College Rules

1 
 
Table of Contents 
*all updates and changes displayed in BOLD font* 
PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES ................................................................................................................................................... 2 
COACH MEMBERSHIP ............................................................................................................................................................. 2 
ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES .......................................................................................................................................................... 3 
MUSIC GUIDELINES ................................................................................................................................................................. 4 
INTERRUPTION OF PERFORMANCE ........................................................................................................................................ 5 
SPORTSMANSHIP .................................................................................................................................................................... 6 
JUDGING PROCEDURES ........................................................................................................................................................... 6 
DISQUALIFICATION.................................................................................................................................................................. 6 
FINALITY OF DECISIONS........................................................................................................................................................... 7 
HOW TO HANDLE PROCEDURAL QUESTIONS ......................................................................................................................... 7 
INTERPRETATIONS AND / OR RULINGS ................................................................................................................................... 7 
VIDEO MEDIA POLICY .............................................................................................................................................................. 7 
LOGO USAGE ........................................................................................................................................................................... 7 
UCA / UDA COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP REGULATIONS ............................................................................................................ 8 
UCA COLLEGE CHEER DIVISIONS AND SPECIFIC GUIDELINES: ................................................................................................ 9 
UCA COLLEGE CHEER JUDGING CRITERIA AND SAFETY GUIDELINES: ................................................................................... 12 
UDA COLLEGE DANCE DIVISIONS AND SPECIFIC GUIDELINES: ............................................................................................. 14 
UDA ROUTINE SAFETY RULES ................................................................................................................................................ 16 
UDA COLLEGE GAME DAY FORMAT GUIDELINES ................................................................................................................. 19 
COLLEGE MASCOT ENTRY GUIDELINES AND INFORMATION ................................................................................................ 21 
COLLEGE MASCOT CHAMPIONSHIP GUIDELINES AND INFORMATION ................................................................................ 22 
COLLEGE PARTNER STUNT ENTRY GUIDELINES AND INFORMATION ................................................................................... 24 
COLLEGE PARTNER STUNT COMPETITION RULES ................................................................................................................. 25 
RULES AND REGULATIONS AGREEMENT .............................................................................................................................. 25 
 
   
 

PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES

1. The competition is open to all colleges, universities and junior colleges in the country.

2. Individuals may not represent more than one team at the National Championship

3. All participants must be registered full-time students for the college or university that they are

representing in competition and official members of that school’s spirit team (no club teams or

competition only teams). Official members of the school’s spirit team are recognized by their institution as

the actual sideline/courtside spirit team that regularly supports their school athletic teams.

4. Graduating seniors and graduate students may be enrolled in less hours. Verification of eligibility will be

required by the school’s Registrar’s Office (See Eligibility Guidelines for details).

5. The Dean of Students, Director of Compliance, or Registrar’s office must complete the eligibility form and

have notarized. The eligibility form must not be dated any earlier than December 1, 2022. Teams violating

this rule could forfeit their titles and be prohibited from entering the competition the following year. For

any clarification on these rules please call 1-888-CHEERUCA or 1-800-DANCEUDA.

6. Cheer Only - Each cheer team must be accompanied by a current USA Cheer certified coach for the team

to be eligible to compete. Proof of certification is required upon registering for the National Championship.

7. The team and each participating member/coach should constantly display good sportsmanship throughout

the entire performance regarding respect for themselves, other teams, and the viewing audience of all

ages. Teams should refrain from any taunting, bragging, or suggestive expressions or gestures as well as

discrimination of any nature.

8. We recommend that the team and each of its members display an overall appearance conducive to serving

as public representatives and ambassadors of their school.

9. UCA/UDA strongly recommends that you have an alternate (not a member of another competing squad at

the same event), who is prepared to substitute in the event of injury, probation, etc. No

cheerleader/dancer may represent more than one Team, even in the event of injury or emergency. Once a

team checks into the championship, the team will not be allowed to change divisions.

COACH MEMBERSHIP

1. USA Cheer has developed a comprehensive Membership Program, which includes a background check,

athlete protection training, acknowledgement of concussion training with return to participation guidance,

a member code of conduct, and safety training courses on risk management and safety rules.  

2. Beginning with the upcoming 2021-22 competition season, Varsity Spirit will require that all school

coaches, choreographers and personnel wishing to access the warmup area, backstage or coaches' box at

our competitions have a USA Cheer Coach or Professional Membership.  

3. Varsity Spirit will cover the $33 membership fee for the 2021-22

season. You must complete your membership requirements before your first competition. December

31 is the last day to complete the requirements to receive this membership free of charge for the

upcoming season. Please note that the background check will take 2-10 days to be processed and

returned. 

4. When checking in at Varsity Spirit competitions, you will now provide photo I.D. proof of membership for

each coach from your organization who wishes to go into the warmup area, backstage or coaches’ box.

Upon proof of membership, each coach will receive a wristband that will allow them access. 

5. The USA Cheer Membership is available on the USA Cheer website. Once your membership is complete,

you can print your membership card, or save and display it on your mobile device at event

registration along with your photo ID. This season’s membership will be active until May 31, 2022. 

6. CLICK HERE to learn more and to complete the steps required before your first competition. Please visit

uca.varsity.com or uda.varsity.com for the code to receive your free USA Cheer Membership by December

31, 2021. 

ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES

A Team Eligibility Form will be required by all teams/mascots competing in the UCA/UDA College Cheerleading

and Dance Team National Championship. One form must be filled out per team with each team member’s

name, hours currently enrolled, years of completed eligibility and date of birth. This form must be signed by

the Coach as well as signed by the school’s Registrar’s Office and school Administrative Supervisor and

returned to UCA/UDA with registration. Teams must meet the following eligibility requirements to participate

in the UCA/UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship.

1. Any university of college competing in a Varsity College National Championship shall not permit a

student-athlete to represent their school unless the student-athlete meets all applicable eligibility

requirements, and the coach and program administrative supervisor has certified the student-athletes

eligibility.

2. A student-athlete may only represent ONE (1) school in ONE (1) National Championship competition

for each academic year. For example, a student-athlete may not compete for one school in January,

transfer, and compete for another school in April; a student-athlete may also not compete with the

same school in separate championships in the same academic year.

3. At the Junior College level, any student-athlete will only be eligible to compete in a maximum of three

(3) National Championships during his/her college career.

4. A student-athlete can be a part of the institution’s dance/cheer/program but will only be allowed to

compete for a maximum of five (5) National Championships during the course of his/her college career,

regardless of the number of universities or colleges they have attended.

5. A student-athlete may not compete in more than five (5) National Championships in combined Junior

College and/or 4-year college/university.

6. An alternate or injured student-athlete that does not take the competition floor will not be perceived

as a competing member and will not count towards the maximum of five (5) National Championships.

7. This will apply for any student-athlete competing at any one of the Varsity Brands College National

Championships (UCA/UDA, NCA/NDA), as well as any other designated College National Championship.

8. Verification of eligibility will be required by the school’s Registrar’s Office and the program’s

administrative supervisor in addition to the coach. It will be the responsibility of these individuals to

verify that all student-provided information and documentation is correct and valid.

9. Teams violating the above-mentioned rules could forfeit their titles and rankings as well as be

prohibited from entering any other Varsity Brands Championship the following year. For any

clarification on these rules, please contact [email protected].

10. Any interpretations or decision of eligibility of the 2022 College Cheerleading and Dance Team National

Championship will be rendered by the Rules Committee, which will consist of the Tournament Director,

the UCA/UDA College Program Director and one other UCA/UDA official appointed by the Tournament

Director. The Rules Committee will render a judgement in a manner consistent with the general goals

of the championship.

Reminder: The 2021 College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship did not count as a

year of eligibility.

MUSIC GUIDELINES

1. I have read and understand the USA Cheer Music Copyrights Educational Initiative and all sound recordings used in

our team’s music shall only be used with written license from the owners(s) of the sound recordings.

2. For the most up to date music information, visit http://varsity.com/music. If you have any questions, mascot/cheer

teams should email [email protected] dance teams should email dancemusi[email protected]. Please check

Preferred Provider list for updates and changes periodically.

