ACE Cheer Company - Huntsville Athlete & Parent Handbook

Transcription

1 ACE Cheer Company - Huntsville Athlete & Parent Handbook ACE Cheer Company, LLC strives to help each team member reach or exceed their potential as a competitive cheerleader and person. Our program is intended to teach teamwork, goal-setting, personal commitment and leadership qualities that will last a lifetime. ACE Cheer Company, LLC was founded in the spring of Now headed into its 20th season, ACE continues to be a progressive, national and world recognized leader in the competitive cheerleading industry and has grown to one of the largest all-star programs in the world. We look to add even more accolades to our name in the upcoming 20th season. Each ACE team will prepare a set of goals for their upcoming competition season, with our ultimate goal being to create champions both on and off the mat. Competitions are an opportunity to showcase the athletes hard work throughout the year. ACE family and friends are encouraged to attend and cheer on all the athletes at the competitions. Our regional competitions serve as a platform to prepare us for the national competitions. The goal of our national events is to perform at a high level within our set cheer levels and to win. The mission of the United States All Star Federation (USASF) is to maximize the number of participants benefiting from the positive life experiences of all-star cheerleading and dance by developing competition rules and all-star gym training guidelines consistent with the most up-to-date safety, educational, and ethical practices. The ACE staff and all gym locations are certified and credentialed through USASF and compete only at sanctioned events. Each athlete within the ACE program will be required to become a member of the USASF. More information is available at Page 1 of 25

2 ACE of Huntsville Website / Social Media Website: ACEofHuntsville.com Twitter:@ACEHuntsville Facebook:/ACEofHuntsville Instagram: ACEofHuntsville Your personal account will be the most direct point of communication for all information from ACE of Huntsville and your ACE of Huntsville team. Please ensure that you check your accounts daily for updates and announcements. The ACE of Huntsville website will be your source for important information regarding announcements, calendars, competition information and practice schedules. The ACE website is also your portal for camp, class & clinic registration. ACE of Huntsville will continue to use Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram as our media outlets for announcements and updates throughout the year. ACE of Huntsville will not use the United States Mail, UPS, Federal Express or other similar services to deliver communications to you. Consequently, it is each parent s and athlete s responsibility to monitor their and the ACE of Huntsville website to ensure that they are aware of all communications relating to ACE of Huntsville. ACE Cheer Company Administrative Staff NAME Title Happy Hooper Brand Owner Birmingham HappyHooper@acetribe.com Dan Harrod Owner Huntsville DanHarrod@acetribe.com Ben Park Manager Huntsville Ben@aceofhuntsville.com Dan Harrod All-Star Director Huntsville DanHarrod@acetribe.com Cammy Ammirati Front Desk Huntsville ACEHuntsvilleJackrabbit@gmail.com Brandon Prince Varsity Rep Birmingham BPrince@Varsity.com The ACE of Huntsville program philosophy is simple ACE Program Philosophy Program FIRST, Site SECOND, Team THIRD, Athlete FOURTH. ACE of Huntsville members agree to put the team ahead of the individual athlete. All decisions are made for the benefit of the team s performance, scoring and success. Although the individual athlete is very important to the program, some decisions, initially, may not seem to be the best to the athlete or parent. We ask that each athlete take the time to see what the overall routine entails. If he/she still has a question with a decision, they should then speak with and/or schedule a meeting with their coach. Athletes will set individual and team goals for the season. Through instruction, the athlete will work hard to obtain and even exceed those goals, building a strong work ethic for the future. ACE of Huntsville is focused on developing the lifelong success of the athlete, not on merely winning championships. If it is in the best interest of the program, an athlete may be moved from one team to another team. This is a decision that will only be made through careful evaluation and consideration of both teams. Your All-Star Director will contact you with any information regarding a team change and schedule a meeting if necessary. Athletes being moved to a different team should not be perceived as a negative consequence. The decision to move an athlete to a different team may be based off of one or more of the following reasons, among others: 1. Athlete s routine positions (side base, back base, top girl, etc.) 2. Athlete s skill level (tumbling, stunting, jumping, etc.) 3. Athlete s attitude 4. Athlete s willingness to learn and improve in a group setting 5. Team s needs for competition 6. Attendance issues 7. Injury Athletes may request to be moved to a lower level team if he/she feels they are not sufficiently utilized throughout a routine or if they become overwhelmed by the routine layout. Although maintaining the Page 2 of 25

