Not making the level you aimed for can feel like a major setback, but it’s just another step in your cheer journey. This moment, while challenging, is an opportunity to grow, learn, and come back even stronger. We’ve gathered some key insights to help you navigate this experience and turn it into a positive one. Understanding the team selection process and focusing on your development can make a significant difference. Let’s dive into the process and how to make the most of it.
1. What the Gym Needs & Wants
Every team has unique needs. Coaches are looking to build a well-rounded squad with the right skills and dynamics. It’s like putting together a puzzle—each piece matters.
2. Trustworthiness
Can the gym count on you and your athlete to deliver consistently? That means skills, good behavior, and keeping up with financial commitments. Reliability is key.
3. Intangibles
Some athletes have that extra something—a non-tangible quality that sets them apart. Call it favoritism or industry perks, but connections and added value play a part. Some kids start the race ahead, and that’s just life.
4. Business Perspective
Gyms are businesses, and they perform a cost/benefit analysis on every athlete. They need to determine if your athlete is an asset or a liability. Everyone wants a good return on investment for their time, money, and efforts.
5. Handling Disappointment
Watching our kids struggle with disappointment is tough. Give your child a moment to feel all the feels, then hand her a journal to plan out how she’ll get what she wants next season. Encourage her to show the coaches she’s a leader and to support her teammates. Growth happens in many ways!
Why This is a Growing Moment
Instead of focusing on the missed level, encourage your athlete to perfect the level they are at now. Turn frustration into productive activities like stretching or improving technique. Once they master these skills, their confidence will soar.
If your child has been leveled down, it’s natural for them—and you—to feel disappointed. They might even consider quitting. Encourage them to persevere and work hard. With dedication, they can have an incredible season, make amazing friends, and possibly take on leadership roles that boost their confidence. This experience can help them return to their previous level stronger than ever. It may feel tough right now, but it could very well be for the best!
This will be their year to shine! When they’re ready, they’ll see this experience as an opportunity to become a huge asset to their new team. Embrace the journey and know that every step is crucial for their growth. Big hugs, and we can’t wait for an update in a couple of months about how they’re thriving and reaching new heights in their cheer journey!
Understanding USASF Levels
USASF levels help differentiate skill levels in All Star cheer, especially in tumbling and stunting. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Level 1: Cartwheels, round-offs, front and back walkovers, knee or waist-level single-leg stunts, two-footed preps, straight cradles.
- Level 2: Back handsprings, front handsprings, prep-level single-leg stunts, extended two-footed stunts, half-twisting mounts, beginning basket tosses.
- Level 3: Running tucks, standing series back handsprings, full-twisting mounts to prep, full-twisting dismounts, extended single-leg stunts.
- Level 4: Standing tucks, running layouts, full-twisting mounts to extended two-footed stunts, double-twisting dismounts, release moves to extended single-leg stunt.
- Level 5: Standing tumbling to full/double, running tumbling to full/double, full, 1.5, and double-twisting mounts, double-twisting dismounts, advanced release moves.
- Level 6: Tumbling comparable to Level 5, free-flipping mounts, flipping tosses, 2.5 high pyramids (an athlete holding an athlete who is holding another athlete).
Team Placement Based on Leveling System
Here are some tips on understanding your child’s team placement:
- Every Gym is Different: Each gym has its mission and values. An athlete’s level can vary depending on the program and tryout turnout.
- Factors Affecting Placement: Age, tumbling and stunting abilities, loyalty, and work ethic all play a role. If you’re unsure about the placement, ask the coach respectfully.
- Different Skills, Different Levels: Your athlete’s stunting level might differ from their tumbling level, complicating placement.
- Progression Through Levels: With six levels, athletes can spend multiple years at each level. Not rushing progression helps alleviate anxiety and maintain enthusiasm.
Remember, facing setbacks is a part of every athlete’s journey. Encourage your athlete to embrace their current level and focus on mastering their skills. This will build their confidence and prepare them for future success.
This could be their breakout year! They will see that this experience has opened the door to becoming a valuable asset to their new team. Each step of the journey is crucial for their growth. We’re excited to hear about their progress and achievements in the coming months.
Have a story to share or need more advice? Visit our Contact Us page to submit your articles or share your opinions anonymously. We’re here to support you on your cheer journey!
