Cheer Blog Updates
03/08/24 – Competitive Cheer & Dance Tryout Window and Spring Allowances Reminders
As a reminder to KHSAA member schools, there is a specific allowance in Bylaw 23 for Competitive Cheer and Dance teams to have a tryout period in the spring. During April, schools are permitted to designate a single two-week tryout period following which there shall be no further practice or competition outside of the defined season as detailed in Bylaw 23. Portions of Bylaw 23 are below for reference.
Bylaw 23) 1) f) states…
f) Organized Play and Involvement of Members of the Coaching Staff Out of Season During the School Year
12/06/23 – Competitive Cheer & Dance Tickets on Sale Now!
A reminder to coaches and fans that tickets for the State Competitive Cheer (December 8-9) and State Dance (December 10) are on sale now! Encourage your fans to purchase early! All ticket prices are in advance, $15 each per session which includes all fees. On the day of the event, prices per session increase to $17. Children ten-and-under will be admitted free, but must still “purchase” the free ticket through GoFan. All tickets will be sold online via GoFan, the KHSAA’s official digital ticket vendor. Tickets for each game are available online only at khsaatickets.org. All of the competitions will be broadcast live on khsaa.tv to subscribers of the NFHS Network.
2023 KHSAA STATE COMPETITIVE CHEER & DANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS PRESENTED BY UK HEALTHCARE
- khsaatickets.org
- khsaa.tv
- State Competitive Cheer Championship Program
- State Dance Championship Program
The official press release containing […]
12/06/23 – George Rogers Clark to Host Cheer, Dance State Championships Over Weekend
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DEC. 6, 2023
The 2023-24 KHSAA Competitive Cheer State Championships presented by UK HealthCare and the 2023-24 KHSAA Dance State Championships presented by UK HealthCare are set to return to George Rogers Clark in Winchester this weekend, with the former taking place Friday, Dec. 8, through Saturday, Dec. 9, and the latter taking place Sunday, Dec. 10.
The 12th annual Competitive Cheer State Championships will kick off the first of three sessions on Friday at 5 p.m. ET with Game Day Large and Game Day Small competition. On Saturday, All-Girls Large and Coed competition will begin at 9 a.m., followed by the All-Girls Small, All-Girls Medium and All-Girls Super divisions starting at 1:45 p.m.
The seventh annual Dance State Championships will open with Jazz and Game Day competition in the first of two sessions on Sunday at 1 p.m. and close with the Hip-Hop and Pom divisions starting at 4:30 p.m.
Tickets […]
12/04/23 – Media Credentials Now Available for Winter Championships
The KHSAA’s online media credentialing system for 2023-24 winter state championships (competitive cheer, dance, esports, wrestling, swimming & diving) is now live and can be accessed via credentials.khsaa.org.
The media credentialing system for the Mingua Beef Jerky Girls’ Basketball Sweet 16® and UK HealthCare Boys’ Basketball Sweet 16® will be made available at a later date.
Credentials to each KHSAA state championship event are issued by the KHSAA to working members of the media who regularly cover high school athletics. Credentials must be requested prior to the established deadline for each sport through the online credentialing system.
Credentials should be requested by the sports editor/director for all members of their organization needing to attend an event. Credentials for freelance photographers and stringers must be requested by the sports editor/director at the outlet the freelancer will be representing. Media outlets are responsible for the actions of all individuals representing their organization, including compliance with KHSAA […]
11/21/23 – State Competitive Cheer Time Schedules & Instructions Now Available
Congratulations to all participants and coaches who have qualified for the 2023 KHSAA State Competitive Cheer Championships presented by UK HealthCare. First and foremost, we would like to thank the regional host schools for all of their hard work and the success of the regional competitions. There are several items for your review on the Competitive Cheer page of the KHSAA website, including the state instructions, time schedules, order of appearance, maps, and more.
TIME SCHEDULES
PARTICIPATING TEAMS CONFERENCE CALL
Participating Teams are also invited to join the KHSAA in a conference call that will take place on Monday, December 4 at 1:30 PM (ET). Details about joining the call will be sent to participating coaches. State Championship details including parking, check-in procedures, ticketing, and other pertinent details related to attending the event will be discussed.
STATE INSTRUCTIONS
State Championship […]
11/15/23 – Board of Control Adopts Changes to State Formats For Swimming, Indoor Track & Field, Girls’ Wrestling; Sets State Archery Site, Accepts Results of Bylaw 9 Amendment
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: NOV. 15, 2023
The KHSAA Board of Control conducted its third regularly scheduled meeting of the 2023-24 academic year on Wednesday in Lexington, approving changes to the Swimming State Championship format and event implementation plans for the inaugural Indoor Track & Field and Girls’ Wrestling State Championships.
The Board approved the selection of Russell County High School (Regions 1-3), the University of Louisville (Regions 4-6) and Scott High School (Regions 7-9) as 2024 State First Round sites for Swimming and approved revisions to relay card procedures for the regional and state meet rounds to help address facility deck and crowd capacity concerns.
The Board also approved the increase of the total number of qualifiers advancing from the swimming & diving region meets to the State First Round to 48 per event statewide, including approval of the format structure for those three first-round events. This will result in a total of a total […]
11/01/23 – Competitive Cheer State Qualifiers Numbers Released
The number of qualifiers for each region and each division of Competitive Cheer is released in this notice. Statewide declarations supported the divisions with more than 16 participating schools entered to be pro-rated by region so as not to penalize larger regions. Any division with less than 16 entries will advance to the KHSAA State Championships provided each squad competes at the region event. After reviewing the declarations/withdrawals, this chart illustrates the updated number of squads per division and per region that will qualify for state competition.
All-Girls Small – minimum 5, maximum of 15 All-Girls Medium – minimum 16, maximum of 19 All-Girls Large – minimum 20, maximum of 23 All-Girls Super – minimum 24, maximum of 30 Coed Division – 1 or more boys, minimum 5, maximum of 30 Game Day, Small (minimum 5, maximum 17) Game Day, Large (minimum 18, maximum 30) Region Teams Entered Total Advancing to State Teams […]
10/19/23 – NFHS Understanding Copyright & Compliance Course Required for Cheer & Dance Coaches
This is a reminder that all KHSAA Cheer and Dance Coaches (Head and Assistant, paid or unpaid) must complete the NFHS Music Copyright Course “Understanding Copyright and Compliance”. This course is free and 100% online and is required whether or not a team competes in KHSAA competition. This course from the NFHS is geared toward music teachers, spirit coaches (cheer and dance) and school administrators. Understanding Copyright and Compliance is available through the NFHS Learning Center at www.NFHSLearn.com.
The course explores copyright laws and how those laws impact the interscholastic community and the course was produced with the assistance of NAME (National Association for Music Education) and USA Cheer. It also expands on topics such as fair use, public domain, copyright infringement penalties and much more. Spirit squads, as well as Dance teams, are increasingly met with copyright infringement claims and this course is a tool to assist cheer and dance coaches in education on […]
10/10/23 – 2023 KHSAA Competitive Cheer Regional Information & Instructions Available
Information pertaining to the KHSAA Competitive Cheer Regional competitions for 2023-24 has been posted to the KHSAA website. There are several items for participating schools to review prior to the competition on the Competitive Cheer page of the KHSAA website. This includes regional instructions for managers, participating teams, and fans as well as a detailed time schedule for each region.
INSTRUCTIONS/DECLARATIONS
- A link to the regional instructions is provided here:
- Declaration numbers have been compiled for 2023-24. Links to that information are below:
COACHES BOX
- Each regional site will have a “coaching box” of a maximum of 6 seats.
- Each participating school can decide who will occupy these seats during the school’s performance, as long as it doesn’t exceed six (6) total (i.e. 2 alternates, 4 coaches or 3 alternates, 3 coaches, etc.). […]
10/06/23 – KHSAA Announces 2022-23 NFHS State Coaches of the Year
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: OCT. 6, 2023
As part of its annual awards program, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Coaches Association recognizes Coach of the Year honorees from each state. Those named Coach of the Year at the state level then advance for consideration for Sectional Coach of the Year honors. Winners are chosen through a combination of their coaching accomplishments, particularly for the season in question, as well as their contributions outside of competition to help grow their respective sports. These awards are announced following the recognized year.
