LATEST NEWS
USASF Announces Unified Scoring Framework and Routine Time Update for The Dance Worlds™ 2027
August 19, 2026
The U.S. All Star Federation (USASF) and International All Star Foundation (IASF) will align around a unified scoresheet for The Dance Worlds™ 2027. The shared scoring framework is designed to create greater consistency in how teams are evaluated while making education, training and resources more universally relevant to coaches and judges around the world.
“This change is an important step toward a more connected international All Star Dance community,” said USASF Director of Dance Sarah Miller Bate. “It also further reinforces USASF and IASF’s shared commitment to the continued growth and development of All Star Dance globally.”
Unified Scoring for The Dance Worlds™
All teams performing at The Dance Worlds 2027, whether in an international division or a US club division, will compete on the same score sheet, helping create greater consistency and clarity in the adjudication process.
Routine Time Update for the 2026–27 Season
Also beginning with the 2026–27 season, the maximum routine time for all Intermediate and Premier Tier divisions will move from 2:15 to 2:00. The minimum routine time will remain 1:45.
For Novice Tier divisions, routine time requirements will remain unchanged, with a maximum routine time of 1:45 and no minimum routine time. This update was first announced in March 2026 to give clubs and coaches time to prepare for the season ahead.
“We know that changes to routine time or scoring framework impact all of our All Star dancers, coaches, and event producers.” said Miller Bate, “But as our industry evolves, creating a consistent competitive experience is critical to the growth of All Star dance around the world.”
USASF AND Open Championship Resolution
August 13, 2026
The U.S. All Star Federation (USASF) is pleased to announce that it has reached a mutually satisfactory resolution of all pending legal disputes with Open Cheer, Deep South, and their ownership group.
We are proud of where we landed and, more importantly, grateful to now move forward with our full attention where it belongs - on our members, our athletes, and the future of All Star.
As the first and largest All Star membership organization that created a unified structure for divisions, competition standards and athlete protection, we will continue to evolve - but the principle remains constant: athletes first.
We are proud of USASF's history, and we are even more excited and focused on what comes next. Together, we will continue doing what USASF was created to do: bring the All Star community together, put athletes first, and define a path forward built on safety, fair play and opportunity for all.
USASF Announces Scoring System Updates for The Cheerleading Worlds® 2027
August 12, 2026
The US All Star Federation (USASF) has released an updated scoring rubric for USASF Club divisions competing at The Cheerleading Worlds® 2027. The revised score sheet transitions the current Club Division scoring system from a 170-point format to a 100-point format, creating greater alignment with the International All Star Foundation (IASF) scoring structure.
First introduced to attendees at THE National Conference, the updated system preserves the scoring priorities, category structure, and overall expectations coaches and athletes are familiar with.
“This update is primarily a scale conversion rather than a change in scoring philosophy,” said Dana Fielding, USASF Executive Director of Rules, Scoring and Education. “The simplified scale provides greater consistency across all Worlds divisions.”
One key adjustment is the introduction of jumps as a capped category, aligning with in-season expectations of teams.
Judges will also continue to consider comparative elements such as:
- Degree of difficulty
- Percentage of team participation
- Variety
- Synchronization
- Pace
- Additional skills
Belinda Harvey Elected to USASF Board of Directors
July 27, 2026
The U.S. All Star Federation (USASF) is pleased to announce the election of Belinda Harvey, owner of Impact Cheerleading in Gonzales, Louisiana, as the newest member of the USASF Board of Directors. Harvey was elected in an open voting process by USASF members. She will serve in a Coach/Owner voting seat and will begin her two-year term in January 2027.
A respected leader within the All Star community, Harvey brings years of experience as a gym owner, coach, and mentor. She has served as a USASF Connection Leader, PEER mentor, DEIS committee member, and a speaker at THE National Conference.
