a toss

15)    When the transitional stunt involves changing bases, the new base(s) must be to the side or in front of the person moving the stunt except when the top person remains upright (vertical) throughout the transition to the new base(s) with the person moving the stunt making no more than a half turn to face the new base(s). (NFHS 2:12:2)

16)    Tick Tocks are legal with proper spotting and the top person remains vertical. (NFHS 2:11:1)

L)       SPOTTING

1)       A spotter may help control the building of, or dismounting from, a stunt, but must not provide primary support for the top person. (NFHS 2:4:1)

2)       A spotter must be in the proper location with the appropriate body position to help minimize risk to the top person. (NFHS 2:4:3)

3)       A spotter must remain visually focused on the head-and-shoulder area of the top person, except when it is necessary to briefly check other stunt personnel. (NFHS 2:4:4)

4)       A spotter’s arms and hands must be in one of the following positions:

a)       Hands grasping the wrist(s)/forearm(s) of the base(s)

b)       Hands touching or grasping the ankle(s)/lower leg(s) of the top person

c)       Arms lifted or extended toward the top person’s head and shoulders (if not touching either the top person or the base).

d)       Note: it is not necessary for the arms to be completely straight, but they must be in a “ready” position. (NFHS 2:4:5)

5)      A spotter’s torso cannot be under a stunt. (NFHS 2:4:6)

6)       A person is not considered a spotter if hand position includes: (NFHS 2:4:6)

a)       Grabbing the sole of the foot of the top person.

b)       Grabbing the hand(s) of the base(s) beneath the top person’s foot.

c)       Placing the torso underneath the stunt

7)       A spotter is required for stunts in which the supporting arm(s) of the base(s) is fully extended above the head except for the following (NFHS 2:4:7)

a)       Chair

b)       Russian lift

c)       Torch

d)       Double-base split catch

e)       Triple-base dead-man lift

f)        Triple-base extended suspended splits

g)       Double base vertical T-lift

h)       Triple Base Swedish Fall

8)       A separate spotter is required for each top person in a single based double cupie. A cupie is an extended stunt. (NFHS 2:4:7)

9)       Spotters are not permitted to assist in tumbling skills.

M)    TOSSES

1)       In all tosses (NFHS 2:10:1)

a)       The top person must be directed vertically and be caught by the original bases.

b)       Athletes must not pass over or under other Athletes

c)       The catchers and spotter must remain in their original positions unless making adjustments for safety purposes.

d)       The top person must not become inverted (shoulders below waist)

e)       The top person must not hold objects in her/his hands (i.e. poms, signs, etc.) Exception: Load-in tosses. (previously called "tosses into partner stunts" or "toss to hands, etc.")

2)       Basket tosses or any type of multi-based toss must not involve more than four tossers, including the person who may set or “load” the top person.

a)       One of the tossers must be behind the top person during the toss.

b)       The top person must be cradled by at least two of the original tossers and have a separate head and shoulders spotter who was one of the original tossers. (NFHS 2:10:3)

3)       Tosses through a prop are illegal. (NFHS 2:10:4)

4)      Tosses into a stunt are legal provided the following conditions are met: (NFHS 2:10:8)

a)       The toss does not significantly exceed the height of the intended toss.

b)       The top person does not land in a loading position for another toss.

5)       Once a top person is tossed to a stunt, the top person cannot be tossed again without first dismounting to a cradle or the performing surface. (NFHS 2:10:8)

6)       Toe/leg pitches to a jump or tumbling skill are illegal. (NFHS 2:10:5)

7)       Tosses to a split or straddle position are illegal. (NFHS 2:10:6)

8)       A twist that occurs during a toss must not involve more than two complete rotations. (NFHS 2:10:7)

9)       Helicopter tosses are legal provided all 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.

e)       At least one catcher must be in position to support the head, neck and shoulder area. This person(s) must be in position at the beginning of the toss and may not be involved in any other skill. (NFHS 2:11:2)

10)    A swan dive is illegal. (NFHS 2:11:6)

11)    A log roll is legal provided it does not involve more than two rotations and the top person is not in contact with a person in another stunt. (NFHS 2:11:3)

12)    In a single-base log roll, the top person: (NFHS 2:11:4)

a)       Must initiate the rotation toward the base.

b)       Must begin and end in a face-up position.