The complete list of 2022-23 honorees from Kentucky is below.
- Baseball: Jeremy Shope, Whitley County
- Boys’ Basketball: Josh Cook, George Rogers Clark
- Boys’ Cross Country: Brian Ruggles, North Oldham
- Football: Keegan Kendrick, Bullitt East
- Boys’ Golf: Kyle Congleton, Madison Central
- Boys’ Soccer: Stephen Collins, Ryle
- Boys’ Swimming & Diving: Mike Essig, Trinity (Louisville)
- Boys’ Tennis: Al Hertsenberg, Covington Catholic
- Boys’ Track & […]
09/18/23 – Competitive Cheer Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student-Athlete-of-the Year
The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year among Competitive Cheer participants for 2023-2024 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2023-2024 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but can be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/.
The winner will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards event at Midway University in early summer 2024. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the 2023-2024 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year announced at the event. All individual winners will also receive their recognition awards at that time.
The deadline for nominations for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year in the sport of […]
08/24/23 – Tentative 2023-2024 Competitive Cheer Regional Sites
The following schools are tentative sites for the 2023 Competitive Cheer Regionals. KHSAA Staff is finalizing details with host sites and once host schools accept all responsibilities/conditions of hosting a regional event, this list will be updated.08/18/23 – KAPOS Coaches Conference Information
On behalf of the Kentucky Association of Pep Organization Sponsors (KAPOS), the KHSAA wanted to send a note to member schools about the upcoming KAPOS Coaches Conference. This year’s event will be Saturday, August 26 at the KHSAA Office in Lexington. For more details and registration information, use the link below. Please contact KAPOS (hack.hudson@kapos.org) with any questions about this event.
08/14/23 – Competitive Cheer Declaration Form Now Open
The declaration form (CC101) for the sport-activity of Competitive Cheer is now open. Each member school shall only submit one form and you must be signed into the KHSAA School Subdomain to submit.
The deadline to complete this form is Friday, September 29. This is for KHSAA Regional and State Competitions, so please discuss what division(s) your school will be entering as there will be no adjustments to divisions once the entries are posted. Each member school Athletic Director or Head Coach shall only submit one form and must be signed into the KHSAA School subdomain (https://schools.khsaa.org/) to declare. You can find CC101 on the school subdomain under the dropdown menu “Forms and Reports” and under “Cheerleading Forms”.
SQUAD SIZES/DIVISIONS
- All-Girls Small – minimum of 5, maximum of 15
- All-Girls Medium – minimum of 16, maximum of 19
- All-Girls Large – minimum of 20, maximum of 23
- All-Girls Super-Large – minimum […]
08/14/23 – Competitive Cheer Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport-activity of Competitive Cheer is now available today, August 14. The clinic is required of all coaches (varsity, junior varsity, and freshman) whether or not the coach receives pay.
COACHES
For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, go to https://schools.khsaa.org/ and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link that says “View Online Rules Clinics“.
- August 14 to October 5 (Coaches) – the Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
- October 6 to October 20 (Coaches) – the Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
- October 21 to November 4 (Coaches) – the Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($200) during this period. After this time, postseason penalties […]
07/11/2023- Fall Sports Tryout Reminders
Good afternoon to all member schools. This message is intended for all member schools based on multiple inquiries received in the last few days. Please share this with all members of your fall sports coaching staff, and the coaches of Competitive Cheer and Dance. This post is not intended to be comprehensive regarding all aspects of Bylaw 23, but intended to highlight areas around tryouts.
References for this information come from the Bylaws of the Association, online as part of the KHSAA Handbook. There is not (and has never been) a separate tryout period for fall sports prior to the start of practice. Recently, we have been made aware that several schools have posted “tryouts” for fall sports that are being held prior to the first date of practice. This is not permitted.
SPORTS OF CROSS COUNTRY, FIELD HOCKEY, GOLF, SOCCER AND VOLLEYBALL
- Required activity (including tryouts) can begin for Cross Country, Field Hockey, […]
06/06/23 – Johnson, Ferree Named 2022-23 Midway/KHSAA Student-Athletes of the Year
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE 6, 2023
The 2022-23 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year awards program culminated this week on the campus of Midway University, as Rafaella Johnson of Elizabethtown (Cross Country) and George Ferree of Trinity (Louisville) (Wrestling) were recognized as the overall Student-Athletes of the Year.
Beginning in May 2016, Midway has presented a Female Student-Athlete of the Year award at each KHSAA girls’ state championship event. The awards program was expanded in 2019-20 to include male student-athletes, with Midway honoring a deserving student-athlete in each of the 19 officially recognized KHSAA sports and sport-activities.
The awards are based on athletic and academic achievement, as well as community service and leadership, with Midway choosing one overall Male and Female Student-Athlete of the Year each academic year. School administrators, coaches and athletic directors nominate student-athletes online at khsaa.org, and the nominees are voted upon by a closed panel consisting of representatives from Midway.
02/24/23 – Competitive Cheer & Dance Tryout Window and Spring Allowances Reminders
As a reminder to KHSAA member schools, there is a specific allowance in Bylaw 23 for Competitive Cheer and Dance teams to have a tryout period in the spring. During April, schools are permitted to designate a single two-week tryout period following which there shall be no further practice or competition outside of the defined season as detailed in Bylaw 23. Portions of Bylaw 23 are below for reference.
Bylaw 23) 1) f) states…
f) Organized Play and Involvement of Members of the Coaching Staff Out of Season During the School Year
03/24/23 – NFHS Announces Competitive Cheer, Dance Rule Changes
Released Inversions, Tosses to Stunts Highlight High School Spirit Rules Changes for 2023-24
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
INDIANAPOLIS (March 24, 2023) – Two major rules changes for the 2023-24 high school spirit season involve released inversions and tosses to stunts to clarify rules for consistency.
Continued efforts to promote skill development and minimize risk led to eight total rule changes recommended by the NFHS Spirit Rules Committee at its February 13-14 meeting in Orlando, Florida. All recommended changes were approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
Several rules regarding released inversions with various twisting limitations were consolidated into Rule 3-3-6a. As a result, every usage of a “half turn” was changed to a “one twist” to allow for consistency. This revision establishes the same twisting allowance for each type of landing. Previously, there were full twist-, half- and quarter-turn landings.
“Consolidating each landing to one twist considers sensible anatomic […]
12/19/22 – KHSAA Announces NFHS State Coach of the Year Honorees for 2021-22 Seasons
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DEC. 19, 2022
As part of its annual awards program, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Coaches Association recognizes Coach of the Year honorees from each state. Those named Coach of the Year at the state level then advance for consideration for Sectional Coach of the Year honors. Winners are chosen through a combination of their coaching accomplishments, as well as their contributions outside of competition to help grow their respective sports. These awards are announced following the recognized year.
The complete list of 2021-22 honorees from Kentucky is below.
Baseball: David Rexroat, Russell County
Boys’ Basketball: William Unseld, Warren Central
Girls’ Basketball: Kristy Orem, Pikeville
Boys’ Cross Country: Ian Johnstone, Conner
Girls’ Cross Country: Tom Stickel, Lexington Christian
Field Hockey: Jody Schaefer, Assumption
Football: Noel Rash, Beechwood
Boys’ Golf: Greg Zimmerer, Christian Academy-Louisville
Girls’ Golf: Sam Westfall, Madisonville-North Hopkins
[…]
12/08/22 – Competitive Cheer, Dance State Championships Return to George Rogers Clark
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DEC. 8, 2022
The 2022-23 KHSAA Competitive Cheer and Dance State Championships presented by UK HealthCare are set to return to George Rogers Clark in Winchester this weekend.
