Qualifying for Nationals

Qualifying for Nationals

If you are interested in attending a cheerleading nationals, here are some ways you can qualify. Each organization has different requirments and rules you must follow to qualify. For more information on qualifying call one of the toll free numbers on the Cheerleading Organizations page.


American Spirit: Squads are judged on a home cheer (time limit of 1-1/2 minutes).

Cheer LTD.: Camp instructors must make nomination to the CANAM championships in order for your squad to qualify.

COA: Squads are judges on material they have learned at camp. Cheerleading squads must perform one cheer, one sideline chant, and one dance. Dance teams must perform two dance routines. All Squads must score 80% or higher to qualify.

ECA: Squads are judged on material they have learned at camp.

Elite: Camp instructors evaluate squads at camp and make nominations for NCA nationals.

ICA: Squads are judged on a home cheer, ICA cheer, and an optional sideline chant.Teams must place in top three of their division or score at least 85% to qualify.

NWCA: At this camp you do not have to qualify, but by attending camp you are guaranteed a place in the national competition. Other squads must come on a first come first serve basis.

NCA: Squads are judged on a home cheer (time limit of 30 seconds).

UCA: No one may qualify for nationals at camp. Nationals bids will be awarded at the UCA regionals.

UPA: Camp instructors must make recommendations to the UPA Championships for a squad to qualify.



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