TOPS: The Talent Opportunity Program

TOPS classes are geared to ‘fast track’ young athletes to the team levels. TOPS is more of a strength, flexibility, and skill intensive class designed for faster advancement.

TOPS  Age 5 yrs – Silver Level

TOPs Age 6 yrs –  Gold Level  – Must have complete

From the TOPs Gold Level, students are placed on a Team Level

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Facts About Cheer History

When it comes to the history of cheerleading, there are some facts that are beyond dispute:

• In the late 1800s, crowds joined in chants at Princeton University.
• Cheerleading was born at the University of Minnesota.
• Lawrence Herkimer introduced the pom pom.
• Herkimer's nickname was Herkie.
• Herkie helped form the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA).
• Herkimer also invented the spirit stick and the jump called a Herkie.
• In the 1920s, females at the University of Minnesota began to form female cheer squads and incorporate tumbling into their routines.
• In the 1960s, NFL teams began to form cheer squads.
• In the 1980s, cheerleaders began to add more stunts to their routines and participate in competitive cheerleading squads.

Happy Valentines Day

***Reminder: Our Valentine Party Night at Academy West – Parent night out on the town is tonight!!**

Competitive Gymnastics Team: Compulsory Levels 2-5

Level 2 is the first competitive level. There are requirements for each level. The competitive season runs from August, starting with an intersquad meet and goes through November which ends with a State Meet the week before Thanksgiving. The Compulsory meets are in state, with one additional out of state meet offered per season.

The Director and coaches determine which level each student should be in. Academy West has produced many champions including Individual, All-Around and Team State Champs!