3 mental and physical well-being of the athlete is recognized as a paramount concern, any move to a different team will depend on team availability and availability of roster positions. In this case, athletes must be willing to fulfill any position needed by that team. ACE Gym & Staff Certifications The mission of the United States All Star Federation (USASF) is to support and enrich the lives of our All Star athletes and members. We provide consistent rules, strive for a safe environment for our athletes, drive competitive excellence, and promote a positive image for the sport. ACE of Huntsville is a Certified Gym Member of the United States All Star Federation (USASF). ACE of Huntsville staff are all credentialed and certified members of the USASF. Athletes in the ACE of Huntsville program will be required to become a credentialed member of the USASF yearly. More information is available at Athlete health and safety is of the utmost concern at ACE of Huntsville. We are committed to maintaining a safe training environment at all times. To ensure a safe environment at ACE of Huntsville, coaches are certified and trained in: o o o CPR USASF All-Star coaching: i. Tumbling ii. Stunting Background checked with Green Light Role of Athlete / Staff / Parent We expect the following from ALL athletes as members and alternates of teams. These expectations will be strictly enforced during practices, clinics, competitions and all ACE events. Role of the Athlete As members of ACE of Huntsville competitive cheerleading teams, athletes are expected to adhere to all rules and policies listed throughout the Handbook at all times. ACE of Huntsville Athletes are expected to: Treat fellow teammates, coaches, staff, and parent with respect at all times. Not Participate in Gossip. This includes internal gossip about other ACE athletes and external gossip about other cheerleading programs and their athletes. Show good sportsmanship and class at ALL times. Use social networking and electronic media as a means of publicizing and spreading the word of ACE in a positive and appropriate manner. Not to bully. This includes all forms of bullying whether in electronic, verbal, physical, mental, MEDIA based, monetary, or other form. Not use profanity and/or abusive language. Not consume alcoholic beverages, possess or ingest illegal drugs, possess or ingest the prescription drugs of others, and/or participated in illegal behavior. Refrain from using any social networking, messaging services or electronic media to distribute negative or inappropriate information that could be detrimental to yourself, your family, and the ACE Brand or reputation in any way. This is grounds for immediate dismissal from the program. Remain mindful that your decisions, whether you are actually wearing anything displaying the ACE brand or logo at the time or not, affect and can be a negative reflection of yourself, your parents, fellow teammates, coaches, staff, and the entire ACE program. Athletes should take pride in wearing the ACE colors and conduct themselves accordingly to uphold the legacy of ACE. Accept both constructive criticisms along with praise for a job well done. Role of the Staff The ACE staff is highly trained, motivated and committed to the success of your athlete. You can expect the following of the ACE of Huntsville coaching staff: Be approachable and friendly. Page 3 of 25

4 Remain safe and realistic with athlete progression while also challenging the athlete to reach his/her potential. Maintain open and professional relationships with each athlete and parent/guardian. Consistently enforce all disciplinary actions as stated in the disciplinary procedures section below. Strive to provide a fun, safe and overall positive experience for your athlete. At competitions coaches are there to coach. Any issues that arise during a competition will be addressed promptly during the week following the competition. Parents should never approach a coach with an issue at competitions. Please contact Dan or your All-Star Director and we will schedule a time address the issue. Any verbal communications at the gym should be held in private and coaches will only discuss concerns regarding your athlete. Coaches will provide you with feedback via after each competition and periodically throughout the season. Parents may respond via , and coaches will also make themselves available for appointments to discuss these matters in person, at the parents request. If a concern is emotional or heated, it is suggested that parents wait 24 hours, as a "cooling period" before contacting the coach. Role of the Parent ACE of Huntsville Parents are expected to: Encourage their athlete to always treat fellow teammates, coaches, and ACE staff with respect. Ensure that their child understands what we expect of them as an athlete, as explained in the Role of Athlete section above. Not express their opinions during practice or coach their athlete from the sideline, (e.g., from the parentviewing area, lobby, or other area near or around where the athlete is practicing or competing). Defer to the coaches discretion regarding team decisions. Inevitably, we will lose or gain team members through the course of a season. Any dismissal or addition of a team member shall be at the sole and absolute discretion of the coach, All-Star Director, or owner. Withholding a child from practice or competition should never be used as a form of punishment. This punishes not only your child but every other team member and parent. Refrain from threatening to quit or pull their child from a team. This is unacceptable parent behavior that will not be tolerated. Any such threats will subject parents to disciplinary actions, including removal of the parent and/or athlete from the team. The viewing area is open for practice/class observation every day. However, if problems arise, ACE staff has the right to close the parent lobby for viewing at any time. Parents should not listen to, participate in or instigate idle, worthless gossip. Parents should not manipulate other parents and ACE members while present at ACE practices and competitions. Any perceived issues and concerns must be resolved directly. Refrain from using any social networking, messaging services or electronic media to distribute negative or inappropriate information that could be detrimental to yourself, your family, and the ACE Brand or reputation in any way. This is grounds for immediate dismissal from the program. Attendance Policies and Procedures Please note that for any and all planned missed practices the athlete must fill out and submit an absence request form 2 weeks prior to the anticipated absence. You can fill this form out under FORMS on our website. Summer Practices: June & July Attendance at practice is critical to your athlete s progress and integral to the success of the team and athletes should be at practices during the summer season. Only 3 unexcused absences will be allowed during the summer months (June, and July). Summer practices are June-July. No Sunday practices during the summer. Practice will be during the weekdays. Re-evaluation can happen at any time if points are not met or skills have declined. This could result in a change in team or alternate status. Page 4 of 25

