COMPETITION GUIDELINES - REACH THE BEACH SCHOOL 2022-2023
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2022-2023
REACH THE BEACH
SCHOOL
COMPETITION
GUIDELINESACDA Reach the Beach School Nationals
February 25, 2022
We are excited that your program is competing at our ACDA Reach the Beach – School NATIONALS!
This Event Guide contains information you and your parents will need about this competition, including venue information,
ticket pricing, directions, rules, divisions, etc. that will help to ensure that your entire program has a memorable, hassle-
free, and great experience. Please do not hesitate to contact us if there is something else more specific that we can
assist you with prior to the event. Our Customer Service Team is always very happy to help!
The Varsity Spirit family recognizes that you have endless choices when it comes to cheerleading and dance
competitions. We continually strive to deliver the very best events throughout the entire industry. We are committed to
you, our valued customer, and promise that this and all our other events you attend will be an Epic experience.
Competition Location
Roland E. Powell Convention Center
4001 Coastal Highway
Ocean City, MD 21842
Parking & Transportation
Parking is available FREE onsite the day of the event. Please do not block driveways or park on red curbs or you vehicle
will be towed. Parking may be difficult during peak times (8:00 AM – 6:00 PM). Carpooling or use of public transportation
is HIGHLY recommended. If arriving in a team bus, all buses should park near the road or adjacent side streets.
Once the onsite lot is full, you will be directed by security to the overflow parking located at Jolly Roger. A shuttle will be
running between the overflow lot and the convention center
The Ocean City Transportation Authority will be running buses all day. Fans can ride these buses FREE once showing
our event wristband (Athletes must be in uniform) – unlimited trips!!
Schedule
Friday Night Practice
Information coming soon!
Saturday 2/25
Doors Open: 7:00 am
Registration Begins: 7:00 am
Warm Up Begins: 7:30 am
Competition Start Time: 8:00 am*
* See FINAL Performance Schedule for your team’s specific session time
Spectator Fees
Adults ages 17-64 years – $28.43 (includes all fees)
Children ages 6-16 years / Seniors 65 years & up / ACTIVE Military (ID required) – $23.15 (includes all fees)
Children 5 years & under – FREE
Tickets/Wristbands can be purchased online via Eventbrite ONLY via the link below. Make sure you choose the
SATURDAY ticket options.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/acda-reach-the-beach-grand-nationals-dance-and-school-tickets-408945074727
Good luck in your preparation and we look forward to seeing you at our ACDA Reach the Beach NATIONALS!Updated 1/11/2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Coach Information 3
Awards / Giveaway Gift Breakdown 5
Directions 6
FAQ 7
School Division Offerings 8
Page |2Updated 1/11/2023
COACH INFORMATION
ITEMS TO BRING
• Team Eligibility Roster
• Release-Waiver Forms
• Proof of Age for EACH Competitor (i.e. copy of Birth Certificate, Driver’s License, etc.)
Reminder: Credentials WILL NOT be replaced if lost or stolen.
CHANGES & SCHEDULE POLICES
Crossovers: If you have crossovers and did not indicate them on your original registration,, your team must bear the
burden of any warm-up time issues. We are not responsible for scheduling issues due crossover information not being
provided
**IMPORTANT**
The Convention Center policy prohibits teams/individuals from TUMBLING and STUNTING in the hallways, empty rooms
and/or outside of the convention center. Teams may ONLY practice/warm-up in the designated Warm-Up Areas during
their designated times. Stretching only is permitted as long as hallways and emergency exits are not blocked. ANY
team/individual found stunting or tumbling in areas not permitted will subject your team to an Unsportsmanlike Conduct
deduction to their team’s scoresheet.
COMPETITION SEATING / COURTESY
Upon arriving at the competition venue, please be aware that General SEATING is OPEN. Saving seats is prohibited.
Please inform all organization spectators that a PRIORITY VIEWING area will be blocked off near the Stage in Hall “C” to
allow for coaches, fans and family to provide their support. After viewing your specific team, we ask that you move from
the area.
*PLEASE NOTE* - No outside food or coolers/ice chests are allowed to be brought into the facility.
COACHES’ HOSPITALITY ROOM
Need a quick brake to recharge? We are offering to all credentialed coaches, a hospitality room, located in Room 213,
which will have drinks and light snacks. The Hospitality Room opens starting 8:00 AM on Saturday.
PERFORMANCE ORDER
A FINAL Performance Schedule will be sent via email two days prior to the event. Teams will perform in an order pre-
determined. Coaches will be able to see the most updated performance order in the Coach Band the day of the event.
Please be sure to double check your team’s performance order and warm-up time.
CODE OF CONDUCT
Coach must read, sign and accept, for each team performing, prior to the event via the registration portal. Your
program/team will not be allowed to compete if this is not completed.
TEAM ELIGIBILITY ROSTER / RELEASE-WAIVER FORMS
The Team Eligibility Roster & The Athlete Liability Release and Waiver Form (To be completed by all ATHLETES
[including COACHES/ADVISORS]) must be completed and submitted at the Registration Table.
