nca competition rule book for school teams - National Cheerleaders ...

NCA COMPETITION RULE BOOK
FOR SCHOOL TEAMS
NCA SENIOR & JUNIOR
HIGH SCHOOL NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Dallas, Texas
January 25-26, 2014
NCA SCHOOL OPEN
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Louisville, Kentucky
February 22, 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
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Eligibility Policy
Division Violations
Inappropriate Choreography / Music / Outfitting
Interruption of Performance
Performance Area
Legality Verification
How to Qualify: NCA Senior & Junior High School Championship
2013 - 2014 High School & Junior High Division Guidelines
2013 - 2014 Recreation & Youth League Division Guidelines
Music Information
Judging Panels
Code of Conduct
2013 - 2014 NCA Standard Performance Division List for School Teams
Performance Routine Requirements
Novice, Intermediate and Advanced Skill Restrictions
NCA Scoring Process
2013 - 2014 NCA School Judging Ranges
2013 - 2014 NCA Sliding Criteria
2013 - 2014 NCA Game Time Divisions
Game Time General Rules
Game Time Routine Requirements and Skill Restrictions
NCA Game Time Scoring
NCA Best Cheerleader
NCA Group Stunt
2013 - 2014 AACCA SAFETY RULES
For the most up-to-date AACCA Safety Rules for the 2013 - 2014 championship season, please visit http://www.aacca.org

NCA SCHOOL COMPETITION RULES
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
NCA fervently encourages and supports sportsmanship, integrity and fairness among participants and coaches in all facets of
cheerleading including, but not limited to, team/squad practice and performance. We strive to uphold the highest standards and
promote this to the best of our abilities, and believe that coaches are instrumental in promoting and instilling this among their
respective team members.
ELIGIBILITY POLICY
In fairness to all, NCA strictly enforces its age/grade requirements for each division. NCA reserves the right to assess a penalty,
disqualify, reclaim any and all awards and/or remove video appearance for any team/gym found to be in violation of the eligibility
policy, whether before, during or after the Event. A Team Roster Form will be sent to all coaches participating in an NCA
Championship. One roster must be completed per team, and should include each participant’s name, age, grade and birth date.
This form must be signed and given to NCA during the event check-in. A school representative must sign and date this form.
For High School and Junior High teams these forms must be notarized by school administration. The Team Roster Form will be
reconciled against the Release and Waiver Form to ensure all members are accounted for.
DIVISION VIOLATIONS
Participants may not compete in multiple divisions within the School Cheer categories at the same championship (example:
performers may not compete on a Junior Varsity and Medium Varsity team). Participants may compete with the same school for
Performance and Game Time Divisions. If a team performs with a member participating in more than one performance division,
the second and each subsequent team will receive a 2.0 deduction off of their final score for each illegal participant (maximum
penalty is 10.0).
INAPPROPRIATE CHOREOGRAPHY / MUSIC / OUTFITTING
All facets of a performance or routine, including choreography, music selection and outfitting (cheerleading), should be suitable
for family viewing and listening. Uniforms for all team types should be appropriate for the age of the participants performing the
routine. Outfitting for cheerleading performances should follow traditional dress standards. In general, school performances,
including but not limited to the actual routine, signs, cheers, chants and hand signals/gestures, should adhere to outfitting,
performance and music guidelines and criteria in place and approved by the administration or institution to which the school team
belongs.
A deduction of 2.0 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, swearwords 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 with sound effects or other
words constitutes inappropriate, and deductions will be made accordingly.
NCA has adopted the NFHS ruling that states: “when standing at attention, apparel must cover the midriff.” If a school or
recreational team is found to be in violation of this rule, the team will receive a .5 deduction off of their final score.
Any uniform or music in which the appropriateness is questionable or with which uncertainty exists should be submitted to NCA
for approval. Because multiple performances of a routine when compared to one another will generally lack distinction, NCA
is not able to approve with absoluteness the appropriateness of choreography (since movements can be easily modified, NCA
could feasibly approve a particular movement when viewed on a video or in person, only to have it performed differently during
competition). However, choreography, if questionable, may be submitted to NCA for feedback.
RULE BOOK • 3

NCA SCHOOL COMPETITION RULES
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
INTERRUPTION OF PERFORMANCE
INJURY
The Safety Judge, Head Judge, coach, athlete or competition official reserves the right to stop a routine due to an obvious
injury. In the event that an injury causes the team’s routine to be interrupted during a Nationals’ Preliminary Competition, Classic
Championship or a Regional Championship, the team will have 30 minutes to regroup before performing their routine again from
the beginning. Judging will resume from the point at which the injury/interruption occurred as determined by the Judges. The
routine must be performed full-out from the beginning of the routine. All point deductions accumulated to that point will carry
over. If a team prefers not to re-work the routine, then at the coach’s discretion, they may take the score they have received up
to that point. If a skill has not been performed a “0” will be given in the category. In the event that an injury causes the team’s
routine to be interrupted during final competition (Nationals), the judges will determine if there is sufficient time and feasibility
for the team to complete their performance. If not, scores will be based on the performance prior to the injury.
UNIFORM DISTRACTIONS
The Safety Judge or Head Judge reserves the right to stop a routine, assess a deduction, and/or disqualify a team for a uniform
distraction (e.g. garment not being securely fastened/attached, straps break, pants split, etc.). Each performer is required to take
the necessary steps to avoid inappropriate exposure prior to the performance. If a judge stops the routine or a performer leaves
the floor to adjust a uniform a penalty or disqualification may result. The team may or may not be given an opportunity to return
to complete their performance.
INTERPRETATIONS / RULINGS
NCA has the authority to make a decision on any issue, protest, penalty or rule that is unclear or not specifically addressed in
this book. NCA will render a judgment in an effort to ensure that the competition is conducted in a manner consistent with the
general spirit and goals of the competition and NCA.
MUSIC
In the event a technical error causes a team’s music to be interrupted, the coach will have the opportunity to stop the
performance. Generally, the team will perform in the spot they currently have unless NCA determines for safety reasons they
should be moved down in the order. It is recommended that coaches have a backup CD with them at the music table. Judging
and timing will resume from the point at which the malfunction occurred as determined by the Judges.
PERFORMANCE AREA
NCA Competitions comply with the NFHS and AACCA surface ruling that school-based programs may not compete on a spring
floor. Most NCA Competitions will have a Competition Area measuring 42’ deep by 54’ wide carpet-bonded foam floor. See each
event for confirmation of the floor type and size.
RULE BOOK • 4

