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 Website User Instructions 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 14 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 using your own user name and password 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 team pix for competitive dance NOVEMBER November 11 Deadline to submit State Cheer Championship Entry November 11 State Dance Competition at Bentonville West November 15 Deadline to post team pix for competitive cheer DECEMBER December 16 Deadline to submit All State/All Star nominations December 16 State Cheer Competition at Hot Springs Convention Center JANUARY January 16 Cheer & Dance All Star Coaches Meeting JUNE June 24 July 7 Athletic Dead Weeks June All Star Games June AHSCA Coaching Clinic

5 SPIRIT RULES CHANGES Rule 1 Rule 1 Rule 1 Deletes definitions for downward inversion, front drop, knee/seat/thigh drop, split drop, sponge, and swan dive. Adds definitions for braced flip, braced inversion, braced roll, prep level and Swing roll down (teddy bear roll down). Revises definition for switch liberty , Revises language to match basketball rules book on spirit squad location during basketball games , Adds the words extended stunts that stop to allow for show-and-go and up-and-over stunts 3-3-2, Removes the word static and clarifies Article , Reorganizes and clarifies braced inversions in a pyramid , Reorganizes and clarified braced rolls in a pyramid Reorganizes and clarifies braced flips in a pyramid , Reorganizes and clarifies all other inversions, including suspended rolls , Prohibits a swing roll-down stunt , Removes the word static and clarifies the connection Eliminates swan dives 3-6-2, Adds an exception to allow the top to release to grab another base to adjust position , Allows poms to be held during airborne tumbling skills Removes the word static and clarifies Article , Prohibits skills to a cradle Requires bases to be in contact with the top person when transitioning from a prop

6 Spirit Rules Committee Shaunda Brown, Chair Missouri Diane Wolf Idaho Dr. Pauline Camara -- Massachusetts Section 1 Shawn Knight -- Virginia Section 2 Kellie Doucette -- Florida Section 3 Julie Jacobson -- Wisconsin Section 4 Jenn Carter Minnesota Section 5 Amy Cassell Oklahoma Section 6 Lori Rupp Utah Section 7 David Pilcher Washington Section 8 James Weaver, Editor NFHS Robert B. Gardner, Publisher NFHS

7 Points of Emphasis 1. Application of NFHS Spirit Rules Book 2. Surfaces 3. Cradle Dismounts 4. Overuse injuries See page 90 of the NFHS Spirit Rules Book for details.

8 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.

9 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.

10 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 AAA Sudden Cardiac Arrest Course. 10. Complete the online Spirit Rules Presentation under own username; login and verify online. 11. 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. Certification CPR 3. Certification AED (defibrillator) 4. Complete the AAA Heat Illness Training. 5. Complete the AAA Concussion Training. 6. Complete the AAA Communicable Disease Course. 7. Complete the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Course 8. 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. Complete the AAA Sudden Cardiac Arrest Course. 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

11 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. 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. Complete the AAA Sudden Cardiac Arrest Course. i. Current background check (fingerprinting repeat as required for teachers) j. 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. Complete the AAA Sudden Cardiac Arrest Course. i. Current background check (fingerprinting repeat as required for teachers) j. A minimum of six hours of in-service training provided by the school specific to the activity in which the advisor is involved 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) 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

12 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.

13 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).