Documentation of ages (i.e., copy of birth certificate, picture ID, driver license, etc.) for each athlete MUST be
brought to the event in case there is a question.
CREDENTIALS (COACH WRISTBANDS)
Credentials (special wristbands for coaches) will be provided at Registration. Two (2) coaches per team are admitted
FREE of charge. All additional coaches will be charged the price of $35.00 will include entry into the competition and
warm-up areas, the Coaches’ Hospitality Room, and a FREE gift same as all FREE Coaches.
Wristbands must be always worn visibly when moving through the facility in order to provide identification to the facility
employees and our staff. Credentials WILL NOT be replaced if lost or stolen.
Page |3Updated 1/11/2023
REGISTRATION
See above for registrations times. Only one coach or representative needs to be present to register a team. Our staff will
provide you an updated Performance Schedule. All coaches must be prepared to provide our staff with the following
information if missing:
• Team Eligibility Roster
• Release-Waiver Forms
• Please bring with you to the competition proof of each competitor’s age indicating their Date of Birth. (i.e.
copy of birth certificate, driver’s license, etc.)
SPORTSMANSHIP CONDUCT CODE
“Reach the Beach promotes a fun, exciting, and motivational atmosphere. All coaches, team members, friends, family
members and other persons associated with a team are expected to conduct themselves in a manner displaying good
sportsmanship and exhibiting respect, kindness and a positive attitude toward others.”
Penalties will be assessed against your team for violations before, during and after the event.
Please Note: The use of hoverboards, cow bells, flash photography, air horns, whistles, etc. is prohibited. Thank you for
your cooperation.
EVENT AREAS
All event areas consist of a 20’or more ceiling height.
WARM-UP (Ballroom)
Only Teams & Credentialed Coaches/Directors are allowed in the designated Warm-up areas. Teams will warm-up
in these areas prior to performances. One (1) 12’ x 42’ foam mat, one (1) 12’ x 60’ foam strip, and a 54’ x 42’ foam floor,
will be provided. Your designated practice time will be listed on the Performance Schedule. Please be on time for your
practice! You unfortunately will not be allowed to practice in the warm-up area after your specified time has
passed!!
PERFORMANCE
Team performances will be held in Hall “C” of the Convention Center. All routines in Hall “C” will be performed on an
elevated concert stage. There is sufficient spacing beyond the mat to ensure safety of all performers. A 54’ x 42’ foam
floor will be used for this performance.
AWARDS CEREMONIES
Multiple award ceremonies will occur throughout the day. Please see the Awards Ceremony Schedule for your division’s
award ceremony times and locations. We kindly ask that teams remain in their competition uniform (No warm-ups
please☺).
TEAM and SPECTATOR SEATING for MAIN STAGE (HALL “C”)
Festival seating is provided for all teams and spectators. All teams/spectators have the opportunity to view the entire
event. Please inform all organization spectators in Hall “C”, a PRIORITY VIEWING area will be blocked off near the main
stage to allow for fans and family to provide their support. After viewing your specific team, we ask that you move from
the area. Our staff will be monitoring this area.
Page |4Updated 1/11/2023
AWARDS / GIVEAWAY BREAKDOWN
ATHLETE GIFTS
Every athlete will receive a Reach the Beach NATIONALS gift! Coaches/Directors, please make sure to pick up these
gifts, as your athletes exit the stage. These gifts will not be shipped out following the event.
AWARDS CEREMONY
Multiple award ceremonies will occur throughout the day. Please see the Performance Schedule for your division’s award
ceremony time and location. We kindly ask that teams remain in their competition uniform (No warm-ups please).
AWARDS
Team Routine
Each 1st place team will be presented a team surfboard and each member receives NATIONAL CHAMPION
jackets!! (Coaches [NO parents] please pick up your jackets at the Jacket Pickup Area located in Dockside Hall
immediately after your awards ceremony. Be sure to turn in your Jacket Sizing Form to Registration prior to your
Session so we may have these ready for pickup).
2nd & 3rd Place – teams will receive a team surfboard.
4th & 5th – teams will receive a placement banner
6th & higher – teams will receive a Finalist banner
GRAND CHAMPIONS/HIGH SCORE
A HIGH SCORE banner will be awarded to the team, in each skill Level, that achieves the highest overall score in
that Level.
Page |5Updated 1/11/2023
DIRECTIONS
Roland E. Powell Convention Center
4011 Coastal Highway
Ocean City, MD 21842
If you're coming from Philadelphia, Trenton, New York City or points north:
Follow I-95 south into northern Delaware.
Take Exit 4B, marked "Christiana Mall," onto Delaware Route 1, south toward Dover.
South of Dover, U.S. 113 will split from Delaware 1. Follow U.S. 113 south.
Take U.S. 113 south into Maryland, then turn east on either Maryland Route 90 or U.S. 50 to Ocean City.