The KHSAA Competitive Cheer State Championships will kick off the 11th iteration of the event on Friday, starting at 5:15 p.m. ET with Game Day Large and Small competition. Saturday’s opening session, which features Coed, All-Girls Large and All-Girls Super lineups, will resume the contest at 9 a.m. Once Cardinal Arena is cleared between sessions, All-Girls Small and All-Girls Medium teams will start to compete at 2 p.m.
The sixth annual KHSAA Dance State Championships will begin with Jazz and Game Day routines at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday. The venue will once again clear at the conclusion of Sunday’s first session before Hip Hop and Pom competition will bring the weekend to a close, starting at 3 p.m.
Tickets to the event are only […]
12/07/22 – Media Credentials Now Available for Winter Championships
The KHSAA’s online media credentialing system for winter sports championships (competitive cheer, dance, eSports, bowling, swimming & diving, wrestling) is now live and can be accessed via the following link: credentials.khsaa.org
Credentials to each KHSAA State Championship event are issued by the KHSAA to working members of the media who regularly cover high school athletics. Credentials must be requested prior to the established deadline for each sport through the online credentialing system.
Credentials should be requested by the sports editor/director for all members of their organization needing to attend an event. Credentials for freelance photographers and stringers must be requested by the sports editor/director at the outlet the freelancer will be representing. Media outlets are responsible for the actions of all individuals representing their organization, including compliance with KHSAA policies and procedures. No credentials will be issued outside of the online credentialing system. The KHSAA reserves the right to limit the number of credentials […]
11/23/22 – State Competitive Cheer Time Schedules & Instructions Now Available
Congratulations to all participants and coaches who have qualified for the 2022-23 KHSAA State Competitive Cheer Championships presented by UK HealthCare. First and foremost, we would like to thank the regional host schools for all of their hard work and the success of the regional competitions. There are several items for your review on the Competitive Cheer page of the KHSAA website, including the state instructions, time schedules, order of appearance, maps, and more.
TIME SCHEDULES
PARTICIPATING TEAMS CONFERENCE CALL
Participating Teams are also invited to join the KHSAA in a conference call that will take place on Monday, December 5 at 1:30 PM (ET). Details about joining the call will be sent to participating coaches. State Championship details including parking, check-in procedures, ticketing, and other pertinent details related to attending the event will be discussed.
STATE INSTRUCTIONS
State Championship […]
11/03/22 – Competitive Cheer State Advancers Numbers Released
The number of qualifiers for each region and each division of Competitive Cheer is released in this notice. Statewide declarations supported the divisions with more than 16 participating schools entered to be pro-rated by region so as not to penalize larger regions. Any division with less than 16 entries will advance to the KHSAA State Championships provided each squad competes at the region event. After reviewing the declarations/withdrawals, this chart illustrates the updated number of squads per division and per region that will qualify for state competition.
All-Girls Small – minimum 5, maximum of 15
All-Girls Medium – minimum 16, maximum of 19
All-Girls Large – minimum 20, maximum of 23
All-Girls Super – minimum 24, maximum of 30
Coed Division – 1 or more boys, minimum 5, maximum of 30
Game Day, Small (minimum 5, maximum 17)
Game Day, Large (minimum 18, maximum 30)
Region
Teams Entered
Total Advancing to State
[…]10/25/22 – NFHS Understanding Copyright & Compliance Course Required for Cheer & Dance Coaches
This is a reminder that all KHSAA Cheer and Dance Coaches (Head and Assistant, paid or unpaid) must complete the NFHS Music Copyright Course “Understanding Copyright and Compliance”. This course is free and 100% online and is required whether or not a team competes in KHSAA competition. This course from the NFHS is geared toward music teachers, spirit coaches (cheer and dance) and school administrators. Understanding Copyright and Compliance is available through the NFHS Learning Center at www.NFHSLearn.com.
The course explores copyright laws and how those laws impact the interscholastic community and the course was produced with the assistance of NAME (National Association for Music Education) and USA Cheer. It also expands on topics such as fair use, public domain, copyright infringement penalties and much more. Spirit squads, as well as Dance teams, are increasingly met with copyright infringement claims and this course is a tool to assist cheer and dance coaches in education on […]
10/21/22 – Competitive Cheer Regional Information & Instructions Available
Information pertaining to the KHSAA Competitive Cheer Regional competitions for 2022-23 has been posted to the KHSAA website. There are several items for participating schools to review prior to the competition on the Competitive Cheer page of the KHSAA website. This includes regional instructions for managers, participating teams, and fans as well as a detailed time schedule for each region.
INSTRUCTIONS/DECLARATIONS
- A link to the regional instructions are provided here:
- Due to a high number of entries in the Game Day division, the KHSAA will offer a Small and Large Division this year for the postseason competition. Game Day Small will consist of 5-17 athletes on the floor and Game Day Large will consist of 18-30 athletes. Declaration numbers have been compiled for 2022-23. Links to that information are below:
TICKETS
- All regional […]
09/19/22 – Competitive Cheer Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year Award
The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year among Competitive Cheer participants for 2022-2023 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2022-23 team. Nominations must come from a member school but may be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/
The winner will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards banquet at Midway University in early summer 2023. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the 2022-2023 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year and announced at the banquet. All individual winners will also receive their recognition at that banquet.
The deadline for nominations for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year in […]
09/06/22 – Competitive Cheer Declaration Form Now Open
The declaration form (CC101) for the sport-activity of Competitive Cheer is now open. Each member school shall only submit one form and you must be signed into the KHSAA School Subdomain to submit.
The deadline to complete this form is Saturday, October 1. This is for KHSAA Regional and State Competitions, so please discuss what division(s) your school will be entering as there will be no adjustments to divisions once the entries are posted. Each member school Athletic Director or Head Coach shall only submit one form and must be signed into the KHSAA School subdomain (https://schools.khsaa.org/) to declare. You can find CC101 on the school subdomain under the dropdown menu “Forms and Reports” and under “Cheerleading Forms”.
SQUAD SIZES/DIVISIONS
- All-Girls Small – minimum of 5, maximum of 15
- All-Girls Medium – minimum of 16, maximum of 19
- All-Girls Large – minimum of 20, maximum of 23
- All-Girls Super-Large – minimum of 24, […]
08/29/22 – Competitive Cheer Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport-activity of Competitive Cheer is available beginning today, August 29. The clinic is required of all coaches (varsity, junior varsity, and freshman) and whether or not the coach receives pay.
For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, go to https://schools.khsaa.org/ and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link that says “View Online Rules Clinics“.
- August 29 to October 6– the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
- October 7 to October 21 – the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
- October 22 to November 5 – the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($200) per the Bylaw 27 schedule […]
08/16/22 – KAPOS Coaches Conference Information
On behalf of the Kentucky Association of Pep Organization Sponsors (KAPOS), the KHSAA wanted to send a note to member schools about the upcoming KAPOS Coaches Conference. This year’s event will be Saturday, August 27 at the KHSAA Office in Lexington. For more details and registration information, use the link below. Please contact KAPOS with any questions about this event. Coaches Conference07/29/22 – Competitive Cheer Postseason Update & Regional Hosts Sought
The KHSAA office is accepting applications to host the regionals of the Competitive Cheer postseason. Four hosts are needed, and regions can alternate host sites (Region 1 one year and Region 2 site the next) or choose a permanent location based upon facility abilities and availability. The competition rules will stipulate that the odd region listed in the alternation table would recommend the region site in the odd year and the even region in the even year. Sites selected must be able to accommodate the historic crowds, similar to the criteria for the current basketball site selection.
Athletic Administrators from both combined regions are responsible for making decisions such as expenses and division of any revenue as a group. The “host” region is not solely responsible for this and this will be a discussion topic at the upcoming fall Regional Meetings with schools.
The Commissioner’s office would […]
06/11/22- Kopser, Gloyd Named 2021-22 Midway/KHSAA Student-Athletes of the Year
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE 11, 2022
The 2021-22 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year awards program culminated this week on the campus of Midway University, as Renae Kopser (Ryle) and Ben Gloyd (Mayfield) were recognized as the overall Student-Athletes of the Year.
