USASF Cheer 2017-18 Age Grid Updates

Dear USASF Cheer Program Members:

The USASF is listening to input from members regarding the Cheer Age Grid and Exhibition status for Tiny teams for the 2017-18 event season. As plans for team placements and tryouts are underway, concerns have been brought forward by coaches recently about the ability of programs to field teams within the 2017-18 Age Grid parameters. Additionally, while there is broad support of the 2017-18 safety guidelines for Tiny teams, concern has been voiced about limiting Tiny teams to exhibition only.

As a result of these recent concerns, the Board of Directors has determined that the prudent action for 2017-18 is to allow time for continued member discussion through Regional Conventions and Committee Meetings this summer and then make final decisions for the 2018-19 event season. Effective immediately, the following adjustments will be made to the Age Grid for the 2017-18 event season:

• The new Age Grid will be updated to reflect the following changes to the division offerings:
  • Tiny: 5 – 6 years old
  • Mini: 5 – 8 years old
  • Youth: 5 – 11 years old
  • Junior: 5 – 14 years old
  • Senior (non-Worlds Divisions):  10 – 18 years old
• The new Safety Guidelines for Tiny Pre-Teams (ages 3 to 6 years old) will remain as posted for 2017-18, but they will also be permitted to compete rather than being limited to Exhibition only.

The revised Cheer Rules and Age Grid reflecting the above points will be posted on USASF.net as soon as possible.

The Board’s focus is always on upholding the spirit of the USASF mission, which starts with supporting our members. We are confident that this decision will allow additional time for further conversation about Age Grid adjustments in upcoming seasons.

Sincerely,

USASF Board of Directors