Competition cheerleading is all about serious competition. It’s unlike sideline cheerleading because there are no games to cheer at, no spirit-raisingl. So for someone who is looking for competition only, this team may be the answer. If you are interested in this field of cheerleading, know exactly what to expect with our guide to cheering for very competitive teams!
The Meadowlands Starz Cheer program isn’t just about putting together teams and competing; it’s about empowering young athletes and 
motivating them to reach their goals. We provide quality instruction with experienced coaches in a fun and safe environment. Safety in this sport is our priority and is the focal point of our curriculum. Not only do we strive to keep our athletes physically safe, but mentally safe as well and prepared. Even though this is a tough & challenging sport, Starz believes in motivating and empowering athletes by lifting them up, not tearing them down.
Meadowlands Starz is operated by Michele Cusimano-Stirone. Michele formed the team originally as NA Starz in 2013 and has re branded and renamed the organization to Meadowlands Starz in 2017.
Meadowlands Starz is a Performance Elite Rec Cheer team out of Clifton, NJ. We are opened to all ages to 18 years old and to anyone from any town or city in New Jersey!!! Come join the Starz Family!
For any questions about our program, please contact Michele at 201-957-STAR (7827) or email [email protected]
THE BASICS
The sport of Competitive Cheerleading has grown immensely from it’s roots over 20 years ago. In the 80’s and early 90’s, teams were typically formed of athletes who were interested in improving their skills so that they would stand a better chance of making their high school or college cheerleading teams. As the sport developed and grew, more and more athletes and their parents viewed Competitive Cheerleading as a viable activity in and of itself. As stronger and stronger athletes began to recognize that Competitive Cheer provided them a way to focus more on teamwork and athleticism and less on sideline cheer and cheering at games. This is no longer your mother’s Cheerleading. Teams and athletes in Competitive Cheer focus on gymnastic and acrobatic moves. The hybrid sport of today is a combination of gymnastics, acrobatics, athletic dance, and many elements unique to All-Star / Performance Rec Cheer.
Teams are typically comprised of 12-36 athletes with a variety of skills and abilities (much like a football or baseball team.) There can be solid, well-rounded athletes and those who have particularly strong abilities in certain areas (ex. – strong dancers or jumpers). The coaches create a competition routine performed by the group that has elements of tumbling, stunting, jumping, dance, and other skills set to music. The routines are typically 2 minutes 30 seconds in length. At competitions, the teams are divided by age and ability level. The routines are judged by their level of difficulty, precision, creativity, and entertainment value.
There are thousands of programs of all types across the country. While not every program is a perfect fit for every athlete, Meadowlands Starz believes that we have a solid program that is the right choice for everyone from the brand-new beginning athlete to the ultra-elite veteran. Regardless of the gym you choose,Competitive cheerleading is a great way for young athletes to learn new skills while building teamwork, goal-setting, sportsmanship, and numerous other social skills while making lifelong friendships and mentors.