Beginning in May of 2016, Midway University started presenting a Female Student-Athlete of the Year award at each KHSAA girls’ state championship event. The awards program was expanded in 2019-20 to include male student-athletes, with Midway honoring a deserving student-athlete in each of the 19 officially recognized KHSAA sports and sport-activities.
The awards are based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership, with Midway choosing one overall male and female student-athlete of the year each academic year. School administrators, coaches and athletic directors nominate student-athletes online at KHSAA.org, and the nominees are voted upon by a closed panel consisting of representatives from Midway University.
2021-22 Midway University/KHSAA […]
Hair Adornments, Padding Requirements Among Risk-Based Rules Changes Set for High School Spirit in 2022-23
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (March 11, 2022) — In consideration of expanded inclusivity, rules allowing securely affixed hair adornments such as beads and other devices were recently adopted for the 2022-23 high school spirit season.
The change allowing for such devices to be safely worn in the hair, which impacts Rule 2-1-5, is accompanied by another rule focused on increased risk minimization that disallows altered supports and/or braces from a manufacturer (Rule 2-1-11).
Collectively, those two focal points were among nine total rules changes recommended by the NFHS Spirit Rules Committee at its February 13-14 meeting in Orlando. Each of the revisions, many of which address ongoing efforts to minimize risk of injury to the sport’s participants, were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“The NFHS Spirit Rules Committee continues to review and refine the safety rules for students in cheerleading and dance,” said James Weaver, NFHS […]
03/07/22- UK HealthCare Expands Partnership with KHSAA, Continues Long-Term Commitment to State Championship Events
UK HealthCare and the KHSAA announced Monday that they have expanded their long-time partnership. UK HealthCare, the hospitals and clinics of the University of Kentucky, will serve as the official health care provider for the KHSAA. This move will see UK HealthCare take its title sponsorship of the KHSAA State Football Championship and extend the term of that arrangement, become the title sponsor for the Boys’ Sweet Sixteen® Basketball tournament and serve as presenting sponsor for other KHSAA sports and sport-activity championships.
“We’re honored to be the official health care provider for KHSAA,” said Mark F. Newman, M.D., UK executive vice president for health affairs. “At UK HealthCare, we are always looking to partner with organizations across the state to provide top-tier health care to every Kentuckian who needs it. We appreciate the opportunity to extend this care to the young athletes of Kentucky.”
UK HealthCare has […]
02/28/22 – Competitive Cheer & Dance Tryout Window
As a reminder to KHSAA member schools, there is a specific allowance in Bylaw 23 for Competitive Cheer and Dance teams to have a tryout period in the spring. During April, schools are permitted to designate a single two-week tryout period following which there shall be no further practice or competition outside of the defined season as detailed in Bylaw 23.
Please contact Sarah Bridenbaugh (sbridenbaugh@khsaa.org) should you have any questions.
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school athletics in the Commonwealth. The Association is a voluntary nonprofit 501(c)3 organization made up of 286 member schools both public and non-public. The KHSAA awards 215 state championships to 51 teams and 164 individuals in 13 sports and 6 sport-activities, funds catastrophic insurance coverage […]
12/09/21 – State Competitive Cheer, State Dance Championships Start Friday at George Rogers Clark
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 9, 2021
Ten state championship trophies will be claimed this weekend in Winchester as George Rogers Clark High School hosts the 2021-22 KHSAA State Competitive Cheer (Dec. 10-11) and 2021-22 KHSAA State Dance Championships (Dec. 12). Tickets to the event are only available for purchase online and can be found at khsaatickets.org. The entirety of the state competitive cheer and state dance championships will be streamed live at khsaa.tv for subscribers to the NFHS Network.
The 10th annual KHSAA State Competitive Cheer Championships begin Friday, Dec. 10 at 4:30 p.m. with the Game Day division. The competition continues Saturday, Dec. 11 at 9 a.m. with the first session featuring the All-Girls’ Small, Large and Super divisions. Cardinal Arena will be cleared following the conclusion of the first session, with the second session (featuring the All-Girls’ Medium and Coed divisions) scheduled for a 2 p.m. start time.
The fifth annual […]
12/08/21- KHSAA Announces NFHS State Coach of the Year Honorees for 2020-21 Seasons
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 8, 2021
As part of its annual awards program, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Coaches Association recognizes Coach of the Year honorees from each state. Those named Coach of the Year at the state level then advance for consideration for Sectional Coach of the Year honors. Winners are chosen through a combination of their coaching accomplishments as well as their contributions outside of competition to help grow their respective sport. These awards are announced during the late fall following the recognized year.
The complete list of honorees from Kentucky for 2020-21 is:
Boys Baseball- Richard Arnold, Trinity (Louisville)
Boys Basketball- Kevin Listerman, Highlands
Girls Basketball- Aaron Beth, Marshall County
Boys Cross Country- Joe Buechler, Holy Cross (Louisville)
Girls Cross Country- Brian Allesandro, Highlands
Girls Field Hockey- Amy Elliott, Kentucky Country Day
Boys Football (11-Player)- Justin Haddix, Boyle County
Boys Golf- James Chaney, Trinity (Louisville)
Girls Golf- Aaron […]
11/30/21 – State Competitive Cheer Time Schedules Now Available
The time schedules for the 2021-22 KHSAA State Competitive Cheer Championships have been posted on the KHSAA website. Coaches are encouraged to review this information prior to the state championships.
Detailed Station-By-Station Time Schedule
A conference call for participating teams will take place on Monday, December 6 at 1:30 PM (ET). Participating coaches will be sent the virtual meeting invite prior to the meeting. State Championship Instructions are also being finalized and pertinent details/changes will be covered during the conference call. Tickets are also available at khsaatickets.org
Please contact Sarah Bridenbaugh (sbridenbaugh@khsaa.org) should you have any questions.
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school athletics in the Commonwealth. The Association is a voluntary nonprofit 501(c)3 organization made […]
11/05/21 – Competitive Cheer State Advancers Numbers Released
The number of qualifiers for each region and each division of Competitive Cheer is released in this notice. Statewide declarations supported the divisions with more than 16 participating schools entered to be pro-rated by region so as not to penalize larger regions. Any division with less than 16 entries will advance to the KHSAA State Championships provided each squad competes at the region event. After reviewing the declarations/withdrawals, this chart illustrates the updated number of squads per division and per region that will qualify for state competition.
All-Girls Small – minimum 5, maximum of 15
All-Girls Medium – minimum 16, maximum of 19
All-Girls Large – minimum 20, maximum of 23
All-Girls Super – minimum 24, maximum of 30
Coed Division – 1 or more boys, minimum 5, maximum of 30
Game Day – minimum 5, maximum of 30
Region
Teams Entered
Total Advancing to State
Teams Entered
Total Advancing to State
Teams Entered
[…]11/01/21 – Competitive Cheer Regional Information & Instructions Available
Information pertaining to the KHSAA Competitive Cheer Regional competitions for 2021-22 has been posted to the KHSAA website. There are several items for participating schools to review prior to the competition on the Competitive Cheer page of the KHSAA website. This includes regional instructions for managers, participating teams, and fans as well as a detailed time schedule for each region.
INSTRUCTIONS/DECLARATIONS
- A link to the regional instructions are provided here:
-
Declaration numbers have been compiled for 2021-22. Links to that information are below:
TICKETS
- All regional competitive cheer competition tickets will be sold online via GoFan, the KHSAA’s official digital ticket vendor.
- There shall be no paper tickets sold at the walk-up gate.
- All regional competitive cheer competition ticket prices are $10 each per session, plus electronic transaction fees that are […]
10/12/21 – NFHS Understanding Copyright & Compliance Course Required for Cheer & Dance Coaches
This is a reminder that all KHSAA Cheer and Dance Coaches (Head and Assistant, paid or unpaid) must complete the NFHS Music Copyright Course “Understanding Copyright and Compliance”. This course is free and 100% online and is required whether or not a team competes in KHSAA competition. This course from the NFHS is geared toward music teachers, spirit coaches (cheer and dance) and school administrators. Understanding Copyright and Compliance is available through the NFHS Learning Center at www.NFHSLearn.com.