3. Teams must be able to provide proof of licensing, in the form of a printed copy, during registration at the event.

4. For example:

a. Clementune – provide team’s invoice from camp.

b. iTunes – provide screenshot of the song you are using from your purchased playlist

c. Music Provider – provide a printed copy of proof of licensing.

d. Band Music - If you’d like to perform to a recording of your band playing a single musical composition, you will

need to provide documentation that confirms the following:

• The team has secured a compulsory license to make copies of the recording made by the band or orchestra

• The band or orchestra recorded the song for and in conjunction with the cheer/dance squad

• The school principal or dean was aware of and approved this recording

• The band or orchestra does not provide music to other cheer/dance squads

• No other musical compositions are embodied in the recording to be used by the authorized cheer/dance

squad

5. If your team is featured in the TV broadcast and uses an original composition created for your performance, your

routine music will be used in the show if you also secured synchronization rights. Teams must be able to provide

written documentation that synchronization rights were properly secured during registration at the event for the

original routine music to be included in the show.

6. When recording your music for the event, coaches or music editors should edit their song in a Digital Audio

Workstation (DAW) and make sure that the volume of the song is at 0. Things to note:

• Most DAW’s have a default that sets a track at -6 when a track is added.

• Check to see if there is a normalization process after you render or save your work.

7. If you would like to perform your school’s original fight song, you may bring a recording of your marching band

playing the song. You will need to get the school’s permission to use the song and recording. A letter granting

permission for the cheer or dance team to use the fight song on school letterhead is sufficient. It should be signed

by your program’s administrative supervisor. Go to varsity.com/music for more details.

8. If a team does not have required paperwork, they will be given the option to count the routine verbally or perform

to an approved track of music or a track with counts (Provided by Varsity Spirit).

9. If a team does not have the required paperwork and chooses not to count the routine or perform to an approved

track of music or a track with counts, the team will be disqualified from the competition and not allowed to perform

or compete.

10. If there are concerns regarding a certain team’s use of music, a Challenge Form must be completed immediately

following the team’s performance.

11. A challenge can only be made by the official coach of a team competing at the event at which the challenge is being

made.

12. Challenge Process

a. All music challenges must be submitted in writing to the event director.

b. There will be $100 fee to request a music challenge and must be in the form of a check made out to St Jude

Children’s Research Hospital.

c. Fees collected will be voided if challenge is correct.

d. If the team challenged can provide documentation during the event and can be verified, the fees will be donated

to St. Jude.

e. If the team challenged can provide documentation that requires further review, a decision will be finalized

within 48 hours of the event.

13. It is required that each team have a responsible adult at the music station that knows the routine and music (no

alternates or team members allowed). This representative is responsible for starting the music and stopping the

music in case of technical malfunction or injury. Should an adult choose not to stay at the music table for the

duration of the routine, and a malfunction occurs, teams may or may not be permitted to perform the routine again.

Clarification: Athletes/Alternates are not allowed.

14. It is not recommended that a smart phone be used for playing music, due to interference that may be caused during

a routine. No cover may be on any MP3 player so that a jack may be easily inserted into the device.

15. All teams must provide their own device for use on the event provided sound system. Music should be on a digital

music player/iPod/iPhone. CD’s will no longer be allowed, and CD players will not be provided at competition.

16. Music must be recorded at the correct tempo and loaded onto an MP3 device.

17. Please make sure that all devices have a headphone jack to connect to sound system and are fully charged, volume

turned up and placed in airplane mode.

18. Please ensure that jacks are clean and free of any debris which may impact connectivity. You will need to acquire an

adapter in advance if your player does not have a headphone jack.

19. Teams/Mascots may not use Disney themes nor may they have costumes that resemble a Disney character.

However, Disney music is acceptable if following the music guidelines.

20. VIRTUAL COMPETITION MUSIC GUIDELINES

a. The USA Cheer Music Copyrights Educational Initiative will govern all sound recordings used at the event and all

sound recordings used in our team’s music shall only be used with written license from the owners(s) of the

sound recordings.

b. Only music capture incidentally will be permitted. No music can be edited into the video. Teams who do edit

music into the video will receive a 2-point penalty.

c. All videos must be recorded in a single take. Edited footage will not be accepted. Footage may not be edited to

add in the template, introduction card, program logo, etc. Editing the template or not including the template will

result in a 1-point deduction.

INTERRUPTION OF PERFORMANCE

UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES

1. If, in the opinion of the competition officials, a team’s routine is interrupted because of failure of the competition

equipment, facilities, or other factors attributable to the competition rather than the team, the team affected

should STOP the routine.

2. The team will perform the routine again in its entirety but will be evaluated ONLY from the point where the

interruption occurred. The degree and effect of the interruption will be determined by the competition officials.

3. While masks are not required on the warmup floor and/or performance floor unless dictated by state or local

guidance, an athlete may choose to wear a mask. If an athlete chooses to wear a mask during the performance and

the mask restricts the athletes view and/or interferes with skills or otherwise becomes a safety concern, the athlete

should either secure or remove the mask. If the athlete does not secure or remove the mask, the routine is subject

to being stopped by competition officials. If stopped, the team will perform the routine again in its entirety, but will

be evaluated ONLY from the point where the routine was previously stopped. Competition officials will determine

the impact of the interruption.

FAULT OF TEAM

1. In the event a team’s routine is interrupted because of failure of the team’s own equipment, the team must either

continue the routine or withdraw from the competition.

2. The competition officials will determine if the team will be allowed to perform later. If decided by officials, the team

will perform the routine again in its entirety but will be evaluated ONLY from the point where the interruption

occurred.

INJURY

1. The only persons that may stop a routine for injury are: competition officials, the advisor / coach from the team

performing or an injured individual.

2. The competition officials will determine if the team will be allowed to perform later. If the competition officials

allow a routine to be performed later, the spot in the schedule where the re-performance is to take place is at the

sole discretion of competition officials. The team may perform the routine again in its entirety but will be evaluated

ONLY from the point where the interruption occurred.

3. The injured participant that wishes to perform may not return to the competition floor unless:

a. The competition officials receive clearance from, first, the medical personnel attending to that participant, the

parent (if present) AND THEN the head coach/advisor of the competing team.

b. If the medical personnel do not clear the participant, the participant can only return to the competition if a

parent or legal guardian in attendance signs a return to participation waiver.

c. Any athlete who exhibits signs or symptoms of a suspected concussion will be removed from the activity

immediately and will not be allowed to participate (i) within 24 hours of the incident AND (ii) without first being

cleared by a medical professional trained in concussion management.

4. In addition, the sponsor/director and all of the coaches attending the competition must be familiar with all federal,

state and local laws applicable to such individuals and relating to such individuals’ duties and responsibilities

regarding the recognition and treatment of injuries.

SPORTSMANSHIP

1. All participants agree to conduct themselves in a manner displaying good sportsmanship throughout the

competition with positive presentation upon entry and exit from the performance area as well as throughout the

routine.

2. The advisor and coach of each team is responsible for seeing that team members, coaches, parents, and other

persons affiliated with the team conduct themselves accordingly. Severe cases of unsportsmanlike conduct are

grounds for disqualification.

3. When a coach is in discussion with an official, other coaches, athletes and parents/spectators, they must maintain

proper professional conduct. Failing to do so may result in a 1-point penalty, removal of coach, or disqualification.

4. Additionally, athletes and coaches who do not comply with the face covering requirement may be assessed an

unsportsmanlike deduction of 1 point.

JUDGING PROCEDURES

The judges for the event will be appointed at the sole discretion of Universal Cheerleaders Association and Universal

Dance Association. The judges will score each team according the judging criteria to determine their total score. Judges

scores will be averaged together to determine the overall team score. The judges’ scores will be combined with

deductions being taken off the total scores.

DISQUALIFICATION

Any team that does not adhere to the terms and procedures of these "Rules and Regulations" will be subject

to disqualification from the competition and will automatically forfeit any right to any prizes or awards

presented by the competition.

FINALITY OF DECISIONS

By participating in this competition, each team agrees that all decisions by the judges will be final; questions concerning

comments on the score sheet will be allowed, however scores and judges decisions will remain final. Each team

acknowledges the necessity for the judges to make prompt and fair decisions in this competition and each team

therefore expressly waives any legal, equitable, administrative, or procedural review of such decisions.