"We are thrilled to welcome Belinda to the Board of Directors," said Nicole Leago-Devall, Chair of the USASF Board of Directors. "Belinda has earned the trust and respect of her peers and is so dedicated to helping athletes, coaches, and the All Star industry thrive. We look forward to the leadership and perspective she will bring as we continue our work to strengthen and grow All Star."
The USASF Board of Directors extends its congratulations to Belinda and expresses its sincere appreciation to all of the outstanding candidates who applied for this Board seat.
Appeals Court Allows USASF Trademark Case to Move Forward, Recognizing Evidence Supporting The Cheerleading Worlds® Brand
June 26, 2026
The U.S. All Star Federation (USASF) is pleased to share an important update regarding its ongoing trademark case involving the names "WORLDS" and "THE CHEERLEADING WORLDS®."
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit has ruled that key questions about USASF's rights to these marks deserve further consideration and should move forward through the legal process. In its decision, the court recognized that USASF presented substantial evidence supporting its position that the All Star community associates WORLDS and THE CHEERLEADING WORLDS® with the championship event that athletes have worked toward for more than two decades.
While the case is not yet complete, the court's decision allows USASF to continue presenting its case that Open Cheer and its principals infringed USASF’s trademarks through the use of the similar marks ALLSTAR WORLDS and ALLSTAR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP and ensures that the facts surrounding USASF’s longstanding brands will be fully evaluated.
For the USASF, protecting these trademarks is about protecting the integrity of an event that has become a defining goal for generations of athletes, teams and coaches. Since the first Worlds in 2004, countless individuals have dedicated their time, passion, experience and talent to building what has become the pinnacle of All Star.
"The Cheerleading Worlds® is part of the legacy of the athletes, coaches, club owners, event producers and families who have helped make it what it is today," said USASF President Alison Stangle. "We are thrilled with the court's recognition that there is significant evidence supporting the connection between these brands and the event that our community worldwide, along with IASF, has spent more than 20 years building. Our focus remains on preserving the value, reputation, and meaning of that achievement for future generations of athletes."
The Cheerleading Worlds® was created to provide the highest level All Star cheer teams with an opportunity to compete on the sport's biggest stage. Over the years, the event has become the most recognized and respected world championship in the All Star industry for the most elite athletes at the highest levels.
The court noted evidence showing USASF's long-standing use and promotion of the WORLDS and THE CHEERLEADING WORLDS® trademarks, as well as the widespread recognition those brands have earned through athletes, families, coaches, events, broadcasts, media coverage, and the broader cheer community. As the case returns to the district court for further proceedings, USASF remains committed to protecting the value and goodwill associated with The Cheerleading Worlds®. Most importantly, USASF remains committed to serving athletes and supporting the All Star community while ensuring this event continues to be a meaningful milestone in our sport, just as it has been for decades and will be for years to come.
April 14, 2026
The U.S. All Star Federation announces the 2026 Class of USASF Scholarship FinalistsFebruary 16, 2026
Each year, the U.S. All Star Federation honors a group of distinguished student-athletes whose achievements extend far beyond the sport. These individuals embody the spirit of All Star athletics — excellence in performance, academics, leadership, and character.
The USASF College Scholarship Program supports college-bound seniors and exceptional athletes who not only shine in their sport but also demonstrate integrity, determination, and a drive to succeed. Applicants are evaluated through a rigorous process that includes a personal essay, academic achievements, and one recommendation from a coach or club owner. Finalists are then invited to an interview that highlights their professionalism, self-representation, and commitment to their community and goals.
Since 2008, the United States All Star Federation has awarded over $1 million in scholarships to more than 300 deserving athletes. Receiving a USASF scholarship is more than a financial award — it’s a celebration of everything these athletes have learned and accomplished through their All Star journey.
New in 2026, winners will be recognized at select Event Producer competitions. Award categories include Gold, Silver, KP Connection, and Excellence Awards in Leadership, Academics, All Star Dedication, and Community Service.
