Performance Rec

What is Performance Rec?

Performance Rec is an all music competitive division in recreational cheerleading, where teams can perform dynamic choreographed routines. In this setting, teams are assessed based on their skill level, degree of difficulty/execution, and the creativity of their routines. Different levels allow teams to showcase their abilities, from fundamentals to more advanced skills. Teams will be scored on the Varsity Performance Rec score sheet, follow USASF rules and typically compete on a spring floor. Teams may or may not be affiliated or governed by an organization. Participation in these competitions not only helps athletes improve their cheerleading skills but also fosters teamwork, discipline, and a sense of community.

More information about Performance Rec can be found below. Looking for a more Traditional competition offering? Click the button below to learn about our Traditional Rec events.

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Performance Rec Information

Overview

What to Expect in Performance Rec?

Performance Rec teams compete at our All Star brand events
Teams will follow USASF Skill rules and require a USA Cheer Membership
Divisions offered can be found on the Varsity Performance Rec Age Grid and include Exhibition & CheerAbilities
Maximum Routine/Music Time is 2:30. A Crowd Leading Section may be included but will not be scored.

Performance Rec Divisions

Click Here to View the Performance Rec Divisions

Performance Elite

Formerly known as “Performance Rec”
No Cheer/Crowd Leading section is allowed
Tosses may be performed
Routines are all music with a maximum time of 2:30
All routines will follow USASF Skill rules

Performance Advanced

Formerly known as “Traditional Rec”
A Cheer/Crowd Leading section may be performed but will not be scored
Tosses are NOT allowed
Routines are all music with a maximum time of 2:30
All routines will follow USASF Skill rules

For more information, please reference the 2026-2027 Performance Rec Age Grid.

Affiliated & Non-Affiliated Splits

Affiliated and Non-Affiliated Performance Recreational divisions will be combined during registration and for some events. Affiliated and Non-Affiliated divisions may be split based on the number of event registrations.

Varsity Spirit’s guidelines for splitting divisions is in the best interest of providing a competitive environment. Once there are 3 or more teams in each of their respective divisions/level, the event producer may split the division using the guidelines below:

1st Split: Affiliated/Non-Affiliated
2nd Split Team size (small/large)

Age Grid & Classifications

26-27 Performance Recreation Age Grid – View Here

Required Forms

26-27 Recreational Verification Form – View Here

Scoring Information

Click here to view the Scoring Information

End-Of-Season Events

All Performance Recreational teams attending a Varsity All Star event are eligible to attend an End-of-Season event below. Please note some of these events require a bid to attend.

Traditional Rec teams are not eligible for The Quest, The Recreational Summit or The U.S. Finals Events. Traditional Rec teams are eligible to qualify* for the following Championship Events: UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship, NCA High School National Championships or USA Jr. Spirit Nationals. *Please note some of these events require credentialing and a bid to attend.

The Quest Recreational Championship

Get ready to experience the magic of The Quest Recreational Championship. From practice & competition to exploring the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks, The Quest provides a unique opportunity for Rec teams and their families to experience top-notch competition while taking in the FUN!

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