Cheerleading
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:
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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 […]
2020-21 Competitive Cheer Detailed Station Time Schedule
width=”1000″ height=”2400″ frameborder=”0″ marginwidth=”0″ marginheight=”0″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/
– 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 […]
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 […]
03/16/20- Update on KHSAA Office Opening/Closing and Staff Availability
In partnership with our State Department of Education, the Governor’s office, our member schools, the NFHS and similar to many other state associations, KHSAA staff has been directed to work remotely from home until at least April 10 (revised 4/2/20). Administrators will available via email. Our hope is to return to the office for regular hours later in April, however, this is a very fluid situation and could change at any time. Updates will be posted online.
As of now and through at least May 1, all activity by rostered participants, coaches and those who have participated in at least one practice session for a middle or high school remain shut down as do all athletic facilities in control of our membership. As we all work together, everyone is hopeful to contain the spread of this virus. Staff will communicate any changes to future events through social media and the KHSAA website.
Closer to May […]
12/11/19 – Competitive Cheer Championships Head to Alltech Arena Saturday
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 11, 2019
The eighth annual KHSAA State Competitive Cheer Championships begin Saturday, Dec. 14 at 9 a.m. with the All-Girls Small, All-Girls Medium and Game Day Divisions at Alltech Arena. The afternoon session is scheduled to start at 2 p.m. with the All-Girls Large, All-Girls Super and Coed competitions.
Tickets to the KHSAA State Competitive Cheer Championships are available for purchase online at https://gofan.co/app/school/KHSAA. Doors will open for fans at 8 a.m. and those planning to attend should be advised that the Kentucky Horse Park charges $5 for parking.
The KHSAA Competitive Cheer Championships will be webcast live at KHSAA.tv for subscribers to the NFHS Network. Subscription plans for the NFHS Network are available for $10.99 a month. A monthly subscription, priced less than the cost of admission to a state championship event, entitles users to every broadcast by the KHSAA and the more than 45 participating state […]
11/25/19 – State Cheer Time Schedules Now Available
The regional results for all eight (8) competitive cheer regionals, as well as the time schedules for the 2019 KHSAA State Competitive Cheer Championships, have been posted on the KHSAA website. Coaches are encouraged to review this information prior to the state championships, as there have been changes made to the warm-up process.
Detailed Station-By-Station Time Schedule
Cheer squads will check-in at the North Exhibit Hall upon arrival to receive team credentials and team packets and then check-in again to begin the warm-up process. Teams will check-in at the allotted time and will be assigned to either Mat A or Mat B (both full mats) for an 8-minute period. This will be covered in detail with competing coaches during the team conference call prior to the state event.
Tickets are now on sale, so buy online and skip the long lines the day of the event!
11/25/19 – State Competitive Cheer and Dance Coaching Credentials
The KHSAA wanted to remind Superintendents, Principals, Athletic Directors and Coaches about gaining access to the coaches’ box at the state championships for Competitive Cheer and Dance.
Coaches’ certifications will be checked in order to obtain a coaching credential or complimentary access.
- Coaches need to be Bylaw 25 certified and be sure all requirements are up to date.
- This requirement includes being current on the rules clinic, sports safety course and a valid date entered for the expiration of CPR certification.
- As a reminder, a maximum of four (4) certified coaches, including assistants, choreographers, etc. are permitted inside the box.
- If your school has more than four (4) certified coaches listed in the KHSAA database, those coaches will only be granted complimentary admission to the venue, but are not permitted on the competition floor in the box.
Please be sure to contact Assistant Commissioner Sarah Bridenbaugh (sbridenbaugh@khsaa.org) for questions concerning Competitive Cheer […]
10/11/19 – Competitive Cheer Divisions Released
The divisions for the 2019 KHSAA Competitive Cheer regionals have been compiled and released. A reminder to coaches that no changes to divisions may be made and withdrawal from Region/State competition will result in penalties under Bylaw 27, including a fine.
Click here to view individual school squad declarations
Click here to view the total declarations per region
Regional competition dates, sites and managers have been posted on the KHSAA website for some time. Please review the schedule for your competition.
Varsity/UCA Scoresheets are again being used. Updated links on this information are posted in the Cheer Judges, Judging and Scoresheet Information link on the KHSAA website.