5 Competition Season Practices The "Competition Season" begins August 2018 and ends May Athletes are only allowed three (3) unexcused absences during competition season. Disciplinary action may be taken for noncompliance, including but not limited to, being put on probationary status, placed as an alternate, or removed from various elements of choreography. Any disciplinary action shall be taken in the sole and absolute discretion of ACE of Huntsville. You must fill out an absent request form 2 weeks in advance of the anticipated missed practice. Practice attendance is absolutely mandatory and compliance with the attendance policy below will be strictly enforced. An athlete s team position will be jeopardized for noncompliance with all the following terms of the attendance policy. Athletes are expected to be at every practice. If an athlete is absent from practice for any reason, whether excused or unexcused, he or she is responsible for learning ALL routine changes made in their absence before the next practice. It is unfair to the team to waste valuable practice time re-teaching one athlete the material that he or she missed. Practices may be changed or added at any time during the year. Parents must check social media and s on a daily basis to stay on top of the practice schedule for updates on day and times. Absence due to Illness, Injury or Family Emergency Illness: You must attend practice when you are sick, if you are not contagious (fever is an indication of being contagious). You are not required to participate; however, you must be physically present. All absences due to illness must have a doctor s note. Please try and or bring it to the gym 48 hours after the doctor visit. Injury: In the event that an athlete is injured you should notify your coach of the happening of such injury immediately. Thereafter, you should continuously update coaches as soon as possible with all information concerning doctor s prognosis and estimated length of recovery. o We will re-choreograph routines based on the athlete s injury and length of recovery. Once the individual has fully recovered, he or she may or may NOT be choreographed back into the routine. All injured athletes must continue to pay fees in full. Family Emergency: This term is not to be taken lightly. Contact your All Star Director immediately upon the occurrence of such emergency. Competition Attendance Prior to each competition, Athletes will be given the following set of team-specific times for each competition: Arrival time- when you must be present in the competition venue Meet time- when your team is required to meet with coach and congregate at a specific place designated by coach. Coaches will take roll as the athletes prepare to walk to warm-ups. Athletes must leave all backpacks, purses, make-up, warm up jackets and pants, etc., with parents at this time. Warm up time- the time the event-hosting company has scheduled the team to warm up Performance time- the time when the team is scheduled to perform Award time- the time of the awards ceremony that your team has been scheduled to receive its award Release time - when you are officially dismissed and allowed to leave the competition venue o o In certain circumstances your release time may be scheduled before your awards time. In this case you may opt to leave at the earlier release time; however, doing so will result in forfeiting any awards and prizes you may win. From your arrival time to your release time, every athlete is required to watch and support all ACE teams except the scheduled time that his/her team is to be warming up. Athletes may not leave the competition before their respective assigned release time without prior approval from your All Star Director. Leaving early or not supporting a team without permission may result in disciplinary action. Excused Absence Page 5 of 25

6 An excused absence must have a filled out and turned in absence request form and must be: a. School Functions that result in a grade. b. Family Emergency: This term is not to be taken lightly. Contact your All Star Director immediately upon the occurrence of such emergency. c. School Cheer: We will excuse any school cheer competition, game, or planned practice. All must be approved prior. Your All-Star Director has sole and absolute authority to excuse absences on a case-by-case basis. Please note that continued absences may result in changes in routine positions and rosters. Attendance is necessary for success! Unexcused Absences Unexcused absences" are simple; ALL other absences that are not listed above. a. Extra-Curricular Activities: The following are examples of unexcused absences: part-time jobs, dances, concerts, banquets, long distance driving, family reunions, weddings, recitals, college or professional ball games and school/church socials. b. Academics: School is a high priority and ACE stresses the importance of education. However; schoolwork, including homework, projects, and studying for tests, are unexcused absences. Athletes are expected to maintain proper time management so that the athlete can complete his/her academic work and fully participate in the ACE of Huntsville. c. School Cheer: All other school cheer functions outside of competitions and games. We understand school cheer is important to our athletes and we encourage it but the amount of training and advance skills they must perform, it s impossible for us to work around all cheer practice schedules for the year. If your school practice is the same as your all-star team it will be hard for your athlete to do both. If you are a school cheerleader we will work hard to fit around your practice schedule but please know your school cheer coach must be willing to do the same. We work with many school teams in the area so we are aware of your practice schedule. We take all of this in to account when making our schedule. Please look at our calendar and anticipated practice times below to make sure both schedules will work together. Unexcused absences are NEVER allowed the weekend and week before a competition or performance under any circumstance. Noncompliance will result in the athlete being moved to an alternate position or removed from an upcoming competition, at the discretion of the coach! Missing a competition may result in immediate dismissal from the program. Healthy & Productive Communication General Communication Coaches will be available following classes and team practices to answer any questions regarding your athlete, their needs and their individual progress. Coaches will not entertain questions regarding specific strategic decisions (placements made in formations, decision of why an athlete was moved, added, removed, or replaced in stunts and tumbling sections) in a public setting. If you or your athlete would like a better understanding of routine placements, team decisions, etc., please your All-Star Director. We will then set up a meeting with you, your athlete, the athlete s coach and the All-Star Director. ACE of Huntsville keeps an open door policy with communication to help each parent and athlete understand every decision in which they are involved. It is inappropriate for an athlete or a parent to approach other ACE of Huntsville members about a problem they have with an ACE of Huntsville coach or teammate, regarding personal objections to coaching decisions, and/or disagreements with an administrative decision. This leads to unnecessary drama and will result in immediate dismissal from the ACE of Huntsville program. Page 6 of 25