14 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 GAME DAY COMPETITION The Arkansas Activities Association State Game Day Championships are conducted to showcase what traditional cheerleading is all about leading the crowd! It is designed to focus on the activities a cheer squad is involved in during games and pep rallies. You will need very little preparation for these competitions. Your team can literally step straight off the sideline and into this competition. Game Day is a fun competition that allows squads to showcase skills they use at every game. Squads respond to audio cues as heard at football and basketball games, and demonstrate their effective crowd-leading and spirit-raising techniques. GAME DAY GUIDELINES 1. Emphasis on crowd involvement. Showcase your best sideline crowd-leading material. The use of signs, poms, flags, and/or megaphones is encouraged. 2. The judges will score teams using the criteria listed on the AAA Game Day score sheet. 3. Each Game Day performance should consist of a cheer, sideline and band chant. Teams will be responding to audio cues, as heard at football and basketball games. The music portion may not exceed one minute with an overall time limit of three minutes. SCHOOLS CANNOT HAVE BOTH A COMPETITIVE CHEER TEAM AND A GAME DAY SQUAD. SCHOOLS MUST DECLARE FOR EITHER COMPETITIVE CHEER OR GAME DAY BY THE SPECIFIED DEADLINE.

15 AAA 2017 State Cheerleading Championships December 16, 2017 Hot Springs Convention Center 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. COED One or more males on a squad is a coed team. 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 a 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. MUSIC All music used by teams competing must be licensed according to United Sates Copyright Law. Any team in violation of the licensing requirement is subject to disqualification from the competition. The Arkansas Activities Association is not responsible for obtaining any necessary permission or licensing of the recorded music used by a school team during the course of the AAA State Spirit Championships. WARM UP AREA A warm up area will be available before your competition. ONLY PERFORMING TEAMS AND COACHES WITH FLOOR PASSES WILL BE PERMITTED TO ENTER THE WARM UP AREA. There will be no rules interpreters in the warm up area. Personnel will be there only to check time and keep the warm ups moving on schedule. 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. HEAD COACHES ARE ALOWED ON THE FLOOR WHILE THEIR SQUAD IS COMPETING AND MUST BE WEARING A FLOOR PASS. ONE ADDITIONAL ASSISTANT COACH WITH A FLOOR PASS WILL ALSO BE ALLOWED ON THE FLOOR. NO ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL WILL BE ALLOWED ON THE COMPETITION FLOOR. INJURED SQUAD MEMBERS IN UNIFORM WILL BE ALLOWED TO SIT ON FLOOR WITH COACH. AWARDS Championship and runner-up trophies will be awarded in each classification. 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.

16 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. PHOTOGRAPHS Photographs of each team MUST be taken before your team competes. 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 Videotaping will 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. All video cameras must have the AAA Camera Tag attached. NO VIDEOTAPING WILL BE USED FOR REVIEW. 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. ALL SPIRIT ATHLETES MUST ABIDE BY THE RULES OF THE NFHS SPIRIT RULES BOOK. ADMISSION PRICES Adults and students... $6.00 Pre-school... No charge AAA Passes will be honored with photo ID.

17 Arkansas Activities Association 3920 Richards Road North Little Rock, Arkansas ALL-GIRL STATE CHEERLEADING CHAMPIONSHIP December 16, 2017 Entry Form Deadline for Entries: November 11, 2017 School School Mailing Address School Colors Mascot Coach Home Phone Cell Phone E- Mail Asst. Coach Home Phone Cell Phone E- Mail Competitive Class (Check one) 7A 6A 5A 4A 3A 2A-1A Return to AAA by November 11, 2017

18 Arkansas Activities Association 3920 Richards Road North Little Rock, Arkansas CO-ED STATE CHEERLEADING CHAMPIONSHIP December 16, 2017 Entry Form Deadline for Entries: November 11, 2017 School School Mailing Address School Colors Mascot Coach Home Phone Cell Phone E- Mail Asst. Coach Home Phone Cell Phone E- Mail Competitive Class (Check one) 7A 6A 5A 4A 3A 2A-1A Return to AAA by November 11, 2017

19 Arkansas Activities Association 3920 Richards Road North Little Rock, Arkansas GAME DAY STATE CHAMPIONSHIP December 16, 2017 Entry Form Deadline for Entries: November 11, 2017 School School Mailing Address School Colors Mascot Coach Home Phone Cell Phone E- Mail Asst. Coach Home Phone Cell Phone E- Mail Competitive Class (Check one) 7A 6A 5A 4A 3A 2A-1A Return to AAA by November 11, 2017

