Expert: James - 9/18/2007

Question
We have started a small AllStar Cheerleading Program.  We have 16 kids (1 male) and will be competing a the Junior Level 2.  Due to inexperience with flying, there are only 3 stunt groups and the best flyer is our male cheerleader.  Actually, he is our best cheerleader overall as he has an extensive gymnastics background (level 5).  We want him to be our central focus during the stunt portions of the routine, but are not sure how this would be viewed by the judges.  What is your opinion?  Thanks.

Answer
Well my opinion is that the judges should have to (at least in a perfect world) not view it as anything except how good and difficult the routine is, no matter who is performing what. The crowd though should absolutely love it, they do anytime a male or female does something that is out of the ordinary. I mean i've went out at a basketball game timeout and held a girl in a cupie so long that me & my partner have gotten a standing ovation. But there are countless male cheerleaders who can do the same thing and countless who can do it longer than me. But the moment a female does a simple toss hands or a male goes up in the air the crowd loses it. I think it would be good in that sense plus you have to play to your strengths no matter what they are.