Youth/Rec Cheer

Youth/Rec Cheer is a discipline of cheer that involves athletes who cheer in support of other youth/rec sports, most often football. Youth/Rec cheer teams may also participate in competitions, performing a 2 1/2 minute routine composed of tumbling, stunting, pyramids, dance, and cheer segments.

Youth/Rec Cheer is organized at the local level by the organization that oversees the youth/rec league. Some leagues are also part of a larger regional or national organization. Each of these organizations may have their own requirements for coaches’ education and rules, or they may use those provided by USA Cheer.

While most Youth/Rec cheer teams are comprised of elementary and middle school age  athletes, some leagues may go up to age 18.  Participants may come from a wide area, though the area is usually defined by the youth sports league.  As with other youth sports, Youth/Rec cheer coaches are often parents who are volunteering while their child is involved in the sport.