The course explores copyright laws and how those laws impact the interscholastic community and the course was produced with the assistance of NAME (National Association for Music Education) and USA Cheer. It also expands on topics such as fair use, public domain, copyright infringement penalties and much more. Spirit squads, as well as Dance teams, are increasingly met with copyright infringement claims and this course is a tool to assist cheer and dance coaches in education […]
10/08/21- Changes in COVID-19 RTA/RTP Implemented Per SMAC Guidance
As they have done since the start of the pandemic, the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC) composed of Kentucky Medical Association (KMA) member doctors has held multiple special meetings to continually review the Return to Play Guidance and Recommendations (RTA/RTP). As a result of those continued meetings and review of current and evolving literature, changes have been made to the RTA/RTP and RTA/RTP form and those changes are located at https://khsaa.org/resources/Covid19/CovidResumptionofSports/ApprovedVersion/kma-covid-rtp-algorithm.pdf. For districts that have summarily adopted the “KHSAA” recommendations, these changes should be considered immediate.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, this group has been passionate advocates for the students being involved in sport due to the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual benefits, but also for safety in mitigating the spread of the virus. They are also keenly aware of the first priority of nearly everyone in the education community, that being a full year […]
09/20/21 – Competitive Cheer Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport-activity of Competitive Cheer is available beginning today, September 20. The clinic is required of all coaches (varsity, junior varsity, and freshman) and whether or not the coach receives pay.
For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, go to https://schools.khsaa.org/ and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link that says “View Online Rules Clinics“.
- September 20 to October 17– the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
- October 18 to October 24 – the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
- October 25 to November 1 – the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($200) per the Bylaw 27 schedule […]
2021-22 UCA Cheer Judging Sheets and Information
2021-22 UCA Cheer Judging Sheets and Information
09/13/21 – Competitive Cheer Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year Award
The KHSAA is excited to open the nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year among Competitive Cheer participants for 2021-22.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2021-22 team. Nominations must come from a member school but may be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/
The winner will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards banquet at Midway University in early summer 2022. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the 2021-2022 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year and announced at the banquet. All winners will also receive their recognition at that banquet.
The deadline for nominations for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the […]
09/01/21 – Competitive Cheer Declaration Form Now Open
The declaration form (CC101) for the sport-activity of Competitive Cheer is now open. The deadline to complete this form is Friday, October 1. This is for KHSAA Regional and State Competitions, so please discuss what division(s) your school will be entering as there will be no adjustments to divisions once the entries are posted. Each member school Athletic Director or Head Coach shall only submit one form and must be signed into the KHSAA School subdomain to declare. You can find CC101 on the school subdomain under the dropdown menu “Forms and Reports” and under “Cheerleading Forms”.
A couple of important notes:
SQUAD SIZES
- All-Girls Small – minimum of 5, maximum of 15
- All-Girls Medium – minimum of 16, maximum of 19
- All-Girls Large – minimum of 20, maximum of 23
- All-Girls Super-Large – minimum of 24, maximum of 30
- Co-Ed – minimum of 5, maximum of 30; 1 or more males.
- Game Day […]
08/17/21 – KAPOS Coaches Conference Information
On behalf of the Kentucky Association of Pep Organization Sponsors (KAPOS), the KHSAA wanted to send a note to member schools about the upcoming KAPOS Coaches Conference. This year’s event will be Saturday, August 21 at the KHSAA Office in Lexington. For more details and registration information, use the link below. Please contact KAPOS with any questions about this event.
http://www.kapos.org/coaches-conference/
05/12/21 – KHSAA State Competitive Cheer, State Dance Championships Head to George Rogers Clark HS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 12, 2021
Multiple state champions will be determined this week in Winchester as George Rogers Clark High School hosts the 2020-21 KHSAA Competitive Cheer (May 13-14) and 2020-21 KHSAA Dance Championships (May 16). Both events will be streamed live at khsaa.tv for subscribers to the NFHS Network, with a limited number of tickets available for purchase at khsaatickets.org.
The ninth annual KHSAA State Competitive Cheer Championships begin Thursday, May 13 with the Game Day division. The first session is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by the second session at 1 p.m.
The competition continues Friday, May 14 with the Coed and All-Girls’ Small divisions in the first session of the day at 9:30 a.m. The second session will feature the All-Girls’ Large and All-Girls’ Super divisions and is set to begin at 12:40 p.m. The final session of the day will include the All-Girls’ Medium division and […]
05/10/21- Senate Bill 128: Supplemental School Year Program Additional Guidance Related to NCAA
Information specific to this topic is now included in the compiled SB128 SSYP Informational post at https://bit.ly/3dUJ9us
05/07/21 – State Competitive Cheer Information
Additional information about the 2021 KHSAA State Competitive Cheer Championships has been posted to the KHSAA website. State championship instructions, competition schedule, maps and directions that were covered in the conference call can all be found at https://khsaa.org/sports/winter/competitive-cheer/ under the “State Competitive Cheer Information and Instructions” dropdown menu. Coaches are encouraged to review all information prior to attending the state championships.
Coaches are reminded to be sure to have GoFan comp tickets for the entire squad, and up to two (2) coaches, which were sent to the Athletic Director for each competing school. All tickets will be redeemed on their phone at either the main ticket gate or pass gate.
This year’s championship will take place at George Rogers Clark High School in Winchester on May 13-14. Game Day squads will compete on May 13th with the first performance at 10:30 AM (ET) and all other divisions (All-Girls Small, Medium, Large, Super and Coed) […]
05/03/21 – State Competitive Cheer Time Schedule Now Available
The regional results for all eight (8) competitive cheer regionals, as well as the time schedules for the 2021 KHSAA State Competitive Cheer Championships, have been posted on the KHSAA website. Coaches are encouraged to review this information prior to the state championships.
Detailed Station-By-Station Time Schedule
A conference call for participating teams will take place on Thursday, May 6 at 10:30 AM (ET). Participating coaches will be sent the virtual meeting invite prior to the meeting. State Championship Instructions are also being finalized and pertinent details/changes will be covered during the conference call.
Please contact Sarah Bridenbaugh (sbridenbaugh@khsaa.org) should you have any questions.
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school athletics in the Commonwealth. The Association is a voluntary nonprofit […]
04/19/21 – Competitive Cheer & Dance Tryout Window
During the February Board of Control meeting, it was approved for 2021 only, a two-week tryout window that may begin the Monday following the state championship in each activity if desired by the member schools. We wanted to notify Competitive Cheer & Dance participating schools that the tryout window for 2021 is May 17 – May 30. There shall be no further official practice or play during the remainder of the academic school year.
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school athletics in the Commonwealth. The Association is a voluntary nonprofit 501(c)3 organization made up of 284 member schools both public and non-public. The KHSAA awards 215 state championships to 51 teams and 164 individuals in 13 sports and 6 sport-activities, funds catastrophic […]
04/16/21 – Region Cheer Reminders & Update
As cheer regionals begin this weekend, the KHSAA wanted to update member schools on a few details.
TICKETS AND TICKETING
- All regional competitive cheer competition tickets will be sold online via GoFan, the KHSAA’s official digital ticket vendor.
- There shall be no paper tickets sold at the walk-up gate.
- All regional competitive cheer competition ticket prices are $10 each per session, plus electronic transaction fees that are not received by the KHSAA.
- Children five-and-under will be admitted free, but must still “purchase” the free ticket through GoFan.
- No coaches’ cards, KHSAA Administrator cards or officials’ ID cards shall be honored at the gate.
- Tickets are now on sale for the April 17th regions at khsaatickets.org.
