Arkansas Activities Association 3920 Richards Road North Little Rock, AR Phone: Fax:

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2 Arkansas Activities Association 3920 Richards Road North Little Rock, AR Phone: Fax: Annette Savage, AAA Staff Spirit Liaison Regulations governing interscholastic spirit team competition, coaching, and participation

3 Competitive cheer and competitive dance are sports and participants must abide by all athletic rules as stated in the Arkansas Activities Association Handbook. Students participating as a member of a school s non-competitive cheer or dance team must meet eligibility requirements for interscholastic non-athletic competitive activities. You may access the AAA Handbook by going to ahsaa.org and clicking on AAA Handbook under Quick Links on the left side of the page.

4 SPIRIT SEASON CHECKLIST This checklist is designed to assist you in planning your cheer/dance season AUGUST Downloaded Spirit Handbook Received National Federation Rules Book August 18 Cheer/Dance Seasons Begin August 16 Deadline to post team rosters for competitive cheer and competitive dance August 16 Deadline to complete Cheer and Dance Rules Presentation on AAA website Competitive Coaches Joined Arkansas High School Coaches Association Sideline Coaches Applied for AAA Activity Identification Pass Submitted Teacher-Coach Verification or Non-Competitive Advisor Verification OCTOBER October 10 Deadline to submit State Dance Championship Entry October 15 Deadline to post head coach & team pix for competitive dance NOVEMBER November 14 Deadline to submit State Cheer Championship Entry November 15 Deadline to post head coach & team pix for competitive cheer November 8 State Dance Competition DECEMBER December 15 Deadline to submit All-State/All-Star nominations December 20 State Cheer Competition JANUARY January 20 Cheer & Dance All-Star Coaches Meeting JUNE June 21-July 4 Athletic Dead Weeks June All-Star Games June AHSCA Coaching Clinic

5 SPIRIT RULES CHANGES Rule 1 Revises the definition for a roll, suspended roll, tumbling and stunt. A new definition is added for a fold-over stunt. Clarification was added to confirm that a lift is identical to a stunt/partner stunt Adds state association authority to determine reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities to the rules rather than as a statement at the beginning of the rules book g Clarifies that the bases and bracers must remain in place during a cradle dismount in which a bracer is involved after the bases release the top person. 2 5 Revises and clarifies the rules regarding inverted partner stunts Clarifies that the top person in a log roll cannot be in contact with another released person Adds an exception to the rule prohibiting movement during dismounts Allows 1 ¼ rotation in a cradle regardless of the direction the stunt is facing Revises and clarifies the use of new catchers during dismounts Allows non-aerial tumbling over a person or prop on the performing surface Spirit Rules Committee Donna McKay, Chair Iowa Diane Wolf Idaho Denise Gelinas Maine Section 1 Kelly Geddis West Virginia Section 2 Jamie Rohrer Florida Section 3 Shaunda Brown Missouri Section 4 Reggie Romine Kansas Section 5 Annette Savage Arkansas Section 6 Michele Staples Arizona Section 7 David Pilcher Washington Section 8 Kent Summers, Editor NFHS Robert B. Gardner, Publisher NFHS

6 Points of Emphasis Coaches Responsibility: Education Coaches have a professional responsibility to read and fully comprehend the entire NFHS Spirit Rules Book. It is vital that coaches fully understand all rules in order to correctly teach the appropriate skills to their athletes. It is also the coaches responsibility to educate their student-athletes so they are aware of the rule changes. In addition, coaches are expected to be advocates for and models of good sportsmanship and follow all rules as written. Coaches Responsibility: Minimizing Risk Risk minimization for participants must be the primary objective for all spirit coaches. Protecting the head, neck, and shoulders of participants during stunting must be a top priority. Cheerleaders should be placed under the direction of qualified and knowledgeable coaches who can recognize a squad s particular ability level and limit their activities accordingly. Ability level refers to the squad s talents as a whole. Programs should qualify cheerleaders according to generally accepted teaching progressions. The NFHS skills and techniques of stunts appropriate for the abilities of the cheerleaders must be perfected before advancing to the next level. Only those skills mastered in practice and consistently executed correctly should be performed in public. Additionally, coaches should ensure that cheerleaders are thoroughly trained in proper spotting techniques and receive appropriate training before attempting any form of cheerleading stunting and tumbling. Coaches should also provide a comprehensive conditioning and strength-building program to ensure optimum fitness for their athletes. Concussions The understanding of sports-related concussions has evolved dramatically in recent years. We have learned that young athletes are particularly vulnerable to the effects of concussion. An athlete who exhibits signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concussion (such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, or balance problems) shall be immediately removed from participation and shall not resume participation until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional. Look to your state high school association and the NFHS for education regarding prevention and treatment of concussions. Application of NFHS Spirit Rules Book The NFHS Spirit Rules Book provides rules and safety limitations that should be followed by all cheerleading/dance/drill/pom and other spirit teams that stunt, tumble or use props as a base. Dance/drill/pom and other spirit teams that stunt, tumble or use props as a base must follow the appropriate safety limitations in Rule 2 and Rule 3. Cheerleading or other spirit teams that use props as a base must follow the appropriate safety limitations in Rule 3. It is important to note that cheerleaders must follow Rule 2-3 and dancers must follow Rule 3-1 regarding apparel/accessories. Overuse Injuries Overuse injuries are a common problem characterized by irritation to a body part. Cutting back on the intensity, duration, and frequency of specific activities/skills will help to minimize the potential for overuse injuries to athletes. Headstands, headspring flips, back handsprings, or jumps are examples of skills that have the potential for injury due to overuse. Performance surfaces and areas The rules specify that Performance surfaces and areas must be suitable for spirit activities and reasonably free from objects and/or impediments. Further, the rules state that When discarding props that are made of hard material or have corners or sharp edges, team members must gently toss or place the props. In some situations, discarded props and signs could increase the risk of injury should team members step on them. This is true for both competitive and non-competitive spirit activities. In competitive spirit activities, state associations or local competition administrators can provide information on deductions that may be taken for stepping on objects on the performance surface.