2026 USASF Scholarship Finalists
CHEER FINALISTS
Kaitlyn Bailey, Premier Athletics Knoxville West
Madisyn Bradnick, Flipping Out Tumbling
Leah Green, The Stingray Allstars - Marrietta
Katherine Kendall, Buckeye Cheer Elite
Belle Morgan, FAME All Stars
Isabella Salazar, Valley Cheer Elite
Mikaela Scuorzo, Spirit Factory All Stars
Jaylee Sheffield, The Cheer Connection
Parker Walley, KC Cheer
Cassidy Watkins, Carolina Magic Allstars
DANCE FINALISTS
Josephine Hall, 5678! Dance Studio
Katherine Heaney, Project N Dance Center
Bridget Saltzman, 5678! Dance Studio
Jayla Thompson, Dynamic Dance
CheerABILITIES FINALISTS
India Brodie, Maryland Twisters
Christina Morton, Maryland Twisters
Joy Niebergall, ICE All Stars
DanceABILITIES FINALIST
Catherine Solferino, Dance Savannah
The USASF College Scholarship Program supports college-bound seniors and exceptional athletes who not only shine in their sport but also demonstrate integrity, determination, and a drive to succeed. Applicants are evaluated through a rigorous process that includes a personal essay, academic achievements, and one recommendation from a coach or club owner. Finalists are then invited to an interview that highlights their professionalism, self-representation, and commitment to their community and goals.
Since 2008, the United States All Star Federation has awarded over $1 million in scholarships to more than 300 deserving athletes. Receiving a USASF scholarship is more than a financial award — it’s a celebration of everything these athletes have learned and accomplished through their All Star journey.
New in 2026, winners will be recognized at select Event Producer competitions. Award categories include Gold, Silver, KP Connection, and Excellence Awards in Leadership, Academics, All Star Dedication, and Community Service.
2026 USASF Scholarship Finalists
CHEER FINALISTS
Kaitlyn Bailey, Premier Athletics Knoxville West
Madisyn Bradnick, Flipping Out Tumbling
Leah Green, The Stingray Allstars - Marrietta
Katherine Kendall, Buckeye Cheer Elite
Belle Morgan, FAME All Stars
Isabella Salazar, Valley Cheer Elite
Mikaela Scuorzo, Spirit Factory All Stars
Jaylee Sheffield, The Cheer Connection
Parker Walley, KC Cheer
Cassidy Watkins, Carolina Magic Allstars
DANCE FINALISTS
Josephine Hall, 5678! Dance Studio
Katherine Heaney, Project N Dance Center
Bridget Saltzman, 5678! Dance Studio
Jayla Thompson, Dynamic Dance
CheerABILITIES FINALISTS
India Brodie, Maryland Twisters
Christina Morton, Maryland Twisters
Joy Niebergall, ICE All Stars
DanceABILITIES FINALIST
Catherine Solferino, Dance Savannah
Early Release of 2026-27 Cheer & Dance Age Grid, Rules announcedMarch 5, 2026
March 5, 2026 - The United States All Star Federation (USASF) has posted the Early Release of the USASF Cheer and Dance Rules and Age Grid for the 2026-2027 season.
One of the most anticipated updates centers on the Flex Divisions that were introduced in 2025-2026 for All Star Cheer as Provisional Divisions.
For the 2026–2027 All Star Cheer season:- Flex Divisions and traditional Youth and Junior Divisions will remain unchanged.
- Birth years will adjust forward by one year to reflect the natural progression of time, but the top and bottom age ranges will remain consistent with the 2025–2026 season.
- USASF will not add any new divisions to the age grid.
As part of the evaluation process for potential 2026–2027 cheer age grid changes, USASF invited member feedback through a survey and an All Member Cheer call. The USASF received more than 2,000 individual respondents from USASF club owners, coaches and event producers. All responses and additional comments were carefully reviewed and considered.