HOW TO HANDLE PROCEDURAL QUESTIONS

1. RULES & PROCEDURES

a. Any questions concerning the rules or procedures of the competition will be handled exclusively by the

advisor/head coach of the team and will be directed to the Competition Director. Such questions

should be made prior to the event.

2. PERFORMANCE

a. Any questions concerning the team’s performance should be made to the Competition Director

immediately after the team's performance and/or following the outcome of the competition.

b. Coaches with scoring / deduction questions during the event must fill out a digital routine review form

with their concerns immediately following the distribution of scores/deductions. Deductions will not be

eligible for review following the division announcements.

c. Questions regarding another team and/or their performance will not be allowed.

d. Not all routine review submissions will be addressed during the event.

3. MUSIC / AGE - Any questions concerning a specific violation in music compliance must be submitted in

writing to the immediately following the team’s performance.

INTERPRETATIONS AND / OR RULINGS

Any interpretation of any aspect of these Rules and Regulations or any decision involving any other aspect of

the competition will be rendered by the Rules Committee. The Rules Committee will render a judgment to

ensure that the competition proceeds in a manner consistent with the general spirit and goals of the

competition. The Rules Committee will consist of the Competition Director, Head Judge, and a designated

competition official.

VIDEO MEDIA POLICY

No commercial recording (audio or visual) or commercial live streaming is allowed in the event venue or other

event-related venues (including, but not limited to, hotels and restaurants) or on the grounds of any such

venues (collectively, “Event Locations”). In the event a team authorizes the commercial recording or

streaming in any Event Location, the team will be automatically disqualified. In addition, the personal, non-

commercial use of live streaming apps (such as Periscope, Facebook Live, etc.) to capture all or any part of a

performance during the event is not permitted. By attending/purchasing admission to the event, each

attendee grants permission to Varsity Spirit, LLC and its affiliates, designees, agents, licensees, and invitees to

use the image, likeness, actions and statements of the attendee in any live or recorded audio, video, film, or

photographic display or other transmission, exhibition, publication, or reproduction made of, or at, the event

in any medium, whether now known or hereafter created, or context for any purpose, including commercial or

promotional purposes, without further authorization or compensation.

LOGO USAGE

Teams will not be allowed to use the UCA or UDA logo including; banners, rings, bows, t-shirts etc. without

prior approval from the UCA/UDA Office. The use of the UCA/UDA letters will be allowed.

UCA / UDA COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP REGULATIONS

PRELIMINARIES, SEMI-FINALS, AND FINALS

UCA/UDA reserves the right to determine if a preliminary, semi-final, or final round will be necessary. There

may be a preliminary competition held in some categories. All divisions with only one round prior to the finals

will be classified as a semi-final. 50% of the teams in each group will advance to the next round and will

perform in reverse rank order for the final competition. If teams are tied in the advancement order the team

that competed first in the preliminary or semi-final round will compete second to the tied team in finals. In the

event of a tie for the final spot advancing, both teams that are tied will move on. Tournament officials will

have full authority to make the final determination of the number of teams selected to advance to the next

round.

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP PARTICIPATION

It is understood that teams participating in the College Cheerleading and Dance Team Championship will not

knowingly and willingly participate in any other cheer or dance event promoted as a “national championship”,

“virtual national championship” or “international championship” for the 2021-2022 school year. (Exception:

USA Spirit and Dance Nationals). Teams who do not adhere will automatically be disqualified from the 2022

Championship and will forfeit the opportunity to participate in the tournament the following year.

TELEVISION COVERAGE

The College Cheerleading and Dance Team Championship will be nationally televised on an ESPN and ESPN2

network. Because of the format of the show, not all finalist teams will be shown on the telecast. Out of

respect for the copyrights of others, original music will be composed for all routines featured in the show, in

order to meet broadcast licensing requirements. If your team is featured in the TV broadcast and uses an

original composition created for your performance, your routine music will be used in the show if you also

secured synchronization rights. Teams must be able to provide written documentation that synchronization

rights were properly secured during registration at the event for the original routine music to be included in

the show.

Please be aware that you may be interviewed and/or appear on television during an event. With that,

appropriate attire is always required, including during officially designated practice times, performance and

awards ceremonies.

APPEARANCES, ENDORESEMENTS, AND PUBLICITY

All teams winning titles, awards, or prizes agree to have all appearances, endorsements, and publicity

approved through the UCA/UDA office.

AWARDS AND PRIZES

All teams in the final round of competition will receive a trophy. Teams who rank first, second, or third place

will additionally receive a bronze, silver, or gold medallion.

TOURNAMENT FACILITY

The competition is scheduled to be held at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports® Complex. The tournament officials

shall have the right to alter the time and location of the competition in the event changes become necessary

due to inclement weather, facility problems, television production requirements, or any other situation

deemed by the tournament officials to be essential to the successful execution of the championship.

UCA COLLEGE CHEER DIVISIONS AND SPECIFIC GUIDELINES:

1. There are NINE separate routine cheer divisions:

a. Teams may not exceed eighteen (18) members, except for All Girl Divisions. All Girl Divisions may not exceed

twenty (20) female team members.

b. Large Coed Divisions will be limited to a maximum number of ten male participants.

o Large Coed division Floating Scale

▪ 14 – 15 total participants = 8 maximum males

▪ 16 – 17 total participants = 9 maximum males

▪ 18 – 19 total participants = 10 maximum males

▪ 20 total participants = 11 maximum males

c. Routine Cheer Divisions:

1. Division IA Coed (6-9 males, NCAA I – FBS)

2. Division I Coed (5-9 males, NCAA I – FCS & NCAA II)

3. Open Coed (5-9 males, NCAA III, Jr. Colleges, NAIA and all other schools)

4. Division IA All Girl (NCAA I - FBS)

5. Division I All Girl (NCAA I – FCS & Division II)

6. Open All Girl (NCAA III, Jr. Colleges, NAIA and all other schools)

7. Division IA Small Coed (5 males or less, NCAA I-FBS)

8. Division I Small Coed (4 males or less, NCAA I-FCS)

9. Open Small Coed (4 males or less, NCAA II, NCAA III, Jr. Colleges, NAIA and all other schools)

2. There are SEVEN separate Game Day cheer divisions:

a. Teams may not exceed thirty (30) team members.

b. Teams may add up to 1 (one) mascot in their routine. The mascot must enter the floor with the team and

remain on the floor for the entire routine or an out of bounds penalty will be assessed. Mascots should be used

to raise crowd energy and participation. The mascot should not be involved in any stunts or skills with hip over

head rotation and should position themselves away from skills being performed. The mascot will not count

toward the number of participants allowed but may impact the overall impression score. Mascots will only be

allowed to use the following traditional sideline props - signs, pom, megaphones or flags.

c. Teams may add a pep band or drumline into their performance. Pep Bands or Drumlines will not count toward

the total number of participants allowed. Pep Bands or Drumlines must be registered with the event as

participants.

d. Game Day Cheer Divisions:

1. Division IA Coed Cheer Game Day (NCAA Division I – FBS)

2. Division IA All Girl Cheer Game Day (NCAA Division I - FBS)

3. Open Coed Cheer Game Day (5 or more males, NCAA I – FCS, NCAA II, NCAA III, Jr. Colleges & NAIA)

4. Small Coed Cheer Game Day (4 males or less, NCAA I – FCS, NCAA II, NCAA III, Jr. Colleges & NAIA)

5. Open All Girl Game Day (NCAA Division I – FCS, NCAA II, Division III, Jr. Colleges & NAIA)

6. NEW Division IA Spirit Program Game Day (For Cheer and Dance Combined) (NCAA Division I – FBS)

7. NEW Open Spirit Program Game Day (For Cheer and Dance Combined) (NCAA I – FCS, NCAA II, NCAA III, Jr.

Colleges & NAIA)

CHEER TIME LIMITATIONS

1. Each team’s presentation must include at least one cheer and / or sideline chant. Each Performance Routine will

have a maximum of 2 minutes and 30 seconds (1 minute 45 seconds maximum of music) to demonstrate its

cheerleading expertise. Timing will begin with the first movement, voice, or note of the music, whichever comes

first.