If you're coming from Richmond or Washington, DC and points south:
Get on the Capital Beltway (from Virginia, I-95/495 north)
From the Capital Beltway, take Exit 19A, U.S. 50 east toward Annapolis
Follow U.S. 50 east across the Bay Bridge and straight into Ocean City
If you're coming from Baltimore:
Take the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) to Exit 4, I-97 toward Annapolis
Follow I-97 south to Exit 1, and turn east on U.S. 50/301
Stay with U.S. 50 east across the Bay Bridge and straight into Ocean City
If you're coming from Hagerstown and western Maryland:
Take I-70 east toward Baltimore
From I-70, take Exit 91 south onto the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) toward Annapolis/Glen Burnie
From I-695, take Exit 4 to I-97 south toward Annapolis.
Follow I-97 south to Exit 1, and turn east on U.S. 50/301
Stay with U.S. 50 east across the Bay Bridge and straight into Ocean City
If you're coming from central Pennsylvania:
Follow I-83 south toward Baltimore
At the Baltimore Beltway (I-695), bear right (west), and merge onto I-695
(marked toward Washington and I-95 south)
From I-695, take Exit 4 to I-97 south toward Annapolis.
Follow I-97 south to Exit 1, and turn east on U.S. 50/301
Stay with U.S. 50 east across the Bay Bridge and straight into Ocean City
If you're coming from Pittsburgh:
Follow I-376 east to Exit 15
At Exit 15, turn east on I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike)
Follow the Turnpike to Exit 12 at Breezewood
Exit the Turnpike at Breezewood, and follow the signs to I-70 east (marked toward Baltimore)
From I-70, take Exit 91 south onto the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) toward Annapolis/Glen Burnie
From I-695, take Exit 4 to I-97 south toward Annapolis.
Follow I-97 south to Exit 1, and turn east on U.S. 50/301
Stay with U.S. 50 east across the Bay Bridge and straight into Ocean City
If you're coming from Norfolk/Virginia Beach
Take U.S. 113 north across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge/Tunnel
Near Pocomoke City, MD, U.S. 113 splits from U.S. 13. Bear right on U.S. 113.
At the interchange with U.S. 50, turn east, and follow U.S. 50 straight into Ocean City.
Yes, you can fly!
Commercial flights:
Baltimore/Washington International and Philadelphia International airports are within a 3-hour drive by rental car.
Salisbury/Ocean City Regional Airport is also served by USAir.
We suggest that the address for the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, provided above, should be used to acquire
personal, detailed directions.
Page |6Updated 1/11/2023
FAQ’S
1. Do coaches of the National Championship Teams (division winners) receive jackets too? Yes, 2 coaches per winning
team will receive National Championship Jackets.
2. When do I need to take my team to warm up? You should have your team at warm up and check in 10-15 minutes prior
to your designated time. This is to make sure that everyone is there and ready to go.
3. What do I need to do before warm-up? Make sure your team is dress and ready to go. That means their full uniform
and hair done. Do not bring bags or parents with you to warm up. Your team will go directly to the main floor once they
are warm up.
4. Can coaches purchase a National Championship Jackets? Due to other Reach the Beach events, the ability to purchase
will be after the season is over, IF there are leftover jackets, Coaches may purchase them for $45.00 per jacket.
5. Where do team Buses Park? The buses can park on the adjacent parking lot towards Coastal Hwy.
6. Where can I pick up my score sheets? Coaches and Directors will receive an email with their scores. If not receive, a
hard copy score sheet can be requested at the scoring table next to the judge riser.
7. Where do we pick up our National Championship Jackets? All jackets can be picked up after the first awards ceremony
in Dockside Hall.
8. Will I receive a refund for my athlete who could not make the event? No refunds or credits will be issued to any dropped
athletes or performances.
9. If I am having a hard time understanding my team’s placement or scoresheet will there be someone available to talk
to? During the event you will have an opportunity to discuss scores at the Accuscore location in Room 210. Please
direct all questions to sbouchard@varsity.com the Tuesday AFTER the event. All scores at the event are final.
10. Can coaches and athletes enter the Convention Center all weekend? Yes, Coaches bands are good for all weekend.
They must have them on at all times. Athletes can enter free all weekend as long as they are in uniform or team warm-
ups.
Page |7Updated 1/11/2023
ACDA RTB SCHOOL COMPETITION DIVISIONS
SPRING 2023
CROWD PERFORMANCE DIVISIONS
Routine Length: 2:30 minutes
CHEER PORTION: EMPHASIZES CROWD LEADING ABILITY WITH CROWD EFFECTIVE MATERIAL.