7 Arkansas Activities Association SPIRIT PARTICIPANT ELIGIBILITY - Students wishing to participate as a member of an interscholastic competitive cheer or dance team must meet ALL athletic eligibility rules as outlined in the AAA Handbook. Students participating as a member of a school s non-competitive (sideline) cheer or dance team must meet eligibility requirements for interscholastic non-athletic competitive activities. PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS - In any school year that a student tries out for or participates as a member of the school s cheer or dance team, the student shall present to the coach a physical examination verification prior to beginning an organized practice or workshop for try-outs. This shall be valid for one calendar year. TRY-OUTS The AAA recommends that Arkansas spirit coaches offer a focused and non-biased try-out that evaluates the required skills, athletic abilities, spirit, leadership, and teamwork. It is important that you take control of your try-outs. The football coach doesn t have a panel to choose his quarterback. You have to break the old mentality that YOU and your staff cannot be trusted to pick your squads. The use of teacher evaluations and grade point standards for competitive spirit squads different from that of other athletic programs is inequitable. It is important that you as a coach conduct your try-outs. You will minimize controversy and gain support of your administrators, parents, and student athletes if you are fair and firm, consistent, and communicate with those involved in your program. STUDENT PARTICIPATION LIMITATIONS - Only a school s cheer team members are authorized to participate on the sidelines, floor or field during an athletic contest or spirit competition, except when drill/dance/pom teams are authorized by the school administration. An individual who is designated as a part of the team to stand or perform with the team on the sidelines, floor, or field during an athletic contest or sport competition (ex: mascot) shall meet all eligibility requirements of the cheer and dance team members. TEAM PARTICIPATION LIMITATIONS - At regional and state basketball tournaments no more than twelve members of a school s cheer team shall be permitted on the sidelines (floor) during play. The complete team may perform at full timeouts and between quarters and games. The AAA does not define or restrict the number on a team. Each school or district determines this when adopting tryout procedures or other policies. FACILITIES LIMITATIONS - At regular season events the home site may define limitations due to space and facility constraints. Such information should be communicated in advance to visitors to the facility. It is also recommended that the host clearly identify seating arrangements in indoor athletic facilities. Areas might be identified and marked off for home spectators, home students, band, cheerleaders, dance teams, visitor spectators, and visitor students. A visiting spirit team should not be seated among the home team s fans. SIGNAGE - All signs displayed including football run-throughs should be positive in nature. In general, the only signs that mention or depict the name or mascot of the opponents should be Welcome or signs giving directions. The coach should review all signs as to sportsmanship, spelling, grammar and appropriateness and permit only positive signs to be used. TUMBLING As a matter of safety and sportsmanship, tumbling shall be restricted to the half court where the team is cheering and shall stop before reaching the centerline. If more space is needed, tumbling may be on the diagonal away from the team bench and end before reaching the centerline. Exception: Tumbling as part of a performance on the main court area.

8 BODY ART A small, appropriate design painted or transferable may be worn on the face or other appropriate location. RULES - The National Federation Spirit Rules Book shall be the official rules for practice, sideline, performing, or competitive participation. School spirit teams are also subject to pertinent rules of the AAA handbook and the AAA Sportsmanship Manual. In addition, we require middle schools and junior high schools to follow the additional rules for middle schools and junior high schools published by AACCA which include the following: 1. Basket tosses, elevator tosses, and similar multi-based tosses are prohibited. 2. The total number of twists in a dismount from stunts cannot be greater than one rotation. Exception to this rule: Side facing stunts (i.e. Arabesque, Scorpion, etc.) may add a one-quarter twist in order to cradle to the front. SPONSORSHIP Varsity/UCA/UDA is the official sponsor of the Arkansas High School State Cheer and State Dance Championships. Varsity is the #1 spirit company in the nation, and we are excited to have them as our sponsor. NATIONAL COMPETITIONS The National Federation of State High School Associations endorses the UCA and UDA Nationals in Orlando, Florida; therefore, these are the only national cheer and dance competitions Arkansas high school teams are allowed to enter. SCHOOL TEAM A school team is defined as a team composed solely of players from one member school within a district or attendance zone, in the case of multiple junior or senior high schools within a district. NON-SCHOOL TEAMS During the school year, a school coach may not coach his or her school team in any outof-season competitions. Cheerleaders and dancers may compete in out-of-season competitions, but may not be school sponsored in anyway. These non-school teams may not use school equipment or uniforms. School transportation and facilities may only be used in accordance with school board policies as they relate to any other non-school group using facilities or transportation. RULES MEETING Rules meetings for cheer and dance must be completed by August 16. Failure to do so will result in a $50.00 fine. If a school fails to comply the following year, the school shall also be issued a warning in that sport or activity which may require forfeiture of events during that school year. The Cheer and Dance Rules Meetings will be ONLINE beginning in July. From our home page, log in with your username and password in the upper right hand corner. After you log in, click Online Rules Meeting in the member area. SAFETY CERTIFICATION - All cheerleading coaches must be currently safety certified by the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators. A school s safety certified coach must be present at any practice, game, or performance where any member of the team will be learning, practicing, or performing partner stunts or tumbling. The AACCA safety certification remains in effect for each certified individual for a period of four consecutive years and a coach can recertify by repeating the course. All cheerleading participants in AAA member schools shall be grounded until their coach has successfully completed the AACCA Safety Certification course. No cheer team shall be eligible to enter any cheer competition unless the coach has completed the AACCA Safety Certification program and completed the current year s on-line spirit rules presentation. In the event of a violation, the cheer team will be grounded and shall incur a $50 fine for a team stunting without a certified coach. Further violations penalties may be assessed against the school as provided in the AAA Handbook. VERIFICATION FORMS The school must submit a Teacher-Coach Verification form each year for each teachercoach who does not have a coaching endorsement certifying that the school has ON FILE documentation for each AAA required item. The school must submit a Non-Competitive Spirit Team Advisor Verification form each year for each non-competitive spirit advisor certifying that the school has ON FILE documentation for each required item.