2. Each Game Day performance should consist of a Fight Song, Situational Sideline (offence / defense) and a Game Day

Timeout. The maximum performance time must not exceed (3) three minutes. Timing will begin with the first

movement, voice, or note of music, whichever comes first. Each section should have a beginning and end. Note:

Spirited crowd leading interaction between each section is encouraged to continue the game day feel.

3. If a team exceeds the time limit, a penalty will be assessed for each violation. One (1) point deduction for 1 – 5

seconds over and Two (2) point deduction for 6 seconds or more.

4. The routine time limit is 2:30 / 3:00. Acknowledging the potential variance caused by human reaction speed and

sound system time variations, judges will not issue a deduction until their stopwatches show a time of 2:33 /

3:03. If a routine is retimed as part of a review, the exact time will be used without the 3 second allowance listed

above.

5. Because penalties are severe, it is recommended that all teams time their performance several times prior to

competition and leave a several second cushion to all for variations in sound equipment.

6. Introductions

a. All introductions (tumbling, entrances, chants, spellouts, etc. are considered part of the routine and will be

timed as part of the performance.

b. All team breaks, rituals and traditions need to take place prior to entering the mat.

c. Teams should take the floor immediately with spirit and enthusiasm, but without excessive gestures. Example:

chest bumps, hugs, handshakes, etc. This would include running of the flags or other similar entrances and exits.

d. All teams should refrain from any type of excessive celebration following the team’s performance. Any team in

violation will receive a ONE (1) point deduction.

e. There should not be any organized exits or other activities after the official ending of the routine.

CHEER COMPETITION AREA

1. Participants must start in the competition area with at least one foot on the ground.

2. Teams may line up anywhere inside the competition area.

3. The competition area will be determined by the tournament director according to the size of the facility being used.

4. Approximate cheer floor size will be fifty-four feet wide by forty-two feet deep (9 strips).

5. In the Spirit Program Divisions - cheer and dance teams will split the performance surface 1/2 mat (approx.. 25 feet

deep and 42 feet wide- 5 strips) and 1/2 Marley (approx. 25 feet deep and 53.5 feet wide for Dance). Cheerleaders

and dancers may stand or perform on either surface and must stay within the 53.5 X 53.5 area. Skills must be

performed on the surface that is legal for the skill being performed. Athletes must follow the specific Safety Rules

and Regulations for their team (cheer/dance).

6. Pep Band or Drumline Performance Area will enter to the side of the stage and must remain off the performing

surface. An area will be designated in each performance venue. If the venue has a raised stage the pep band or

drumline will be off stage on the floor. Pep Band or drumlines will be allowed to enter the area prior to the cheer or

dance team being introduced for the competition.

7. Any team member stepping outside or touching outside the performance area will cause the squad to receive a .5

penalty per occurrence. Pep Band members must remain in designated area during the performance.

a. The white line is considered a warning mark.

b. A penalty will be assessed when any ONE full hand, foot or body part touches outside of the performance

surface.

c. Once a team member takes the floor, they must remain on the floor until the end of the performance.

8. Signs or props may be safely placed or dropped outside the competition area by a team member who must remain

inside the competition area. A ONE (1.0) point penalty will be assessed for Props (signs, etc.) that are made of solid

material or have sharp edges/corners released from a top person. A HALF (0.5) point penalty will be assessed for

persons on the ground throwing hard props (signs, megs, etc.) - breaking of the wrist or if the arm extends away

from the body.

9. All team mascots, props, center markers, etc. are prohibited. We will have the center marked on all performance

surfaces.

CHEER SPOTTER POLICY

UCA will allow teams to provide additional spotters in the warm-up room only at

the College Cheerleading and

Dance Team National Championship

. The use of additional spotters is left to the discretion of the coach.

College/University teams at the Championship may use up to 4 additional

spotters for each warm-up; however,

additional spotters are not

required.

The use of additional spotters is not mandatory and will be at the discretion of the coach. Spotters will be

available on the main competition floor at all venues.

Guidelines for Additional Spotters:

1. Should only be used during the stunt, pyramid, and/or basket

toss sections. Additional spotters should stand at

the back of the floor when not spotting

those sections.

2. Should not touch, assist, or save skills being performed.

3. Additional spotters should only be used to prevent a fall to the competition floor.

4. Spotters are not allowed to count or coach while on the floor.

5. Should be dressed so that they are presentable, professional,

and distinguishable from the performing athletes.

Program

provided additional spotters should not wear clothing similar

to the performing team’s uniform.

6. Should not dress or act in a manner that distracts from the

athletes and their performance.

7. Should be at least 18 years old, listed on the official event roster and familiar with spotting the

skills of the

performing team.

Note: Teams should

not attempt skills beyond their ability level.

CHEER TIE BREAKING POLICY

The judges for the event will be appointed at the sole discretion of Universal Cheerleaders Association. The judges will

score each squad according to the judging criteria to determine their total score. The judges’ scores will be combined

with deductions being taken off the total scores. All ties in each division or group will remain. In the event of a first place

tie in the final round of competition, the team with the lessor deductions will be awarded first place. If the deductions

remain equal, the tie will not be broken and both teams will be awarded first place.

UCA COLLEGE CHEER JUDGING CRITERIA AND SAFETY GUIDELINES:

1. Performance Routine Criteria

a. The judges will score teams using the criteria listed on the UCA score sheet.

b. Cheer will count for 35 points, Building Skills will count for 35 points and Overall will count for 15 points.

c. Any deductions or violations will be taken off of the final score. For more information on scoring, score sheet

and judging criteria, please visit uca.varsity.com.

2. UCA Game Day Routine Criteria

a. The College Game Day Divisions and the Spirit Program Divisions showcases what traditional cheerleading is all

about – leading the crowd! Teams will be evaluated on their ability to lead the crowd, proper game day skill

incorporations, execution of skills, motion technique and overall routine.

b. The use of crowd leading tools such as signs, poms, flags and/or megaphones is recommended. (All are not

required) No other props, musical instruments, etc. may be used by anyone on the performance floor. Props

may not be thrown into the crowd.

c. The order for the College Game Day Championship will be Fight Song, Situations Sideline (offence / defense) and

a Game Day Timeout (in this order).

d. The judges will score teams using the criteria listed on the UCA Game Day score sheets. Each team will be

evaluated on a 100 point system. For detailed score sheets please visit uca.varsity.com. In the Spirit Program

Divisions – cheer and dance scores will be averaged together.

e. Fight Song

1. Should represent the traditional Fight Song your school has always done at games.

2. Skills should be minimal and practical.

3. You should start from you sideline formation.

f. Situational Sideline

1. Will be situational for each team performing.

2. With either an offensive or defensive scenario, the squad will determine which sideline to do based on the

cues.

3. Teams are encouraged to use spirit raising props. The following props are allowed; signs, poms, flags and/or

megaphones. No other props, musical instruments, etc. may be used by anyone on the performance floor.

Props may not be thrown into the crowd.

4. Skills should be minimal and practical.

g. Game Day Timeout

1. Similar to a 60 second extended band chant that is designed for crowd interaction and involves crowd

response.

2. This is the best time to showcase your squad’s energy, leadership, visual appeal and connection to the

crowd.

h. Skills must be practical for Game Day and executed with strong technique while providing a visual effect that

influences the crowd’s participation. The incorporation of skills will be allowed with the following restrictions:

1. Flips into or from partner stunts and pyramids will be prohibited.

2. Twisting stunts and dismounts may not exceed 1 ¼ rotation.

3. Flipping tosses are permitted with zero twisting rotations.

4. No twisting tumbling is allowed.

i. Any deductions or violations will be taken off of the final score. For more information on scoring, score sheets

and judging criteria, please visit uca.varsity.com

j. Traditional game day uniform is required.

For more information, please visit www.uca.varsity.com.

SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR PARTNER STUNTS, PYRAMIDS AND TOSSES

Universal Cheerleaders Association offers a service to help teams with legality and safety questions. Teams

will be able to email skills in throughout the year to receive a legality or safety response. This service will help

teams get a response with a video attached back to use in situations where the skill may be in question.