7 Group Me and other messaging services may be used as an additional outlet for communication of team information. Please note that group-messaging services are not to be used as a personal sounding board or for communication of personal thoughts, feelings, etc. The All-Star Director and team coaches must be added to any and all team-based messaging. If any issues arise, please follow the guidelines as outlined in this handbook. We strongly encourage parents to have their athletes speak with the coaches directly in regards to, but not limited to, the following issues, should they arise: 1. Routine element questions 2. Individual and group skill preparedness 3. Injury 4. Illness 5. Outside events that may affect performance (*In cases where the athlete is too young to articulate the issue, we ask that the parent aid in the communication appropriately.) If there is a matter that seems to remain unresolved, or if the athlete has clear, legitimate concerns that speaking to the coach will not or cannot possibly resolve the matter, please bring the concern directly to the All-Star Director. Communication with Staff The ACE of Huntsville staff, athletes and parents are all considered a part of the Tribe Family. Athletes and parents should feel comfortable speaking to the staff, in an appropriate setting, with any questions and/or concerns. This open communication is needed to ensure that there are no oversights within our teams and that situations involving or affecting the athlete are handled appropriately. We strongly encourage that parents have their athletes speak with coaches directly in order to remove any feelings of a communication barrier. All communications via and/or text message from athletes to staff members must also include the parent/guardian as a recipient. During classes and practices, coaches are needed to instruct the athletes. Parents should never approach a coach during a class or practice. Any issues may be discussed at the end of the session. While in the gym, verbal communication regarding athletes, parents, classes, etc., should be held in private. Coaches will be available to discuss concerns regarding your athlete only. At competitions, coaches are there to coach. Any issues that arise during a competition will be addressed during the week following the competition. Parents should never approach a coach with an issue at competitions. We have a strict policy in place stating that coaches are not available to discuss: 1. Information regarding other ACE of Huntsville athletes and/or parents. 2. ACE of Huntsville coaches who do not coach their athlete. 3. Decisions made by the Administrative Staff. 4. Issues that involve any type of comparison of their athlete to another athlete, coach-to-coach, or ACE of Huntsville to any other cheerleading training facilities. If a concern is emotional or heated, we recommend a "cooling period" before contacting your All-Star Director and/or the coach. We understand that issues involving a child are very important and require quick resolution; therefore, we want to ensure that the situation is of constructive resolve. Protocol for Athlete Discipline Athletes are expected to behave themselves in a manner that is consistent with the rules listed throughout the ACE of Huntsville Handbook. These expectations will be upheld at all ACE of Huntsville events: camps, classes, clinics, competitions, practices and any point at which the athlete is under watch of the ACE of Huntsville Staff. When an athlete's behavior does not meet the expected standards and/or the athlete continues to pose a problem while under ACE of Huntsville supervision, disciplinary action will be enforced. The ACE of Huntsville protocol for athlete discipline is as follows: 1. The coach will discuss the issue with the athlete; however, a form of conditioning and/or appropriate discipline may be included. Page 7 of 25

8 2. The coach will remove the athlete from practice. In turn, this may cause an athlete to lose valuable class and/or team instruction. Make-up classes will not be allowed. 3. The coach will set up a meeting with your All-Star Director, the athlete and the parent to discuss the issue and the lack of response from the athlete. Parents will have the opportunity to be involved with correction of the problem at this time. 4. If the problem continues, the athlete will be suspended from participation in practices and/or class training. The athlete must attend all practices on time and in full dress code; however, the athlete will not be allowed to participate. The goal is for the athlete to gain a renewed perspective on the importance of respect for the coach and team by observing the practice on the outside looking in. 5. The athlete will be removed from the team. This will only occur in the most extreme cases. Rest assured, ACE of Huntsville Staff members make every effort to find an acceptable solution in a fair and consistent manner. (*Please note that, based on the severity of the situation, ACE of Huntsville has the sole and absolute authority and discretion to move to any of the following steps of discipline at any time and for any reason.) Practice Dress Code Dress Code Athletes must wear the correct color of practice clothes and cheer shoes must be worn at every practice. If an athlete does not have on the correct practice clothes he or she is required to purchase the correct practice clothes and it will be charged to your ACE bill. Practice clothes may sometimes shrink and athletes will likely grow throughout a season. ACE staff may require an athlete to purchase larger sized practice shorts or tops, should the fit become extremely unflattering or inappropriate. Athletes are free to purchase larger sizes or additional sets of practice clothes at anytime throughout the season. Hair must be pulled up, out of your face in a high ponytail. Short chin-length hair may be worn pulled back with a headband or half up/half down. Boy s hair must be cut out of the face and off of the neck and must be cleanly shaved. Girls must wear spandex shorts and sports bra under her practice attire. Boys must wear compression shorts. Black/red spandex shorts are allowed during practices. NO jewelry of any kind allowed in the gym. Neither ACE nor ACE employees are responsible for jewelry if it is worn into the gym, removed for practice, lost or stolen. Competition Dress Code Full uniform, crop top uniforms must have a t-shirt over it. ACE warm up if owned. This is the official ACE, Varsity Brand warm-up All hair and make-up must be COMPLETE before entering the competition venue. DO NOT LEAVE the hotel room without your hair being competition ready. That means hair in a high ponytail, bow; hair sprayed back, NO whispies and NO glitter. o Upon arrival to a competition, you must wear your uniform and can wear your official ACE warm up over if owned over uniform. Or ACE plain colored pants and or jacket. o You may either wear your skirt under your pants (under no circumstances ever may your skirt be worn over your pants) or you may bring your skirt on a hanger or in a bag until it is time to put it on. o All dressing and changing clothes must be done in a restroom, not the ACE room, hallway or any other public place because ACE cheerleaders are always to be 100% ready-to-go, being completely put together when in uniform and looking like classic clean cut athletes that our program boasts. This allows athletes to equate putting on the ACE uniform to mean that it is game time and also provides confidence through the look good, feel good principle. All ACE T-shirts are allowed to be worn over your uniform. You must wear athletic shoes at the competition at all times. (Absolutely NO Uggs, flip flops, etc.) Page 8 of 25