9 COMPETITIVE CHEER COACHES SPIRIT COACHING REQUIREMENTS A. Licensed Teacher regularly employed and paid by the local board of education for professional duties which shall be for a minimum of three regular class periods or equivalent time each day. Assignment to a professional education duty other than a classroom teaching assignment all or part of the required three periods is permissible, but such assignment does not excuse a coach from the licensure required as a teacher. 1. Currently AACCA Safety Certified 4-year certification, renewable by retaking the course. 2. Successfully complete the NFHS Coaches Education online courses Fundamentals of Coaching, First Aid, Health and Safety for Coaches, Fundamentals of Coaching Cheer and Dance 3. AAA state rules exam. 4. Certification CPR (recertification as required) 5. Certification AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) (recertification as required) 6. Complete the AAA Heat Illness Training. 7. Complete the AAA Concussion Training. 8. Complete the AAA Communicable Disease Course. 9. Complete the online Spirit Rules Presentation under own username; login and verify online. 10. Those meeting these criteria can be paid a stipend for coaching. B. Licensed Teacher with ADE coaching endorsement regularly employed and paid by the local board of education for professional duties which shall be for a minimum of three regular class periods or equivalent time each day. Assignment to a professional education duty other than a classroom teaching assignment all or part of the required three periods is permissible, but such assignment does not excuse a coach from the licensure required as a teacher. 1. Currently AACCA Safety Certified 4-year certification, renewable by retaking the course 2. Complete the AAA Heat Illness Training. 3. Complete the AAA Concussion Training. 4. Complete the AAA Communicable Disease Course. 5. Complete the online Spirit Rules presentation under own username; log in and verify online C. Registered Volunteer Employed by the school district, not as a licensed teacher (ex.: aide, tutor, secretary, bookkeeper, study hall supervisor, cafeteria worker, etc.) OR a community volunteer not employed by the school. 1. Meet ALL of the following criteria: a. Currently AACCA Safety Certified 4-year certification, renewable by retaking the course. b. Successfully complete the NFHS Coaches Education online courses Fundamentals of Coaching, First Aid for Coaches, Fundamentals of Coaching Cheer and Dance c. AAA state rules exam. d. Certification CPR (recertification as required) e. Certification AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) recertification as required) f. Complete the AAA Heat Illness Training. g. Complete the AAA Concussion Training. h. Complete the AAA Communicable Disease Course. i. Must present to the school a current health certificate (tb skin test). j. Must present to the school results of a criminal background check (fingerprinting). k. Upon completion of the above requirements, obtain a letter from the school administration authorizing the volunteer to represent the school in the named sport(s) for the current (name year) school year ONLY. l. Complete and send to the AAA office a Registered Volunteers Enrollment Form. This must be submitted again each year that the individual serves in this volunteer capacity. (Printable form on Coaches Education web page) m. School submits your name and Registered Volunteer assignment to the AAA on the School s Required Registered Volunteer-Coach Verification form indicating that the school has ON FILE documentation of all the required items. (Printable form on Coaches Education web page) This must be done each year also. n. Complete the online Spirit Rules presentation under own username and login and verify online. 2. A Registered Volunteer may not receive monetary compensation for services; however, the school can reimburse the RV for expenses such as travel, clinics, etc.

10 NON-COMPETITIVE CHEER ADVISORS (Sideline only) A. Full time licensed teacher or classified employee (minimum of three periods a day) 1. Must meet ALL of the following criteria: a. Complete the online Spirit Rules Presentation under own username and login and verify online. b. Currently AACCA Safety Certified 4-year certification, renewable by retaking the course. c. Certification CPR (recertification as required) d. Certification AED (defibrillator recertification as required) e. Complete the AAA Heat Illness Training. f. Complete the AAA Concussion Training. g. Complete the AAA Communicable Disease Course. h. Current background check (fingerprinting repeat as required for teachers) i. A minimum of six hours of in-service training provided by the school specific to the activity in which the advisor is involved 2. Those meeting these criteria can be paid a stipend for coaching. B. Registered Volunteer Employed by the school district in a job not defined as a faculty member OR a community volunteer not employed by the school. 1. Must meet ALL of the following criteria: a. Complete the online Spirit Rules Presentation under own username and login and verify online. b. Currently AACCA Safety Certified 4-year certification, renewable by retaking the course. c. Certification CPR (recertification as required) d. Certification AED (defibrillator recertification as required) e. Complete the AAA Heat Illness Training. f. Complete the AAA Concussion Training. g. Complete the AAA Communicable Disease Course. h. Current background check (fingerprinting repeat as required for teachers) i. A minimum of six hours of in-service training provided by the school specific to the activity in which the advisor is involved j. Upon completion of the above requirements, obtain a letter from the school administration authorizing the volunteer to represent the school in the named sport(s) for the current (name year) school year ONLY. k. Complete and send to the AAA office a Registered Volunteers Enrollment Form. This must be submitted again each year that the individual serves in this volunteer capacity. (Printable form on Coaches Education web page) 2. A Registered Volunteer may not receive monetary compensation for services; however, the school can reimburse the RV for expenses such as travel, clinics, etc. COMPETITIVE DANCE COACHES / NON-COMPETITIVE DANCE ADVISORS Competitive or non-competitive dance coaches must meet the same criteria as the corresponding cheer coach EXCEPT THAT dance coaches are not required to be AACCA safety certified