COACHES AND TICKETING
- For 2021, primarily due to limitations on attendance during the pandemic, the team party comp tickets are limited to a maximum of two (2) coaches and two (2) alternate cheerleaders. Whether or not […]
04/13/21 – Competitive Cheer Region Information
Regional instructions for 2021 Competitive Cheer managers, teams and fans have been posted to the KHSAA website. A link is also provided below for you.
https://khsaa.org/cheer/region/2021/postseasoninstructions.pdf
At the regional competitions, in order to accommodate larger competitions and the need for social distancing among spectators and eliminate mass gatherings, no regional trophies and awards presentation will be made but those earned trophies will be given to the teams upon arrival at the state championship. Due to capacity restrictions, it is important to note that for 2021 ONLY, each squad will be limited to a maximum of two (2) alternates and a maximum of two (2) coaches. Any additional team members will be required to purchase a ticket through GoFan.
Regional Time Schedules have also been posted for each region.
With the exception of the Game […]
04/12/21- Senate Bill 128: Supplemental School Year Program Guidance for Sports and Sport-Activities
For a complete list of the provisions and information related to the implementation of SB128 and the SSYP, please see the following document-
04/06/21 – Reducing Injury Risk During Inversions, Release Stunts and Tosses Focus of 2021-22 High School Spirit Rules Changes
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Adjusted points of contact that reduce injury risk during inversions and release stunts and tosses are the most notable revisions in the 2021-22 high school spirit rules.
At its recent virtual meeting, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Spirit Rules Committee produced rules changes that emphasized the committee’s continued focus on risk minimization. A total of seven proposals were recommended to the NFHS Board of Directors, which reviewed and later approved the changes to take effect next year.
“The NFHS Spirit Rules Committee continues its efforts to increase the health and safety of all cheer and dance participants,” said Dr. James Weaver, NFHS director of performing arts and sports and liaison to the NFHS Spirit Rules Committee. “This year’s rules changes allow for good safety practices and allow for education and practice in the sport of spirit.”
To reduce injury risk for the top person in a pyramid during […]
08/17/21 – Competitive Cheer Tentative Regional Sites
2021-22 KHSAA COMPETITIVE CHEER REGION COMPETITION DATES/SITES
Cheer Regions
Site
Date
Manager
Manager Email
1-2
Bowling Green
November 6
Steve Dotson
stephan.dotson@bgreen.kyschools.us
3-4
Valley
November 6
Robert Vinegar
robert.vinegar@jefferson.kyschools.us
5-6
Pulaski County
November 20
Sherry Pardue
spardue64@gmail.com
7-8
Breathitt County
November 20
Jeff Huffman
jeffrey.huffman@carter.kyschools.us
Please contact Assistant Commissioner Sarah Bridenbaugh (sbridenbaugh@khsaa.org) should you have any questions pertaining to Competitive Cheer.
03/05/21 – Change in Attendance Limitation Recommendation
We have confirmed that officially, effective today, all of the guidance limitations within the Governor’s orders on a variety of venues have been changed. The venue recommendations for limitation have been changed throughout the state increasing by ten percent each. Therefore the recommended maximum attendance threshold is increased to 25% of capacity effective today for indoor events hosted by our member schools. While this remains guidance, it is obviously in the best interest, legally and otherwise, of our member schools. Universal masking remains required, social distancing is to be consistently applied to the fullest extent possible.
It is certainly not required to change current procedures, but this does give them some planning time for upcoming events week. Guidance documents for spring outdoor events will be revised in the coming days to reflect this change.
From talking to so many of you, there remains considerable confusion in our membership as to the differences between “venues” as […]
03/04/21 – Competitive Cheer Postseason Updates
The KHSAA has totaled declarations for Competitive Cheer for the 2021 season. After evaluation and for this year only, there will be four (4) postseason sites and those dates have now been set. It is recommended that any site that was previously planning to host a regional competition in 2021 be afforded that opportunity again in 2022. No changes were made to the regional alignments and competition will remain intra-region at the regional level but with fewer sites in response to the number of declarations and to aid in judging panel logistics.
At the regional competitions, in order to accommodate larger competitions and the need for social distancing among spectators and eliminate mass gatherings, no regional trophies and awards presentation will be made but those earned trophies will be given to the teams upon arrival at the state championship.
With the exception of the Game Day division, a maximum of the top two finishers in […]
02/20/21- Interim Guidance Regarding Spring Sports Travel
While spring sports guidance is in final production, the office has received several inquiries regarding travel for spring sports. There will effectively be no changes from the winter sports guidance and each guidance document will include enhancements and sources available at the present time. The following represents the recommended guidance for the member schools and will be published in the guidance documents for all spring sports and sport-activities.
Restrictions/Recommendations On In-State Contests
- While local decision-making is a hallmark relative to the management of Kentucky schools, there remain several recommendations relative to team travel in- and out-of-state. (CONSIDER)
- This guidance is not intended to make local district decisions less or more difficult or provide an arbitrary decision path for such consideration, but rather to ensure that all issues are considered as travel is contemplated. (CONSIDER)
- This guidance and similar guidance from the KHSAA, KDE and KDPH is aimed at mitigating the risk of COVID-19 exposure […]
02/22/21 – Competitive Cheer Nominations Sought for Midway/KHSAA Student Athlete-of-the-Year Awards
The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete-of-the-Year among Competitive Cheer participants for 2020-2021 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. Males and females can be nominated in this category. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2020-2021 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but can be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/
One winner for Competitive Cheer will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards banquet at Midway University in early summer 2021. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the 2020-2021 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete-of-the-Year and announced at the banquet. All winners will also receive their recognition at that banquet.
The deadline for nominations for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete […]
01/22/21 – Competitive Cheer Postseason Updates
Following the Board of Control’s January 21 meeting, we wanted to update the membership on some details as we go forward in the Competitive Cheer season. Keeping in mind the availability of judges, the date of Nationals from the Universal Cheer Association (UCA) was vital in setting our postseason dates. We realize that there are other competitions and conflicts that may exist, but some conflicts will inhibit our ability to secure judging personnel if not properly known.
Our review of options and plans will include consideration of the feasibility of accomplishing the following objectives (if possible) in priority order:
1) Maintain an optimal number of qualifying teams, even if the field is subdivided differently than past practice;
2) A focus on ensuring, at minimum, parental attendance, as permitted within current approved state and local health department guidelines, with additional attendance considerations being reviewed if public health considerations warrant such;
3) Anything discussed and […]
01/21/21 – Board of Control Reviews Status of Winter and Spring Sports
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 21, 2021
The Board of Control held its fourth regularly-scheduled meeting of the 2020-21 academic year on Thursday at the KHSAA Office, conducting a thorough status review of ongoing operations and championship plans. Staff provided an overview of all winter and spring sports and sport-activities, while outlining considerations and options for the winter events that will be presented for final review at the Board’s next meeting on Feb. 17.
“Today’s meeting provided an opportunity to update the Board of Control and our constituency on the various issues and COVID-19 mitigations facing each of our sports and sport-activities,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “Circumstances change rapidly during the pandemic but we hope to have a clearer picture for how we can proceed with our winter championships when the Board next meets in February.”
Included in the staff’s report on basketball, was a preliminary discussion on ticketing to the 2021 Boys’ and Girls’ […]
12/10/20- Board of Control Confirms Decision to Start Winter Sports Practice December 14
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 10, 2020
The Board of Control conducted a special meeting on Thursday morning, upholding its earlier decision by a 12-5 vote to begin practice for winter sports on Dec. 14th and regular-season competition on Jan. 4th. Prior to confirming the start of the winter sports season, the Board voted 12-5 to push back the dates for the boys’ and girls’ Sweet 16® to March 29-April 8 after narrowly defeating other alternative dates, with the event schedule and format to be finalized at a later date in consultation with Rupp Arena.