For the 2026–2027 All Star Dance season:- Effective immediately for The Dance Worlds™ 2026, there will be both Senior Kick and Senior Kick Coed divisions. For the 2026-2027 season, the Senior Kick division will be one, combined division allowing both male and female dancers.
- The maximum time limit for the Intermediate and Premier Tiers will change from 2:15 to 2:00.
- New rules are in place for groups and pairs.
- In the intermediate youth, junior and senior tiers, an Executing Dancer may not pass through or stop in an inverted position with downward momentum.
- In the premier tiers, an Executing Dancer may not pass through or stop in an inverted position with downward momentum if their hips originate above head-level. Exception: If the Executing Dancer begins completely parallel to the performance surface, they may pass through or stop in an inverted position with downward momentum.
“We understand that opinions may vary across the industry. In a sport as passionate as All Star Cheer and Dance, solutions rarely feel perfect to everyone,” said USASF Executive Director of Rules, Scoring and Education, Dana Fielding. “However, the decisions were made following careful analysis of survey data, direct member input, and consideration of the broader industry impact.”
THE USASF does not anticipate additional changes to the rules and age grid for the 2026-2027 season but reserves the right to make modifications if necessary.
- Flex Divisions and traditional Youth and Junior Divisions will remain unchanged.
- Birth years will adjust forward by one year to reflect the natural progression of time, but the top and bottom age ranges will remain consistent with the 2025–2026 season.
- USASF will not add any new divisions to the age grid.
- Effective immediately for The Dance Worlds™ 2026, there will be both Senior Kick and Senior Kick Coed divisions. For the 2026-2027 season, the Senior Kick division will be one, combined division allowing both male and female dancers.
- The maximum time limit for the Intermediate and Premier Tiers will change from 2:15 to 2:00.
- New rules are in place for groups and pairs.
- In the intermediate youth, junior and senior tiers, an Executing Dancer may not pass through or stop in an inverted position with downward momentum.
- In the premier tiers, an Executing Dancer may not pass through or stop in an inverted position with downward momentum if their hips originate above head-level. Exception: If the Executing Dancer begins completely parallel to the performance surface, they may pass through or stop in an inverted position with downward momentum.
2024-25 Competition Season UnderwayOctober 23, 2024
The USASF competition season is officially here, and we’re kicking it off this weekend with three incredible events! Best of luck to all the amazing cheer and dance teams participating in these sanctioned competitions!
- American Cheer Power Halloween Challenge in San Antonio, TX -- Oct. 26, 2024
- UCA/UDA Mid South Regional in Southaven, MS -- Oct. 26, 2024
- JAMZ Fall Fest in Stockton, CA Oct. 27, 2024
Start your search now for more USASF sanctioned competitions this season.
- American Cheer Power Halloween Challenge in San Antonio, TX -- Oct. 26, 2024
- UCA/UDA Mid South Regional in Southaven, MS -- Oct. 26, 2024
- JAMZ Fall Fest in Stockton, CA Oct. 27, 2024
The future of All Star is brightOctober 7, 2024
We’re thrilled to announce the release of the USASF Biennial Report for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons! Explore our overview of the achievements and initiatives that have shaped the past two seasons, all while upholding our commitment to safety, inclusivity and excellence within the All Star cheer and dance communities. Join us in celebrating the incredible spirit of our USASF members and fans! Read the full report and let’s continue to elevate the sport together!
Get started earlyOctober 7, 2024
While November is National Scholarship Month, your athletes can start NOW! There's no better time for college-bound member athletes, including CheerABILITIES and DanceABILITIES athletes, to begin the scholarship application process. Encourage your athletes to get started early and apply for a USASF College or Exceptional Athlete Scholarship. Learn more about USASF Scholarships. The submission deadline is Feb. 1, 2025.
