WIAA Cheerleading Rules on Body Piercings

Cheerleading in the United States began in 1869 in New Jersey and originally included men only, who led the crowd in cheers such as “rah rah ray” to energize the spectators. In 1923, two women were introduced to the cheer squad at the University of Minnesota. Over the years, cheering has evolved into the physically demanding sport that we recognize today, which involves complex cheers and acrobatics. With the evolution of the sport inevitably comes new regulations to address modern trends. Body piercings and tattoos are some of these modern trends that have required new rules.

  1. The WIAA

    • The WIAA, or Washington Interscholastic Activities Association is a non-profit organization that has organized to create rules and regulations to encourage fair play between school sports teams. Nearly 800 high schools and middle schools in Washington state participate in the association. The WIAA oversees athletics and fine arts, including baseball, basketball, dance, drill and cheerleading. The WIAA hosts an annual cheerleading state championship competition and helps to create the rules that regulate the cheerleading sport in Washington.

    WIAA Policies

    • In addition to creating its own regulations, the WIAA follows the regulations set forth by the National Federation of High School Spirit and Cheer. When the WIAA does not specifically spell out a policy, it defers to the National Federation for policy regulation. Each year, the National Federation releases new rules and rule changes, which can be viewed on their webpage.

    Policies Regarding Piercings

    • In the 2011-2012 edition rulebook, rule 2.3.1 states that jewelry of any kind is prohibited unless it is a religious medal or medical-alert medal. Religious medals must be taped under clothing and may not be visible. Medical-alert medals must be taped as well, but these can be visible. Otherwise, jewelry of any type may not be worn. Specifically, the rules state that a watch, navel ring, spacer through a hole, woven bracelet, ring or necklace with a chain are illegal. Post earrings, even when covered by tape, are prohibited as well. This means that any piercing, whether it is covered by clothing or tape, is illegal in events governed by the National Federation of High School Spirit or the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association.

    Questions About the Interpretation of Rules

    • Questions regarding the interpretation of rules in the National Federation rulebook should be directed to the WIAA. The current director of cheer for the WIAA can be located by visiting the WIAA homepage and selecting “Cheer” under the Activities section of the menu.