11 SPIRIT RULES Competition The state cheer competition will have semifinal rounds if there are enough schools entered in a division, with finals following later on the same day. The state spirit competitions will involve teams only; there will be no solo or small ensemble competition. The minimum number to constitute a team is five. Because of safety issues, the maximum number of athletes competing on a competitive cheer team will be 36. A member of an interscholastic spirit team may not compete on a non-school team during the interscholastic spirit season. Competitive dance season will be Week 7 through the state competition on the second Saturday in November. Competitive dance team declaration deadline is June 1 without penalty. Deadline with $25 penalty is Week #6. Competitive cheer season will be from Week 7 through the state competition on the third Saturday in December. Competitive cheer team declaration deadline is June 1 without penalty. Deadline with $25 penalty is Week #11. The AAA will only sponsor a state senior high competition for the sports of dance and cheer. Senior high dance and cheer teams may participate in five invitational competitions before the state competition. Junior high school dance and cheer teams may compete in five invitational competitions. Cheer teams and dance teams for AHSCA All-Star basketball and football games will be housed in the All-Star dormitory. Teacher-coaches of competitive cheer and competitive dance teams are eligible to join the Arkansas High School Coaches Association. State tournament sites will be determined by the same invitation to host process currently being used by the AAA Board of Directors. Credentialed Registered Volunteers may serve as spirit coaches for competitive teams or advisors for non-competitive teams. Schools having a cheer or dance team will indicate on the Fall and Winter Declaration for Sports whether they are a competitive (competing for a state championship) or non-competitive (sideline/support only) team. Schools declaring as non-competitive shall not be permitted to compete as a school team at any time.

12 STATE DANCE COMPETITION Time Limit Each team will have a maximum of two (2) minutes to demonstrate their style and expertise. Timing will begin with the first note of the music and end with the last note of the music or the last movement, whichever is last. Categories JAZZ A jazz routine incorporates stylized dance movements and combinations, formation changes, group work, leaps, and turns. Emphasis is placed on proper technical execution, extension, control, body placement, and team uniformity. Creative choreography will capture the attention of the audience and judges. Having your own style will distinguish your team from the rest. POM Poms must be used for at least 80% of the routine. Important characteristics of a pom routine include synchronization and visual effects, along with proper pom placement and dance technique. Motions should be very sharp, clean, and precise. Your team should be synchronized and appear as one. A routine that is visually effective is extremely important, including level changes, group work, formation changes, etc. Keep in mind that pom routines carry a more traditional theme, whereas, jazz routines are more stylized. HIP-HOP Routines should include street style movements with an emphasis on execution, style, creativity, body isolations, and control. The uniformity of all movement throughout the performance should complement the beats and rhythm of the music. Teams may also put an additional focus on incorporations such as jumps, jump variations, combo jumps, stalls, and floor work. HIGH KICK The emphasis will be on synchronization, choreography, and technique. Each routine must have at least 50 kicks. A kick is considered an extension of the leg lifted with force above the performance floor. A contagion/ripple will count as one kick (not a kick counted for each dancer performing it).

13 STATE CHEER COMPETITION Time Limit Each team will have a maximum of two (2) minutes and thirty (30) seconds to demonstrate their style and expertise. Timing will begin with the first movement or note of the music and end with the last note of the music or the last movement, whichever is last. Your routine must have one minute of just cheer without music. One minute and 30 seconds with music

14 AAA 2014 State Cheerleading Championships December 20, 2014 Summit Arena The Arkansas Activities Association State Spirit Championships are conducted to showcase the overall technical, athletic, and competitive readiness of Arkansas high school spirit teams while instilling the value of training, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Our goal is to ensure that this is a positive and equitable experience for all regardless of the point outcome. ROUTINE TIME Each team performance will be two (2) minutes thirty (30) seconds with a five (5) second grace period either way. The routine must have one minute of just cheer without music. UNIFORMS All team members must be dressed in school approved uniform that complies with NFHS and AAA guidelines. MASCOTS Mascots are not allowed to perform. They may show their support by standing outside of the designated area and cheer on their squad. WARM UPS A warm up area will be available before your competition. COMPETITION AREA The competition area size will be 42 X 54 (9 mats). Only coaches, performers, authorized photographers, and press will be allowed on the floor. AWARDS Championship and runner-up trophies will be awarded in each classification. Champions will also receive a banner. JUDGING The AAA will select a panel of qualified judges who will score the teams according to the judging criteria on a 100-point system. Judging diversity is encouraged at the state level. It is not uncommon to receive a high score from one judge and an average score from another. Judges are encouraged to critique with professional diversity and equity. All decisions as rendered by the judges concerning scores and rule interpretations will be accepted as final. ALL JUDGES DECISIONS ARE FINAL. ENTRY FEE There is no entry fee for the AAA State Cheerleading Championship, but each team must submit an entry form to the AAA. SOUVENIRS Various souvenir items will be available at the spirit championships. CONCESSIONS Concessions will be available. No coolers or outside food items may be brought into the seating area of the arena. VIDEOTAPING All recording devices such as IPhones/Smartphones, IPads/Tablets, digital cameras, and camcorders are prohibited unless authorized by the Arkansas Activities Association or the participating school. Noncommercial devices will need AAA Camera Tags which may be picked up at the host school.

