Competitive Cheer
Special Olympics Cheer started in Kansas in 1989, and 16 other Programs soon adopted the sport into their official lineup. It would not be until 2019 that Special Olympics recognized competitive cheer as an official sport, and it made its USA Games debut in Orlando, 2022. Now, more than 14,000 cheer athletes and Unified partners annually train and compete in the United States. At the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, we plan to host traditional and Unified small team competitions.
How It’s Performed:
Competitive cheer is an exciting, high-energy sport that combines athleticism, teamwork, and showmanship. At the 2026 USA Games, we will host the Routine Cheerleading discipline, with athletes and Unified partners competing in small teams of 4-15 members at the Novice level (Level 1). Teams perform choreographed routines that incorporate dance, stunts, and crowd-leading elements. Judges evaluate performances across multiple categories, including crowd effectiveness, partner stunts, pyramids, tumbling/individual skills, choreography, flow of routine/transitions, and overall presentation. Each category has specific criteria, such as degree of difficulty, synchronization, execution, and variety. Teams earn a score for each area, culminating in a total score out of 100 points. Competitive cheer requires precision, creativity, and flawless teamwork, offering athletes a platform to shine in an electrifying and highly collaborative environment.
Cheerleading is the embodiment of unity and expressing shared excitement. It’s a place where we find joy in teamwork, and where everyone’s unique contributions make our performances truly special. The athletes of the Special Olympics show us the true meaning of determination and the power of sport to unite us. We are so excited to celebrate their journeys and achievements at the 2026 USA Games!
will compete in cheer events.
as well as Unified Level 1 Small Team!
flow of routine/transitions, and overall presentation/dance/crowd appeal.