Junior High/Middle School 5 - 30 members 9th grade & below Female/Male
NOVICE
JV/Freshman 5 - 30 members 11th grade & below Female/Male
Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female/Male
Junior High/Middle School 5 - 30 members 9th grade & below Female/Male
INTERMEDIATE
JV/Freshman 5 - 30 members 11th grade & below Female/Male
Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female
Coed Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female/Male
Junior High/Middle School 5 - 30 members 9th grade & below Female/Male
ADVANCED
JV/Freshman 5 - 30 members 11th grade & below Female/Male
Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female
Coed Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female/Male
Novice Non-Building Junior High/Middle School 5 - 30 members 9th grade & below Female/Male
OTHER CROWD PERFORMANCE DIVISIONS
Novice Non-Building Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female/Male
Novice Junior Club 5 - 30 members 14 years & younger Female/Male
Intermediate Non-Building Junior High/Middle School 5 - 30 members 9th grade & below Female/Male
Intermediate Non-Building Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female/Male
Intermediate Non-Tumbling Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female/0 - 2 Males
Advanced Non-Building Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female/Male
Advanced Non-Tumbling Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female/0 - 2 Males
PERFORMANCE DIVISIONS
Routine Length: 2:30 minutes
INTERMEDIATE NOVICE
Junior High/Middle School 5 - 30 members 9th grade & below Female/Male
Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female/Male
Junior High/Middle School 5 - 30 members 9th grade & below Female/Male
Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female
Coed Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female/Male
Junior High/Middle School 5 - 30 members 9th grade & below Female/Male
ADVANCED
Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female
Coed Varsity 5 - 30 members 9th - 12th grade** Female/Male
Performance and Crowd Performance Divisions will be split into Small (5 - 16 members) and Large (17 - 30 members) when there are at least three teams registered in both split divisions at the event
director’s discretion. The Novice Junior Club division is available for sideline teams that do not fit into the standard divisions. This includes Elementary teams, Rec teams and other club
programs.
Game Day Divisions will be split into Small (5 - 12 members), Medium (13 - 20 members) and Large (21 - 30 members) when there are at least three teams registered in the split divisions.
**All Varsity divisions are for 9th – 12th grade. Athletes younger than 9th grade will be allowed to participate if they are enrolled in the school they are representing, are recognized as full
time cheerleaders for that school.
Page |8Updated 1/11/2023
ACDA RTB SCHOOL COMPETITION RULES
CROWD PERFORMANCE & PERFORMANCE ROUTINE REQUIREMENTS
1. All cheerleading skills including tumbling, partner stunts, pyramids, and jumps must follow the
NFHS Safety Guidelines. All skills should be carefully reviewed and supervised by a qualified
adult coach. See specific skill restrictions for each category.
2. Each team will perform a choreographed routine not to exceed 2 minutes and 30
seconds (150 seconds).
3. Up to 1 minute and 30 seconds (90 seconds) of the routine may be performed to music. No
voice- overs or words may be recorded to make the team’s vocal projection sound louder.
4. Organized, formal entrances or exits that involve organized walk out lines, cheers or run-ons with
jumps, tumbling or stunts are not permitted. Cheerleaders must enter the performance area in a
timely fashion.
5. Timing will begin with the first organized word, movement or note of music by the team after
they are officially announced and have taken the floor. This includes any formal, organized
entrances mentioned in number 4. Cheerleaders must have at least one foot on the performing
surface when the routine starts.
6. Cheer words should be practical, and the flow of words should be easy to understand by the
crowd and judges.
7. In Performance Divisions, mascots will not count towards athlete count. Mascots must be
appropriately attired so their mobility, vision, etc. are not impaired. Mascots cannot participate in
stunts, pyramids, or tumbling skills in any division.
8. The Game Performance divisions will follow the above RTB Performance Division Guidelines with
Novice, Intermediate or Advanced restrictions and requires a cheer portion that emphasizes
crowd- leading ability. Categories on the score sheet include: Spacing and Formations, Crowd
Effective Material and Voice/Inflection.
9. The Non-Tumbling divisions will follow the above RTB Performance Division Guidelines and, in
addition, will prohibit all tumbling, except for inversions into or from load in positions, stunts and
pyramids. Tumbling is defined as any skill with feet over head rotation. Exception: a back
handspring entry into stunts / pyramids will not be allowed. Non-Tumbling divisions may not
be eligible for certain specialty awards.
10. Non-Building divisions. In these divisions no partner stunts, pyramids or tosses are allowed. If an
athlete is ever lifted off of the performing surface by another athlete or athletes, it would be
considered a ‘building skill,’ and therefore illegal.
11. Novice Junior Club and Junior High/ Middle School Divisions will be restricted from performing any
type of toss or waist level cradles- See usacheer.org for more information on these additional skill
restrictions.
12. For additional division explanations including an in depth break down of each score sheet, be
sure to check out our Judges training courses available to coaches through Varsity University
Page |9Updated 1/11/2023
UPDATES FOR THE 2022-2023 COMPETITION SEASON
We remain committed to fair and consistent scoring. Our goal is to evolve and provide the
tools needed to all school teams this season for a clear understanding of divisions, rules,
and scoring.
• Division Updates
o Game Performance has been renamed CROWD PERFORMANCE
o Splitting and combining divisions
▪ Performance and Game Performance Divisions will be split into Small (5 - 16 members) and Large (17 -
30 members) when there are at least three teams registered in both split divisions at the event director’s
discretion.
▪ The Novice Junior Club division is available for sideline teams that do not fit into the standard
division. This includes Elementary teams, Rec teams and other club programs.
▪ Spirit program must consist of more than cheer and mascot by incorporating other Spirit Program
elements such as band, drum line dance team. The programs participating must be officially recognized
by the competing school’s admin as a member of the school’s dance, cheer, or band program.