9 You are NOT allowed to wear any jewelry at any time during competition days. No hats of any type Only apparel may be worn from the event company that we are competing to and during the competition. (Example - If it is a Cheersport competition only, Cheersport shirts and jackets are allowed;no NCA, UCA etc.) Travel Obligations Parents are responsible for their athlete s activities and behavior at out-of-town events. Parents must understand that competitions are not vacations and that athletes' time and focus should be fully committed to the team and ACE throughout the time of the event. Please note that from time to time, you will be required to attend an event on a Friday by 7:00 PM and may have to leave the event on a Monday, due to scheduling by the Event Company and/or ACE. We have found that all levels may be last division of the day. This may end at 9pm or later. If a parent/guardian cannot attend an out of town event, you will need to arrange for another ACE parent or responsible adult to travel with your athlete to and from the event, and to be responsible for the athlete during the entire event. Uniforms Uniforms & Practice Clothes Sizing for shoes, warm-up, and uniforms will be in June. Sizing for practice clothes will be done at your first practice. It is important to be sized for all items, at the scheduled times, to ensure a timely arrival. All senior teams will be wearing a crop top uniform. If you wish for your athlete to not wear a crop top uniform please inform your all-star director and they will note on your account that you wish to have a full top uniform and you be ordered a uniform extension and be responsible for the cost. If an athlete quits or is removed from an ACE team prior to receiving merchandise, you will not receive a refund for the purchase price or any merchandise. Practice Clothes Female Athletes will receive 2 sets of shorts, 2 sports bras and 1 tank. Male Athletes will receive 2 sets of shorts, 2 tanks. If you wish for your athlete to not wear only a sports bra, then they will need to wear a t-shirt or tank over their sports bra. Bloomers and Sport Bras In order to provide adequate support and protection, ACE requires athletes to wear bloomers/spandex shorts and sport bras under all competition uniforms and practice attire. Black undergarments are required under uniforms for competition; No other colors are acceptable. For convenience, Varsity brand bloomers/shorts and sport bras are available for purchase from the ACE Varsity Pro Shop. ACE Brand and Logo Policy All ACE letters and logos are copyright protected. All spirit wear items are to be purchased through Varsity or Ragland. Page 9 of 25

10 If a parent would like to buy merchandise for an entire team, the order must go through Varsity or Ragland. Dan Harrod must approve any, and all, spirit items purchased for teams. Bows, t-shirts, bags, etc., with an identifiable icon or ACE reference, not purchased through Varsity and/or Ragland, are not permitted. will not be allowed to wear or use these items as a group. Anyone that attempts to sell or give away items with ACE logos and/or references will be in violation of our Brand and Logo Policy. Money cannot be required of parents in order to buy spirit items, goody bag items or any other nonmandatory items. You are welcome to monogram your warm-up; however, we ask that you use athletic gold for the lettering. Athlete s name, initials and/or nicknames are all acceptable. Immediate dismissal from the program may result if found in violation of ACE Brand and Logo Policy. ACE Fundraising Policy ACE of Huntsville may fundraise at times. All fundraising must go through Dan Harrod for approval. All monies collected through fundraising must go through ACE of Huntsville. All monies made will go to the athletes account(s) not paid out to the athlete(s). If an athlete quits or is removed from ACE, monies made from fundraising will go in to the general account of ACE of Huntsville. Website Registration and Payment Authorization Payment Procedures All ACE of Huntsville athletes must be registered in Jack Rabbit, our online system, before your Athlete Evaluation. The online registration is where families will select all of their classes for the year. A credit/debit card is required for registration. Please use the following steps to complete your athlete s online registration: Visit Click on the Menu link, then click on Classes, and the click registration. Complete the required information. The credit card on file will be automatically charged. You may also choose to bring another form of payment into Cammy Ammirati at the front desk before the 1st of each month. Cammy must receive a two-week notification of this change. There is also the option to pay the year in full and receive a 10% discount off your total yearly tuition. *Please Note: If payments are not received on time, a late fee ($50) will be assessed. Monthly Payments Monthly payment plans have been established for each level of travel. The monthly payment plan has been set up to distribute the costs associated with competitive cheerleading in an affordable manner. In order to keep the All-Star fees at a lower cost, ACE of Huntsville expenses must be paid on time. We expect the same courtesy with timely payments from all ACE of Huntsville parents, athletes, and families. Monthly fees are posted to athlete accounts at the end of the prior month. Monthly payments are automatically charged on your account the 1 st of each month. Accounts not paid by the 5th of the month will be assessed a $50 late fee. Team Placement fee shall be paid on or before placements in order to be eligible to participate in team placements. Following team assignments, parents are required to attend the first practice for the annual parents meeting. The Placement Fee of $25.00 is non-refundable. ACE will not allow athletes who have not met their previous season financial commitment to participate in Team Placements. All accounts must have a zero balance in order to be placed on a team. The below fees are only an estimate, whereas any additional ACE t-shirts, hotels and transportation costs are not included. The financial commitment is for a full 12 months. If you commit to becoming a member Page 10 of 25

