“CheerABILITIES” is a division within All Star Cheer that was created to give athletes with disabilities the chance to participate in competitive cheerleading. It allows individuals of all abilities to be part of a cheer team, perform routines, and experience the fun and excitement of cheerleading. CheerABILITIES focuses on inclusion, teamwork, and showing that everyone can shine on the performance mat.
CheerABILITIES welcomes athletes who have intellectual, physical, developmental, or emotional disabilities. These athletes may have Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, or other challenges that might make it harder for them to be part of a traditional cheer team. The CheerABILITIES division is designed with their needs in mind, offering a supportive and encouraging space where they can succeed.
Teams in the CheerABILITIES division perform routines that include stunts, tumbling, and dance — just like any other cheer team. However, the routines are adapted to match the skills and abilities of the athletes. The goal is not to be the most difficult routine, but to give athletes a safe and fun way to perform in front of an audience and feel proud of their accomplishments.
CheerABILITIES is important because it gives all athletes the chance to belong. Everyone deserves to feel like part of a team, to work toward goals, and to be celebrated for their talents. CheerABILITIES helps build confidence, friendships, and strong self-esteem in its athletes.
Being on a CheerABILITIES team teaches teamwork and commitment. Athletes learn how to work together, practice regularly, and support one another. These lessons are important for every person, no matter their ability level.
There are two main types of CheerABILITIES teams:
- Exhibition Teams – These teams perform at competitions but are not scored or ranked. They get to show off their skills and have fun without the pressure of being judged. Exhibition teams are great for athletes who are newer to cheerleading or who may need more help during the routine.
- Competitive Teams – These teams are judged and scored like traditional All Star teams. Their routines are more structured and may include higher levels of difficulty. Athletes on competitive CheerABILITIES teams often train for many months to prepare for big events.
CheerABILITIES teams often include “helpers” or “buddies.” These are trained team members or coaches who assist athletes during practices and performances. They might help with stunts, give cues during the routine, or simply provide encouragement. Helpers are important because they help the athletes stay safe and feel supported.
CheerABILITIES teams perform at many of the same competitions as traditional All Star teams, including some of the biggest events like The Cheerleading Worlds, NCA, and Summit. The crowd always shows a lot of love and support for CheerABILITIES teams. Their performances often get standing ovations, and many people say these routines are the highlight of the entire event.
Athletes receive medals, trophies, banners, and other awards to celebrate their hard work. But the real reward is the joy of performing and being part of something special.
CheerABILITIES is a heartwarming and powerful part of All Star Cheer. It gives athletes with disabilities the opportunity to learn, grow, and perform just like anyone else. It shows that cheerleading is not just about perfect stunts or big awards — it’s about spirit, support, and the love of the sport.
By including CheerABILITIES, the cheer world becomes more welcoming, more diverse, and more inspiring. It reminds everyone that cheerleading is for everyone, and that every athlete has the ability to shine.