Teams are not required, but encouraged, to submit a safety video.

To email a video, the following must be included:

1. The skill in question must be recorded by the team at practice. We are unable to accept videos from

performances, competitions, or of other teams.

2. All submissions must include the coach, team, and division.

3. The recording will be reviewed as if every person in the video is included in the skill. This would include

additional spotters.

4. Videos are limited to 30 seconds and must be able to be viewed upright without rotating.

5. The recording will be limited to attachments only. Links, video sharing and YouTube style videos will

not be accepted. While this does limit the video size, you are able to submit multiple videos.

6. All videos will receive either a “legal” or “illegal” response. If the video receives an “illegal” response,

the entire video will not be reviewed but stopped at the point that the video was illegal. *If the video is

inconclusive, you will receive a response as to why we were unable to make a judgement on the video.

It is up to you as a coach to resubmit the video to be re-reviewed.

Videos via text message or facetime will not be reviewed. If you know that your video does not meet all the

requirements above, please refilm/resubmit the video. Only videos that meet the above requirements will be

reviewed.

Please send all videos to [email protected]. Due to volume, please allow up to 7 business days to get

back to you.

Please note: Only submitting the skill will make the skill eligible for a warning. UCA can only guarantee this

process will be accepted at UCA-branded events. This would not include other Varsity-branded and state

association events.

All teams attending the UCA College Cheerleading Championship will follow the USA Cheer Guidelines. Rules are subject

to change by USA Cheer.

For the most recent safety rules and information, USA Cheer College Safety Rules

If you have any questions concerning the legality of a skill, please email the video to UCARules@varsity.com. Include

your team name, your name, division and a contact phone number. It must be received by January 4, 2022 and will only

be accepted from the head coach of the team. If received after the deadline, the video is not guaranteed a response.

UDA COLLEGE DANCE DIVISIONS AND SPECIFIC GUIDELINES:

Competitions are open to all colleges, universities, and junior colleges in the continental United States. All team

members must be registered fulltime students of their college or university and official members of the school’s spirit

squad (no Club Teams). Each competition will consist of the following three divisions:

1. Division IA - (NCAA I-FBS)

2. Division I - (NCAA I-FCS)

3. Open NCAA Divisions - NCAA II, III, Jr. College, and NAIA Schools

DANCE TEAM PARTICIPANTS

College Championship: Teams who participate in the competition will have the opportunity to compete in two of the

three categories. The minimum number of dancers a team may compete with is seven (7)*. The maximum number of

dancers a team may compete with is eighteen (18). Teams with ten (10) members or less who choose to enter two

categories must have all the original members perform in both routines. Teams with ten (10) members or more who

choose to enter two categories must have at least 10 of the same members perform in both routines. Teams who

compete in two (2) categories do not have to have the same number in each routine, if 10 are the same for both

performances. If your team chooses pom as one of your categories, male dancers are not required to use poms.

*NOTE: If your team drops below the minimum, (7) please contact Jessica Pettitt at jpettitt@varsity.com.

NUMBER OF DANCE PERFORMANCES

Teams can enter two of the following three categories: pom, jazz, and/or hip hop. Teams who are also entering the

Game Day division may do so as a third performance. Teams may not compete in one traditional category and two

game day divisions.

GENERAL DANCE GUIDELINES

A. All participants agree to conduct themselves in a manner displaying good sportsmanship throughout the event. The

coach of each team is responsible for seeing that team members, coaches, parents, and any other person affiliated

with the team conduct themselves accordingly.

B. All programs should have, and review, an emergency action plan in the event of an injury.

C. Coaches must recognize the entire team’s ability level and limit the team’s activities accordingly.

D. No technical skills should be performed when a coach is not present or providing direct supervision.

E. All practice sessions should be held in a location suitable for the activities of dance, and away from noise and

distractions.

F. Warm-up and stretching should precede and conclude all practice sessions, pep rallies, games, competitions,

performances, and other physical activities.

G. The performance surface should be taken into consideration before engaging in any technical aspect of dance. The

performance area should be reasonably free of obstructions. Dancers should not perform technical skills on:

H. Concrete, asphalt, or any other hard or uncovered surface

I. Wet surfaces

J. Uneven surfaces

K. Surfaces with obstructions

L. The dance team coach or other knowledgeable designated representative should attend all practices, functions, and

games.

DANCE COMPETITION ROUTINE GUIDELINES

A. Formal entrances which involve dance, technical skills, and all traditions/chants are not permitted. Dancers should

enter the performance area in a timely fashion.

B. All staging, backdrops, special effects, or any items that may damage or otherwise alter the performance floor or

environment are prohibited (water, powder, glitter, fire, sliding oil, etc.).

C. Center markers will not be allowed. This includes but is not limited to- stuffed animals, toys, alternate dancers,

spacing ropes, etc.

D. Teams may dance off the Marley floor; however, all routine choreography for the entire team must begin and end

on the Marley floor. Jumping on or off a raised performance surface is prohibited. This rule applies in all categories,

including Game Day. Teams competing at a regional event with a Marley floor will be warned for starting/ending on

or off the Marley; teams WILL be penalized at our college championship. Please note that the tape which surrounds

the edges will count as the Marley floor.

E. Time limit is as follows:

1. Teams will have a maximum of (2) two minutes to demonstrate their style and expertise. If a team exceeds the

time limit by more than (3) three seconds, they will be issued a penalty.

F. Timing will begin with the first choreographed movement or note of music, whichever is first. Timing will end with

the last choreographed movement or note of music, whichever is last.

DANCE CHOREOGRAPHY AND COSTUMING

A. All facets of a performance/routine, including both choreography and music selection, should be appropriate and

suitable for family viewing and listening. Examples of inappropriate choreography may include, but are not limited

to, vulgar or suggestive movement appearing offensive or sexual in content, displaying acts of violence, and/or

relaying lewd or profane gestures. Music containing words unsuitable for family listening is not allowed. This

includes, but is not limited to, swearwords and connotations of any type of sexual act or behavior, drugs, and/or

violent acts or behavior. Removing improper language or words from a song and replacing with sound effects or

other words may still constitute ‘inappropriate.’ Music or movement in which the appropriateness is questionable or

with which uncertainty exists should be assumed by the coach to be inappropriate and removed as to not put their

team in an unfortunate situation.

B. Shoes, on both feet, are recommended but not required while on the performance surface. Please note that should

dancers choose to wear shoes, anything with wheels are not allowed (example: roller skate, roller blades, Heelys,

etc.). Wearing socks and or footed tights only is not allowed.

C. Teams may NOT use Disney themes nor may they have costumes that resemble a Disney character, movie, or

theme.

D. All male dancers’ costumes must include a shirt that is fastened; however, it can be sleeveless.

E. Jewelry as part of the costume is allowed.

DANCE PROPS

Props are allowed in all Hip Hop, Jazz, and Pom categories; however, they must fit through a standard 36-inch door.

Props must be handheld and cannot be used to bear the weight of the dancer. Standing props that can be used to bear

the weight of the dancer are not allowed (Examples- chairs, stools, benches, ladders, boxes, stairs, etc.) Any props used

must first be approved through the UDA National Office. To get them approved, please send a video of the prop in use

to udarules@varsity.com. Deadline to submit props is January 4, 2022. For prop rules and guidelines as they pertain to

Game Day categories, please visit the Game Day section beginning on page 18.

DANCE HANDS FREE POMS

The use of hands-free poms will be allowed. Hands-free poms are defined as poms specifically made so that performers

do not have to hold the poms but rather, they are affixed to the performers hand. Proper use means bars cannot be in

the palm of the hand and only an elastic band can be between the supporting hand and the performance surface for

skills, tricks, etc. A hair tie, rubber band, or tying pom strings/pieces together will not be counted as a hands-free pom.

UDA ROUTINE SAFETY RULES

A. WEIGHT BEARING SKILLS

Hip over-head rotation skills with hand support are not allowed while holding poms in the supporting hand.