• Scoring Updates
o Rules and Restrictions - Novice and Intermediate divisions have been updated.
o Changes to the 2022-2023 Judging Ranges for each division.
o Jumps have been changed to require a total of 3 connected jumps with variety or 2 connected jumps plus a single
jump with variety. *Must use an immediate prep between connect jumps or immediate whip connection. Any
choreography or pause during the prep or whip will break up the jump connection. *
o Changes to the Crowd Performance (formally Game Performance) score sheet.
▪ This change includes a 5-point category for performance and showmanship. This category will be a
percentage of the score provided by ALL Panel Judges on both Crowd Performance AND the Performance
score sheet.
• Deduction Updates
• Judges Education
o We are moving into another season of our Judges Training and Education Course on Varsity University.
o Each judge is required to complete a Judges Agreement including a Code of Conduct for the
season and complete a Background Screening to be eligible to judge.
o For coaches we are opening the option to take the judges testing. The course will be available online starting in October.
For a complete list of changes for the 2022-2023 USA Cheer High School
Rules go to https://www.usacheer.org/2022-23-high-school-rules-change.
P a g e | 10ACDA RTB SCHOOL COMPETITION RULES
2022-2023 JUDGING RANGES
The following grids outline the point ranges for specific skill sets performed by MOST of the
team. Skills performed by LESS than most of the team will move the score into a lower
range. In each category, most of the team must master each listed skill unless the skills are
separated by the word “or.” MOST is defined as approximately 75% of the team.
NOVICE DIVISIONS
STUNT DIFFICULTY PYRAMID DIFFICULTY TUMBLING DIFFICULTY
3-4 3-4 3-4
• Extension Preps OR Pyramids involving • Cartwheels OR
• One Leg Variations below Prep • Extended Two Leg Stunts • Round-offs OR
Level AND/OR • Forward/Backward Rolls
• One Leg Stunts at Prep Level
4-5 4-5 4-5
• Extensions OR Pyramids involving • Round-off BHS OR
• One Leg Variations at Prep Level • Extended One Leg Stunt • Standing BHS
TOSSES
Tosses are not required, but may be rewarded in the “Pyramid” category.
JUMP DIFFICULTY (4.0 - 5.0)
*Must be advanced jumps
4.0 – Single jumps
4.5 – Double jump combinations
5.0 – Triple jump combinations or double jump combination and a single jump- MUST include variety
TIMING (9.0 - 10.0)
Synchronization and uniformity
ROUTINE COMPOSITION (9.0 - 10.0)
Spacing, seamless movement and patterns, execution of formations
VOICE/INFLECTION (9.0 - 10.0)
Pace of cheer is practical; flow of words is easy to understand
MOTIONS/GIRLS DANCE (9.0 - 10.0)
This category will be judged based on a team’s ability to incorporate transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork, with a variety of visual
movement in their dance with a high level of perfection. Motion technique throughout the routine will also be considered.
SHOWMANSHIP (9.0 - 10.0) or (4.0-5.0)
Genuine enthusiasm and energy level throughout routine
SCHOOL REPRESENTATION (9.0 - 10.0)
Sportsmanship, performance integrity, make-up, bows
Crowd Effective Material (4.0 - 5.0)
Easy to follow, encourages crowd participation, use of props (signs,poms,flags, megaphones)
* Jump Combination = Jumps connected with continuous movement, using either a whip or prep approach
* BHS = Back Handspring
NOTE: Elementary & Junior High/Middle School Teams must follow the additional USA Cheer Safety Restrictions located in the RTB
COMPETITION GUIDELINES. Advanced Jumps = Toe Touch, Right/Left Hurdlers (front or side), Pike
P a g e | 11ACDA RTB SCHOOL COMPETITION RULES
.
INTERMEDIATE DIVISIONS
STUNT DIFFICULTY PYRAMID DIFFICULTY TUMBLING DIFFICULTY
2-3 2-3 2-3
• Extension Preps OR Pyramids involving • Cartwheels OR
• One Leg VariationsBelow • Extended Two Leg Stunt • Round-offs OR
Prep Level AND/OR • Forward/Backward Rolls
• One Leg Stunt at Prep Level
3-4 3-4 3-4
• Extensions OR Pyramids involving • Round-off BHS OR
• One Leg Variations at Prep Level • Extended One Leg Stunt • Stand BHS
4-5 4-5 4-5
• Extended One Leg StuntsAND Pyramids involving • Round-off BHS Back Tucks OR
• Single Twisting transition or dismount to or • multiple transitional elements, one • Round-off Tucks OR
from a Two Leg Stunt at prep level of which is a release AND • Standing BHS Series OR
• multiple extended structures • Jump/BHS Combinations
including extended one leg stunts.
TOSSES
Tosses are not required, but may be rewarded in the “Pyramid” category.
JUMP DIFFICULTY (4.0 - 5.0)
*Must be advanced jumps
4.0 – Single jumps
4.5 – Double jump combinations
5.0 – Triple jump combinations or double jump combinations and a single jump- MUST include variety
TIMING (9.0 - 10.0)
Synchronization and uniformity
ROUTINE COMPOSITION (9.0 - 10.0)
Spacing, seamless movement and patterns, execution of formations
VOICE/INFLECTION (9.0 - 10.0)
Pace of cheer is practical, flow of words is easy to understand
MOTIONS/GIRLS DANCE (9.0 - 10.0)
This category will be judged based on a team’s ability to incorporate transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork, with a variety of visual
movement in their dance with a high level of perfection. Motion technique throughout the routine will also be considered.