20 STATE SPIRIT CHAMPIONS CHEER DANCE 7A Champion 7A Runner-up Har-Ber Bryant 7A Champion 7A Runner-up Fayetteville Bentonville 6A Champion 6A Runner-up Sheridan Lake Hamilton 6A Champion 6A Runner-up Jonesboro Benton 5A Champion 5A Runner-up Valley View Lakeside 5A Champion 5A Runner-up Little Rock Christian Alma 4A Champion 4A Runner-up Nashville Pottsville 4A Champion 4A Runner-up Bauxite Arkadelphia 3A Champion 3A Runner-up Smackover Junction City 1A-2A-3A Champion 1A-2A-3A Runner-up Mountain View Glen Rose 1-2A Champion East Poinsett County 1-2A Runner-up Marked Treee 5-7A Coed Champion Bentonville 5-7A Runner-up Heritage 1-4A Coed Champion West Fork 1-4A Runner-up Booneville

21 AAA 2017 State Dance Championships November 11, 2017 Bentonville West High School The Arkansas Activities Association State Dance Championships are conducted to showcase the overall technical, athletic, and competitive readiness of Arkansas high school dance 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. We suggest that your routine have more than 50 to ensure meeting the minimum requirements. A kick is defined as one foot remaining on the floor while the other foot lifts with force at least one inch from the floor. At least half the team must execute a kick in order for it to be counted. 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. EXCEPTION: Any time the leg extends at or above 90 degrees, contracts and extends again at or above 90 degrees, it will be defined as separate kicks. Passe, flicks, turn sequences, toe taps, etc. will not be counted. 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. COMPETITION ROUTINE GUIDELINES 1. Formal excessive and choreographed entrances which involve dance, technical skills, and all traditions/chants are not permitted. Dancers should enter the performance area in a timely fashion. 2. All staging, backdrops, special effects, or any items that may damage or otherwise alter the performance floor or environment are prohibited (water, powder, feathers, glitter, fire, sliding oil, etc.) 3. Teams will have a maximum of two (2) minutes to demonstrate their style and expertise. 4. Teams may dance off of the performance floor; however, all routine choreography for the entire team must begin and end on the performance surface. Jumping on or off the performance surface is prohibited. 5. Timing will begin with the first choreographed movement or note of the music. 6. Timing will end with the last choreographed movement or note of music, whichever is last. 7. If a team exceeds the time limit, a penalty will be assessed. If a team does not adhere to the performance time, over or under, by more than three (3) seconds, they will be penalized.

22 8. Each team must have a coach/representative to play their music. This person is responsible for bringing the music to the music table and pushing play and stop for the team 9. All music must be on a flash drive or phone. AAA recommends that you bring two copies in case sound systems have trouble reading your phone or flash drive. 10. In order to keep the competition on time, all team rituals and traditions need to take place prior to entering the performance floor. Teams should enter the floor and immediately start their routine. MUSIC GUIDELINES 1. You must read and understand the USA Cheer Music Copyrights Educational Initiative and all sound recordings used in your team s music shall only be used with written license from the owner(s) of the sound recordings. 2. These guidelines are as of June 16, For the most up to date music information, visit Please check Preferred provider list for updates and changes periodically. 3. Teams must be able to provide proof of licensing, in the form of a printed copy, during registration at the state championship. 4. If a team does not have the required paperwork, they will be given the option to count the routine verbally. 5. If a teams does not have the required paperwork and chooses not to count the routine, the team will be disqualified from the competition and not allowed to perform or compete. 6. If there are concerns regarding a certain team s use of music, a Challenge Form must be completed immediately following the team s performance. 7. A challenge can only be made by the official coach of a team competing at the state championship at which the challenge is being made. What happens if you bring incorrect music to competition? If a team brings music to competition that does not follow these guidelines, the following options are available for you: 1. You may perform using counts only, but no music. 2. You may elect to not perform your routine at all 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. ONLY PERFORMING TEAMS AND COACHES WITH FLOOR PASSES WILL BE PERMITTED TO ENTER THE WARM UP AREA. COMPETITION AREA Only AAA authorized personnel will be allowed on the floor. HEAD COACHES ARE ALOWED ON THE FLOOR WHILE THEIR SQUAD IS COMPETING AND MUST BE WEARING A FLOOR PASS. ONE ADDITIONAL CREDENTIALED ASSISTANT COACH WITH A FLOOR PASS WILL ALSO BE ALLOWED ON THE FLOOR. ANY ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL WILL NOT BE ALLOWED ON THE COMPETITION FLOOR. INJURED SQUAD MEMBERS IN UNIFORM WILL BE ALLOWED ON FLOOR SITTING WITH COACH. AWARDS Championship and runner up trophies will be awarded in each classification. 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.