NCA SCHOOL COMPETITION RULES
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
LEGALITY VERIFICATION
As a coach, it is important to be current on the NCA & AACCA Safety Rules. If you have questions concerning any safety rules
or questions regarding specific performance elements, please follow these steps. This will ensure that you receive a timely and
accurate response to your questions.
• All questions must be in written form.
• Due to the differences in interpretation and terminology, no phone calls will be accepted.
• Do not rely on prior rulings from NCA Championships.
• A separate video must be submitted for each Competition to ensure legality.
• For all Legality questions, you must send a video that contains the skill in question.
• Video must include the following:
1. Front, side and back view of skill.
2. Name of the Championship where you will be performing skill and the Division you will be performing in.
3. Include your name, team name, email and phone number with your video.
4. Do not send the entire Routine, only the skill(s) in question. Your video will be kept on file at NCA.
VIDEOS THAT ARE NOT IN THE ABOVE FORMAT WILL NOT BE VIEWED.
VIDEOS MUST BE RECEIVED IN THE NCA OFFICE at least THREE WEEKS PRIOR to the Championship date. Videos not
received in the NCA office three weeks prior to the championship date will NOT be reviewed.
You must email your videos to:
ncahighschoolsafety@gmail.com.
Note: Emailed videos may not exceed 10MB and should be in either
Windows Media Player or Quicktime formats.
NOTE: DO NOT DEPEND ON YOUR CHOREOGRAPHER OR COACH TO DETERMINE IF SOMETHING IS
LEGAL. IF YOU FEEL THAT SOMETHING MAY BE ILLEGAL, SEND A VIDEO TO THE NCA OFFICE.
RULE BOOK • 5

NCA SCHOOL COMPETITION RULES
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
2014 NCA SENIOR AND JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
HOW TO QUALIFY
1. CAMP QUALIFICATION
Squads may qualify for the NCA Senior and Junior High School National Championship at NCA Summer Camp by meeting specific
criteria as measured by the NCA Staff. Bids are based on overall performance and potential. For more information, contact the
NCA office.
• NO QUALIFICATION NECESSARY FOR GAME TIME DIVISIONS / CATEGORIES.
• NO QUALIFICATION NECESSARY FOR THE NCA SCHOOL OPEN NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP.
2. DVD QUALIFICATION
DVD’s must be sent to NCA, Attn: HSN DVD Qualification, 2010 Merritt Drive, Garland, TX 75041, and postmarked no later than
November 15, 2013.
Squads should perform a 30 second cheer without music, showing their best ability in all areas of cheerleading. A spirited
entrance is allowed and timing will begin with the first movement of the cheer. The cheer must adhere to the NCA Safety Rules.
DVD’s submitted for qualification will not be viewed for legalities. For more information on legalities, see page 5.
3. REGIONAL OR CLASSIC CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFICATION
Squads may qualify for the NCA Senior and Junior High School National Championship at an NCA Competition by December
15, 2013 (teams attending later competitions are responsible for payment deadlines). Squads placing in the top three of each
Division (in Divisions with 5 or more teams) and first place teams (in Divisions with less than 5 teams), or receiving a final score
of 70 or above. Refer to each specific Competition for complete details on performance and payment requirements. The routine
must adhere to the NCA Rules.
RULE BOOK • 6

NCA SCHOOL COMPETITION RULES
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
2013 - 2014 HIGH SCHOOL & JUNIOR HIGH DIVISION GUIDELINES
High School/Junior High Division squads must consist entirely of students who have not graduated from high school. Divisions
are determined by the grade of the participants at the time of the competition, regardless of the participant’s current age.
Generally, every member of a team representing a school must be enrolled at that school, must be on a team officially
representing the school, and must perform in the official uniform of that school. All exceptions to this rule must receive written
approval from NCA at least 2 weeks prior to competition. In an approved exception, a cheerleader must be a full-time member of
the competing team and may not represent any other school-based team throughout the entire season. Promoting cheerleaders
from other campuses for the sole purpose of competition will not be allowed. Members must be officially recognized by the
competing school’s administration as a member of the competing team’s cheerleading squad.
NCA strongly recommends that you have an alternate (not a member of another competing squad at the same event), who is
prepared to substitute in the event of injury, probation, etc. No cheerleader may represent more than one School Performance
Division team, even in the event of injury or emergency. Once a team checks into the Championship, the team will not be allowed
to change divisions due to an injury. Note: Cheerleaders may compete in Performance and Game Time Divisions.
Teams that compete with fewer than the minimum number of athletes required for that division may receive a deduction or be
disqualified.
A mascot counts as a member of the team if and only if he/she performs gymnastics, stunts, or serves as a spotter for a stunt or
pyramid. Mascots must be appropriately attired so their mobility, vision, etc. are not impaired.
2013 - 2014 NCA RECREATION & YOUTH LEAGUE DIVISION GUIDELINES
Non-school affiliated teams cheer for an organized sport (basketball, football, soccer, etc.). These divisions will not be offered at
Nationals but may be offered at other championships on a case-by-case basis when appropriate.
NOTE: Participant’s age is based on birth date as of August 31, 2013. NCA may require written documentation of a Rec/Youth
team’s eligibility prior to competition. NCA reserves the right to request from the coach proof of age of any participating athlete
up to and including a birth certificate.
RULE BOOK • 7

NCA SCHOOL COMPETITION RULES
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
MUSIC INFORMATION
Regionals: Routine should be on CD. Duplicate CDs must be available at the music table in case of lost or broken CDs.
Coaches are strongly advised to create routines (mix music) that finish a few seconds under the time limit to ensure
that the team does not go over time. Judges’ decisions on timing of total routine and music portion of routines are final.
Nationals and Classics: Music should be on CD or digital music player (iPod, iPhone, MP3).
• If utilizing CD, Duplicate CDs must be available at the music table in case of lost or broken CDs. Coaches are
strongly advised to create routines (mix music) that finish a few seconds under the time limit to ensure that the
team does not go over time. Judges’ decisions on timing of total routine and music portion of routines are final.
• If utilizing digital music player, NCA & NDA will provide the necessary cables. Be sure to follow these steps below prior to
your performance:
• Set up a playlist for each routine
• Turn OFF any equalizer, sound check and/or volume limit
• Turn your volume up to 100%
• If using a phone, make sure it is in airplane mode to avoid incoming calls during performance
• MUSIC TIPS
When you work with audio, you need to make sure you set proper levels at each stage of your audio production.
• PRODUCTION
During this phase, you record the elements used in your music, such as sound effects, voice-overs, and so on. This is the first
and most critical step in any audio production process. Any audio recorded poorly at this phase will be difficult to fix later in
the process. This also goes for selecting music. Make sure that you are using high quality music files. There is no match for
properly recorded sound, no matter how good your audio cleanup tools are.
• CAPTURE
Transferring your production audio to your editing software should be a transparent process that affects your audio as little as
possible. The audio levels of your source footage and captured media files should match exactly.
• AUDIO PEAK DETECTION
Audio that is too loud causes distortion and often cannot be salvaged. Most editing software has the capability to find audio
peaks.
• AUDIO GAIN AND NORMALIZATION
Before cutting and mixing multiple audio sources together, you may need to normalize varying audio levels that are intended
to match. Audio that is too quiet should be raised to an acceptable level before mixing and output.
• MIXING AND OUTPUT
During mixing and final output, you need to ensure that audio levels are consistent compared to a reference audio level, such
as audio tone. Loud parts should be consistently loud, and quiet parts should be consistently quiet (but not so quiet that they
get lost in the noise). The dynamic range (the change in levels between quiet and loud) should be large enough to create a
varied mix, but not so large that viewers have to constantly adjust the volume when listening to the final music track.
RULE BOOK • 8

