AFC is a new Cheerleading Club based in Mayfield, East Sussex starting our first classes in September 2018.

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What Is Cheerleading?

Cheerleading is a fun and exciting sport that is quickly growing in popularity across the UK.  It is even under consideration to become an Olympic sport by 2020!

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There are 2 very different styles of Cheerleading: 

 

SIDELINE CHEER - this is where cheerleaders support other sports teams by chanting and dancing on the sidelines.  This is NOT what Air Force Cheer does.

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ALLSTAR CHEER - This IS what Air Force Cheer does.  Allstar cheer is a competitive sport in which teams of up to 32 athletes perform a 2 minute and 30 second routine to music.  The routine is fast paced and impeccably choreographed.  Teams are scored by a panel of judges based on 5 basic requirements: Stunts, Pyramids, Tumbling, Jumps and Dance.  A normal routine will include at least 2 stunt sequences performed simultaneously by up to 8 groups of 4-5 athletes; 2-3 different styles of "basket toss" where an athlete is tossed into the air, performs a trick, and is caught by the throwers; a 3 "structure" human pyramid involving the entire team; 2-4 advanced (i.e. feet above your head) jumps performed by the entire team; standing tumbling ranging from a forward roll up to a full twisting backwards somersault and running tumble passes which showcase the impressive combination of power skills each athlete contributes to the team including back handsprings, somersaults and twisting skills.

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What Are The Requirements To Start?

As long ​as you are relatively fit, there are no other requirements to start.  We do not expect people to walk in with any knowledge, skill or level of flexibility - it is our job to help you learn those things!  Everyone starts in the Beginners Level 1 Recreational Class where the basics are taught.  We believe strongly in physical preparation to avoid injuries or peaking too early so we will do lots of strength work and flexibility training before asking anyone to attempt a skill that they are not ready for. The beginners rec class will start from the most basic stunts and even teach how to perform a forward roll.  There will be a strong focus on correct technique to prevent long term injury from bad habits.  The most important requirements to be a good cheerleader are to be positive, listen to your coaches and always try your very best.

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Why Choose   Cheerleading?

When choosing a sport for your children, consider what will keep them engaged and active long term.  Statistics show that for girls, Cheerleading is a very rewarding choice.

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By age 14, girls are dropping out of sports at two times the rate of boys.  It is important for everyone to stay healthy and active at every age.  Whilst many sports no longer appeal to teenage girls, Cheerleading has proven to keep girls engaged from childhood through to their early adult years.  This is not only due to the social aspect of the sport, but also for the uncommon fact that the sport is dominated by females at every level despite being one of the most physically challenging options available. 

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As an example, the Cheerleading World Championships hosted in Florida, USA every April offer multiple entry divisions and categories.  Every category can be defined as either COED or ALL-GIRL. 

There is no ALL-BOY division at the international level or at any other level.  Boys are welcomed by every program as they bring a great skill set to their teams but they are still an absolute minority across the sport.

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Most importantly though, Cheerleading is FUN!  It is a highly addictive sport encouraging teamwork; physical fitness (including flexibility, cardiovascular & resistance training) and overall creates long lasting friendships and memories for a lifetime.  Plus - who doesn't want to show off a back handspring to their friends!