(Exception: forward rolls and backward rolls are allowed). The use of hands-free poms for hip over-head skills is

allowed. *Please reference the Hands-Free Poms section for more details*

B. TUMBLING AND TRICKS (Executed by Individuals)

*Note: The following are lists of commonly known dance skills. This does not mean that they are required for your

routine, nor does this list encompass all skills that are legal/illegal. *

ALLOWED:

Aerial Cartwheels Front/Back Walkovers

Front Aerials Backbends

Front Handsprings Round Off

Branny Stalls/Freezes

Side Somi Head spins

Forward Rolls Windmills

Backward Rolls Kip Ups

Cartwheels Shoulder Rolls

Headstands Headsprings (with hands)

Handstands

NOT ALLOWED:

Front Tucks Back Handsprings

Back Tucks No handed headsprings

Dive Rolls Toe Pitch Back Tucks

Layouts Shushunova

1. Airborne skills without hand support are not allowed. (Exception: Headsprings with hand support, aerial

cartwheels, front aerials, and side somis not connected to any other tumbling skill are allowed).

2. If a team chooses to use hands free poms for aerial cartwheels, front aerials, and/or side somis, and later

touches down, the poms MUST be flipped off the hand, or a penalty will be assessed. Simply wearing the hands-

free poms for the aerial cartwheels, front aerials, and/or side somis does not make it legal if they are not used

correctly.

3. If a team chooses to use non- hands-free poms for aerial cartwheels, front aerials, and/or side somis, they MUST

be moved to one hand. If a dancer later touches down with the hand that holds both poms, a penalty will be

assessed. There are no exceptions to this rule.

4. Tumbling skills with hip over-head rotation is limited to 3 connected skills. (Example: 3 consecutive headsprings

are allowed; 4 are not allowed).

5. Simultaneous tumbling over or under another dancer that includes hip over-head rotation by both dancers is not

allowed.

6. Choreographed drops to the knee, thigh, back, front, head, shoulder, or seat onto the performing surface are

not allowed unless the dancer first bears weight on the hand(s) or foot/feet.

7. Landing in a push-up position onto the performance surface from a jump in which the legs are in front of the

body and swing behind are not allowed. All variations of a shushunova (see glossary) are not allowed.

C. DANCE LIFTS AND PARTNERING (Executed in pairs or groups)

1. The Executing Dancer must receive support from a Supporting Dancer who is in direct contact with the

performance surface through the entire skill. (Exception: Kick Line Leaps).

2. Elevators, thigh stands, shoulder sits, and chair sits are allowed.

3. The following cheer-based stunts are not allowed:

a. Extended cheer stunts (the lifted dancer is extended in an upright position over the base(s) who maintain

fully extended arms and have the lifted dancers’ feet in hands)

b. Pyramids and basket tosses

4. Swinging in and out of lifts and tricks is allowed in the prone and/or supine positions; swinging forwards,

backwards, or making a complete circular rotation will not be allowed if the Executing Dancer is in a prone

position (body facing the ground).

5. Hip over-head rotation of the Executing Dancer(s) may occur if a Supporting Dancer maintains contact until the

Executing Dancer returns to the performance surface or is returning to the upright position.

6. Vertical Inversions are allowed if:

a. The Supporting Dancer(s) maintain contact until the Executing Dancer returns to the performance surface or

returns to the upright position.

b. When the height of the Executing Dancers shoulders exceeds shoulder level of the Supporting dancer, there

is at least one additional dancer to spot who does not bear weight.

D. RELEASE MOVES (Unassisted Dismounts to the performance surface)

1. An Executing Dancer may jump, leap, step, or push off a Supporting Dancer if:

a. The highest point of the released skill does not elevate the Executing Dancer’s feet above head level of the

Supporting Dancer.

• Exception: toe touches off a dancers back/leap frog jumps will be allowed

b. The Executing Dancer may not pass through the prone or inverted position after the release.

c. Toe pitch back tucks are not allowed.

2. A Supporting Dancer may release/toss an Executing Dancer if:

a. The highest point of the release/toss does not elevate the Executing Dancer’s hips above head level of the

Supporting Dancer.

b. The Executing Dancer is not supine or inverted when released.

c. The Executing Dancer does not pass through a prone or inverted position after release.

d. Toe Pitch back tucks are not allowed.

DANCE PENALTIES

A. A deduction will be given for EACH safety/general competition rule violation. The point value of this deduction will

be as follows:

• 0.5 points- starting/ending off the Marley surface, performance error- any skill or trick executed incorrectly that

then makes it an illegal skill/trick (example: touching down on an aerial cartwheel with non- hands-free poms in

hand)

• 1.0 points- General rules violations including (but not limited to) timing infractions of 1-5 seconds over time,

costume/shoe rules, prop rules, editing in templates for virtual events, not including a template for virtual

uploads, etc.

• 1.5 points- Timing infractions of 6 or more seconds over time, routine safety rule violations

B. If you have any questions concerning the legality of a trick or move, please email the video to [email protected]om.

Include your team name, your name, a contact phone number, and the event attending. It must be received by

January 4, 2022 and will only be accepted from the head coach of the team. If received after the deadline, the video

is not guaranteed a response. Videos from choreographers will not be allowed. Videos sent via text message will not

be allowed. For questions, please contact udaru[email protected]om.

DANCE TIE BREAKING POLICY

In the event of a first-place tie, event officials will look at the raw scores per judge to see which team was ranked higher

most often in each caption. Should a tie remain, the ranking points from the “Overall Impression” portion of the score

sheet will be used to break the tie. No first-place ties in a preliminary or semi-final round will be broken.

DANCE SCORES AND RANKINGS

Individual score sheets are for the exclusive use of each judge. Each judge has the responsibility and authority to review

and submit his or her final scores and rankings prior to the final tally of the scores for all teams. No scores and rankings

will be given over the telephone. After each round of competition, teams will receive the judges’ score sheets and

comments for their team. In addition, teams will receive a ranking sheet with the names and scores of all teams in their

group.

Visit the following link for more Scoring Information: UDA Divisions, Rules and Scoring

Questions regarding penalties can be made by the head coach of the team only and must be done within 30 minutes of

the final performance of the division or prior to final awards-whichever happens first. Once results have been

announced, no rules violation challenges will be accepted.

FLOOR DIMENSIONS (College Championship Only)

A. All floors will have 10 panels of Marley floor, each panel approximately 5 feet 3.5 inches wide making the full floor

approximately 53.5 x 53.5.

B. Teams may dance off the Marley floor; however, all routine choreography for the entire team must begin and end

on the Marley floor.

C. Jumping on or off a raised performance surface is prohibited. This rule applies in all categories, including Game Day.

D. Teams competing at a regional event with a Marley floor will be warned for starting/ending on or off the Marley;

teams WILL be penalized at the college championship. Please note that the tape which surrounds the edges will

count as the Marley floor.

E. In the Spirit Program Divisions - cheer and dance teams will split the performance surface 1/2 mat (approx.. 25 feet

deep and 42 feet wide- 5 strips) and 1/2 Marley (approx. 25 feet deep and 53.5 feet wide for Dance). Cheerleaders

and dancers may stand or perform on either surface and must stay within the 53.5 X 53.5 area. Skills must be

performed on the surface that is legal for the skill being performed. Athletes must follow the specific Safety Rules

and Regulations for their team (cheer/dance).

UDA COLLEGE GAME DAY FORMAT GUIDELINES

1. There are FIVE separate UDA Game Day divisions:

a. Division IA Dance Game Day (NCAA Division I – FBS) – Male/ Female (Max 30 Members)

b. Division I Dance Game Day (NCAA Division I – FCS) – Male/ Female (Max 30 Members)

c. Open Dance Game Day (NCAA II, Division III, Jr. Colleges, NAIA and all other schools) – Male/ Female Only (Max

30 Members)

d. NEW Division IA Spirit Program Game Day (NCAA Division I – FBS)

e. NEW Open Spirit Program Game Day (NCAA I – FCS, NCAA II, NCAA III, Jr. Colleges & NAIA)

2. The order for the Dance Game Day Divisions will be Fight Song, Game Situation (offense/ defense), Performance

Routine.

a. Fight Song

1. Skills and choreography should represent a traditional fight song your team performs at games.

b. Game Situation

1. This component of the Game Day Championship includes two elements. Teams are encouraged to use spirit

raising props. The following props are allowed: signs, poms, flags and/or megaphones.