SHOWMANSHIP (9.0 - 10.0) or (4.0-5.0)
Genuine enthusiasm and energy level throughout routine
SCHOOL REPRESENTATION (9.0 - 10.0)
Sportsmanship, performance integrity, make-up, bows
Crowd Effective Material (4.0 - 5.0)
Easy to follow, encourages crowd participation, use of props (signs,poms,flags, megaphones)
* Jump Combination = Jumps connected with continuous movement, using either a whip or prep approach
* BHS = Back Handspring
NOTE: Elementary & Junior High/Middle School Teams must follow the additional USA Cheer Safety Restrictions located in the RTB
COMPETITION GUIDELINES. Advanced Jumps = Toe Touch, Right/Left Hurdlers (front or side), Pike
P a g e | 12ACDA RTB SCHOOL COMPETITION RULES
.
ADVANCED DIVISIONS
STUNT DIFFICULTY PYRAMID DIFFICULTY TUMBLING DIFFICULTY
2-3 2-3 2-3
• Extension Preps OR Pyramids involving • Cartwheels OR
• One Leg VariationsBelow Prep • Extended Two Leg Stunts AND/OR • Round-offs OR
Level OR • One Leg Stunts at Prep Level • Forward/Backward Rolls OR
• Extensions OR • Pyramids involving an Extended One • Round-off BHS OR
• One Leg Variations at Prep Level Leg Stunt • Standing BHS
3-4 3-4 3-4
• Extended One Leg Stunts AND Pyramids involving • Round-off BHS Back Tucks
• Required twisting skill: • multiple transitional elements, one of which is a OR
Single Twisting transition or dismount to or release and • Round-off Tucks OR
from Two Leg Stunts • multiple extended structures including • Standing BHS Series OR
extended one leg stunts. • Jump/BHS Combinations
4-5 4-5 4-5
• Multiple Elite Skills* AND Pyramids involving • Layouts OR
• Single Twisting transition or dismount • Extended One Leg Stunts with • Standing Back Tucks OR
FROM One Leg StuntsOR Multiple Transitional Sequences (plus one of the • Standing BHS Back Tucks
• Extended Stunt Sequence performedby following)
a Single Base, Unassisted • At least one of which is a Braced Flip Transition
OR
• Arm Braced Tic Tock [AND Multiple
Extended Structures]
STUNTS (ELITE STUNT SKILLS* INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO):
• Full up to extended position
• Release moves that land in an extended position
• Tick tock variations
• Toss extended stunts
• Other unique mounts and transitions of similar difficulty level
*Advanced Divisions only
TOSSES
Tosses are not required but may be rewarded in the “Pyramid” category.
JUMP DIFFICULTY (4.0 - 5.0)
• 4.0 – Single jumps
• 4.5 – Double jump combinations
• 5.0 – Triple jump combinations or double jump combination and a single jump- MUST include variety
*Must be advanced jumps
TIMING (9.0 - 10.0)
Synchronization and uniformity
ROUTINE COMPOSITION (9.0 - 10.0)
Spacing, seamless movement and patterns, execution of formations
VOICE/INFLECTION (9.0 - 10.0)
Pace of cheer is practical, flow of words is easy to understand
MOTIONS/GIRLS DANCE (9.0 - 10.0)
This category will be judged based on a team’s ability to incorporate transitions, level changes, footwork and floorwork, with a variety of visual
movement in their dance with a high level of perfection. Motion technique throughout the routine will also be considered.
SHOWMANSHIP (9.0 - 10.0) or (4.0-5.0)
Genuine enthusiasm and energy level throughout routine
SCHOOL REPRESENTATION (9.0 - 10.0)
Sportsmanship, performance integrity, make-up, bows
Crowd Effective Material (4.0 - 5.0)
Easy to follow, encourages crowd participation, use of props (signs,poms,flags, megaphones)
NOTE: Elementary & Junior High/Middle School Teams must follow the additional USA Cheer Safety Restrictions located in the
RTB COMPETITION GUIDELINES. Advanced Jumps = Toe Touch, Right/Left Hurdlers (front or side), Pike
P a g e | 132022-2023 ACDA RTB SCHOOL RULES AND RESTRICTIONS
NOVICE SKILLS RESTRICTIONS
Novice teams will follow 2022-2023 USA Cheer/NFHS Spirit Rules Book with these additional skill restrictions.
STANDING TUMBLING: Standing tumbling is limited to a standing single back handspring.
• You can connect rolls and walkovers to a single back handspring.
• Standing back handspring series and jump/back handspring combinations are not allowed.
• Standing tucks are not allowed.
RUNNING TUMBLING: Running tumbling is limited to front and back handspring series.
• Flips and aerials are not allowed (no tucks).
STUNTS: Single leg stunts may only be held at prep level or below.
• Extended liberties are not allowed.