NCA SCHOOL COMPETITION RULES
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
JUDGING PANELS
• HEAD JUDGE
The Head Judge is responsible for overseeing the entire Judging Panel that consists of Panel Judges, Safety Judge, and Point
Deduction Judge. The Head Judge will also fill out his/her own score sheet for each performance.
• PANEL JUDGES
Panel Judges are responsible for scoring each team’s performance based on the NCA Score Sheet. Each Panel Judge fills out
his/her own score sheet for each performance. Panel Judges score technical ability and the overall routine, but they do not
determine or score deductions or safety violations.
• SAFETY JUDGE
The Safety Judge is responsible for administering all safety violations, time violations, and boundary violations.
• POINT DEDUCTION JUDGE (PERFORMANCE DIVISIONS ONLY)
The Point Deduction Judge is responsible for assessing deductions in each routine for obvious bobbles or falls from technical
skills.
ALL JUDGES’ DECISIONS ARE FINAL.
CODE OF CONDUCT
To ensure the most positive experience for all attendees, NCA asks that the following Code of Conduct be adhered to during all
NCA Championships:
• Any questions or concerns that affect a team’s performance or experience must be communicated by the coach to the NCA
Event Information Table. The appropriate NCA Official will then be called to discuss the situation with the coach.
• Participants, coaches or spectators are prohibited from making contact with the Judges during the competition.
• Judges’ rulings are final related to deductions, final team placements and legalities.
• Any unruly, aggressive or belligerent behavior by participants, coaches or spectators toward any other attendee or NCA
Event Staff will result in a deduction, potential team disqualification, removal from the event and/or barred participation from
future NCA Championships.
RULE BOOK • 9

NCA PERFORMANCE DIVISIONS
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
HIGH SCHOOL
DIVISIONS
JV/FRESHMAN
DIVISIONS
JUNIOR HIGH/
MIDDLE SCHOOL
DIVISIONS
ELEMENTARY
SCHOOL
DIVISIONS
NOVICE INTERMEDIATE ADVANCED
SMALL NOVICE
HIGH SCHOOL
5 - 12 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
MEDIUM NOVICE
HIGH SCHOOL
13 - 20 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
LARGE NOVICE
HIGH SCHOOL
21 - 30 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
NOVICE JV/FRESHMAN
5 - 30 Members
11th Grade and Below
Female/Male
SMALL INTERMEDIATE
HIGH SCHOOL
5 - 12 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female
MEDIUM INTERMEDIATE
HIGH SCHOOL
13 - 20 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female
LARGE INTERMEDIATE
HIGH SCHOOL
21 - 30 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female
COED INTERMEDIATE
HIGH SCHOOL
5 - 30 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
INTERMEDIATE
PERFORMANCE GAME DAY
5 - 30 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
INTERMEDIATE JV/FRESHMAN
5 - 30 Members
11th Grade and Below
Female/Male
JV/Freshman teams must officially represent thei JV/Freshman program at their school.
SMALL NOVICE JH/MS
5 - 15 Members
9th Grade and Below
Female/Male
LARGE NOVICE JH/MS
16 - 30 Members
9th Grade and Below
Female/Male
SMALL INTERMEDIATE JH/MS
5 - 15 Members
9th Grade and Below
Female/Male
LARGE INTERMEDIATE JH/MS
16 - 30 Members
9th Grade and Below
Female/Male
Teams comprised exclusively of 9th Graders must compete in the JV/Freshman or a High School Division
INTERMEDIATE ELEMENTARY
5 - 30 Members
6th Grade and Below
Female/Male
Elementary teams must represent an Elementary School and not a Junior High or Middle School
SMALL ADVANCED
HIGH SCHOOL
5 - 12 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female
MEDIUM ADVANCED
HIGH SCHOOL
13 - 20 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female
LARGE ADVANCED
HIGH SCHOOL
21 - 30 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female
COED ADVANCED
HIGH SCHOOL
5 - 30 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
NON-TUMBLING
HIGH SCHOOL
No Tumbling Allowed
5 - 30 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female
ADVANCED JV/FRESHMAN
5 - 30 Members
11th Grade and Below
Female/Male
SMALL ADVANCED JH/MS
5 - 15 Members
9th Grade and Below
Female/Male
LARGE ADVANCED JH/MS
16 - 30 Members
9th Grade and Below
Female/Male
NCA reserves the right to split, combine, and delete divisions as warranted and/or deemed appropriate.
Please refer to the NCA Competition Rules for Age Eligibility, Skill Restrictions and Enrollment Requirements prior to registering for a specific Division.
RULE BOOK • 10

NCA PERFORMANCE DIVISIONS
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
PERFORMANCE ROUTINE REQUIREMENTS
A. Each team will perform a choreographed routine not to exceed 2 minutes and 30 seconds (150 seconds).
B. 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.
C. Organized, formal entrances that involve organized cheers or run-ons with jumps, tumbling, or stunts are not permitted.
Cheerleaders should enter the performance area in a timely fashion.
D. 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. Cheerleaders must have at least one foot on the performing surface when the routine starts.
E. Timing will end with the last organized word, movement, or note of music by the team. Teams must exit the performance area
immediately following the routine.
F. Teams should utilize all areas of their squad’s technical strength in jumps, tumbling, partner stunts, pyramids, motion
technique, projection and expression, choreography, showmanship, and dance.
G. Team names will be called twice: once as the team on deck and once as the next team to perform.
H. Routines must be appropriate for family viewing. Any vulgar or suggestive movements, words, or music will result in a score
deduction. No tear-away uniforms or removal of clothing is allowed.
NEW! INTERMEDIATE PERFORMANCE GAME DAY
• This division will follow NCA Performance Division Guidelines with Intermediate restrictions and requires a cheer portion that
emphasizes crowd-leading ability. Categories on the score sheet include: Spacing and Formations, Crowd Effective Material,
and Use of Props.
PERFORMANCE ROUTINE RESTRICTIONS
NOVICE SKILLS RESTRICTIONS
Novice teams will follow AACCA Safety Guidelines with these additional skill restrictions.
• Standing Tumbling: Standing tumbling is limited to a standing 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 not be held or pass through an extended position. No extended liberties. Twisting transitions
are limited to a ½ twist by the top person (full ups are not allowed). Exception: Log Rolls/Barrell rolls are allowed.
Release moves must start below prep level and must be caught at prep level or below. Release moves may not
pass above extended arm level. All release moves must land in a cradle. Inversions in stunts are not allowed.
All inversions must maintain contact with the performance surface. Exception: Transitions from ground level
inversions to non-inverted positions are allowed. Example: Legal: Going from a handstand on the ground to a noninverted
stunt such as a shoulder sit. Example: Illegal: Going from a cradle to a handstand or from a prone position
to a forward roll.
• Pyramids: Extended one leg stunts must be braced by at least one person at prep level or below. Connection must be made
prior to executing single leg extended stunt and must be made at prep level or below. 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 are not allowed with the exceptions of the inversions allowed under Novice Stunts.
Exception: Release moves in pyramids are not allowed with the exception of the release moves allowed under
Novice Stunts.
• Dismounts: Only straight pop downs, basic straight cradles and 1/4 turns are allowed.
• Tosses: The only body position allowed is a straight ride.
RULE BOOK • 11