“These are extremely complex issues. Our Board has spent an extraordinary amount of time examining every aspect surrounding the resumption of sports, particularly those that are indoors and have extreme concerns from public health officials,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “At the same time, there is significant data being shared about the need for students to be engaged with one another […]
05/12/20 – Competitive Cheer Regional Dates (UPDATED 12/02/20)
The KHSAA wanted to notify all Competitive Cheer schools on the postseason dates for 2020-21 Regional competition. The dates for the KHSAA Regional Competitions are as follows:
Week #1Regions 1@2; 7@8; 9@10; 13@14
TBD
UCA Bluegrass (OPEN, NO REGIONS) *TBD Week #2Regions 3@4; 5@6; 11@12; 15@16
TBD
Regions can alternate host sites (Schools in Basketball Region 1 one year and Basketball Region 2 site the next) or choose to have a permanent site based upon facility abilities and availability. The competition rules stipulate the odd region listed in the alternation table would recommend the region site in the odd year, and the even region in the even year. Sites selected must be able to accommodate the historic crowds, similar to the criteria for the current basketball site selection.
Athletic Administrators from both combined regions are responsible for making decisions such as ticket price, expenses, and division of any revenue […]
11/19/20 – Board of Control Pushes Back Start of Winter Sports Season to January 4
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 19, 2020
The Board of Control conducted its third regularly-scheduled meeting of the 2020-21 academic year on Wednesday and elected to postpone the start of the winter sports season to January 4th by unanimous vote. In congruence with the Governor’s order issued later the same day, official practice for all indoor interscholastic winter sports shall cease on Friday, November 20 at 5 p.m. and is planned to resume on Monday, December 14. This cessation will apply to all indoor interscholastic sports at all school levels, including but not limited to basketball, bowling, competitive cheer, dance, indoor track and field, swimming, and wrestling.
Details regarding any allowances for indoor interscholastic sports, which will be restricted prior to December 14, will be distributed to the membership prior to the Governor’s ordered shutdown of school-related in-person activity on Friday, November 20. The season calendar for each winter sport, as well as current virus data […]
11/10/20 – NFHS Understanding Copyright and Compliance Course Required for Cheer & Dance Coaches
This is a reminder that all KHSAA Cheer and Dance Coaches (Head and Assistant, paid or unpaid) must complete the NFHS Music Copyright Course “Understanding Copyright and Compliance”. This course is free and 100% online and is required whether or not a team competes in KHSAA competition. This course from the NFHS is geared toward music teachers, spirit coaches (cheer and dance) and school administrators. Understanding Copyright and Compliance is available through the NFHS Learning Center at www.NFHSLearn.com.
The course explores copyright laws and how those laws impact the interscholastic community and the course was produced with the assistance of NAME (National Association for Music Education) and USA Cheer. It also expands on topics such as fair use, public domain, copyright infringement penalties and much more. Spirit squads, as well as Dance teams, are increasingly met with copyright infringement claims and this course is a tool to assist cheer and dance coaches in education […]
09/25/20 – 2020-21 Competitive Cheer Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport-activity of Competitive Cheer is available beginning today, September 25. The clinic is required of all coaches (varsity, junior varsity, and freshman) and whether or not the coach receives pay.
For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, go to https://schools.khsaa.org/ and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link that says “View Online Rules Clinics“.
August 26 to December 8 – the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
December 9 to December 28 – the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
December 29 to January 11 – the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($200) per the Bylaw […]
09/25/20 – Competitive Cheer Declaration Form Now Open
The declaration form (CC101) for the sport-activity of Competitive Cheer is now open. The deadline to complete this form is Monday, November 9th. This is for KHSAA Regional and State Competitions, so please discuss with your coach what division(s) your school will be entering as there will be no adjustments to divisions once the entries are posted. Each member school Athletic Director shall only submit one form and must be signed into the KHSAA School subdomain to declare. You can find CC101 on the school subdomain under the dropdown menu “Forms and Reports” and under “Cheerleading Forms”.
A couple of important notes that were shared in the online rules clinic about division-size changes:
- All-Girls Small – minimum of 5, maximum of 15
- All-Girls Medium – minimum of 16, maximum of 19
- All-Girls Large – minimum of 20, maximum of 23
- All-Girls Super-Large – minimum of 24, maximum of 30
- Co-Ed – minimum of 5, […]
09/25/20 – Cheer Guidance Clarifications
The KHSAA office has received several inquiries about the segments outlined in the Return to Competition document for Cheer. As a reminder, returning to stunt is broken into Segments.
- Segment 1: September 21 through October 4
- Segment 2: October 5 through October 18
- Segment 3: October 19 and beyond
It is important to note that any activity during the first segment (September 21 – October 4) is limited to the third level of USA Cheer resumption (Contact) phases. Inquiries into the office mostly surrounded the first portion of that phase: Partner stunts may begin but shall not exceed two per group/unit with one spotter. This limits any stunting in Segment 1 to single base stunts. Keep in mind, each pair (with its spotter) shall be at least 6 feet apart, but preferably 10 feet apart if possible from other stunt units with no mixing of stunt personnel between groups. Stunts may only dismount by […]
09/16/20- Board of Control Approves Dates for Winter Sports to Begin Practice
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 16, 2020
The KHSAA Board of Control held its second regularly-scheduled meeting of the 2020-21 academic year Wednesday morning, approving practice and competition dates for the winter sports and sport-activities of basketball, bowling, competitive cheer, dance, swimming & diving, and wrestling.
Bowling is permitted to practice on November 2. Competitive cheer and dance can begin official practice for its seasons this Monday, September 21 with a gradual segmented approach to activity over the next few weeks. Further details will be distributed to the member schools that allow for the resumption. Both competitive cheer and dance have already seen regional championships moved into the new year per the board’s July meeting. In cheer, these segments will further clarify “stunting” which has been restricted during the pandemic and resumption to play.
Additionally, the Board approved clarifications on sideline cheer in that stunting (defined per NFHS rules as “One or more bases support one […]
9/10/20 – Sideline and Competitive Cheer Additional Information
Unfortunately, there is misinformation being spread among the cheer community that needs to be clarified. First and foremost, all coaches should be aware that the only official answers need to come from the KHSAA. Please don’t rely on outside sources for information, even though those individuals are likely well-intentioned. School administrators and personnel know that Sarah Bridenbaugh is the primary contact for cheer (both Sideline and Competitive) at the KHSAA and can be reached via email at sbridenbaugh@khsaa.org. Other interested individuals should direct their questions through the local school.
Keep the following parameters in mind as you think about cheer (both sideline and competitive), taken from publications and websites from both USA Cheer and UCA as well as other cheer organizations.
- Sideline cheer is generally during the fall and winter, and the primary focus is to engage with the fans and keep the spirit high during events and school sports, such as football […]
08/20/20- Board of Control Upholds Decision to Begin Fall Sports September 7
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 20, 2020
The Board of Control held a virtual Zoom meeting Thursday morning, affirming its July position by a 16-2 vote to begin practice for fall sports on August 24th with competition starting the week of September 7th. The Board considered two other motions during the meeting, both of which would have delayed the start of the fall seasons to varying degrees, but neither motion received enough support for adoption.
The fall sports of Field Hockey, Soccer, Volleyball, Cross Country, and Football can begin official practice August 24, with a restriction of 7.5 hours of practice during the first week (as previously approved by the Board) and full practice starting Monday, August 31.
“We hope to submit practice revisions early Friday following the Board’s approval, which will hopefully be relatively minimal. If approved to expand numbers and activity, it will hopefully bring a more normal look to some practices while still […]
07/28/20- Board of Control Approves Fall Sports to Begin Practice August 24
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 28, 2020
The Board of Control conducted a virtual meeting Tuesday morning via Zoom, during which time it addressed the future of the 2020 fall sports season. With 17 members voting in favor (and one member abstaining), the Board approved a plan to leave fall sports in the fall and begin official fall practice on August 24th in Cross Country, Field Hockey, Soccer, Volleyball, and Football, with the first date of competition set for September 11th for Football and September 7th for the remaining fall sports.
“Our board strongly believes in the tremendous psychological advantages formed through the relationships between our student-athletes and their school coaches and school personnel, as well as the strong community values surrounding interscholastic, education-based athletics,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “College and professional sports are great, but our unique opportunity to build relationships with our neighbors within one state is not one we take for granted.”