11 of a team you are responsible for all cost and fees associated with having a spot on a team list for the entire 12 months. If you quit or are released from the team, you continue to be financially responsible for fees in full. All fees are expected to be paid on the assigned payment schedule. If you are listed as an alternate for a team, you are financially responsible for the year in full whether you compete at every competition or not. If you currently cheer for a school team that attends ACE of Huntsville, your school s monthly tuition up to $55.00 max will be waived. Anything over $55.00 will be billed to your account. Team Placement Process and Contract Obligations ACE All-Star Tryouts are on May 8,9,10,15,16,17 (7:00pm-9:00pm) each day ATTEND THE AGE SESSION YOUR ATHLETE WILL BE AS OF AUGUST 31, Athletes 11 years and older attend at least 2 day for the entirety, to provide ample time for thorough tryouts. Athletes 10 years and younger will only need to attend 1 day and will be released once they are evaluated or 8:00 at the latest. $25.00 fee for all not enrolled prior to May 1 st. All registration must be completed online prior to your athlete s first tryout date. Early and late Athlete & Stunt Evaluations are available for an additional $25 fee and must be scheduled, via , with Dan Harrod danharrod@acetribe.com The ACE of Huntsville Athlete Tryout Process Athletes will stretch, warm up and practice. Athletes will perform a routine that includes jumps, standing and running tumbling. All tumbling skills needed for each level can be found on aceofhuntsville.com Following tumble evaluations, staff will group athletes together for stunt evaluation if needed. Athletes will receive an on Friday, May 18th, confirming team placement and practice times. The ACE of Huntsville Team Placement will practice, at scheduled times, to ensure proper team makeup and cohesiveness. This will also allow for Late Athlete & Stunt Evaluations to take place. Your athlete may be moved to different practices during June to ensure the best placement for them. You have until 7:00pm on Tuesday, May 21, 2018 to be fully released from your contract without any further monetary payment or obligation. o danharrod@acetribe.com before this deadline if you wish to be released from your contract. Only s will be accepted as a notice to be released! After 7 pm on May 21, 2018, you will have until 7:00 pm Friday, May 25 th to buyout of your contract for a charge of $500. (This fee will cover crossover fees to fill the available team roster position.) After, 7:00pm on Friday, May 25th, you are contractually obligated for the season s entirety. You MUST see Cammy Ammirati in person to buyout your contract and receive a copy for your records. PLEASE NOTE: If an athlete quits or is released from an ACE of Huntsville team, at any point after May 25, 2018, you will continue to be financially responsible for fees in full. These fees are to be paid in accordance with the assigned payment schedule. If the athlete is listed as an alternate for a team, you are financially responsible for the year in full whether the athlete competes or not Page 11 of 25

12 All-Star Elite Club- This is the same as normal full year travel competition team. o are made up with matching stunting and tumbling skills All-Star International-This is the same as normal full year travel competition team. o are made up with different age groups than All-Star Elite. o Ages start at 10 years old. All-Star Prep- This is limited travel team with a shorter total routine time. o are made up of athletes that may have the level stunt skill required but not matching tumbling skills. o Division Example: Level 3 team stunts with level 2-team tumbling. All-Star Novice- This is a limited travel team with a shorter total routine time. o are made up with no tumbling required. Your athlete will be allowed to do tumbling in the routine for the level they are on but please note tumbling will not be scored during their performances. o This is to help develop tumbling if needed but still compete at a high level. All-Star Fundamental- This is to athletes wanting to learn how to become an all-star cheerleader. o We will develop skills for athletes to transition to a full travel team. o Athletes will not travel to competitions. They will perform in house. o Athletes will learn a full routine of motions, stunts, tumbling, and dance All-Star Elite Club Team Ages Season Starts June until May 6th May attend end of the year events (Worlds, Summit) 2 Practices a week 1 Tumbling class a week All-Star International Team All-Star Prep Team All-Star Novice Team Ages Season Starts June until May 6th May attend end of the year events (Worlds, Summit) 2 Practices a week 1 Tumbling class a week Ages 5-17 Season Starts June until February 28th Will not attend Summit, Worlds, US Finals 1 or 2 Practices a week (Sunday) Weekday Practice during June and July Months 1 Tumbling class a week Ages 3-17 Season Starts August until January Will not attend Summit, Worlds, US Finals 1 Practices a week (Sunday) 1 Tumbling class a week All-Star Fundamentals Team Ages 3-14 Season Start Aug & Nov Will not compete or travel Will perform at gym for parent show off 1 Practice a week (Sunday), 1 Tumbling class a week Page 12 of 25