NCA PERFORMANCE DIVISIONS
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
INTERMEDIATE SKILLS RESTRICTIONS
Intermediate teams will follow AACCA Safety Guidelines with these additional skill restrictions.
• Standing Tumbling: Flips are not allowed. No standing back tucks or back handspring back tucks.
• Running Tumbling: Flips may only be performed in a tuck position. Flips may only be performed from a round off or round
off back handspring entry. No tumbling is allowed after the flip. No twisting during the flip. Cartwheel back tucks are not
allowed.
• Stunts: Twisting transitions to and from an extended position may not exceed 1/2 twisting transition. Release moves must
start below prep level and must be caught at prep level or below. Release moves may not pass above extended
arm level.
• Pyramids: During a pyramid transition, top person may pass above 2 persons high while in direct, arm-to-arm contact with
two other top persons at prep level or below. Braced flips are not allowed.
• Dismounts: Only straight pop downs, basic straight rides, and 1/4 turns are allowed from any single leg stunt. Up to 1 1/4
twists are allowed from any two leg stunt.
• Tosses: Up to 1 trick allowed during a toss. Tosses may not exceed 1 twisting rotation.
ADVANCED SKILLS RESTRICTIONS
• Advanced teams will follow the standard AACCA Safety Guidelines with no other skill restrictions.
JUNIOR HIGH / MIDDLE SCHOOL / ELEMENTARY SKILLS RESTRICTIONS
• Junior High, Middle School, and Elementary teams will follow Additional Restrictions as listed in
the AACCA Safety Guidelines.
NCA SCORING PROCESS
The scoring process for NCA Championships will be on a 100 point scale. Scores for each category will range from 0-10,
including tenths of points (example: 5.5, 9.2, etc.). These scores will be entered into a computer that will add the scores. All
point deductions and/or penalties will be deducted from the subtotal to get the FINAL SCORE. Your Day 1 score will count as
25% of your final score. Your Day 2 score will account for the other 75%. Teams will compete in reverse order from how they
placed in prelims (e.g. squads with the highest score after prelims in a particular division will compete last in that division on
finals).
DEDUCTION SYSTEM
Building Bobbles - .5
Examples:
• Stunts and Pyramids that almost drop/fall, but are saved
• Blatant incomplete twisting cradles (landing on stomach, etc.)
• Knee or hand of base touching ground during cradle or dismount
• Severe balance checks
•
Building Falls - 1.0
Examples:
• Cradling, dismounting, or bringing down a stunt or pyramid early (not timing issues)
• Base falling to the floor during a cradle or dismount
Athlete Bobbles - .25
Examples:
• Hands down in tumbling or jumps
• Knees down in tumbling or jumps
• Blatant incomplete tumbling twist(s)
RULE BOOK • 12

NCA PERFORMANCE DIVISIONS
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
Athlete Falls - .5
Examples:
• Multiple body parts touch the floor in tumbling or jumps
• Drops to the floor during individual skills (tumbling, jumps, etc.)
Major Building Falls - 1.5
Examples:
• Falls from individual stunt, pyramid, or tosses to the ground (top person lands on ground or multiple bases land on ground)
Maximum - 2.0
When multiple deductions should be assessed during an individual stunt or toss (by a single group), or during a pyramid collapse,
then the sum of those deductions will not be greater than 2.0.
Time Limit Violations
Teams that exceed 2:30 will be subject to the following deduction:
• 1 - 5 seconds over time will result in a .5 deduction
• 6 - 10 seconds over time will result in a 1.0 deduction
• 11 or more seconds over time will result in a 2.0 deduction
The routine time limit is 2:30. Routines that exceed this time limit run a risk of being assessed a deduction. Judges will use a
stop watch 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 2:33.
Safety Violations
• Violation of General Safety Guidelines and any skills performed out of division/category will be issued a 2.0 deduction.
• At 2 Day events, any safety violation missed by the Safety Judges on Day 1 but performed again and confirmed to be illegal
by the Safety Judges on Day 2 will result in a .5 deduction off of the Day 2 score. Before deduction is issued, Day 1 video
must be reviewed to confirm safety violation on both days.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct Deduction
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 may result in a 2.0 deduction, removal of coach, or disqualification.
Boundary Violations
The performance surface is defined as the 42’ x 54’ competition floor. The competition boundary is defined as the performance
surface and any immediate adjacent safety border. A .25 deduction will be assessed per occurrence for an athlete that makes
contact with both feet outside the competition boundary. Stepping on, or just past the white tape is not a boundary violation.
Minimum Number of Athletes
Teams that compete with fewer than the minimum number of athletes required for that division may receive a 2.0 deduction or be
disqualified.
Uniform Midriff Deduction
NCA has adopted the NFHS ruling that states: “when standing at attention, apparel must cover the midriff.” If a school or
recreational team is found to be in violation of this rule, the team will receive a .5 deduction off of their final score.
RULE BOOK • 13