[…]07/27/20 – Student-Athlete Participation Rises for the 3rd Straight Year to New Record Totals
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 27, 2020
Student-athlete participation increased for the third-straight year in Kentucky High School Athletic Association sports and sport-activities to reach record levels in 2019-20. A total of 107,166 rostered participants competed across the KHSAA’s 13 sports and six sport-activities according to information submitted by the membership, surpassing last year’s then-record total of 106,931. Football was one of 12 offerings to show an increase from the previous year, breaking a trend of declining participation for the last three years by adding 202 new student-athletes [freshmen, JV, varsity] during the 2019-20 season to remain the state’s most popular sport with 13,277 rostered participants.
“The continued rise in student-athlete participation the last three years emphasizes the importance of school-based athletics in the fabric of the educational experience for these young adults,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “The importance of these coach-to-student and student-to-student relationships is only amplified in these uncertain times, as we strive […]
07/14/20 – Board of Control Aligns Competitive Cheer Divisions to Match UCA Revisions
In its first meeting of the 2020-21 academic year, the Board of Control approved an adjustment to the KHSAA Competitive Cheer divisions to match Universal Cheerleaders Association’s (UCA) 2020-21 revisions. Those divisions will be as follows:
- All-Girl Small: 5 – 15 members
- All-Girl Medium: 16 – 19 members
- All-Girl Large: 20 – 23 members
- All-Girl Super Large: 24 – 30 members
- Coed: 5 – 30 members (minimum 1 male)
- Game Day: 5 – 30 members
Additional information will be released to coaches in the annual Competitive Cheer rules clinic and the event declaration form will be updated in early August.
The entire release from the Board of Control meeting can be viewed here: https://khsaa.org/07-13-20-board-of-control-extends-segment-3-restrictions-to-august-3/
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About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school […]
07/13/20- Board of Control Extends Segment 3 Restrictions to August 3
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 13, 2020
The Board of Control conducted its first meeting of the 2020-21 academic year on July 10 in Covington, examining various issues concerning the restart of school-based athletics in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. During the course of its meeting, the Board approved a recommendation to extend the guidance and allowances for Segment 3 of the document issued for summer play in KHSAA sports and sport-activities through Sunday, August 2, except for the sport of golf.
As a result of the Board’s action, the traditional July 15 start of practice for KHSAA fall sports has been pushed back until Aug. 3, however, it should be noted that Kentucky has some of the earliest starts to fall practice (dates when activity could be mandatory) in the continental United States. Mandatory tryouts or practices cannot be held prior to Aug. 3, including for the sport-activities of Dance and Competitive Cheer, which have […]
04/29/20- Revised Covid-19 Policies and Guidance Issued, May 1 to May 31
THESE REVISIONS ARE IN PLACE FOR THE PERIOD OF MAY 1 to MAY 31.
THESE POLICIES WILL BE REVIEWED REGULARLY FOR EXTENSION AFTER THAT PERIOD OR REVISION DURING THAT PERIOD AS NECESSARY AS STATE, FEDERAL AND CDC POLICIES AND DIRECTIVES CHANGE
RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF THE CAMPUS OF ANY KHSAA MEMBER SCHOOL OR ON PROPERTY OWNED BY THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF ANY MEMBER SCHOOL, OR ITEMS RELATED TO SPORT OR SPORT-ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION DURING THIS PERIOD-
04/21/20- Spring Sports Cancellation, Basketball Events Not To Be Resumed
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 21, 2020
With the announcement yesterday of the recommended closure of all K-12 schools to in-person instruction throughout Kentucky for the remainder of the school year, the KHSAA Board of Control today approved the Commissioner’s recommendation and announcement by unanimous vote that the 2020 state basketball tournaments will not be resumed, while also approving the cancellation of all regular-season practices and contests as well as all postseason tournament championship events for all spring sports and sport-activities for the 2019-20 school year. This means the termination of the Archery, Bass Fishing, Esports, Baseball, Softball, Tennis, and Track & Field seasons. This will also result in the continuance of all provisions of the Coronavirus Dead Period provisions until further notice to the member schools from the Commissioner.
The KHSAA has worked closely and continuously with the Governor of our beloved Commonwealth, representatives of the Department of Public Health, Interim Commissioner Kevin Brown and […]
03/13/20- (revised 04/02/20 and 4/17/20)- Athletic Dead Period Instituted for Athletic Programs in All Sports and Sport-Activities Due to Covid-19
This information is in effect, as stated below, through April 30, 2020. Prior to that time, revised guidance and policy will be issued to be effective May 1 as we all collectively work to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus on our campuses and among our athletes and coaches. Updated 4/2/20 and 4/17/20 based on inquiries from member schools and revised orders from the Governor and CDC Guidance.
This impacts all KHSAA constituents and includes guidance from the Governor, Public Health Officials, the Kentucky Department of Education, and additional guidance from federal authorities. This original directive will continue to be updated regularly. This will be the sole site for information regarding interscholastic athletics in Kentucky involving rostered athletes or those that have participated in practices this year and coaches from KHSAA member schools, as well as the use of interscholastic facilities.
Effective Friday, March 13, all sports and sport-activities, regardless of season, are declared to […]
03/26/20 – Risk Minimization Remains Theme of 2020-21 High School Spirit Rules Changes
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (March 26, 2020) — High school spirit rules changes for the 2020-21 school year remain centered on increasing safety for cheerleading and dance teams across the country.
This year, minimizing injury risk for stunting personnel and during inversions and releases were among the 16 rules changes recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Spirit Rules Committee, which met February 10-11 in Orlando, Florida. All changes recommended by the committee were approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“The committee has been working for years to make spirit activities safer for our student participants, while maintaining a high level of competition and crowd leading,” said James Weaver, NFHS director of performing arts and sports. “This will continue to be a primary focus of the Spirit Rules Committee.”
Stunting personnel safety was addressed in Rule 3-2-1c, a new addition to the NFHS Spirit Rules Book. The rule states that bases may […]
03/30/20- Status of KHSAA Sponsored Events and Deadlines
Updated: 3/31/20, 8:00 a.m.
This information is solely a summary of KHSAA events. Other specific information concerning options including the required Coronavirus Shutdown Period is listed elsewhere on the KHSAA website at https://khsaa.org/athletic-dead-period-instituted-for-athletic-programs-in-all-sports-and-sport-activities/. This list will be continually updated and potentially revised.
- Tryout Period for Sport-Activities, including Cheer and Dance has been postponed. See the post at https://khsaa.org/03-19-20-spring-sport-activity-tryout-window-postponed-for-now/ for details.
- All opportunities at KHSAA member schools and Kentucky middle schools for spring football practice have been eliminated for 2020. See the post at https://khsaa.org/spring-football-practice-eliminated-for-2020-for-high-and-middle-schools/ for details;
- No final determination has been made regarding annual Title IX and roster reporting for 2019-20. Member schools will be updated if and when this is revised.
- 2020 Mingua Beef Jerky/KHSAA Girls’ Sweet Sixteen (originally March 11-15) remains currently suspended. Will be continually reviewed as more data is available regarding school resumption or cessation, and activities being conducted in alignment with CDC and state and local […]
03/19/20- Spring Sport-Activity Tryout Window Postponed
The KHSAA was made aware of communication sent to member schools from Varsity Spirit (specifically Universal Cheer Association and Universal Dance Association) about “virtual tryouts”. This notification was not approved by the KHSAA and as a reminder, the Athletic Dead Period that has been instituted for all sports and sport-activities in Kentucky because of the Covid-19 virus would preclude this type of tryout. No matter where held, this would then implicitly or explicitly imply mandatory participation by students and evaluation by coaches.
As previously stated, “all sports and sport-activities, regardless of season, are declared to be in a dead period.” In consultation with the Governor, Public Health Officials and the Kentucky Department of Education, an evaluation will be made for the period going forward.” No tryouts or “virtual tryouts” may take place until further notice.
The information related to the Covid-19 (coronavirus) is ever-evolving, and changes happen quickly. We will inform all stakeholders if there […]
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