(A Guide for Families Attending Royal Events Competitions)
Cheerleading competitions can be some of the most exciting, and sometimes overwhelming, experiences for athletes and their families. If your child is competing in a Royal Events competition (The Crown, UCE, EPIC, or Royal Nationals Series), here’s what you need to know to feel prepared, supportive, and ready to have the most ROYAL experience!
Understanding the Royal Events Experience
Royal Events competitions are known for being organized, family-friendly, and full of energy. They combine high-level performances with a supportive atmosphere that makes the day memorable for athletes and spectators alike. Expect a mix of music, lights, cheering crowds, and some of the best talent from across the region.
Key Things Parents Should Know
1. Arrival & Check-In
- Athletes usually have an assigned check-in time with their team. Most also choose a central location to meet! Be sure to check with your team and coaches for meeting time and place! As well as any other important team info!
- Parents should plan to arrive early, allowing for parking, navigating the venue, purchasing any tickets if you haven’t pre-ordered, and finding seating. Each of our events has Parking and Ticket information listed on our website, so be sure to check it out and pre-order and tickets to make your day that much smoother!
- Keep in mind that once athletes enter warm-ups, parents typically won’t see them until after they perform. You may need to hold their belongings during this time!
2. What to Bring
- Double check any Clear Bag policies (some venues follow this rule for safety).
- Check out our “Ultimate Packing List” for a full list of what to bring along!
- Credit card for Royal Events merchandise, vendors, or concessions. Royal Events is cashless!
- A charged phone or camera for photos and videos (when allowed). A portable charger is great to have also!
3. The Performance
- Each team has a set performance time. These times can shift slightly, so be in your seat well in advance and listen for any announcements. The performance order can be found on each event page on our website!
- At certain venues, there will be VIP Viewing. This allows you to get up close to the action and right in front of the stage! Line up in the designated area prior to their performance to get the best spot!
- Performances are about 2:30 minutes long, short, powerful, and packed with energy.
- Cheer loud and proud while they are on the mat!
- Following the performance, athletes will exit the mat and are free to go until awards! They will usually meet with their coaches and get info on the next meeting time and location!
4. Awards
- After performances, there’s usually a break before the award ceremony. Use this time to take some fun photos in front of our exciting photo ops, and visit the Royal Events Merchandise Booth to take home a t-shirt or hoodie to remember the ROYAL day!
- Awards are often a highlight. Royal Events puts effort into making it feel special with themed trophies, banners, and sometimes even crowns! There is often a dance party to kick it off!
- We will announce any specialty awards, followed by each team’s division placement. We also give out overall awards such as Level Champion, Grand Champion, and Bids to end-of-season events! Any award is something to celebrate!
- Regardless of placement, encourage your athlete to focus on dedication and accomplishments! They have worked so hard for this moment!
5. Parent Role
- Be a calm presence, competitions can be stressful for athletes.
- Respect team-only spaces (warm-up rooms, coaches check-in).
- Celebrate effort as much as wins! The many hours in the gym lead up to this moment! Have the best day!
Tips for a Smooth Day
- Plan for a full day. While your child may perform only once or twice, competitions often span several hours. Check out the performance order ahead of time and check with coaches about watching other teams within your gym to support them as well!
- Dress comfortably, venues can range from chilly arenas to warm gyms.
- Make it memorable. Show your team pride! We LOVE when families and friends show off their gym pride with fun outfits and accessories! We even have a special award for programs, yours could take home The Royal Chain!
- Stay flexible. Schedules can change quickly! We always strive to stick to the performance order but teams may need to be moved for certain circumstances.
Final Thoughts
Being part of a Royal Events competition is more than just watching a routine, it’s being part of a community that values teamwork, dedication, and celebration. As a parent, your role is to cheer, support, and enjoy the experience right alongside your athlete. We might even pull you on stage for some fun!
So pack your essentials, wear your team colors proudly, and get ready for a day of excitement. Welcome to the world of Royal Events, where every athlete feels like royalty!