2013-2014 NCA SCHOOL JUDGING RANGES
The following grid outlines the point ranges for specific skill sets performed by a MAJORITY of the team with a high level of perfection.
Skills performed with LESS than a high level of perfection or by LESS than a majority of the team will move the score into a lower range.
In each category, the majority of the team must master each listed skill unless the skills are separated by the word “or.”
STUNTS PYRAMIDS or TOSSES TUMBLING JUMPS MOTIONS/DANCE
5 - 6 5 - 6 5 - 6 5 - 6 5 - 6
Extension Preps or
One Leg Variations
Below Prep Level
Pyramids involving
Extended Two Leg Stunts
and/or
One Leg Stunts at Prep Level
Cartwheels or
Round-offs or
Forward/Backward Rolls
Single or Double
Jump Combinations
Novice Teams: Minimal
transitions/level changes.
Average Level of Execution.
6 - 8 6 - 8 6 - 8 6 - 8 6 - 8
Extensions or
One Leg Variations
at Prep Level
Pyramids involving
Extended One Leg Stunts
Basic Straight Rides Round-off BHS or
Standing BHS
Triple Jump Combinations
of Advanced Jumps
Novice Teams: Multiple transitions/level
changes. Includes Variety of Movement,
Footwork and/or Floorwork.
Above Average Level of Execution.
Intermediate Teams: Minimal transitions/level
changes. Average Level of Execution.
NOVICE MAX SCORE NOVICE MAX SCORE NOVICE MAX SCORE NOVICE MAX SCORE NOVICE MAX SCORE NOVICE MAX SCORE
7 - 9 7 - 9 7 - 9 7 - 9 7 - 9
Extended One Leg Stunts
Required Dismount:
Single Twist from
Two Leg Stunts
Pyramids involving
Extended One Leg Stunts with
Multiple Transitional Sequences,
at least one of which is a release
pyramid transition and
Multiple Extended Structures
Single Twisting Tosses or
Non-Twisting Tosses
ex. Toe Touch, Switch Kick,
Tuck Arch
Round-off BHS Back Tucks or
Round-off Tucks or
Standing BHS Series or
Jump/BHS Combinations
Triple Jump Combinations
of Advanced Jumps
(Intermediate Teams)
Intermediate Teams: Multiple
transitions/level changes. Includes Variety
of Movement, Footwork and/or Floorwork.
Above Average Level of Execution.
Advanced Teams: Minimal transitions/level
changes. Average Level of Execution.
INTERMEDIATE MAX SCORE INTERMEDIATE MAX SCORE INTERMEDIATE MAX SCORE INTERMEDIATE MAX SCORE INTERMEDIATE MAX SCORE
INTERMEDIATE MAX SCORE
8 - 10 8 - 10 8 - 10 8 - 10 8 - 10
Elite Skills
Single Twist from
One Leg Stunts or
Extended Stunt Sequence
performed by a
Single Base, Unassisted
Pyramids involving
Extended One Leg Stunts with
Multiple Transitional Sequences,
at least one of which is a Braced
Flip Transition and
Multiple Extended Structures
Double Skill Tosses
including a Twist
ex. Kick Fulls
Layouts or
Standing Back Tucks or
Standing BHS Back Tucks
Triple Jump Combinations
of Advanced Jumps
(Advanced Teams)
Advanced Teams: Multiple transitions
and level changes. Includes Variety of
Movement, Footwork and/or Floorwork.
Above Average Level of Execution.
ADVANCED MAX SCORE
ADVANCED MAX SCORE
ADVANCED MAX SCORE
ADVANCED MAX SCORE
ADVANCED MAX SCORE
ADVANCED MAX SCORE
NOTE: Elementary & Junior High/Middle School Teams must follow the additional AACCA Restrictions located in the NCA Rule Book.
BHS - Back Handspring

NCA SLIDING CRITERIA
The following are examples of traits and qualities of the execution
to help the Judges determine skill placement within the point range.
STUNTS SLIDING CRITERIA
• Degree of Difficulty
• Level of Perfection
• Percentage of Team Participation
• Strong Body Positions/Body Control
• Minimal Use of Bases
• Additional Skills
PYRAMIDS SLIDING CRITERIA
• Degree of Difficulty
• Level of Perfection
• Creative/Difficult Dismounts
• Percentage of Team Participation
• Minimal Use of Bases
• Variety/Speed of Transitions
• Multiple Structures
• Additional Skills
TOSSES SLIDING CRITERIA
• Degree of Difficulty
• Level of Perfection (Technique and Timing)
• Percentage of Team Participation
• Height
• Strong Body Positions
• Minimal Use of Bases (Lack of Front Spots)
• Specialty Incorporation
• Additional Skills
• Other Unique Transitions
• Synchronization of Skills
STANDING TUMBLING SLIDING CRITERIA
• Degree of Difficulty
• Level of Perfection (Technique, Timing, Landing)
• Percentage of Team Participation
• Height of Skills
• Form
• Specialty Combinations/Creativity
• Synchronization of Skills
• Additional Skills
RUNNING TUMBLING SLIDING CRITERIA
• Degree of Difficulty
• Level of Perfection (Technique, Timing, Landing)
• Percentage of Team Participation
• Height of Skills
• Form
• Specialty Combinations/Creativity
• Synchronization of Skills
• Additional Skills
JUMPS SLIDING CRITERIA
• Hyperextended/Flexibility
• Jump/Tumbling Combinations
• Jump Combinations
• Synchronization of Skills
• Toe Point
• Landings
• Arm Placement
• Difficulty of Approaches
• Additional Skills
MOTIONS/DANCE SLIDING CRITERIA
• Use of Motions and Dance
• Synchronization
• Sharpness
• Rhythm
• Body Control
• Placement
• Visual Effect
• Pace
• Energy/Entertainment Value
• Formations
ELITE STUNTING SKILLS INCLUDE
(BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO):
• Full Up to Extended Position
• Major Releases that land in an Extended Position
• Major Tick Tock Variations
• Inverted Transitions to an Extended Position
• Toss Extended Stunts
• Other Unique Mounts & Transitions of Similar Difficulty Level
ADVANCED JUMPS INCLUDE:
• Toe Touch
• Front Hurdler
• Pike
• Double Nine
RULE BOOK • 15

NCA GAME TIME DIVISIONS
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
SMALL HIGH SCHOOL
GAME TIME DIVISIONS
LARGE HIGH SCHOOL
GAME TIME DIVISIONS
GAME TIME
SMALL TIME OUT CHEER HIGH SCHOOL
5 - 17 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
SMALL FIGHT SONG HIGH SCHOOL
5 - 17 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
SMALL TIME OUT DANCE HIGH SCHOOL
5 - 17 Members
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
LARGE TIME OUT CHEER HIGH SCHOOL
18 Members or More
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
LARGE FIGHT SONG HIGH SCHOOL
18 Members or More
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
LARGE TIME OUT DANCE HIGH SCHOOL
18 Members or More
12th Grade and Below
Female/Male
NOTE: Any non-cheerleader participant(s) who performs with your team, i.e. Flag Runners, Band Members, etc., will count toward your TOTAL number of
participants. Teams must compete in same categories (Small or Large) to be eligible for National Champion within that division. Two champions will be awarded.
JUNIOR HIGH/MIDDLE SCHOOL
GAME TIME DIVISIONS
RULE BOOK • 16
ELEMENTARY
GAME TIME DIVISIONS
TIME OUT CHEER JH/MS
No Team Size Limit
9th Grade and Below
Female/Male
FIGHT SONG JH/MS
No Team Size Limit
9th Grade and Below
Female/Male
TIME OUT DANCE JH/MS
No Team Size Limit
9th Grade and Below
Female/Male
TIME OUT CHEER ELEMENTARY
No Team Size Limit
6th Grade and Below
Female/Male
TIME OUT DANCE ELEMENTARY
No Team Size Limit
6th Grade and Below
Female/Male