23 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. 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 1. Rules & Procedures 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. 2. 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: o competition officials o coach from the team performing o injured individual. 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 do 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/head injury, the participant cannot return to perform without clearance from a licensed medical professional that has training related to head injuries, even with a waiver from a parent or legal guardian. All AAA concussion guidelines must be followed.

24 TUMBLING AND TRICKS (Executed by individuals) ALLOWED Aerial cartwheels Forward/Backward Rolls Shoulder Rolls Cartwheels Headstands Handstands Backbends Front/Back Walkovers Stalls/Freezes Head spins Windmills Kip up Round Off Headsprings (with hand support) NOT ALLOWED Front Aerials Front/Back Handsprings Front/Back Tucks Side Somi Layouts Shushunova Headsprings (without hand support) Dive Rolls (in any position) Continuous double (partner) cartwheels Toe Pitch Back Tucks 1. Airborne skills without hand support are not allowed. (Exception: Headsprings with hand support and aerial cartwheels not connected to any tumbling skill are allowed.) 2. Aerial cartwheels are not allowed while holding poms. They must be placed in one hand or be executed with hands free poms. There are no exceptions to this rule. 3. Tumbling skills with hip over head rotation is limited to three (3) connected skills. Example: Three (3) consecutive headsprings are allowed; four (4) are not allowed. 4. Simultaneous tumbling over or under another dancer that includes hip over head rotation by both dancers is not allowed. 5. Drops to the knee, thigh, back, front, head, shoulder, or seat onto the performing surface are not allowed unless the dancer first bears weight on the hand(s) or foot/feet. 6. Landing in a push up position onto the performance surface from a jump in which the legs are in front of the body and swing behind are not allowed. All variations of a shushunova are not allowed. 7. Airborne skills without hip over head rotation may not jump from a standing or squatting position backwards onto the neck, back, shoulders, and/or hands. Any kip up motion must initiate from the back/shoulder area touching the ground. (NOTE: This rule refers specifically and only to the rubber band / bronco kip up skill, as well as any skill jumping backwards into a headstand/handstand stall.) DANCE LIFTS & PARTNERING Dance lifts and partnering are executed by partners or groups. 1. The executing dancer must receive support from a supporting dancer who is in direct contact with the performance surface through the entire skill. (Exception: Kick Line Leaps) 2. Elevators, thigh stands, shoulder sits, and chair sits are allowed. Extension and all other cheer based stunts are not allowed. 3. Swinging lifts and tricks are allowed provided the executing dancer s body does not make a complete circular rotation and is in a supine position at all times. Swinging in a prone position is not allowed (backward and forward or a complete circular rotation). 4. Hip over head rotation of the executing dancer may occur as long as a supporting dancer maintains contact until the executing dancer returns to the performance surface or is returning to the upright position. 5. Vertical inversions are allowed as long as: A. The supporting dancer maintains contact until the executing dancer returns to the performance surface or returns to the upright position B. When the height of the executing dancer s shoulders exceeds shoulder level of the supporting dancer, there is at least one additional dancer to spot who does not bear weight. RELEASE MOVES Unassisted dismounts to the performance surface) 1. An executing dancer may jump, leap, step, or push off a supporting dancer if:

25 A. The highest point of the released skill does not elevate the executing dancer s feet above head level B. The executing dancer may not pass through the prone or inverted position after the release. C. Toe pitch back tucks are not allowed. 2. A supporting dancer may release/toss an executing dancer if: A. The highest point of the release/toss does not elevate the executing dancer s hips above head level B. The executing dancer is not supine or inverted when released. C. The executing dancer does not pass through a prone or inverted position after release. D. Toe pitch back tucks are not allowed. CHOREOGRAPHY AND COSTUMING 1. Suggestive, offensive, or vulgar choreography, and/or music is inappropriate. 2. 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. 3. Inappropriate choreography, costuming, and/or music may affect the judges overall impression and/or score of the routine. 4. Please make sure that all choreography and costuming is age appropriate. 5. Shoes, on both feet, must be worn during the competition. Dance paws are acceptable. Shoes with wheels are not allowed (Example: roller skates, roller blades, heelys, etc). Wearing socks and/or footed tights only is not allowed. 6. When dancers are standing at attention, all costumes/uniforms must cover the midriff area completely. The midriff includes the entire midriff section from the bra line down, front of the body only. Nude body liners are acceptable. 7. All male dancers costumes must include a shirt that is fastened, however it can be sleeveless. 8. Wearing hard jewelry is not permitted except when securely affixed to a costume or the hair. 9. All routine choreography must begin and end on the performance floor. 10. The use of powder, glitter, or any other airborne substance that lingers in the competition area shall be strictly prohibited. 11. 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. PROPS Props are not allowed. A prop is defined as anything that you dance with that is not attached to your costume. Articles of clothing may be taken off; however you may not dance with them. If taken off and danced with, it becomes a prop. Poms being used for a pom routine do not count as props. 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.

26 VIDEOTAPING The competition will be videotaped, and DVD s may be purchased by going on line to nfhsnetwork.com. Cameras will be allowed in the stands if the photographers have AAA camera tags. Photographers 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. SPORTSMANSHIP All athletes and spectators must abide by the rules of the AAA Sportsmanship Manual. ALL SPIRIT ATHLETES MUST ABIDE BY THE RULES OF THE NFHS SPIRIT RULES BOOK. ADMISSION PRICES Adults and students... $6.00 Pre school... No charge AAA Passes will be honored with photo ID.

27 Arkansas Activities Association 2017 STATE DANCE COMPETITION November 11, 2017 Bentonville West High School Entry Form Deadline for Entries: October 10, 2017 School School Mailing Address School Colors Mascot Performance Category: Jazz High Kick Hip-Hop Pom Number of girls on performance team Coach Home Phone Cell Phone E Mail Asst. Coach Home Phone Cell Phone E Mail Competitive Class (Check one) 7A 6A 5A 4A 3A 2A 1A Return this form to AAA by October 10, 2017

28 SANCTIONING OF INTERSCHOLASTIC COMPETITIONS All sanctioned events must follow the rules of the AAA Handbook and the NFHS Spirit Rules Book. Invitational events sponsored by AAA member schools for other member schools require the use of sanctioning forms. The Request for Sanction of an Interscholastic Invitational Spirit Event is available on the Spirit page of the AAA web site. For invitational events sponsored by AAA member schools, when out of state schools are invited, a Request for Sanction of an Interscholastic Invitational Spirit Event must be submitted to the AAA at least 30 days in advance For a competitive event sponsored by an outside group, a member school must agree to co-sponsor the event. For an out-of-state competition, sanctioning must be initiated with the host s state high school association. It MAY be possible to sanction an event for participation by Arkansas schools that occurs in a contiguous state.