15 Videotaping will only be allowed from the stands. Videographers must provide their own power source. Videotaping in the arena aisles is strictly prohibited. Videotaping must not obstruct any person s view of the competition, and no one will be allowed within the competition area to videotape. No videotaping will be used for review. PHOTOGRAPHS Photographs of each team must be taken before your team competes. Photos may be ordered on-line from LifeTouch. No preorders are required. MEDICAL/INJURY INTERVENTION Trainers will be on site. If an injury occurs during the performance and the athlete is unable to complete the performance, the coach will stop the competition until the injured athlete is removed from the competitive area. The team will be permitted to leave and re-group to perform later. An alternate may be substituted. Coaches need to communicate with the AAA administrator. Do not allow athletes to compete injured. If an injury occurs during competition, coaches have a responsibility to act in the best interest of their athletes. A participant who is bleeding, has an open wound, has any amount of blood on his/her uniform, or has blood on his/her person, shall be directed to leave the competition area until the bleeding is stopped, the wound is covered, the uniform and/or body is appropriately cleaned, and/or uniform is changed before returning to competition. SPORTSMANSHIP All athletes and spectators must abide by the rules of the AAA Sportsmanship Manual. ADMISSION PRICES Adults and students... $6.00 Pre-school... No charge AAA Passes will be honored with photo ID.

16 Arkansas Activities Association 3920 Richards Road North Little Rock, Arkansas STATE CHEERLEADING CHAMPIONSHIP December 20, 2014 Entry Form Deadline for Entries: November 14, 2014 School School Mailing Address School Colors Mascot Coach Home Phone Cell Phone Asst. Coach Home Phone Cell Phone Competitive Class (Check one) 7A 6A 5A 4A 3A 2A-1A Return to AAA by November 14, 2014

17 Arkansas Activities Association 3920 Richards Road North Little Rock, Arkansas STATE COED CHEERLEADING CHAMPIONSHIP December 20, 2014 Entry Form Deadline for Entries: November 14, 2014 School School Mailing Address School Colors Mascot Coach Home Phone Cell Phone Asst. Coach Home Phone Cell Phone Competitive Class (Check one) 7A/6A/5A 4A/3A/2A/1A Return to AAA by November 14, 2014

18 2014 AAA State Cheer Championship Score Sheet SCHOOL Judge COMMENTS CATEGORY MAXIMUM VALUE TEAM SCORE CHEER SECTION - 35 points CROWD LEADING Crowd Effective Material 10 Proper use of signs, poms, megaphones to lead crowd 5 Use of Motions to Lead Crowd 5 20 INCORPORATIONS Proper use of skills to effectively lead crowd 5 Execution of incorporations 5 10 OVERALL CHEER IMPRESSION 5 MUSIC SECTION - 65 points STUNTS Execution Proper technique, form, synchronization, spacing 10 Difficulty Level of skill, number of bases, transitions, variety PYRAMIDS Execution Proper technique, form, synchronization, spacing 10 Difficulty Level of skill, number of bases, transitions, variety 5 15 TUMBLING Execution Proper technique, form, synchronization, spacing Difficulty Synchronized squad tumbling, level of skill, transitions 10 JUMPS Synchronized squad jumps, jump technique, type of jump, spacing 5 DANCE Technique, sharpness, placement, timing, and spacing 5 OVERALL IMPRESSION - 10 points Choreography, visual appeal, image TOTAL SCORE

19 2014 AAA State Coed Cheer Championship Score Sheet SCHOOL Judge COMMENTS CATEGORY MAXIMUM VALUE TEAM SCORE CHEER SECTION - 35 points CROWD LEADING Crowd Effective Material 10 Proper use of signs, poms, megaphones to lead crowd 5 Proper use of motions to lead crowd 5 20 INCORPORATIONS Proper use of skills to effectively lead crowd 5 Execution of incorporations 5 10 OVERALL CHEER IMPRESSION 5 MUSIC SECTION - 65 points STUNTS Execution Proper technique, form, synchronization, spacing 10 Difficulty Level of skill, number of bases, transitions, variety 10 Use of Coed Skills Main base demonstrates ability to support skill 5 25 PYRAMIDS Execution Proper technique, form, synchronization, spacing 10 Difficulty Level of skill, number of bases, transitions, variety 5 15 TUMBLING Execution Proper technique, form, synchronization, spacing Difficulty Synchronized squad tumbling, level of skill, transitions 10 JUMPS Synchronized squad jumps, jump technique, type of jump, synchronization, spacing 5 OVERALL Choreography, visual appeal, image 10 TOTAL SCORE 100