GAME TIME GENERAL RULES
NCA GAME TIME DIVISIONS
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
A. All cheerleading skills including tumbling, partner stunts, pyramids and jumps for the Game Time Divisions must follow the
AACCA Safety Guidelines. All skills should be carefully reviewed and supervised by a qualified adult coach. See specific skill
restrictions for each category.
B. Cheer teams are encouraged to include other sideline spirit groups (i.e. dance team, song/pom, mascot, pep/short flag, etc.),
but sideline spirit groups will not be judged separately. Additional performance-based and spirit groups may not enter the
division without their cheerleaders.
C. MASCOTS are limited to the same props as cheerleaders (poms, signs, flags, megaphones and/or banners) and are NOT
allowed to stunt in any Game Time Division.
D. Routines must be appropriate for family viewing. Any vulgar and/or suggestive movements, words, or music will result in a
score deduction.
E. The team and each participating member/coach should constantly display good sportsmanship throughout the entire
performance in regards to respect for themselves, other teams and the viewing audience of all ages. Teams should refrain
from any taunting, bragging, or suggestive expressions or gestures as well as discrimination of any nature.
F. We recommend that the team and each of its members display an overall appearance conducive to serving as public
representatives and ambassadors of their school in regards to grooming, traditional and appropriate attire, conservative
make-up, uniformity, etc.
COMPETITION AREA
A. Participants may stand or enter outside the competition area.
B. All permitted skills (stunts, pyramids, tumbling etc.) must be performed on the competition mat.
C. Competitions comply with the NFHS & AACCA surface ruling that school based programs may not compete on a spring floor.
Approximate floor size will be a traditional mat of 42 feet deep by 54 feet wide (9 strips). Performance floor for the
Time-Out Dance will depend upon event location.
D. Objects cannot be thrown outside the competition floor.
E. Poms, signs, flags, megaphones and/or banners may be placed or dropped outside the competition area by a team member.
RULE BOOK • 17

NCA GAME TIME DIVISIONS
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
GAME TIME ROUTINE REQUIREMENTS
A. Each team will perform a routine not to exceed 1 minute and 15 seconds.
B. Teams may not set up props in advance of any category.
C. See specific Category for details on the start and stop for each type of routine.
D. All introductions (entrances, chants, spell-outs, etc.) are considered part of the routine and are timed as part of the
performance.
E. There should not be any organized exits or other activities after the official ending of the routine.
TIME OUT CHEER REQUIREMENTS
A. Each team will perform a routine not to exceed 1 minute and 15 seconds.
B. In most locations, Time Out Cheer will begin and end with a buzzer sound similar to a time-out at a game.
C. No music may be used during the performance. Live drummer and/or drum track is allowed. All specialty skills (i.e. jumps,
stunts, tumbling) must be performed within a safe distance of all Drummers. Drummers cannot be involved in any type of
specialty skill.
D. Each team’s presentation must include at least two components required from the following: cheers, chants, traditional yells,
and/or drum cadences.
E. Teams should utilize all areas of their squad’s crowd-leading strengths. The use of poms, signs, flags, megaphones and/or
banners is encouraged.
F. Judging will be based on the following criteria:
1. Crowd communication, including: crowd effective material, spacing and formations, voice and pace, crowd leading
skills and use of poms, signs, flags, megaphones and/or banners.
2. Placement, synchronization and strength of motions.
3. Overall impression and crowd appeal.
4. Emphasis on crowd involvement and practicality. All material should be suitable for a game or pep rally.
SPECIFIC SKILL RESTRICTIONS
A. No baskets, sponge, elevator, or similar type tosses permitted.
B. No inversions and/or twisting into or out of stunts regardless of contact with bases.
C. No single leg extended stunts.
D. No running tumbling or flips allowed.
E. Maximum difficulty in tumbling is limited to a single back handspring.
RULE BOOK • 18

FIGHT SONG REQUIREMENTS
A. Each team will perform a routine not to exceed 1 minute and 15 seconds.
B. Teams are encouraged to use their traditional team fight song.
C. Timing will begin with the first organized movement, voice or note of music, whichever comes first and end with the last beat
of music or organized movement.
D. Props (poms, signs, flags, megaphones and/or banners) are permitted in this category.
E. Performances can incorporate up to three (3) eight counts of skills (stunts, tumbling and/or jumps). The three (3) eight counts
must be consecutive and the same three (3) eight counts can be repeated if the fight song is repeated. The three (3) eight
counts of skills includes loading and dismounting from stunts (unless routine finishes in stunt/pyramid).
F. Judging will be based on the following criteria:
1. Crowd-oriented material, fit to music, using effective spacing and formations, and incorporating visual effects.
2. Placement, synchronization and strength of motions
3. Overall impression and crowd appeal.
4. Emphasis will be placed on practicality. All material should be suitable and able to be performed multiple times
during a game or pep rally.
SPECIFIC SKILL RESTRICTIONS
A. No baskets, sponge, elevator, or similar type tosses permitted.
B. No inversions and /or twisting into or out of stunts regardless of contact with bases.
C. No single leg extended stunts.
D. A jump is considered a skill and can only be performed in the three (3) eight count segment.
E. A kick will not be considered as a skill and can be performed at any time during the routine.
F. Maximum difficulty in tumbling is limited to a standing back handspring.
TIME OUT DANCE REQUIREMENTS
NCA GAME TIME DIVISIONS
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
A. Each team will perform a routine not to exceed 1 minute and 15 seconds.
B. Any dance style that is appropriate for a time-out situation within a sideline cheering setting is acceptable (i.e. jazz, pom, hip
hop, etc.)
C. Timing will begin with the first organized movement, voice or note of music, whichever comes first and end with
the last beat of music or organized movement.
D. Camp material may be easily adapted to fit this category.
E. Poms are the only props permitted.
F. Judging will be based on the following criteria:
1. Creativity and musicality, variety and the execution of transitions and formations.
2. Placement, synchronization and strength of motions/movement.
3. Visual effect and spacing.
4. Overall impression and crowd appeal.
5. Emphasis will be on audience appropriateness and appeal. This is a performance-based Category. Crowd leading
components will not be judged.
SPECIFIC SKILL RESTRICTIONS
A. Tumbling and/or stunting of any kind is prohibited, including during entrances and exits.
B. Dance skills (i.e. turns, leaps, kicks, etc.) are permitted.
RULE BOOK • 19

