Competitive Cheer

Program Overview

Our AYF Competitive Cheer Program is designed for athletes who are interested in learning and performing competition-style cheerleading in a structured, team-oriented environment. Following American Youth Football (AYF) guidelines, this program focuses on skill development, performance quality, teamwork, and confidence while preparing athletes for local and regional competitions. Competitive Cheer offers a higher level of commitment than sideline cheer and is ideal for participants who enjoy learning routines, practicing regularly, and performing in front of judges and audiences. All competitive teams are also expected to cheer sideline.


Age Divisions

The AYF Competitive Cheer Program is organized by age in accordance with AYF rules and competition standards.

Typical divisions may include:

  • D6 Sideline Cheer – Introduction to cheer motions, chants, and teamwork; Ages 4-6
  • D8 Sideline Cheer – Continued skill development with structured routines; Ages 5-8
  • D10 Sideline Cheer – Expanded motions, formations, and game-day participation; Ages 7-10
  • D12 Sideline Cheer – Advanced sideline skills and leadership development; Ages 9-12

Final divisions are determined by AYF guidelines, registration numbers, and competition requirements.


Program Focus & Skill Development

Competitive Cheer places an emphasis on performance and skill progression. Athletes will work on:

  • Cheer motions, timing, and sharpness
  • Chants, cheers, and dance elements
  • Age-appropriate jumps and formations
  • Routine memorization and performance confidence

All skills, routines, and progressions follow AYF safety standards and age-appropriate restrictions.


Coaching & Training

Teams are led by trained volunteer or appointed cheer coaches who are experienced in competitive cheer instruction.

All coaches are required to:

  • Complete background checks
  • Follow AYF Competitive Cheer rules and safety standards
  • Plan practices that emphasize skill progression and athlete safety

Coaches focus on positive instruction, teamwork, and helping each athlete reach their potential.


Practice & Competition Schedule

  • Practices: Typically held 4 times per week
  • Competitions: We have 3 competition opportunities throughout the season. These dates will be provided soon, but are typically Mid October, Early November and Early December.

Practice schedules and competition calendars will be shared once teams are finalized. Attendance at practices and competitions is a vital part of participation in Competitive Cheer, it is expected that cheerleaders do not miss practices.


Uniforms & Equipment

Provided by the Program:

  • Game Day Uniform
  • Game Day Bow
  • Pink Bow for October Games
  • Sweats for cold weather games
  • Competition Uniform
  • Competition Cheer Shoes
  • Comp Day Make-up
  • Routine Review Outfit
  • Comp Day Photos
  • Pom Poms

Required from Families:

  • White Socks for Competition & Game Day
  • Practice attire (schedule below)

Additional competition-related items may be required depending on event standards.

Practice Wear Schedule:

  • MONDAYS: Maroon Top & Black Bottoms
  • TUESDAYS: Black Tee with Maroon or Grey Bottoms
  • WEDNESDAYS: ON WEDNESDAYS WE WEAR PINK! Any combination of pink and team colors welcome!
  • THURSDAYS: Any Bucs tee and Black Bottoms

There are firm guidelines around practice wear: fitted clothing, nothing baggy; ATHLETIC sneakers only, NO JEWELRY, NO long nails, no gum and hair must be pulled back from the face.


Safety Guidelines

Athlete safety is a top priority in Competitive Cheer.

  • All routines follow AYF skill restrictions
  • No stunting or tumbling beyond age-allowed levels
  • Emphasis on proper warm-ups, conditioning, and stretching

Coaches ensure that all skills are introduced progressively and performed safely.


Registration Information

Registration includes AYF fees, insurance, coaching, practice facilities, and administrative costs. Competition entry fees, travel, or additional uniform components may be separate.

  • Early registration is encouraged to assist with team placement
  • Late registration may be accepted based on availability
  • Payment plans or financial assistance may be available

Specific fees, deadlines, and competition details will be posted on the registration page.


Code of Conduct

All athletes, coaches, and spectators are expected to represent the program with sportsmanship and respect at all times. Unsportsmanlike conduct or disruptive behavior may result in disciplinary action.

Our goal is to create a positive, supportive environment that promotes teamwork, dedication, and pride.


Contact Information

For questions about the AYF Sideline Cheer Program, registration, or volunteering, please contact our cheer coordinator, Courtney Borelli, at cheer.redbankayf@gmail.com, or visit our Contact Us page!