• Twisting transitions are limited to a ½ twist by the top person.
o Exception: Log Rolls/Barrel rolls are allowed.
• All release moves must land in a cradle.
o Released switch ups are not allowed.
• The only inversions allowed are transitions from ground level inversions to non-inverted positions. No other inversions are allowed.
o Example: Going from a handstand on the ground to a non-inverted stunt such as a shoulder sit is allowed.
o Example: Going from a cradle to a handstand or from a prone position to a forward roll is not allowed.
PYRAMIDS : Extended one leg stunts must be braced with a hand/arm connection by at least one person at prep level or below.
• The connection must be made prior to executing single leg extended stunt.
• Extended stunts may not brace another extended stunt:
o Example: Braced extensions
• Any time a top person is released by the bases and braced by other top persons, they may not perform any skill during transition and
must land in a cradle.
• Inversion in pyramids is not allowed with the exceptions of the inversions allowed under Novice Stunts.
• Release moves in pyramids are not allowed except for the release moves allowed under Novice Stunts.
DISMOUNTS: Only straight pop downs, basic straight cradles and ¼ turning dismounts are allowed. (Please see definition of dismount in NFHS rulebook)
TOSSES: The only body position allowed is a straight ride.
INTERMEDIATE SKILLS RESTRICTIONS
Intermediate teams will follow 2022-2023 USA Cheer/NFHS Spirit Rules Book with these
additional skill restrictions.
JUNIOR HIGH / MIDDLE SCHOOL / ELEMENTARY SKILLS RESTRICTIONS
Junior High, Middle School, and Elementary teams will follow Additional Restrictions as outlined here:
https://www.usacheer.org
ADVANCED SKILLS RESTRICTIONS
Advanced teams will follow the standard 2022-2023 USA Cheer/NFHS Spirit Rules Book with no other skill
restriction
P a g e | 14DEDUCTIONS AND VIOLATIONS
CROWD PERFORMANCE & PERFORMANCE POINT DEDUCTIONS
Athlete Fall .25
• Drops to the performance surface DURING tumbling and/or jump skills
Includes Would Not Include
• Hand, hands, or head down during tumbling or • An athlete that trips while walking during a transition
jump skill
• Knee or knees down during tumbling or jump skill
• Tumbling into/out of a stunt
Building Bobble .25
• Stunt/Pyramid skills that almost fall or drop but are saved
Includes Would Not Include
• Base or spotter drops to performance surface during • An omitted skill
building skill • Drop in a body position by the top person
• Top person becomes weight bearing on a spot of a • Excessive movement by the bases
stunt but is returned to stunt • Minor balance checks by the top person
• Lowering of a stunt (not a timing issue)
• Weight incorrectly distributed onto the bracer during
a pyramid (would fall if bracer was not in contact)
• Both feet/hands coming in contact with performance
surface during a cradle/prone
Building Fall .75
• Drops from a building skill or transition during a stunt or pyramid
Includes Would Not Include
• Drops to a cradle position • Lowering of a stunt from extended position to a prep level
• Drops to a prone position position
• Drops to a load position • Stunts that almost fall but are saved and return to a
• Drops that include a controlled lowering below prep stunting position
level that is not an obvious timing issue • All other items listed in the building bobble or major
building fall sections
Major Building Fall 1.25
• Drops to the performance surface from a stunt, pyramid or toss by the top person AND a base or spotter
OR more than 1 base and/or spotter.
Includes Would Not Include
• Multiple bases and/or spotters drop to the • Top person comes in contact with the performance surface
performance surface during a transition but without interrupting or stopping the
• Top person lands on performance surface (bases are skill.
unable to prevent the top from falling to the ground)
• Top person makes contact with a base or spotter who
drops to the performance surface
Maximum 1.75
• When multiple deductions should be assessed during a stunt or toss (by a single group) or during a pyramid
skill, then the sum of those deductions will not be greater than 1.75. During pyramids where a fall continues
to affect other portions of the pyramid, the deduction will not exceed 1.75. Two separated pyramids will result
in separate deductions. The MAX deduction for a pyramid will not exceed 3.5.
P a g e | 15DEDUCTIONS AND VIOLATIONS
CROWD PERFORMANCE & PERFORMANCE DIVISION VIOLATIONS
Safety Violation
• Specific NFHS Safety Violation and/or building skills performed out of division/level – 1.0 deduction
• General NFHS Safety Violation and/ or tumbling skills performed out of division/level. This will also
include errors/violations that may result because of a fall such as a bracer in a pyramid. -.5
deduction
Props Violation .5
Props violations fall under the general safety violation and will be deducted 1 time per routine if the violation is for the
same bullet listed below. Multiple bullets would result in multiple violations. Props are allowed to be placed off the
performance surface by someone who remains inside the performance surface.
• A hard prop with yielding edges released from a top person to the ground
• A prop is thrown by a person on the ground with intent to travel
• Tumbling not allowed by NFHS with props in hands
Boundary Violation .25 (for National events only)
The performance surface is defined as the 42’ x 54’ competition floor. The competition boundary is defined as the
performance surface. A .25 deduction will be assessed per occurrence for an athlete that makes contact with 2 feet, 2
hands, or any part of the seat or torso outside the competition boundary. At a Regional or Classic event, a warning
will be given for any boundary infraction. If a violation is assessed, judges’ decisions are final.