NCA GAME TIME DIVISIONS
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
NCA GAME TIME SCORING
Safety Violations
• Violation of General Safety Guidelines and any skills performed out of division/category will be issued a 2.0 deduction.
• At 2 Day events, any safety violation missed by the Safety Judges on Day 1 but performed again and confirmed to be illegal
by the Safety Judges on Day 2 will result in a .5 deduction off of the Day 2 score. Before deduction is issued, Day 1 video
must be reviewed to confirm safety violation on both days.
Game Time Boundary Violations
Any skills not performed on a competition mat may result in a .25 deduction per occurrence.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct Deduction
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 may result in a 2.0 deduction, removal of coach, or disqualification.
Minimum Number of Athletes
Teams that compete with fewer than the minimum number of athletes required for that division may receive a 2.0 deduction or be
disqualified.
Uniform Midriff Deduction
NCA has adopted the NFHS ruling that states: “when standing at attention, apparel must cover the midriff.” If a school or
recreational team is found to be in violation of this rule, the team will receive a .5 deduction off of their final score.
GAME TIME NATIONAL CHAMPION AWARDS
Up to four NCA Game Time National Champion titles will be awarded at the NCA Senior and Junior High School National
Championship and at the NCA School Open National Championship (Small High School, Large High School, Junior High/Middle
School, Elementary). Elementary may only enter two categories (Time Out Cheer and Time Out Dance).
The National Championship title will be presented to the team having the highest total of two (2) category scores. If a team
enters three categories, then their two highest scores will be totaled to determine their total scores.
To be eligible to win the NCA Game Time National Championship title, teams must compete in at least two of the Game Time
categories offered and their final ranking must be in the top 3 in a minimum of one of the categories (Fight Song, Time Out Cheer,
Time Out Dance). Fight Song category is not offered in the Elementary Division.
Participants cannot compete twice in the same Game Time Category.
If a team wins the NCA Game Time National Championship title, as well as a Performance Division National Championship title,
individuals will only receive one national championship jacket. Teams will receive a banner and trophy for each national title.
RULE BOOK • 20

BEST CHEERLEADER & GROUP STUNT REQUIREMENTS
These divisions will not be offered at Nationals but may be offered at other championships on a case-by-case basis when
appropriate.
BEST CHEERLEADER REQUIREMENTS
Each participant will perform the following in this order: three consecutive jumps, tumbling pass, and a cheer. Overall
performance may not exceed 90 seconds. Music is not allowed. A partner may not be used during the performance. Judging is
based on voice projection, showmanship, cheer execution, spirit, and ability in the areas of jumps and tumbling, as well as overall
impression. There is a five-trick limit (jumps, gymnastics, splits) in your performance after your tumbling pass. A back handspring
back tuck, toe touch back handspring, or round-off back tuck are each considered two tricks. There will be a .5 penalty if more
than five tricks are performed in your cheer and a separate penalty if the routine exceeds the time limit.
• Elementary Best Cheerleader: 6th grade and below
• Junior Best Cheerleader: 7th - 9th grade
• Senior Best Cheerleader: 10th - 12th grade
• Males and females will compete in the same division based on grade.
• There is no limit as to how many individuals may enter from a team.
GROUP STUNT REQUIREMENTS
Each group stunt routine may be up to, but no longer than 60 seconds, with background music. Timing will begin with the first
sound of music or movement of the team. The routine does not have to be choreographed directly to the music. Teams will be
judged on technique, strength and stability of stunts, flow of routine, degree of difficulty (taking into consideration the number
of stunts), perfection of routine and overall impression. There will be a penalty each time there is a violation of the NCA High
School Rules, and a separate penalty if your routine exceeds the time limit.
• Junior Best Group Stunt: 9th grade and below (up to 5 members, all females)
• Senior Best Group Stunt: 9th-12th grade (up to 5 members, 1 may be male)
• Coed Best Group Stunt: 9th-12th grade (up to 5 members, 1-2 may be males)
• Note: These groups must follow the NCA High School/Junior High Rules.
NCA BEST CHEERLEADER
NCA reserves the right to be the arbitrator and interpreter of all rules covered in this document.
RULE BOOK • 21

OFFICIAL
JUDGE
COMMENTS
ADVANCED SCHOOL PERFORMANCE
STUNTS 10
PYRAMIDS / TOSSES 10
TUMBLING 10
JUMPS 10
MOTIONS / GIRLS DANCE 10
TIMING
Synchronization and Uniformity 10
TRANSITIONS
Spacing, Seamless Movement and Patterns, Execution of Formations 10
PERFORMANCE
Pace of cheer is practical and easy to understand, 10
Genuine Showmanship, Energy Level
SAMPLE
SCHOOL REPRESENTATION
MAXIMUM
VALUE
Image, Sportsmanship, Performance Integrity 10
OVERALL IMPRESSION 10
TEAM
SCORE
TOTAL
nca.varsity.com

OFFICIAL
JUDGE
COMMENTS
INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL PERFORMANCE
STUNTS 9
PYRAMIDS / TOSSES 9
TUMBLING 9
JUMPS 9
MOTIONS / GIRLS DANCE 9
TIMING
Synchronization and Uniformity 9
TRANSITIONS
Spacing, Seamless Movement and Patterns, Execution of Formations 9
PERFORMANCE
Pace of cheer is practical and easy to understand,
9
Genuine Showmanship, Energy Level
SAMPLE
SCHOOL REPRESENTATION
MAXIMUM
VALUE
Image, Sportsmanship, Performance Integrity 9
OVERALL IMPRESSION 9
TEAM
SCORE
TOTAL
nca.varsity.com

OFFICIAL
JUDGE
COMMENTS
INTERMEDIATE GAME DAY
PERFORMANCE
STUNTS 9
PYRAMIDS / TOSSES 9
TUMBLING 9
JUMPS 9
MOTIONS / GIRLS DANCE 9
TIMING
Synchronization and Uniformity 9
SPACING AND FORMATIONS
Spacing, Formations, positioned to cover crowd 9
CROWD EFFECTIVE MATERIAL
SAMPLE
Easy to follow, encourages crow participation 9
USE OF PROPS
Signs, Poms, Flags, Megaphones used to encourage crowd response 9
SCHOOL REPRESENTATION
MAXIMUM
VALUE
Image, Sportsmanship, Performance Integrity 9
TEAM
SCORE
TOTAL
nca.varsity.com