13)    In multi-base log rolls: (NFHS 2:11:5)

a)       With fewer than four catchers, the top person must begin and end in a face-up position.

b)       With four catchers, the top person may be caught in a face-up or layout position; or face-down in a layout position.

N)    TRANSITIONAL STUNTS

1)       In transitional stunts, physical contact must be maintained between the top person and the base(s) except when all of the following conditions are met: (NFHS 2:12:1)

a)       The top person maintains hand-to-hand/arm contact with at least one bracer during the entire loss of contact with his/her base(s).

b)       The top person does not become inverted.

c)       The top person has at least two bases EXCEPT THAT a single-base tick tock is permitted when the top person remains upright (vertical) throughout the stunt.

d)       Each top person and bracer has a separate spotter.

e)       The loss of contact is a continuous up-and-down movement.

f)        The top person’s center of gravity remains directly over the bases.

g)       The top person’s weight is not supported by the bracer(s).

h)       The top person is not released to a toss.

i)         The bracers do not intentionally increase the height of the top person.

2)       When a transitional stunt involves changing bases; (NFHS 2:12:2)

a)       The new base(s) must be to the side or front of the person moving the stunt.

b)       The base may make no more than a half turn (180 degrees) as they take the top person to the new base(s). The top person must remain in an upright (vertical) position throughout the transition.

O)      TUMBLING/ROLLS

1)       Double cartwheels are prohibited. (NFHS 2:8:2)

2)       A forward suspended roll is legal provided the following conditions are met: (NFHS 2:9:1)

a)       It begins from a stunt shoulder height or below.

b)       In multi-base stunts, the top person maintains continuous hand-to-hand/arm contact with two bases/posts.

c)       In single base stunts, the top person maintains continuous hand-to-hand/arm contact with two posts.

d)       The bases control the top person's dismount to the performing surface or cradle.

3)       Backward suspended rolls are illegal (NFHS 2:9:2)

4)       Suspended rolls from a basket toss positions, pitch, or toss are illegal. (NFHS 2:9:3)

5)       Tumbling over/under/with/on a prop is illegal. Tumbling with a prop is considered tumbling over a prop, and therefore is illegal (i.e. back handsprings and back tucks with poms are illegal). Exception: A legal forward roll over a prop is legal. (NFHS 2:9:4)

6)       Tumbling over/under an individual is illegal. (NFHS 2:9:4)

7)       A forward roll is illegal from an airborne position, (i.e., jump or dive). (NFHS 2:9:5)

8)       A flip into a mount or cradle is illegal. However, the person performing a gymnastic skill may (without hip over head rotations) rebound from his/her feet into a cradle. (NFHS 2:9:6)

9)       A flip performed on the performing surface must not involve more than one complete hip over head rotation or more than one complete twist. (i.e. A double back or front flip and a double twisting back or front flip are illegal). (NFHS 2:9:7)

10)    Spotters are not permitted to assist in tumbling skills. This includes toe and leg pitch flips. (i.e. Team in connected circle, every other person flipping with assistance from others is illegal). (NFHS 2:8:2)

P)       TWISTS

1)       A twist performed on the performing surface (jump-twist-land) must not involve more than two complete rotations. (NFHS 2:13:1)

2)       A twist performed to a cradle must not involve more than two complete rotations except, when dismounting to a cradle from a side facing stunt, 2 ¼ rotations are permitted. (NFHS 2:13:2)

3)       A twist performed during a tumbling pass must not involve more than one complete rotation. (NFHS 2:13:3)

Q)      VAULTS

1)       Vaults which do not involve hip over head rotation are legal. (NFHS 2:14:1)

Copies of these guidelines should be distributed to all squad members and any administrators involved with the cheerleading program. All guidelines should be understood and accepted by all parties involved in the cheerleading program including advisors, coaches, assistants, squad members, parents, and administrators. Note: The above safety guidelines are general in nature and are not intended to cover all circumstances. All cheerleading gymnastics including tumbling, partner stunts, pyramids and jumps should be carefully reviewed and supervised by a qualified adult advisor or coach. Cheerleading jumps, gymnastics and stunts may involve height and inversion of the body and there is an inherent risk of injury involved with any athletic activity. While the use of these guidelines will help minimize the risk of injury, Spirit Solutions makes no warranties or representations, either expressed or implied, that the above guidelines will prevent injuries to individual participants.

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