• A real-life scenario where the team will react to an audio cue with an offense or defense game chant.

These chants should be specific to the verbal cue given.

• Timeout (band music/traditional team music) designed for crowd interaction. The timeout should be the

same, regardless of what situation (offense or defense) you are given.

c. Performance Routine

1. A 30 second routine (any style) that is designed for crowd entertainment.

2. This is the best time to showcase your team’s energy and connection to the crowd.

3. The order for the Spirit Program Game Day Divisions will be Fight Song, Situational Sideline (offense/ defense),

Timeout. The cheer and dance scores will be averaged together.

a. Fight Song

1. Skills and choreography should represent a traditional fight song your team performs at games.

b. Situational Sideline

1. This component of the Spirit Program Game Day includes one element.

2. A real-life scenario where the team will react to an audio cue with an offense or defense game chant. These

chants should be specific to the verbal cue given.

c. Timeout

1. Band Chant music or traditional team music designed for crowd interaction.

2. This is the best time to showcase your team’s energy, leadership, visual appeal and connection to the crowd.

3. In previous years, this component was included in the second part of Dance Game Day. With Spirit Program

Gameday, we are omitting the Performance Routine and have split the Game Situation into two separate

components.

4. Teams will be evaluated and scored on each section of the Game Day Competition. Within each section,

performances will be scored on synchronization, execution of motions/skills and overall effect. In addition, other

components that pertain specifically to each section will be judged. For more information visit uda.varsity.com.

5. The use of spirit raising props are recommended but not required. The following props are allowed: signs, poms,

megaphones, and flags. No other props, musical instruments, etc. may be used by anyone on the performance floor.

6. Props cannot be tossed or thrown except for a pom toss. Props may not be thrown into the crowd and hip over-head

rotation skills (with or without hand support) with props (exception: poms) will be prohibited. See page 16 for the

hands free pom rules as they pertain to hip over-head rotation skills.

7. For cheer and dance teams competing in the Game Day divisions, we will allow teams to have up to a maximum of

30 seconds to enter the floor and set your props. The announcer will call the first cue at or before (if team is set) the

30 seconds. All entry and rules guidelines will still apply, and keep in mind that your entry to the floor will not be

judged; however, deductions will still be assessed. The overall time limit is 3:00.

8. Teams may add up to 1 (one) mascot in their routine. The mascot must enter the floor with the team and remain on

the floor for the entire routine or an out of bounds penalty will be assessed. Mascots should be used to raise crowd

energy and participation. The mascot should not be involved in any stunts or skills with hip over head rotation and

should position themselves away from skills being performed. The mascot will not count toward the number of

participants allowed but may impact the overall impression score. Mascots will only be allowed to use traditional

sideline props. The following props are allowed: signs, poms, megaphones or flags. Uniform/costume pieces must

be worn from beginning of the routine. Items/articles of clothing brought on to the stage but not worn will be

considered a prop. If any part of your mascot uniform / costume is taken off it must be immediately put down.

9. Teams may add a pep band or drumline into their performance. Pep Bands or Drumlines will not count toward the

total number of participants allowed. Pep Bands or Drumlines must be registered with the event as participants.

10. Pep Band or Drumline Performance Area will enter to the side of the stage and must remain off the performing

surface. An area will be designated in each performance venue. If the venue has a raised stage the pep band or

drumline will be off stage on the floor. Pep Band or drumlines will be allowed to enter the area prior to the cheer or

dance team being introduced for the competition.

11. The judges will score teams using the criteria listed on the UDA Game Day Championship score sheet. Each team will

be evaluated on a 100-point system. For detailed score sheets please visit uda.varsity.com.

12. All teams attending the UDA College Dance Team Championship will follow UDA College Nationals Rules and

Regulation.

13. Any deductions or violations will be taken off the final average score. For more information on scoring, score sheets

and judging criteria, please visit uda.varsity.com

14. Traditional game day uniform is required. Uniform pieces must be worn from beginning of the routine.

Items/articles of clothing brought on to the stage but not worn will be considered a prop. If any part of your uniform

is taken off it must be immediately put down.

DANCE GAME DAY ROUTINE SAFETY RULES

Teams competing in the game day divisions must follow all the routine safety rules and regulations at any regional or

championship event. Refer to pages 14-17 for more information.

COLLEGE MASCOT ENTRY GUIDELINES AND INFORMATION

MASCOT DIVISIONS

1. Mascot Division IA (NCAA I – FBS)

2. Open Mascot (NCAA I – FCS, NCAA II, NCAA III, Jr. Colleges & NAIA)

ENTRY GUIDELINES

1. The competition is open to all officially recognized mascots.

2. 50% of the video entry score will carry over for the National Finals.

3. Mascots will upload a two-minute highlight segment from the current season in MP4 of MOV format with their

registration to qualify for the College Mascot National Championship by 5:00 pm Tuesday November 9, 2021.

4. Highlights must be actual speed and cannot be sped up for visual effect.

5. Timing will begin with the first movement, voice, or note of the music, whichever comes first. Judges will not issue a

deduction until their stopwatches show a time of three (3) seconds over the allotted time.

6. If a mascot exceeds the time limit, a penalty will be assessed for each violation. One (1) point deduction for 1-5

seconds over and Two (2) point deduction for 6 seconds over.

7. Please include highlights from school events, games, community activities and/or public appearances, etc. Be sure to

follow the judging sheet below to ensure you meet all judging criteria.

8. Schools with more than one student playing the role of the same character may submit tapes together but only one

mascot per character may compete. If both or all want to compete, each mascot must send in separate tapes and

will be judged and ranked separately.

9. Safety Guidelines for Highlight Video:

a. The use of mini-tramps and /or springboards is prohibited.

b. Tumbling or flipping skills will NOT be allowed off of a prop or over a prop.

c. No pyrotechnics, discharge of arms, pressurized canisters, dangerous materials, flammable liquids or animals

will be permitted.

MUSIC GUIDELINES FOR MASCOT ENTRY TAPE

All music will need to follow the music guidelines listed on page 4-5

1. Only music captured incidentally (i.e., in the background of the video) will be permitted

2. No music can be edited into the video

BIDS AWARDED

1. The top 10 Division IA Mascots and the Top 5 Open Mascots will advance to The Mascot Championship in Orlando,

FL. Paid bids will be awarded to the top four (4) Division IA and the top (1) Open Mascots to compete.

SAMPLE OF MASCOT ENTRY SCORE SHEET

Overall Character Development 30 points

Game Situations 15 points

Crowd Involvement 15 points

Cheer/Dance/Band Integration 10 points

Community Service 10 points

School Activities (Non-Sporting) 10 points

Overall Impression 10 points

COLLEGE MASCOT CHAMPIONSHIP GUIDELINES AND INFORMATION

1. The competition is open to all officially recognized mascots that qualified from the video entry preliminaries.

2. 50% of the video entry score will carry over for the National Finals.

3. Each mascot will perform a 1 minute and 30 second skit to music.

4. Mascots will have 1 minute to set up and 1 minute to take down their set.

5. Each entry must include a one minute and 30 second skit to music. Timing will begin with the first movement, voice,

or note of the music, whichever comes first. Judges will not issue a deduction until their stopwatches show a time of

three (3) seconds over the allotted time.

6. If a mascot exceeds either time limit, a penalty will be assessed for each violation. One (1) point deduction for 1-5

seconds over and Two (2) point deduction for 6 seconds over. If a skit is retimed as part of a review, the exact time

will be used with the 3 second allowance.

7. Mascots may have TWO assistants to set up and take down props, but you may not use live assistance in your skit.

The assistants must be appropriately dressed in their school’s spirit program t-shirts and / or warmups.

