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. This squads compete in the Traditional Rec Cheer - Affiliated Division with the season running from Mid-September through February.

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 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!
  • In September, a form will be sent out to all ZYFL Cheer families to gauge interest in the competition season. There will be evaluation 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 have participated in the ZYFL sideline season to be considered.
  • The time commitment includes two practices a week that are 1.5 - 2 hours in length. One of the two practices per week will be on the weekend (usually Sunday afternoons).
  • Each team will participate in a minimum of two competitions.
  • There are additional opportunities to showcase routines locally.

Fees

  • There are additional fees to cover competition entry fees, new bows and body suits as well as indoor practice space. The costs will be determined as the team is put in place and competition fees are established.
  • For context, families contributed an additional $500 in 2024.