13 ACE All-Star Team Financial Obligations Team Types Worlds Elite / International Prep Novice Fundamental Time Commitment (Months) Levels Level 5 Level 1-5R Level 1-3 Level 1-3 Any Level Season Months June- May June- May June- Feb Aug- Feb August- Oct Training Months May- Oct May- Oct May- Oct Aug- Oct August- Oct Competition Months Nov- May Nov- May Nov- Feb Nov- Jan Parent Show off Pricing List Worlds Elite / International Prep Novice Fundamental Competition Cost USASF Membership Yearly Tuition Competition Shoes Competition Uniform Routine Choreography Warm-Up Suit (optional 175) Competition Hair Bow Competition Music ACE Practice Clothes Total Monthly Payments Worlds Elite / International Prep Novice Fundamental June July August September October November December January February March April Additional Payments Worlds Elite / International Prep Novice Fundamental Clothes/Shoes May Uniform June /2 Uniform July Choreography Aug Page 13 of 25

14 ACE OF HUTSVILLE COMPETITION SCHEDULE: *Please note that the competition schedule and dates are tentative and subject to change* Elite / International Level 5 Worlds Event Date Days City Meet The Tribe Nov 4th 1 Birmingham, AL NCA Classic Nov 18th 1 Nashville, TN All Star Challenge Dec 9th - 10th 2 Atlanta, GA Deep South Big Bid Jan 12th or 13th 2 Huntsville, AL TBD* Jan 2 Cheersport Nationals Feb 23rd - 24th 2 Atlanta, GA One Up Nationals March 30th - 31st 2 Nashville, TN Worlds April 26th - 29th 4 Orlando, FL Elite / International Event Date Days City Meet The Tribe Nov 4th 1 Birmingham, AL NCA Classic Nov 18th 1 Nashville, TN COA Nationals Dec 1st - 2nd 2 Gatlinburg, TN Deep South Big Bid Jan 12th or 13th 2 Huntsville, AL Cheersport Nationals Feb 23rd - 24th 2 Atlanta, GA The American Costal March 9th - 10th 2 Kenner, LA (New Orleans) One Up Nationals March 30th - 31st 2 Nashville, TN US Finals or Summit April 14 or May 3 1 or 2 Penscola, FL or Orlando, FL Prep Event Date Days City Meet the Tribe Nov 4th 1 Birmingham, AL NCA Classic Nov 19th 1 Nashville, TN COA Nationals Dec 1st - 2nd 2 Gatlinburg, TN Deep South Big Bid Jan 12th or 13th 1 Huntsville, AL Jamfest Regional Feb 2nd 1 Nashville, TN Novice Event Date Days City Meet the Tribe Nov 4th 1 Birmingham, AL NCA Classic Nov 19th 1 Nashville, TN Deep South Big Bid Jan 12th or 13th 1 Huntsville, AL Jamfest Regional Feb 2nd 1 Nashville, TN Page 14 of 25

15 Competitions Currently we have a competition scheduled for Huntsville, AL. This competition may be moved to Birmingham, AL but most likely will be in Huntsville, AL. If the competition is moved this competition may change. *TBD due to event dates changing we are still looking to add a 5 th worlds bid event. This event will be with in driving distance. End of the Year Competitions The Summit, US Finals, and The Cheerleading Worlds are prestigious, post-season competitions that require teams to receive a bid to compete. There are various types of bids offered for each event; these bids may be based off of variables such as team placement, score, etc. If a team receives a bid to The Summit, US Finals, or The Cheerleading Worlds, there will be additional competition fees, coaches fees and travel expenses in order to attend. The total cost for these events will be based off of the type of bid received. Please note ACE of Huntsville will determine attendance on these events shortly after bid is won. If ACE of Huntsville chooses on attending these events we will send out a competition memo with payment details shortly after bid is won. This is apart of the competition season and if ACE of Huntsville chooses to attend your athlete will be required to attend and you will be charged the per athlete amount to attend even if your athlete cannot attend. Page 15 of 25

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17 ACE of Huntsville ALL STAR Loyalty Program YOU EARNED YOUR FEATHERS! We are excited to head in to our 6th year at our Huntsville Location in North Alabama. If you have been a part of ACE of Huntsville for the past 5+ years this year we are going to give back to you. We will now discount $25 a month off of your monthly tuition for this season and each season after that you continue with ACE of Huntsville. EACH MILESTONE IS A BETTER REWARD! $25 off Tuition 5 Years $50 off Tuition 8 Years FREE Tuition 10 Years Page 17 of 25

