National Federation/ICCA/IHSAA Spirit Rules 2007-2008

For the 2007-2008 school year the Iowa Cheerleading Coaches’ Association and the Iowa High School Athletic Association have chosen to strengthen the NFHS Spirit Rules concerning hair, fingernails, and glitter for cheerleaders in Iowa. This has been done with the approval of all three organizations.

· NFHS Spirit Rule 2-2-2: “Fingernails, including artificial nails, must be kept at an appropriate length (short, near the end of the fingers) to minimize risk for the participants.” ICCA/IHSAA addition: “All nails, including artificial nails, must be cut to a length so that the nail is not visible when the cheerleader holds up her/his hands from the palm side. This is what is considered safe.”

· NFHS Spirit Rule 2-2-3: “The hair must be worn in a manner to minimize risk for the participant. Hair devices, if worn, must be secure and appropriate for the activity.” ICCA/IHSAA addition: “All cheerleaders’ hair must be pulled away from the face and off the shoulders: i.e. ponytail. This would be for both stunting and non-stunting squads.”

· NFHS Spirit Rule 2-2-7: “Glitter that does not readily adhere on the hair, face, uniform, costume, or the body is illegal. Glitter may be used on signs, props, or backdrops if laminated or sealed.” ICCA/IHSAA addition: “No spray on/roll on glitter. Glitter in eye shadow should be minimal.”

· NFHS Spirit Rule 2-11-2: “A helicopter is legal provided all the following conditions are met…” ICCA/IHSAA addition: “Helicopters will be considered legal provided that they’re performed on appropriate mats, grass, rubberized and soft-yielding surfaces. This is the same ruling as for other multi-based tosses."

· Rule Suggestion – Insulin Packs: “Insulin packs must be placed strategically, covered with a pad, and secured so they won’t dislodge during activity. A written evaluation needs to be received from the doctor before a cheerleader with an insulin pack may cheer and/or stunt.”

NOTE: These rules will be in effect for ALL Iowa schools’ (grades 7-12) events, including practices, games, meets, tournaments, competitions, and all other events in which school cheerleaders participate.