20 Competitive Varsity Cheer Teams 7A 6A 5A 4A 3A 2A 1A BENTONVILLE ALMA BEEBE ARKADELPHIA CENTERPOINT BIGELOW LISA ACADEMY - NLR BRYANT BENTON FARMINGTON ASHDOWN ATKINS CABOT EL DORADO GREENE CO TECH CONWAY GREENWOOD HOPE BERRYVILLE BOONEVILLE BUFFALO ISLAND CENTRAL BAUXITE BALD KNOB CARLISLE BAY CUTTER MORNING STAR ALPENA CADDO HILLS FAYETTEVILLE JONESBORO HOT SPRINGS GENTRY CEDARVILLE EARLE OMAHA HAR-BER LAKE HAMILTON JACKSONVILLE GRAVETTE ELKINS EAST POINSETT CO HERITAGE NORTH LITTLE ROCK MOUNTAIN HOME LAKESIDE HAMBURG GLEN ROSE GURDON PARKVIEW MAUMELLE HEBER SPRINGS HARMONY GROVE- BENTON J.D. LEFTWICH NORTHSIDE PINE BLUFF NETTLETON HIGHLAND HORATIO JUNCTION CITY ROGERS RUSSELLVILLE NORTH PULASKI HUNTSVILLE LAMAR PALESTINE-WHEATLEY SPRINGDALE SHERIDAN PARAGOULD LINCOLN MANILA PARKERS CHAPEL VAN BUREN SILOAM SPRINGS SYLVAN HILLS NASHVILLE MAYFLOWER SALEM WEST MEMPHIS TEXARKANA VALLEY VIEW PEA RIDGE OSCEOLA VILONIA POCAHONTAS SMACKOVER WILBUR MILLS POTTSVILLE WEST FORK WYNNE RIVERVIEW SHILOH CHRISTIAN STUTTGART WALDRON WESTSIDE CONSOLIDATED Competitive Varsity Dance Teams 7A 6A 5A 4A 3A 2A 1A BENTONVILLE ALMA BEEBE ARKADELPHIA GLEN ROSE CARLISLE CALICO ROCK BRYANT BENTON FARMINGTON BAUXITE MCGEHEE EARLE JACKSONVILLE LIGHTHOUSE CABOT GREENWOOD GREENE CO TECH BROOKLAND MOUNTAIN VIEW MOUNTAINBURG ST. JOE CONWAY HALL HOPE DUMAS FAYETTEVILLE JONESBORO HOT SPRINGS GOSNELL HAR-BER LAKE HAMILTON LAKESIDE LINCOLN HERITAGE MOUNTAIN HOME MAGNOLIA North Little Rock RUSSELLVILLE NETTLETON ROGERS SHERIDAN PARAGOULD SPRINGDALE TEXARKANA VALLEY VIEW VAN BUREN WILBUR MILLS WYNNE WESTSIDE CONSOLIDATED

21 COMPETITIVE JUNIOR HIGH CHEER TEAMS 7A 6A 5A 4A 3A 2A CABOT ANNIE CAMP BEEBE ASHDOWN BALD KNOB CABOT - RED BARTON GREENE CO TECH BAUXITE CEDARVILLE CABOT - WHITE BENTON LAKESIDE GENTRY GLEN ROSE CENTRAL DOUGLAS MACARTHUR MORRILTON GRAVETTE HARMONY GROVE DARBY LAKE HAMILTON NETTLETON HUNTSVILLE LAMAR FULBRIGHT SHERIDAN PARAGOULD NEWPORT MANILA KIMMONS VALLEY VIEW STUTTGART Mayflower BUFFALO ISLAND CENTRAL Lakeside LINCOLN Mary Frances George Pulaski Heights RAMSEY SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON TRINITY Competitive Junior High Dance Teams 7A 6A 5A 4A 3A CABOT - RED BENTON BEEBE BAUXITE GLEN ROSE CABOT SOUTH LAKE HAMILTON GREENE CO TECH TRINITY CABOT- WHITE SHERIDAN LAKESIDE CENTRAL NETTLETON CHAFFIN PARAGOULD FULBRIGHT VALLEY VIEW KIMMONS Lakeside LINCOLN Mary Frances George Pulaski Heights RAMSEY SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON These are the schools that had declared for competitive cheer and dance by July 30, 2014.

22 STATE SPIRIT CHAMPIONS CHEER DANCE 7A Champion 7A Runner-up Fayetteville Har-Ber 7A Champion 7A Runner-up Bentonville Bryant 6A Champion 6A Runner-up Sheridan Greenwood 6A Champion 6A Runner-up Benton Jonesboro 5A Champion 5A Runner-up Lakeside Greene County Tech 5A Champion 5A Runner-up Alma Greene County Tech 4A Champion 4A Runner-up Nashville Valley View 4A Champion 4A Runner-up Bauxite Valley View 3A Champion 3A Runner-up Elkins Smackover 1-2-3A Champion 1-2-3A Runner-up Glen Rose Mountain View 1-2A Champion Junction City 1-2A Runner-up Carlisle 5-7A Coed Champion Bryant 5-7A Runner-up Bentonville 1-4A Coed Champion Pea Ridge 1-4A Runner-up Maumelle