OFFICIAL
JUDGE
COMMENTS
NOVICE SCHOOL PERFORMANCE
STUNTS 8
PYRAMIDS / TOSSES 8
TUMBLING 8
JUMPS 8
MOTIONS / GIRLS DANCE 8
TIMING
Synchronization and Uniformity 8
TRANSITIONS
Spacing, Seamless Movement and Patterns, Execution of Formations 8
PERFORMANCE
Pace of cheer is practical and easy to understand,
8
Genuine Showmanship, Energy Level
SAMPLE
SCHOOL REPRESENTATION
MAXIMUM
VALUE
Image, Sportsmanship, Performance Integrity 8
OVERALL IMPRESSION 8
TEAM
SCORE
TOTAL
nca.varsity.com

OFFICIAL
JUDGE
COMMENTS
NON-TUMBLING
STUNTS 10
PYRAMIDS / TOSSES 10
JUMPS 10
MOTIONS / GIRLS DANCE 10
TIMING
Synchronization and Uniformity 10
TRANSITIONS
Spacing, Seamless Movement and Patterns, Execution of Formations 10
PERFORMANCE
Pace of cheer is practical and easy to understand, 10
Genuine Showmanship, Energy Level
SAMPLE
SCHOOL REPRESENTATION
MAXIMUM
VALUE
Image, Sportsmanship, Performance Integrity 10
OVERALL IMPRESSION 10
TEAM
SCORE
TOTAL
nca.varsity.com

OFFICIAL
JUDGE
COMMENTS
MASCOT
CHARACTERIZATION 10
CREATIVITY 10
CROWD LEADING 10
DANCE 10
PROP DESIGN / EFFECTIVENESS 10
SAMPLE
OVERALL IMPRESSION 10
TOTAL
MAXIMUM
VALUE
SCORE
nca.varsity.com

OFFICIAL
JUDGE
COMMENTS
OVERALL MOTIONS MATERIAL
FIGHT SONG - GAME TIME
MATERIAL
Crowd oriented movements, fit to music 20
SPACING AND FORMATIONS
Spacing, formations, positioned to cover crowd 10
VISUAL EFFECTS
Level changes, ripples, creative movements
10
within groups and levels
PLACEMENT
Proper control, correct placement of movements 10
SYNCHRONIZATION
Uniformity of movement throughout routine 10
STRENGTH OF MOTIONS
Sharpness 10
SAMPLE
OVERALL IMPRESSION
Audience appropriateness, execution 20
CROWD APPEAL
MAXIMUM
VALUE
Facial expression, eye contact, energy 10
TEAM
SCORE
TOTAL
nca.varsity.com

OFFICIAL
JUDGE
COMMENTS
OVERALL MOTIONS CROWD COMMUNICATION
TIME OUT CHEER - GAME TIME
CROWD EFFECTIVE MATERIAL
Easy to follow, encourages crowd participation 10
SPACING AND FORMATIONS
Spacing, formations, positioned to cover crowd 10
VOICE AND PACE
Loud and natural voices, good inflection, moderate controlled pace 10
CROWD LEADING SKILLS
Skills add to the squad’s ability to lead the crowd 10
USE OF PROPS (SIGNS, POMS, FLAGS, MEGAPHONES)
Used to encourage crowd response 10
PLACEMENT
Proper control, correct placement of movements 10
SYNCHRONIZATION
Motions synchronized with words or cadence 10
STRENGTH OF MOTIONS
SAMPLE
Sharpness 10
OVERALL IMPRESSION
Audience appropriateness, execution 10
CROWD APPEAL
MAXIMUM
VALUE
Facial expression, eye contact, energy 10
TEAM
SCORE
TOTAL
nca.varsity.com

OFFICIAL
JUDGE
COMMENTS
OVERALL GENERAL EFFECT MOTIONS/MOVEMENT MATERIAL
TIME OUT DANCE - GAME TIME
CREATIVITY AND MUSICALITY
Use of movement to complement the music 10
TRANSITIONS AND FORMATIONS
Creative and quick ways to move formations,
10
inventive and various formations
PLACEMENT
Proper control, correct placement of movements 10
SYNCHRONIZATION
Motions synchronized with words or cadence 10
STRENGTH OF MOTIONS
Sharpness 10
VISUAL EFFECTS
Level changes, ripples, footwork, creative movements 10
within groups and levels
SPACING
The ability to position correctly 10
SAMPLE
OVERALL IMPRESSION
Audience appropriateness, execution 20
CROWD APPEAL
MAXIMUM
VALUE
Facial expression, eye contact, energy 10
TEAM
SCORE
TOTAL
nca.varsity.com

OFFICIAL
JUDGE
COMMENTS
OVERALL EXECUTION ENTRANCE
BEST CHEERLEADER
JUMPS 10
TUMBLING 10
MOTION/TECHNIQUE 10
EXECUTION/INCORPORATION
OF 5 SKILLS
10
SPIRIT/SHOWMANSHIP
AND VOICE
10
SAMPLE
OVERALL IMPRESSION 10
TOTAL
MAXIMUM
VALUE
SCORE
nca.varsity.com

OFFICIAL
POINT DEDUCTION
0 - :15 SECONDS :15 - :30 SECONDS
:30 - :45 SECONDS :45 SECONDS - 1 MINUTE
1 MINUTE - 1:15 1:15 - 1:30
1:30 - 1:45 1:45 - 2:00
AB
AF
BB
BF
MBF
MAX
S
T
P
J
I
LEGEND
ATHLETE BOBBLE
ATHLETE FALL
BUILDING BOBBLE
BUILDING FALL
MAJOR BUILDING FALL
MAXIMUM
STUNTS
TUMBLING
PYRAMIDS
JUMPS
INDIVIDUAL
COMMENTS
SAMPLE
AB .25
AF .50
BB .50
BF 1.0
MBF 1.5
x
x
x
x
x
=
=
=
=
=
.25
.50
.50
1.0
1.5
2.0
MAX 2.0
x
=
2:00 - 2:15 2:15 - 2:30
TOTAL
nca.varsity.com

OFFICIAL
JUDGE
SCHOOL SAFETY
DEDUCTION CATEGORY NUMBER OF DEDUCTIONS DEDUCTIONS
BOUNDARY VIOLATIONS x (.25)
TIME OF ROUTINE
TOTAL
MUSIC
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS
SAFETY GUIDELINES VIOLATION
(tumbling, stunts, language, signs, etc.)
T
q
q
q
M
q
q
q
OVERTIME (check)
1-5 seconds - (0.5)
6-10 seconds - (1.0)
11 + seconds - (2.0)
TOTAL
MUSIC
A. Each team will perform a choreographed routine not to exceed 2 minutes and 30 seconds (150 seconds).
B. 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 a team’s vocal projection sound louder.
RULE INFRACTION WARNING CATEGORY PAGE # x (2.0)
q
q
q
q
q
q
q
TOTAL SAFETY INFRACTION:
SAMPLE
SAFETY DEDUCTION
nca.varsity.com