We hear it all the time, but in this case, practice really does make perfect. Judges can see all, so well-rehearsed squads clearly stand out from those who are not. It’s important, however, not to over-rehearse, as this could result in injuries like stress fractures.  For most, 3 to 4 rehearsals a week ranging from 2 to 4 hours is necessary, but every squad is different. Watching past competition performance videos is another great way to learn.  You can see what you did well (and repeat it), and the areas that you can improve on.

In addition to adequate practicing time, you want your body in the best possible shape. Developing healthier eating habits is a key component to staying healthy and injury-free; cutting out junk food will help ensure your body is in peak condition for competition day.  Instead, your diet should consist of complex carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables, proteins, and lots of water. These recommendations will help you sustain natural energy and not tire as quickly.  Extra body strengthening activities like yoga and pilates can and should be done to increase flexibility. Stretching and strengthening are also important factors in improving performance.

Having your body physically ready to compete is only half the battle. Being prepared to compete also takes mental preparation.  Going into a competition with a positive attitude and hopes of improving your skills as a cheerleader are healthy goals to strive for. Competing is an exciting yet sometimes stressful learning experience that tends to get easier over time. It isn’t uncommon that  we let our nerves get the best of us, preventing us from performing to our full potential, so it’s important to breathe, relax, and stay confident.  And remember, every competition presents unique circumstances, so take it in strides and remain confident, and you will most certainly do well!

1. Alysa Young (Twist N Turns) 81.33

Mini Individual:

1. Lauren Houchin (United All Stars) 83

Youth Individual:

1. Lexi McLemore (Twist N Turns) 76

Youth Hip-Hop Individual:

1. Tanah Chandler (Cheer CATS) 76

Senior Jazz Individual:

1. Kashara Garrett (Cheer CATS) 65

Senior Individual:

1. Jenna McRae (Silver Creek High School) 86.67
2. Libby Branham (United All Stars) 73.33

Small Tiny L1:

1. Spirit Elite 33.32
2. The Next Step All Stars 30.88

Small Mini L1:

1. Twist N Turns 41.38
2. Cheer Zone 31.03
3. United All Stars 26.82

Small Mini L2:

1. Spirit Elite 48.72
2. The Next Step All Stars 47.53
3. Extreme Elite 46.87
4. Matrix All Stars 44.83
5. Total Cheer 42.80

Small Youth L1:

1. Heartland Flyers 40.33
2. Bluegrass Mustangz 33.38
3. Top Flight Athletics 29.47

Small Youth L2:

1. United All Stars 56.22
2. All Starz Cheerleading 47.22
3. Spirit Elite 47.05

Youth L3:

1. Matrix All Stars 60.87
2. Allison’s Cheernastic Cats 58.87
3. Total Cheer 58.00
4. The Next Step All Stars 53.1

Small Junior L2:

1. Heartland Flyers 58.76
2. Cheer Zone 53.47
3. United Cheer Starz 50.12

Large Junior L2:

1. Twist N Turns 58.87
2. Cheer and Tumble Studio 46.2

Junior Coed L3:

1. Top Flight Athletics 54.53

Junior L3:

1. Extreme Elite 59.8
2. Spirit Elite 57.77
3. United All Stars 55.1
4. Cheer CATS All Stars 52.4

Large Junior Coed L4:

1. Total Cheer 67.57

Small Senior L2:

1. Cheer Zone 50.6

Senior L3:

1. Allison’s Cheernastic CATS 55.02
2. Extreme Elite 53.25
3. The Next Step All Stars 51.2

Large Senior L4:

1. Cheer and Tumble Studio 58.1

Small Senior Coed L4:

1. Top Flight Athletics 63.23
2. All Stars Elite 55.6

Large Senior Coed L4:

1. Twist N Turns 73.7
2. Heartland Flyers 68.7

Large Junior High:

1. Highland Mills Middle School 87.17

Senior Recreation:

• Nelson Elite 75.33

Small Varsity:

1. Silver Creek High School 80.33

Youth Hip Hop:

1. Cheer CATS All Stars 57.33

Senior Hip Hop:

1. Cheer and Tumble Studio 76.33