18 ACE TEAM SELECTIONS: ATHLETE INFORMATION Athlete s Legal Name: Parent s Name: Parent s Cell: Parent s Date of Birth: Age as of August 31, 2018: Athlete s Prior Cheer Experience: Athlete s Previous All-Star Gym (if applicable): Previously Competed All-Star Level (if applicable): Type of team wanted: Do you have siblings in the program? If yes, must siblings be on the same team? Referral Family: If cheering on a team with siblings and/or specific friends is crucial, please list them: *NOTE: It is not always possible to have siblings and/or friends cheer on the same team. This will be at the discretion of the ACE Program. Page 18 of 25

19 ACE of Huntsville Athlete Information Athletes Legal Name: Date of Birth: Age as of August 31, 2018: Address: City: State: Zip: Athlete Cell Phone: Athlete Athlete s School: Athlete s Grade: Parent/Guardian Name: Parent/Guardian Cell Phone: Parent/Guardian Secondary Phone: Parent/Guardian Additional Contacts: Allergies/Medications: (Please list any allergies/medications and instructions we need to know) Do you cheer School? Page 19 of 25

20 ACE of Huntsville Terms and Conditions Agreement As the parent/guardian, I have read and completely understand the rules, requirements and regulations as outlined the ACE of Huntsville Parent & Athlete Handbook, including the attachments to the Handbook and the Brand and Logo Policy. I promise to uphold and abide by the rules set forth herein. We realize that ACE of Huntsville reserves the sole and absolute right to change, amend or assess the stated policies and procedures, as deemed necessary, on a case-by-case basis. I have read and understand the ACE of Huntsville Athlete & Parent Handbook in its entirety (Pages 1 through 26.) I have also read the Financial Policies and Procedures and Brand and Logo Policy. I understand that it is my responsibility, as a parent/guardian, to follow through with my child s financial obligations associated with tuition and other fees during the competition season. Should I fall behind or fail to make payments, I recognize that my child s involvement with the ACE of Huntsville program will be jeopardized. I also understand that if my athlete quits or is released from an ACE of Huntsville team, at any point throughout the season, I will continue to be financially responsible for fees in full. I understand that these fees are expected to be paid in accordance with the assigned payment schedule. I also understand that if my athlete is listed as an alternate for a team, that I am financially responsible for the year in full whether they compete or not. Athlete Name Print Name of Parent or Guardian Responsible for Payment of Financial Obligations Signature of Parent or Guardian Responsible for Payment of Financial Obligations of Parent or Guardian Responsible for Payment of Financial Obligations Date Accepted By: ACE of Huntsville Director Date Page 20 of 25

21 ACE OF HUNTSVILLE - MEDICAL RELEASE FORM I fully understand that ACE of Huntsville and staff are not physicians or medical practitioners of any kind. With the above in mind, I hereby authorize and release ACE of Huntsville to render temporary first aid to my child or children in the event of any injury or illness, and if deemed necessary by the staff at ACE of Huntsville, to call a doctor and seek medical help, including transportation to any health care facility or hospital, or the calling of an ambulance for said child should the staff at ACE of Huntsville deem it necessary. I also recognize that there are risks and hazards associated with the sport of cheerleading. Competitors may suffer injuries, possibly minor, serious or catastrophic in nature. These activities can be dangerous and can lead to injury. It is the parents who should make their children aware of the possibility of injury and encourage their children to follow all the safety rules and coaches instructions. The undersigned agree\s that ACE of Huntsville and its staff, employees, agents, owners, officers, and managers are not responsible for injuries sustained by any athlete during the course of tumbling, stunting, cheerleading, dancing or any other activity in which he/she is involved while with or under the supervision of ACE, including, but not limited to, traveling to or from any event, practice or competition. With the above in mind, and being fully aware of the risks and possibility of injury involved, I consent to have my child or children participate in the programs offered by ACE of Huntsville. Individually and on behalf of my children and any of my or their heirs, executors, agents, or representatives, waive and release all rights and claims for damages that I or my child/children may have against ACE of Huntsville and/or its staff, employees, agents, owners, officers, and managers whether paid or volunteer. I also affirm that I now have and will continue to provide hospitalization, health and accident insurance coverage that I consider adequate for both my child s protection and my own protection. X SIGNATURE-- Participant s or Participant s Parent/Guardian (If Under 19) X PRINTED-- Participant s or Participant s Parent/Guardian Name Date Date Participant Name: Participant Address: Home Phone: City, State, Zip Code: Parent/Guardian Cell Phone: Emergency Contact Name & Phone Number: Medical Insurance Company: Policy and Group Number: Athlete Date of Birth: Athlete Address: APPEARANCE CLAUSE Permission is granted to use my son/daughter s picture or image in future advertisement and literature for ACE of Huntsville, ACE Cheer Company and events sponsored and conducted by them. I have read and agree to the above release and appearance clause. X SIGNATURE-- Participant s or Participant s Parent/Guardian (If Under 19) Date Page 21 of 25