Navigating cheerleading as a parent can feel like learning a whole new language, especially with all the different terms and categories. Whether you’re a new cheer parent, an aspiring cheerleader, or just curious, we’re breaking down the most important rules and updates from USASF and The Open Championships in a way that’s easy to understand the basics of cheerleading levels, divisions, and how performances are scored.
Understanding Levels in Cheerleading (L1-L7)
Cheer levels reflect the difficulty of skills performed in routines. The level of the team determines the rules on what athletes can safely perform. For example, whether a team is a Youth 3 or a Senior 3, both teams will follow the level three rules.
Level 1 (L1)
- Tumbling: Basic rolls, cartwheels, walk-overs
- Stunts: Two-legged stunts at prep level.
- Baskets: Not allowed in level one.
- Pyramids: Simple structures at prep level or below.
Level 2 (L2)
- Tumbling: Standing single handspring, running multiple handsprings
- Stunts: Extended two-legged stunts, simple transitions.
- Baskets: Toe touch or pike baskets.
- Pyramids: Prep level or single extended stunts with basic connections.
Level 3 (L3)
- Tumbling: Multiple handsprings, aerials, running tucks.
- Stunts: Single-leg extended stunts, full twist dismounts.
- Baskets: Single trick tosses like toe touch.
- Pyramids: More intricate, extended stunts with inversions.
Level 4 (L4)
- Tumbling: Layouts, standing tucks.
- Stunts: Additional release moves, double twist dismounts.
- Baskets: Double full twists.
- Pyramids: High-flying stunts with release moves.
Level 5 (L5)
- Tumbling: Full twisting layouts, standing fulls.
- Stunts: High difficulty with single-leg extended, double downs.
- Baskets: Double full twists with variations.
- Pyramids: Complex structures with multiple release moves and inversions.
Level 6 (L6)
- Tumbling: Full and double full twists, elite passes.
- Stunts: Advanced with multiple skills combined, double downs.
- Baskets: Triple twists, kick doubles.
- Pyramids: Highly complex with multiple release and inverted skills.
Level 7 (L7)
- Tumbling: Most advanced, including double full twisting passes.
- Stunts: Most complex combinations, elite level.
- Baskets: Triple full twists, kick triples.
- Pyramids: Most advanced with high risk and complexity.
Novice, Prep, and Elite – What’s the difference:
- Novice: Entry-level with shorter routines (1:30 min). Designed for new athletes to learn in a fun, low-pressure environment.
- Prep: Middle ground. Slightly longer routines (2:00 min) with fewer travel and practice demands.
- Elite: The highest tier with the longest routines (2:30 min). Requires serious time and financial commitment.
Divisions: Age and Team Size
Divisions categorize teams by age and size, ensuring fair competition. Some levels are only available at certain ages. Here are the primary divisions based on age and birth year for the 2025-2026 season per the USASF:
Find a detailed list of all expectations, breakdowns, and requirements of the USASF Age Grid on their website.
NEW: The FLEX Division is the newest addition to All-Star cheer — built for gyms that need more roster flexibility without sacrificing elite-level standards. These divisions expand traditional age ranges, giving programs more room to build full, competitive teams.
Two primary divisions launch this season:
- Youth FLEX: Ages 6–13
- Junior FLEX: Ages 7–16
Both are classified as elite divisions and follow all USASF safety and rules guidelines. Their primary goal is to keep athletes on the floor and teams competing, even when rosters don’t fit neatly into traditional grids.
Find a detailed list of all expectations, breakdowns, and requirements of The Open Championship Age Grid on their website.
D1 and D2
Varsity/USASF have broken gyms into a Division 1/Division 2 distinction. Some other event producers have followed suit, and some have provided similar splits, but may be titled differently. Generally, many EPs will offer a split in a division if there is enough competition to offer a large gym group and a small gym group. This is usually a case by case, event by event distinction. However, there are a few key events that are designated for small gyms, such as The D2 Summit.
- D1 (Division 1): Large gyms with over 125 athletes.
- D2 (Division 2): Smaller gyms with 125 athletes or fewer.
Judging: How Scoresheets Evaluate Routines
Here are the key scoring areas:
- Stunts: Difficulty, execution, and creativity.
- Tumbling: Complexity and execution.
- Pyramids: Construction, creativity, and execution.
- Jumps: Height, form, and synchronization.
- Dance: Choreography, synchronization, and energy.
- Overall Performance: Showmanship, transitions, and impact.
For more detailed scoring criteria, visit United Scoring Partners, USASF, the Open Championships Series, and the Varsity All Star Scoring pages.
Score Safety Note: Don’t stress if your child’s team scores lower than expected. It’s not just about how hard the skills are—it’s about how well they’re done. Many event producers run scoring comparatively, meaning that you do not know what the other teams in your division are scoring, and that event may have a tougher panel than your last event – that is ok and is not a negative reflection on your team.
Pro Tips for Cheer Parents:
- Focus on progress, not perfection.
- Ask your coach which level your athlete is competing at and 1-2 skills they can be focusing on in this moment.
- Be supportive—cheer scoring is complex!
Putting It All Together
When you see terms like “J6” or “S4,” it’s a mix of age division and skill level. Scoresheets ensure fair judging, covering every aspect of the routine. If you’re still feeling lost, don’t hesitate to ask fellow cheer enthusiasts—they’re always ready to help newcomers! Check out this link for a complete glossary of cheerleading terms.
Whether you’re just starting out in cheerleading or looking to refine your skills, understanding the levels, divisions, and scoring is crucial in navigating your cheer journey. Each category offers unique challenges and opportunities to shine. Remember, the world of cheer is as diverse as it is vibrant—there’s a place for everyone, from the spirited novice to the elite competitor.
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