Competition Expectations

As a parent new to the thrilling world of all-star cheerleading competitions, stepping into the vibrant atmosphere of these events can be both exhilarating and a bit overwhelming. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through your first all-star cheer competition:

Before The Competition:

Hotel Accommodations:

Book your hotel in advance to ensure a comfortable stay. Consider staying near the competition venue for convenience. We always recommend staying the night before the comp – this will help a ton with less stress and it will help with avoiding last minute flat tires or anything else the can put you behind on comp day!

Preparation Tips:

When getting ready, prioritize hair first and save makeup for last. Emotions can take over during prep, so doing makeup last tends to be the best approach.

Uniform Essentials Reminder:

It’s absolutely critical not to forget any piece of your uniform, including the bow, shoes, no-show black socks, top, bottoms, makeup, etc. Everything counts!

Hair Styling:

Practice hair styling beforehand to avoid last-minute worries. This ensures a polished look without added stress.

Food and Drink Policies:

Be aware of rules against bringing outside food and drinks (some venues allow it and some don’t – we will try to tell you in advanced). Some venues have clear bag policies too (this does not apply to the cheerleaders backpacks)

Schedules and Tickets:

You will receive a preliminary schedule around a week before the comp, but the final one typically comes out two days before the competition.

Parents will need to purchase spectator tickets; athletes, when in uniform, get free entry. Most venues allow under 5 in for free, we will try to tell you in advance.

Day Of The Competition:

Event Structure:

• Wake up and get ready
• Get to the event venue around 2 hours in advance. This allows time for parking and meeting with the team. (we will issue exact times to meet up with the team prior to the event)
• Meet up with the team so the athletes can start stretching and getting ready
• Parents can go sit in the stands and take their athletes cheer bag with them (no parents are allowed in the warm up areas)
• Athletes will perform

Performance and Feedback:

Right after the performance, there’s usually a meet-up to discuss the routine. Athletes will then leave with their parents. We ask that all athletes return (in uniform) for the awards ceremony when it is time to see how we placed. This time will be announced prior to the event so you can plan for this!

Support and Involvement:

Athletes are encouraged to watch other Zia teams and teams from different gyms, fostering a supportive atmosphere and allowing them to learn from others.

Parents act as a team; in case of emergencies or challenges, they can provide support and help each other out with getting athletes to comps or whatever may be needed. We alway have parents offering to help if needed.

Health and Attendance:

Attendance is crucial. If a parent or athlete is feeling under the weather, it’s important to still attend, wear a mask if needed, and support the team. Missing an athlete can impact the entire team’s performance and chances of success. Teams have seen instances where athletes wear masks or deal with health issues during competitions. It’s a testament to the commitment and unity of the team to support each other through challenges.

Additional Tips:

Choose any hotel that suits your preferences; some parents opt to stay together, but it’s up to individual choice.

Arrive the night before the competition to avoid any potential car troubles or last-minute complications.

Being punctual and not missing any scheduled times is crucial.

Attending your first all-star cheer competition is an incredible journey. Embrace the experience, support your cheerleader, and be a part of this amazing cheer community!