8. Mascots must have a representative to play their music. See music guidelines on page 4-5.

9. Specific Rules for props:

a. Mascots are limited to no more than 5 props.

b. Each prop may not exceed 36” in height, width or depth and must be able to fit through a standard size (72”)

double door. Props will be measured at their largest size so any flips or mechanics should be considered in the

measurement of the height and width of the props. No attachments will be allowed.

c. Props will not be measured prior to competition in Orlando, FL. Questions regarding props can be emailed to

[email protected]om.

d. Wheels can be used on the bottom of props for ease of movement and will not be considered an attachment;

however, they will count in the overall height of the prop.

e. Props can be stacked but cannot be attached or bound together.

f. Hinges can be used but when expanded must be part of the original prop measurement and cannot exceed the

maximum prop measurements (36” in height, width or depth)

g. Props must follow all the size and attachments guidelines and will be limited to any combination of the

following:

1. Signs (max of 3)

2. Poms (poms are considered one prop)

3. Megaphone

4. Traditional Sideline Flag

5. Standard Size Chair (max of 1)

6. Standard Size Sports Ball – Football, basketball, etc.

7. Clapping hands (considered one prop)

8. Poster Board/Cardboard – can be arranged as a box with multiple sides if within the size guidelines

9. “Wild Card” prop (max of 1)

h. Wood, metal, PVC, screws, zip ties, tape, and other adhesives may be used for the purpose of constructing a

base or supporting structure for the above props but can only be used as the primary material for the “Wild

Card” prop.

i. The bottom of all props made of wood, metal or PVC type plastic must be padded or taped.

j. To avoid damage to the competition floor, props should be constructed so that they may easily be carried or

moved to the performance area.

k. All equipment tips on batons, prop rifles, flagpoles, and prop sabers must be padded or taped. (These are

examples of “Wild Card” props)

l. Clapping hands or poms are considered one prop.

m. If any part of your uniform / costume is taken off it must be immediately put down. If you use it in your skit it

becomes one of your props.

10. Safety Guidelines for Props:

a. The use of mini-tramps and /or springboards is prohibited.

b. Tumbling or flipping skills will NOT be allowed off of a prop or over a prop.

c. No pyrotechnics, discharge of arms, pressurized canisters, dangerous materials, flammable liquids or animals

will be permitted.

d. Electrical (plug-in or battery operated) or compressed air apparatuses, including lights, lasers, and flashcubes

(electrical or chemical) will not be allowed.

e. Smoke machines will not be allowed.

f. The use of powder, dirt or any other airborne substance that lingers in the competition area shall be strictly

prohibited.

g. Balloons, confetti, dry ice, water guns, motorized devices, fire extinguishers or noise-making devices will not be

allowed.

7. Skits should represent good sportsmanship with competing mascots.

8. Mascots are responsible for transporting props to and from the competition venue.

9. Mascots will be required to bring any necessary tools to properly disassemble and discard all props after the final

competition.

10. Mascots in costume will not be allowed outside of the competition venues.

11. Any violation of the specific Rules and Regulations will result is a three 3.0 point deduction.

SAMPLE OF JUDGING MASCOT SCORE SHEET (ENTRY TAPE AND CHAMPIONSHIP)

*No Scores will carry over to the 2022 College Mascot National Championship in Orlando, FL

January 14-16, 2022

SAMPLE OF JUDGING SCORE SHEET

Crowd Appeal & Crowd Interaction 10 points

Creativity 10 points

Animation / Enthusiasm 10 points

Prop Usage 10 points

Overall Impression 10 points

COLLEGE PARTNER STUNT ENTRY GUIDELINES AND INFORMATION

The competition is open to all coed and all girl partner stunt groups who are presently registered full-time students and

members of their school’s official 2020-2021 College / University cheerleading squad. All entries must follow the

eligibility guidelines listed above.

1. Divisions

a. Coed Partner Stunt Division must be one male and one female.

b. Girls Partner Stunt division may have four female team members.

2. Music and Time Limitations

a. All routines must be “Music Only” and performance time may not exceed one minute in length.

b. Timing will begin with the first movement, voice, or note of music, whichever comes first.

c. There should not be any organized exits or other activities after the official ending of the routine.

d. Timing will begin with the first movement, voice, or note of the music, whichever comes first. Judges will not

issue a deduction until their stopwatches show a time of three (3) seconds over the allotted time.

e. If a partner stunt group exceeds the time limit, a penalty will be assessed for each violation. One (1) point

deduction for 1-5 seconds over and Two (2) point deduction for 6 seconds over. If a partner stunt group is

retimed as part of a review, the exact time will be used with the 3 second allowance.

3. Music Guidelines for Partner Stunt Tape

a. Only music captured incidentally (i.e., in the background of the video) will be permitted

b. No music can be edited into the video

c. All music captured from half-times, games, etc. highlighted in the video will need to follow the music guidelines

4. How to register

a. Submit a one-minute, unedited video along with a $25 entry fee per couple/group. Payment must be included

with your video entry to qualify.

b. All Videos must be uploaded to uca.varsity.com and should be submitted in MP4 or MOV files.

c. Complete and return the registration form and email to college@varsity.com.

d. Your video and entry fee must be in our office no later than 5:00pm on November 9, 2021.

5. College Partner Stunt Qualification

a. The top groups in each division will qualify to compete in the Partner Stunt Championship in Orlando January 14,

2021.

b. Paid Bids will not be awarded from the video entry. Stunt groups will compete in reverse ranking order for the

Finals in Orlando based on the video entry placement.

PARTNER STUNT SCORING:

STUNT EXECUTION

Top: 20 POINTS

Proper Technique, Form, Flexibility, Appearance of Stunts

Base(s): 20 POINTS

Proper Technique, Completion of Skills, Minimal Movement

STUNT DIFFICULTY

Top: 15 POINTS

Level of Skill, Type and Number of Body Positions,

Type of Transitions, Variety

Base(s): 15 POINTS

Level of Skill, Type of Transitions, Variety

OVERALL PERFORMANCE – 30 POINTS

TRANSITIONS 10 POINTS

Number of Transitions, Continuous Pace, Flow of Routine, Creativity

OVERALL EFFECT 10 POINTS

Routine Fit to Music, Choreography, Visual Appeal

SHOWMANSHIP 10 POINTS

Excitement Level of Routine, Presentation, Traditional Team Image

All Partner Stunt Groups MUST complete the Online Registration Form. Registration form, entry fee and video are

due by Tuesday, November 9, 2021.

COLLEGE PARTNER STUNT COMPETITION RULES

GENERAL RULES

1. Participants may not represent more than one stunt group.

2. Partner groups must begin their routine with both feet on the ground.

3. You are required to have a spotter throughout your routine. Spotters will be provided for the National Finals.

4. Tumbling into a stunt is allowed. (i.e. back handspring toss to extension).

5. Partner Stunt Groups must wear a school uniform for BOTH entry and finals. (No bra tops or shorts).

This INCLUDES spotters.

6. Participants are required to follow the National Championship Safety Rules and Regulations. All skills that require an

additional spotter are allowed; however, skills that require two bases to perform are not allowed for coed partner

stunt groups.

VIOLATIONS

1. Please refer to the deduction explanation for all penalties that will be assessed.

2. Any team in violation of any of the Specific Safety Guidelines or these Rules and Regulations will be assessed a three

(3) point per judge deduction for each violation. This deduction does not apply to violations mentioned above that

are designated a lesser point value.

3. Any team that does not adhere to the terms and procedures of these “Rules and Regulations” will be subject to

deductions and/or disqualification from the competition, will automatically forfeit any right to any prizes or awards

presented by the competition, and may also forfeit the opportunity to participate in the competition or the National

Championship the following year.

PRIZES AND AWARDS

1. Each group will receive a critique of their performance.

2. Finalists will have the opportunity to compete in the College Partner Stunt Competition at the Walt Disney World ®

Resort in Florida.

3. Winners will receive medals and trophies.

RULES AND REGULATIONS AGREEMENT

By accepting the Terms and Conditions as the authorized person from my program I agree and acknowledge that (i) I am

the sponsor/director of the team (ii) I have read and understand the foregoing, (iii) I will be solely responsible for

communicating the foregoing to all coaches/directors in my program that will coaching and directing teams at

the College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship, (iv) I will ensure that my teams will comply with all

rules and regulations at all times, and (v) my team will support the results of the competition, as I am a role model for

my programs.