Revisions to the USASF Dance/Cheer Rules & Age Grids announcedMay 21, 2024
Dance Rules & Age Grid 2024-2025The following changes were made since the early release of the rules in February. If you have any questions, please email smbate@usasf.net.
Dance Age Grid- Modified the category description of Kick to include the word alignment.
- Addition to inform members that MALE dancers must compete on the performance surface not just be rostered for a routine to qualify as COED.
- The Open Division will no longer be split into small and large at USASF Sanctioned Events.
- Open Kick will no longer receive bids to The Dance Worlds.
Dance Rules- Youth Prep is now also allowed to release their heads back in jumps and perform two fouettes.
Updates to IASF DivisionsTeams that plan on competing in Open/International divisions during the upcoming season, should plan to review the IASF Age Grid for 2024-25. Notable changes include:
1. The IASF has removed the Elite and Premier divisions at The Dance Worlds 2025 to better align with the international division standards of performance cheer and to avoid team size inconsistency. Additionally, the IASF is removing the Kick divisions of Open and Junior Dance due to aligning with performance cheer and low international participation. As a result, the IASF/Open divisions at Worlds 2025 will not be split by size (example: Open Elite Pom or Open Premier Pom; instead they will compete in Open Pom). Open Kick will not be offered. In summary, the following IASF divisions will be offered at The Dance Worlds 2025:
Open Hip Hop
Open Coed Hip Hop
Open Male Hip Hop
Open Jazz
Open Coed Jazz
Open Pom
Open Coed Pom
Open Open (Contemporary/Lyrical)
Junior Dance (Hip Hop, Jazz and/or Pom) U.S. video entry only
- 6-30 members apply for each division
2. Both male and female dancers must perform in order for a routine to be considered coed. Dancers who make up a coed composition must be rostered AND take the competition floor.
Cheer Rules & Age Grid 2024-2025Please take a moment to review the cheer rules and age grid for next season. Below are the changes made since the early release of the rules in February. If you have any questions, please email acarter@usasf.net.- Stated when same-sized teams from the same club (Elite - non-Worlds, non-International) may request to not compete against each other.
- All International Levels 1-4 divisions offered on the USASF Age Grid now have a 30-athlete maximum.
- International Levels 1-4 divisions may now be split by size, “Small” (16-24) and “Medium” (25-30).
- Modified the category description of Kick to include the word alignment.
- Addition to inform members that MALE dancers must compete on the performance surface not just be rostered for a routine to qualify as COED.
- The Open Division will no longer be split into small and large at USASF Sanctioned Events.
- Open Kick will no longer receive bids to The Dance Worlds.
- Youth Prep is now also allowed to release their heads back in jumps and perform two fouettes.
1. The IASF has removed the Elite and Premier divisions at The Dance Worlds 2025 to better align with the international division standards of performance cheer and to avoid team size inconsistency. Additionally, the IASF is removing the Kick divisions of Open and Junior Dance due to aligning with performance cheer and low international participation. As a result, the IASF/Open divisions at Worlds 2025 will not be split by size (example: Open Elite Pom or Open Premier Pom; instead they will compete in Open Pom). Open Kick will not be offered. In summary, the following IASF divisions will be offered at The Dance Worlds 2025:
Open Hip Hop
Open Coed Hip Hop
Open Male Hip Hop
Open Jazz
Open Coed Jazz
Open Pom
Open Coed Pom
Open Open (Contemporary/Lyrical)
Junior Dance (Hip Hop, Jazz and/or Pom) U.S. video entry only
- 6-30 members apply for each division
2. Both male and female dancers must perform in order for a routine to be considered coed. Dancers who make up a coed composition must be rostered AND take the competition floor.
- Stated when same-sized teams from the same club (Elite - non-Worlds, non-International) may request to not compete against each other.
- All International Levels 1-4 divisions offered on the USASF Age Grid now have a 30-athlete maximum.
- International Levels 1-4 divisions may now be split by size, “Small” (16-24) and “Medium” (25-30).
