Cheerleading programs often include both Elite and Prep teams, each offering unique opportunities for athletes to grow and succeed. Choosing between these two options can have a significant impact on your program’s goals, athlete development, and overall scoring potential. Understanding the differences and benefits of Elite and Prep teams can help you make informed decisions that benefit your athletes and program.
Elite Teams: High-Level Competition and Skills Development
Elite teams are designed for athletes who are ready to perform at the highest level of competition. These teams require advanced skills, significant time commitment, and the drive to compete against other top teams.
Key Benefits of Elite Teams:
- Advanced Skills Development: Athletes on Elite teams are pushed to master more challenging stunts, tumbling, and choreography.
- High-Level Competition: Competing in Elite divisions exposes athletes to rigorous judging standards and competitive environments, helping them grow as performers.
- Increased Scoring Opportunities: Elite routines are designed to maximize scoring potential by including higher-difficulty elements.
Challenges to Consider:
- Elite teams often require significant time and financial commitments from athletes and their families.
- Maintaining high-performance standards can be demanding, requiring a strong support system.
Best Fit For:
- Athletes with advanced skills and a passion for competitive cheer.
- Programs looking to make a mark at national and international competitions.
Prep Teams: Fostering Growth in Newer Athletes
Prep teams are a fantastic option for athletes who are newer to cheerleading or may not yet be ready for the demands of Elite-level competition. These teams focus on building foundational skills in a more accessible environment.
Key Benefits of Prep Teams:
- Skill Development at a Manageable Pace: Prep teams are ideal for athletes who need time to build their skills and confidence without the pressure of high-level competition.
- Lower Commitment: With reduced practice schedules and competition requirements, Prep teams are more accessible to families balancing other commitments.
- Introduction to Competitive Cheer: Prep teams offer a great stepping stone for athletes to experience the excitement of competition while preparing for potential advancement to Elite teams.
Challenges to Consider:
- Scoring opportunities may be more limited, as routines often focus on foundational skills.
- Prep teams may compete in fewer events, which could limit exposure to competitive environments.
Best Fit For:
- Newer athletes or those looking for a more balanced commitment.
- Programs that want to grow their athlete base and develop talent for future Elite teams.
How Elite and Prep Teams Work Together in a Program
Successful programs often utilize both Elite and Prep teams to create a comprehensive development pipeline. Prep teams allow athletes to build confidence and master fundamentals, preparing them to transition to Elite teams when they’re ready. Meanwhile, Elite teams serve as the program’s pinnacle, showcasing its highest level of talent and attracting new athletes to the program.
Pro Tip: Highlight the benefits of both options when communicating with athletes and parents. Emphasize that each team is designed to support athletes at their current skill level while providing opportunities for growth.
Conclusion
Elite and Prep teams both play vital roles in a successful cheer program. Elite teams push athletes to achieve their highest potential in a competitive setting, while Prep teams provide a supportive environment for skill-building and growth.
By offering both team options, your program can cater to a wide range of athletes, from beginners to advanced performers. Whether your athletes are aiming for the top of the podium or just starting their cheer journey, there’s a place for everyone in a well-rounded program. Make the most of these team types to create a cheer community where athletes can thrive at every level!
