Competition Cheer

The ZYFL Cheer Competition Squad is an extension of the Zionsville Youth Football League's recreational cheer program, offering athletes the opportunity to compete in cheer. The squads compete based on their age. cheerleaders in grades 1st to 3rd compete in the Rec Performance Elite division. Cheerleaders in 4th to 6th grade compete in the Affiliated Rec - Game Day division, which aligns with the middle and high school programs. The performance rec team will be capped at 16 cheerleaders. The size of the Game Day team will be based on interested expressed but won't exceed 36. There will be no more than one team per age group.

During the regular season, cheerleaders are introduced to the fundamentals of cheerleading, including chants, cheers, jumps, stunting and dance routines. The squads actively support the Zionsville Youth Football League by cheering at games and participating in community events such as Eagle Fest and the Fall Festival Parade. This season focuses on fostering teamwork, physical fitness, friendships and self-confidence in a non-competitive environment.

For cheerleaders who want to build on their sideline experience and embrace a competitive challenge, the ZYFL Competition Squads are the perfect step to take it to the next level.

Throughout the competition season the team refines and expands its skill set to perform a choreographed routine that integrates cheer, stunts, jumps, tumbling and dance.  Emphasis is placed on spirit, synchronization, creativity and showmanship. More than just competing, this experience encourages sportsmanship, teamwork, and a love for cheerleading, all while celebrating the joy of performance.

The ZYFL Cheer Competition Squads offer a fun, rewarding and competitive opportunity for cheerleaders ready to take their passion to the next level!

Competition Cheer Considerations

Attendance and Behavior

  • Due to the nature of competitive cheer, there are stricter attendance and behavior expectations than during the regular sideline season.
  • As the saying goes, there is no bench in cheerleading. Every person on the squad has an important role. Because of this, there is an attendance policy in place.
    • Practices are mandatory with one unexcused absence allowable during the competition season.
    • If additional dates need to be missed for illness or emergencies, notice will need to be provided to the coaches and will be handled on a case by case basis. See the full attendance policy for more details.
  • There is a zero tolerance policy for jewelry and nail polish/fake nails. This includes permanent jewelry. These rules are to keep cheerleaders safe and a requirement of the competitions. Wearing jewelry during a competition can result in deductions and disqualification.

Evaluation and Time Commitment

  • There are limited spots available, but everyone interested in competing is encouraged to express interest! Your registration MUST be approved by your previous Sideline Coach.
  • Pending level of interest, there may be an evaluation/tryout process to see where the skill of the team will be for competition levels. After the evaluation process, the team roster will be announced. Cheerleaders must participate in the ZYFL sideline season to be considered.
  • The time commitment includes one 2 hour practice per week. These will be held on Sundays and you can find the dates listed below. Each team will participate in a minimum of 2-3 competitions.
  • There may be additional opportunities to showcase routines locally.

Fees

  • There are the additional fees per cheerleader to cover competition entry fees, new bows and uniforms as well as indoor practice space.
    • Competition Cheer Tuition: $450
    • Competition Cheer Uniform: $150
    • Choreography Clinic: $45
    • Competition Registration Fees: $250 (Subject to change. We can seek our fundraiser opportunities or specific Competition Cheer Sponsors.)
    • Additional Spirit Wear available for purchase.