23 AAA 2014 State Dance Championships November 8, 2014 Alma High School The Arkansas Activities Association State Spirit Championships are conducted to showcase the overall technical, athletic, and competitive readiness of Arkansas high school spirit teams while instilling the value of training, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Our goal is to ensure that this is a positive and equitable experience for all regardless of the point outcome. CATEGORIES Teams must enter at least three (3) categories to qualify for the championship. Two-thirds of team must perform each routine. Jazz A jazz routine incorporates stylized dance movements and combinations, formation changes, group work, leaps, and turns. Emphasis is placed on proper technical execution, extension, control, body placement, and team uniformity. Creative choreography will capture the attention of the audience and judges. Having your own style will distinguish your team from the rest. High Kick The emphasis will be on synchronization, choreography, and technique. Each routine must have at least 50 kicks. A kick is considered an extension of the leg lifted with force above the performance floor. A contagion/ripple will count as one kick (not a kick counted for each dancer performing it). A 10-point deduction will be given for routines that do not have a minimum of 50 defined kicks. Hip-Hop Routines should include street style movements with an emphasis on execution, style, creativity, body isolations, and control. The uniformity of all movement throughout the performance should complement the beats and rhythm of the music. Teams may also put an additional focus on incorporations such as jumps, jump variations, combo jumps, stalls, and floor work. Pom Poms must be used for at least 80% of the routine. Important characteristics of a pom routine include synchronization and visual effects, along with proper pom placement and dance technique. Motions should be very sharp, clean, and precise. Your team should be synchronized and appear as one. A routine that is visually effective is extremely important, including level changes, group work, formation changes, etc. Keep in mind that pom routines carry a more traditional theme, whereas, jazz routines are more stylized. ROUTINE TIME Each team performance will not exceed two (2) minutes with a five (5) second grace period. A 10-point deduction will be given for routines over the time limit. There is no minimum time limit. MASCOTS Mascots are not allowed to perform. They may show their support by standing outside of the designated area and cheer on their squad. WARM UPS A warm up area will be available before your competition. COMPETITION AREA Only coaches, performers, authorized photographers, and press will be allowed on the floor. AWARDS Championship and runner-up trophies will be awarded in each classification.

24 JUDGING The AAA will select a panel of qualified judges who will score the teams according to the judging criteria on a 100-point system. Judging diversity is encouraged at the state level. It is not uncommon to receive a high score from one judge and an average score from another. Judges are encouraged to critique with professional diversity and equity. The judges scores will be AVERAGED together to determine the overall team score. All decisions as rendered by the judges concerning scores and rule interpretations will be accepted as final. To be eligible for the state championship and runner-up, a team must have entered a minimum of three dance routines out of the four dance categories. If a team entered all four dance categories, the highest three scores will be considered for the championship awards. In case of a tie for an award, the tie will be broken using scores from the combined scores from the judges score sheets starting with Technique, continuing with Choreography, Group Execution, and Overall Effect respectively until the tie is broken. The team must perform with a minimum of two-thirds (2/3) of the team that has been entered on the AAA web site team roster/eligibility listing. ALL JUDGES DECISIONS ARE FINAL. SCORES Individual score sheets are for the exclusive use of each particular judge. Each judge has the responsibility and authority to review and submit his or her final scores and rankings prior to the final tally of the scores for all teams. Scores and rankings will be available only to coaches at the conclusion of the competition. PROCEDURAL QUESTIONS Any questions concerning the rules or procedures of the competition will be handled exclusively by the coach of the team and will be directed to the competition director. Such questions should be made prior to the team s competition performance. Any questions concerning the team s performance should be made to the competition director immediately after the team s performance and/or following the outcome of the competition. SPORTSMANSHIP All athletes and spectators must abide by the AAA sportsmanship rules published in the AAA Handbook. INTERRUPTION OF PERFORMANCE UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES If, in the opinion of the competition officials, a team s routine is interrupted because of failure of the competition equipment, facilities, or other factors attributable to the competition rather than the team, the team affected should STOP the routine. The team will perform the routine again in its entirety, but will be evaluated ONLY from the point where the interruption occurred. The degree and effect of the interruption will be determined by the competition officials. FAULT of TEAM In the event a team s routine is interrupted because of failure of the team s own equipment, the team must either continue the routine or withdraw from the competition. The competition officials will determine if the team will be allowed to perform at a later time. If decided by officials, the team will perform the routine again in its entirety, but will be evaluated ONLY from the point where the interruption occurred. INJURY The only persons that may stop a routine for injury are: a) competition officials, b) the coach from the team performing, or c) an injured individual.

25 The competition officials will determine if the team will be allowed to perform at a later time. If the competition officials allow a routine to be performed at a later time, the spot in the schedule where the re-performance is to take place is at the sole discretion of competition officials. The team may perform the routine again in its entirety, but will be evaluated ONLY from the point where the interruption occurred. The injured participant that wishes to perform may not return to the competition floor unless: o The competition officials receive clearance from, first, the medical personnel attending to that participant, the parent (if present) AND THEN the head coach of the competing team. o If the medical personnel does not clear the participant, the participant can only return to the competition if a parent or legal guardian in attendance signs a return to participation waiver. o In the event of a suspected concussion, the participant cannot return to perform without clearance from a medical professional, even with a waiver from a parent or legal guardian. All AAA concussion guidelines must be followed. TUMBLING AND TRICKS (Executed by individuals) Tumbling and tricks are acrobatic or gymnastic skills executed by an individual dancer without contact, assistance, or support of another dancer(s) and begins and ends on the performance surface. Tumbling is allowed, but not required, with the following limitations: ALLOWED Forward/Backward Rolls Shoulder Rolls Cartwheels Headstands Handstands Backbends Front/Back Walkovers Stalls/Freezes Head spins Windmills Kick up Dive Rolls (in a piked position) Round Off Headsprings (with hand support) *see below for exceptions to the limitations NOT ALLOWED *Aerial cartwheels *Front/Back Handsprings Front/Back Tucks Side Somi Layouts Shushunova Headsprings (without hand support) Dive Rolls (in any position) Continuous double (partner) cartwheels *Drops to the knee, thigh, seat, front, back, jazz split (hurdler) or split position onto the performing surface from a turn, jump, stand, or inverted position must first bear weight on the hands or feet in order to break the impact of the drop. *Drops to a push-up position onto the performance surface are permitted from a standing or kneeling position or from a jump with forward momentum (i.e. Flying Squirrel) or an X, Star or Spread Eagle jump. All variations of a shushunova are not permitted. DANCE LIFTS & PARTNERING Dance lifts and partnering are executed by partners or groups. Dance lifts, tricks, and partnering are permitted and are defined below: Dance Lift an action in which a dancer(s) is elevated from the performance surface by one or more dancers and set down. A dance lift is comprised of lifting dancer(s) and elevated dancer(s). Dance Trick an action in which a dancer(s) executes a skill with support from one or more dancers. A dance trick is comprised of supporting dancer(s) and executing dancer(s). Partnering an action in which two or more dancers use support from one another but are not elevated. Partnering can involve both supporting and executing skills.

