Allstar cheerleading age requirements can be hard to follow, as they can vary based on divisions, country, and event producer.
The age grids also typically change every few seasons, making everything even more confusing.
Generally speaking, there is no maximum age limit for Allstar cheerleading athletes. People of any age can participate in the sport! However, this depends on the division and level a team is on. Some divisions have a maximum age limit, while others do not. Keep reading to see which divisions have no age limit, and which do.
In this article, we will have a look at the maximum age limits for cheerleading competitions following the two main governing organizations – the USASF and IASF.
To learn more about these two organizations, click here: The USASF, IASF & ICU – What Are They and What’s the Difference?
Event producers not affiliated with the USASF or IASF are not obligated to follow the same age grids, rules, and requirements. Make sure to look up the specific requirements for any competition you are attending.
IASF (international divisions) maximum age
Here are the IASF Allstar cheerleading age limits for the 2022-2023 season:
| Division: | Maximum age: |
|---|---|
| U6 | 6 |
| U8 | 8 |
| U12 | 12 |
| U16 | 16 |
| U18 | 18 |
| Open divisions | No maximum age |
| Global club divisions | No maximum age |
Note: this is not a complete list of IASF divisions, only the max age limit. Click here to see the full list of IASF divisions, levels, and age requirements.
Are you confused about the U16, U18, etc. division names? Here’s an explanation of the name change: IASF Announces Changes To Worlds 2021 & New Division Names
USASF (United States divisions) maximum age
Here are the USASF Allstar cheerleading age limits for the 2022-2023 season:
| Division: | Maximum age: |
|---|---|
| Tiny | 6 |
| Mini | 8 |
| Youth | 11 |
| Junior | 15 |
| Senior | 18-19* |
| Senior Open | No maximum age |
| International Open | No maximum age |
* some additional requirements apply. Please see the complete list linked below.
Note: this is not a complete list of USASF divisions, only the max age limit. Click here to see the full list of USASF divisions, levels, and age requirements.
What is the maximum age you can compete at The Cheerleading Worlds?
Let’s have a look at what the age requirements mean for The Cheerleading Worlds!
This means that some divisions at The Cheerleading Worlds have an age limit of 18-19, while other divisions don’t have any age limit.
It’s never too late to compete at Worlds!
From the 2023 Cheerleading Worlds, the IASF will also add U18 level 5 and U18 Non-tumbling divisions. Athletes in those divisions will have a maximum age of 18.
Learn more about Non-Tumbling teams & divisions: Everything You Need to Know About Non-Tumbling Cheerleading Teams
Alternatives to Senior Allstar cheerleading teams
If you’re past the age limit for Senior teams, but can’t or don’t want to join an open, global, or international team – you still have some other options!
Some gyms offer recreational teams with no age limit, for those who want to practice cheerleading for fun. Some gyms and competitions also offer a “masters” division open for anyone over the age of 25!
Differences around the world
As cheerleading organizations in other countries can adjust their rules for local competitions, the maximum age can vary a lot.
For example, in some countries, there is no maximum age limit in any senior divisions!
That means there’s no age limit on a Senior level 2 team for example.
To see which age requirements and rules apply in your country, check with the local governing body of cheerleading.
We hope you found this guide helpful and that you have learned more about age requirements in cheerleading!
Remember that the age requirements depend on the event producer, country, and more. Feel free to share any thoughts or questions in the comment section below.
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