Reminder: All coaches must complete the Understanding Copyright and Compliance Course (free course) through the NFHS at www.nfhslearn.com. Click the link below for more information: https://khsaa.org/10-11-19-nfhs-understanding-copyright-and-compliance-course-required-for-cheer-dance-coaches/
– KHSAA –
About the […]
10/11/19 – 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 on […]
09/23/19- KHSAA and Midway University Expand Student-Athlete Awards Program
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 23, 2019
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association and Midway University are expanding their partnership in the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year Awards program to include recognition for males beginning in the fall of 2019. The program originally began in the spring of 2016 as a way for Midway University to honor female student-athletes, and will now include male and female student-athletes for all KHSAA-sanctioned sports and sport-activities.
“We value our partnership with the KHSAA as we expand our on-campus offerings to include male students and male sports and look forward to continuing to get our message out across the Commonwealth to even more student-athletes and potential students,” said Midway University President John P. Marsden, Ph.D.
“It is exciting to expand our relationship with Midway University to coincide with its own expansion of sports offerings,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “This was already a tremendous partnership through its effort to […]
09/23/19 – Competitive Cheer Nominations Sought for Male and Female Midway Student Athlete-of-the-Year Awards
The KHSAA is excited to open the nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Male and Female Student-Athlete of the Year among Competitive Cheer participants for 2019-2020. Midway University has expanded its partnership to include both male and female nominations for 2019-2020.
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 2019-2020 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 June 2020. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the 2019-2020 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year and announced at the banquet. All winners will […]
08/29/19 – Competitive Cheer Declaration Form Now Open
The declaration form for the sport-activity of Competitive Cheer is now open. The deadline to complete this form is Friday, September 20th. Each member school Athletic Director shall only submit one form and must be signed into the KHSAA School subdomain to declare.
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 for any reason once the entries are posted. Any withdrawal from region/state competition following Sept. 20 will result in penalties under Bylaw 27 including a fine (maximum of $500) and restrictions from out of state travel for the remainder of the year.
A couple of notes that were shared in the online rules clinic:
- Game Day is one division and squads must qualify at the Region to advance to State.
- Coed is one division and is comprised of 1 or more boys participating. […]
08/26/19 – 2019 Competitive Cheer Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport-activity of Competitive Cheer is available beginning today, August 26. 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 October 6 – the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
- October 7 to October 26 – the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
- October 27 to November 9 – the Competitive Cheer Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($200) per the Bylaw 27 schedule […]
07/17/19- Heat and Humidity Reminders for Member Schools Representatives
With temperatures rising across the state and predictions for record temperatures in the coming days, now is a good time to remind all of our school administrators and coaches of the requirements of the Heat Index and Heat Illness prevention program. The complete program is detailed at https://khsaa.org/common_documents/handbook/policies/policies-heatilllnesspolicy.pdf
No game or plan for a game or practice for a game is worth short-cutting this required procedure that is now more than fifteen years old. Nothing about the program has changed with the exception of the inclusion of the ability to use the wet bulb globe to monitor conditions, but with the turnover in coaches (and administrators) perhaps a few heat index and illness reminders are helpful:
- Heat index requirements and restrictions apply (and have always applied) to outdoor and indoor sports. In many cases during the summer, indoor practice areas (including gymnasiums) are set to be electronically controlled in terms of temperature and coaches […]
06/25/19 – VARSITY/UCA Cheer Judge Training Information
Varsity (UCA) will again manage competitive cheer judge training and assignments.
There will be one in-person training:
Sunday, September 15
KHSAA Office
2280 Executive Drive
Lexington, KY 40505
1:00 p.m. (ET)
1-4 Routine Judge training
4-5 p.m. Safety Judge training.
Please contact Hank Light hlight@varsity.com for register for either clinic or to ask any questions pertaining to the training.
– KHSAA –
The KHSAA staff routinely publishes blog posts to better communicate with its various constituencies and the public. For a list of those blogs, go to http://khsaa.org/news-stats-pubs/news-and-information/sports-blogs/
04/03/19 – Rules Changes Approved in High School Spirit
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (April 3, 2019) — Rules related to minimizing risk of injury to dance and cheer team members are among 29 rules revisions for the 2019-20 high school spirit season.
The rules changes were recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Spirit Rules Committee at its March 2-4 meeting and subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“We’re trying to create a safer environment for activities to occur in cheer and dance and make the rules book as clear as possible,” said James Weaver, director of performing arts and liaison to the NFHS Spirit Rules Committee.
Rule 3-3-3 was changed to make it consistent with other braced inversion rules. It now allows for the inverted person to be caught by new catchers as long as the new catchers remain close to the original bases, are in place before initiation of the inversion, and do not pose increased safety risk […]
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