26 Any lifting/supporting dancer who has primary weight of a lifted dancer must maintain direct contact with the performance surface at all times. At least one lifting/supporting dancer must have hand/arm/body to hand/arm/body contact with the elevated/executing dancer(s) throughout the entire lift, trick, or partnering skill. Jumping or leaping off a dancer is allowed as long as ther is hand/arm (lifting/supporting dancer) to hand/arm/body (elevated/executing dancer) contact with a lifting/supporting dancer throughout the skill. Tossing a dancer is allowed as long as there is hand/arm (support dancer) to hand/arm/body (elevated/executing dancer) contact with at least one other dancer throughout the skill Swinging lifts and tricks are allowed provided the elevated/executing dancer s body does not make a complete circular rotation and is in a supine position (may not be prone) at all times. Hip over head rotation of the elevated/executing dancer(s) may occur as long as below apply: His/her hips do not exceed the height of the lifting/supporting dancer s shoulders when standing upright The supporting/lifting dancer must be stationary There are at least two (2) lifting/supporting dancers in contact with the executing dancer CHOREOGRAPHY AND COSTUMING Suggestive, offensive, or vulgar choreography, and/or music is inappropriate. Routine choreography should be appropriate and entertaining for all audience members. Vulgar or suggestive material is defined as any movement or choreography implying something improper or indecent, appearing offensive or sexual in content, and/or relaying lewd or profane gestures or implications. Inappropriate choreography, costuming, and/or music may affect the judges overall impression and/or score of the routine. Please make sure that all choreography and costuming is age appropriate. All costume malfunctions resulting in team members being exposed are grounds for disqualification. Please make sure that you have several dress rehearsals prior to competition to work out any costume problems. APPAREL All teams must follow the apparel/accessories rules of the NFHS Spirit Rules Book. ENTRY FEE There is no entry fee for the AAA State Dance Championship. SOUVENIRS State championship T-shirts and hooded sweat shirts will be available at the spirit championships. CONCESSIONS Concessions will be available. No coolers or outside food items may be brought into the seating area of the arena. PHOTOGRAPHS Photographs of your team in ALL costumes must be taken before each competition. Taking photos in all costumes will give each dancer a chance to purchase a photo in her favorite costume. Photos may be ordered on-line from LifeTouch. No preorders are required. The on-line site to order photos is password protected, so you will be given a password to view and order the photos. VIDEOTAPING All recording devices such as IPhones/Smartphones, IPads/Tablets, digital cameras, and camcorders are prohibited unless authorized by the Arkansas Activities Association or the participating school. Noncommercial devices will need AAA Camera Tags which may be picked up at the host school. Videotaping will only be allowed from the stands. Videographers must provide their own power source. Videotaping in the arena aisles is strictly prohibited. Videotaping must not obstruct any person s view of the competition, and no one will be allowed within the competition area to videotape. No videotaping will be used for review.

27 ADMISSION PRICES Adults and students... $6.00 Pre-school... No charge AAA Passes will be honored with photo ID.

28 Arkansas Activities Association 3920 Richards Road North Little Rock, Arkansas STATE DANCE COMPETITION Entry Form Deadline for Entries: October 10, 2014 School Performance Category: Jazz High Kick Hip-Hop Pom Number of girls on performance team Coach Home Phone Cell Phone Asst. Coach Home Phone Cell Phone Competitive Class (Check one) 7A 6A 5A 4A 3A- 2A-1A Return this form to AAA by October 10, 2014

29 ARKANSAS ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION HIP HOP SCORE SHEET School Judge COMMENTS MAXIM UM CATEGORY VALUE Choreography 30 points Creativity / Complements the Music 10 Use of style or combination of original hip hop movements that complement the music Routine Staging 10 Use of levels, group work and variety of movements Use of varied formations and creative ways to move from one formation to another, allowing for quick and seamless changes of positions Difficulty 10 Incorporation of challenging movements and/or skills (jumps, freezes/stalls, partner work and floor work) Technique 30 points Technique / Musicality 15 Execution of hip hop movements using rhythmic variations with correct technique Execution of skills (jumps, freezes/stalls, partner work and floor work) Ability to physically express the rhythm, nuance and character of the music Placement and Control 15 Ability to control the speed, direction and movement of the body throughout the routine Group Execution 20 points Synchronization / Uniformity 10 Team uniformity of all movements throughout the routine Spacing 10 Ability of the dancers to gauge and position themselves correct distances between each other in and throughout all formations Overall Effect 20 points Communication & Projection 10 Ability to connect with the audience during the performance Includes all or any of the following: genuine expression, emotion, energy and entertainment value Overall Impression 10 Judges overall impression of the performance Appropriateness of music, costume and choreography TEAM SCORE TOTAL POINTS 100