Time Limit Violations .25/ 1.0
Teams that exceed division time limits are subject to the following deduction:
• 1-5 seconds over time will result in a .25 deduction
• 6 or more seconds over time will result in a 1.0 deduction
Routines that exceed the time limit run a risk of being assessed a deduction. Judges will use a stopwatch or similar device to
measure the official time. Acknowledging the potential variance caused by human reaction speed and sound system time
variations, judges will not issue a deduction until their stopwatch/clock shows a time that exceeds 3 seconds over the time
limit. If a deduction is assessed and a review is requested, a violation will remain for any team with a performance that
exceeds the time requirements.
P a g e | 16DEDUCTIONS AND VIOLATIONS
GENERAL VIOLATIONS FOR ALL DIVISIONS
Minimum Number of Athletes 1.0
Teams that compete with fewer than the minimum number of athletes required for that division will receive a 1.0
deduction. Teams that compete with more than the maximum number of athletes will be disqualified
Inappropriate Choreography Deduction 1.0
A deduction of 1.0 will be given for vulgar or suggestive choreography, which includes, but is not limited to,
movements such as hip thrusting and inappropriate touching, gestures, hand/arm movements and signals, slapping,
positioning of body parts and positioning to one another. Deductions will be given for music or words unsuitable for
family listening, which includes, but is not limited to swear words and connotations of any type of sexual act or
behavior, drugs, mention of specific parts of the body torso, and/or violent acts or behavior. Removing improper
language or words from a song and replacing them with sound effects or other words constitutes inappropriate, and
deductions will be made accordingly.
Division Violations 1.0
If a team performs with a member participating in more than one Performance/Game Performance division, the
second and each subsequent team will receive a 1.0 deduction off their final score for each illegal athlete (maximum
penalty is 10.0).
Unsportsmanlike Conduct Deduction 1.0
When a coach is in discussion with an official, other coaches, athletes, and parents/spectators they must maintain
proper professional conduct. Failing to do so will result in 1.0 deduction and removal of coach or disqualification.
Includes the following:
1. Inappropriate and deliberate physical contact between athletes during the event
2. Abuse of equipment or any items associated with the event
3. Using language or a gesture that is obscene, offensive, or insulting
4. Using language or gestures that offend race, religion, color, descent or national or ethnic origin
5. Failing to perform a routine
6. Excessive appealing at AccuScore
7. Showing dissent towards scoring official decision by word or action
8. Threat of assault to an event representative
9. Public criticism of an event related incident or event official
P a g e | 17OFFICIAL JUDGE
CROWD PERFORMANCE
MASTER SCORESHEET
MAXIMUM DIFFICULTY MAXIMUM TECHNIQUE
VALUE VALUE 4-5
STUNTS 5 5
BUILDING
SKILLS
PYRAMIDS 5 5
9 - 10
TIMING
Synchronization and Uniformity 10
MAXIMUM DIFFICULTY MAXIMUM TECHNIQUE
VALUE VALUE 4-5
TUMBLING 5 5
TUMBLING
SKILLS
JUMPS 5 5
9 - 10
ROUTINE COMPOSITION
Spacing, Seamless Movement and Patterns, Execution of Formations 10
MAXIMUM
VALUE 9 - 10
VOICE / INFLECTION
Pace of cheer is practical, Flow of words is easy to understand 10
PERFORMANCE
MOTIONS / GIRLS DANCE 10
OVERALL
SCHOOL REPRESENTATION
Image, Sportsmanship, Performance Integrity 10
CROWD EFFECTIVE MATERIAL
Easy to follow, encourages crowd participation, use of props (signs, poms, flags, megaphones) 5
PERFORMANCE / SHOWMANSHIP
Genuine enthusiasm and energy level throughout the routine 5
TOTAL POSSIBLE 100
P a g e | 18OFFICIAL JUDGE
SCHOOL PERFORMANCE
MASTER SCORESHEET
MAXIMUM DIFFICULTY MAXIMUM TECHNIQUE
VALUE VALUE 4-5
STUNTS 5 5
PYRAMIDS 5 5
9 - 10
TIMING
BUILDING
SKILLS
Synchronization and Uniformity 10
MAXIMUM DIFFICULTY MAXIMUM TECHNIQUE
VALUE VALUE 4-5
TUMBLING 5 5
JUMPS 5 5
9 - 10
ROUTINE COMPOSITION
TUMBLING
SKILLS
Spacing, Seamless Movement and Patterns, Execution of Formations 10
MAXIMUM
VALUE 9 - 10
VOICE / INFLECTION
Pace of cheer is practical, Flow of words is easy to understand 10
MOTIONS / GIRLS DANCE 10
PERFORMANCE / SHOWMANSHIP
10
PERFORMANCE
Genuine enthusiasm and energy level throughout the routine
OVERALL
SCHOOL REPRESENTATION
Image, Sportsmanship, Performance Integrity 10
TOTAL POSSIBLE 100
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