ParaCheer/Adaptive Abilities Cheerleading

About

ParaCheer or Adaptive Abilities Cheer is part of the new group of inclusive cheerleading divisions available since it’s competitive debut at the ICU Cheerleading Worlds 2017.

Adaptive Abilities Cheerleading incorporates most of the elements of a current cheerleading routine – jumps, dance, stunts and tumbling (this currently excludes Basket and Sponge Tosses).

Teams can be either ‘Traditional’ meaning all athletes on the team have a disability, or ‘Unified’ meaning that there is a mix of disabled and non-disabled athletes working together.

Click here for more information.

Equipment

Click here for ParaCheer equipment options.

Competition

Taking part in ParaCheer teams and competitions gives people with disabilities the chance to be included in activities that were previously difficult to access. It helps develop increased confidence and self-esteem, helping to relieve depression. It creates an enhanced sense of control over their physicality and in some cases greater strength and coordination, assisting the rest of their day-to-day lives. Cheerleading also specifically teaches performance, communication, and leadership skills.

At the ICU World Championships, Unified Adaptive Abilities divisions require a minimum of 25% of the team to have some form of disability, though 50% disability inclusion is considered best practice.

Local rules differ by competition depending on the level of development in this category and can require only one disabled athlete, this is to help the sport grow.

Learn More

Click here for information and a list of benefits of ParaCheer from ParaCheer International.

Programs Near You

Ready to get started in ParaCheer? Click here to find a location near you!