ALL-STAR ELITE TEAMS
Nationally Recognized Cheer Teams for Elite-Level Athletes
Dakota Spirit’s All-Star Elite Teams are a nationally recognized Division 1 cheerleading program with a legacy of excellence, with a Christian foundation and mission. As South Dakota’s first All-Star program, we are proud to hold more championship titles than any other gym in the state, including titles from the most prestigious competitions.
Program Overview
Our All-Star Elite Teams are designed for dedicated athletes ready to compete at the highest level of cheerleading. This nationally recognized program challenges athletes to push their limits through advanced skill development, elite coaching, and high-level competition. With a legacy of championship success and a strong Christian foundation, the Elite program emphasizes not only performance but character, leadership, and teamwork. Athletes train year-round, travel for major competitions, and participate in choreography, camps, and specialized training designed to prepare them for the national stage and beyond.
Multiple weekly practices with elite-level professional coaching
National and regional competition travel, including major events
Advanced choreography, tumbling, stunt camps, and skill training
A Christ-centered, team-driven culture focused on excellence and leadership
2026-2027 Projected Teams
Based on our current enrollment, our goal is to offer the following teams in the 2026/2027 season. We will make final decisions on team placement and division after evaluations. Dakota Spirit reserves the right to change divisions at any time for the success of the team.
Mini/Youth Level 1
Youth Level 2
Youth Level 3
International 4/Junior 4
Senior 4.2
International 3/Senior 3/Senior Coed 3
Senior 5
We strive to be very transparent about our tryout process. Tumbling passes are only considered if they are executed strongly enough to be choreographed into the routine. If a pass is not performed at the level required to be choreographed into the routine, it will not be counted as a skill.
Please refer to the tumbling chart (below) for the minimum tumbling requirements. Athletes are rarely placed on a team based solely on their highest-level tumbling passes. Tumbling is just one component of the scoresheet, and each team may have stunt exceptions, which are athletes who do not tumble.
For the 2026–2027 season, we will not meet with families after tryouts regarding placements. If your child chooses to drop, please notify the office. If you need guidance before tryouts, we are HAPPY to meet with you to help you set realistic goals! Please set up an evaluation in April and May.
Our goal is for athletes to age out of each age division whenever possible. We first set teams up for success to meet the stunting and tumbling requirements, and then strive to keep athletes within their age division until they are too old to compete within that age division.
Skill Requirements
Tumbling Expectations
The listed tumbling skills represent the minimum requirements for each level. Athletes should also be working toward advanced-level skills to remain competitive. While many athletes may be able to perform certain skills, technique is our top priority. Only skills demonstrated with excellent form and execution will be included in routines. During evaluations, we are looking for skills that choreographers can confidently showcase on the competition floor.
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Level 4 | Level 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standing Back Walkover | Back Walkover Switchkick Back Handspring | Standing Back Handspring Series (Minimum 3 with block) | Standing Back Tuck | Toe Touch Back Tuck |
| Back Walkover Switchkick | Back Walkover Back Handspring | Back Handspring Stepout Back Handspring Series | Standing Back Handspring Back Tuck | Handspring Layout |
| Cartwheel Back Walkover Series | Roundoff Back Handspring Series | Round Off Back Handspring Tuck | Round Off Handspring Layout | Roundoff Handspring Full |
Tumbling Requirements
In addition to regular team practices, athletes are required to attend their assigned tumbling class each week. If a scheduling conflict arises, athletes may request to attend an alternate class with prior approval from the Tumbling director.
Athletes are expected to maintain the tumbling skills demonstrated at evaluations throughout the season. If an athlete is no longer performing the passes shown at tryouts, they may be reassessed for team placement.
Tumbling Classes & Private Lessons
Dakota Spirit offers additional opportunities for skill development through weekly tumbling classes and private lessons. These services are available at an additional cost.
All-Star Elite Teams Season Information
Season Duration: Summer 2026 – April 2027
Registration Opens: May 1, 2026
Team Placement/Evaluation Sessions: May 26 - 29, 2026
Callback Dates: June 1-4, 2026
Parent/Athlete Meeting: June 2026
Dakota Spirit Showdown
Spiritfest
8 Competitions
1 Halftime performance
US Finals
*Dates & times dependent on team placement.
Tuition & Fees
Dakota Spirit works diligently to keep the sport of cheerleading accessible. This is done in many ways. We understand that you will want clarity about the financial commitment involved and have provided details about the costs accordingly. If you have concerns about costs, please reach out.
| Tuition or Fee | Cost | Due Date | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Youth & Junior | Senior | ||
| Registration + Tryout | $150/year | $150/year | $150/year | Due date is at the time of registration. |
| Monthly Tuition | $170/month | $185/month | $185/month | 10th of each month |
| Monthly Travel Fees | $170/month | $185/month | $185/month | 20th of each month |
| Full Tuition | $3,400/year | $3,700/year | $3,700/year | July 1 |
| Uniform | $600 | $600 | $600 | Aug. 1 |
| Competition Bow | $50 | $50 | $50 | Aug. 1 |
| Practice Gear | $150 | $150 | $150 | Aug. 1 |
| Practice Bow | $13 | $13 | $13 | Aug. 1 |
| USASF Membership | $49/year | $49/year | $49/year | June 1 |
| US Finals | TBD | TBD | TBD | |
| Drop Fee (After Aug. 1) | $500 | $500 | $500 | |
Athletes who drop from a team incur a $500 withdrawal fee. Any previously ordered apparel will not be distributed.
Trying out at another cheer gym will result in immediate removal from tryouts.
Tuition and travel fees are split into equal payments and withdrawn on the 10th and 20th of each month, beginning in June.
Charges post on the 1st of each month and automatically withdraw on the scheduled dates.
Full-season payment option is available. Payment is due by July 1. If no check is received, your GoMotion account will be auto-charged.
Summit-Qualifying teams incur one additional month of tuition on April 1st, 2027, and a $275 Summit fee, which includes choreography upgrades.*
US Finals may involve an additional fee, pending final travel schedule.
Grand National events are not included in the tuition and will be an additional expense.
Fundraising credits will automatically be applied each time a charge is posted. DS Fundraising credits can only be utilized towards your GOMOTION account. Overpayment refunds are NOT available for fundraising.
Scholarship applications are available upon request – email info@dakotaspirit.com to apply.
All families must have a GoMotion account for billing and registration.
Please keep all contact and payment information up to date throughout the season.
Travel fees may adjust; NCA teams add a $275 fee on February 1st if applicable.
Accounts delinquent at the end of each month will result in suspension from team activities.
Choreography Fees
Choreography fees are included in monthly Travel Fees, which are withdrawn on the 20th of each month. Attendance at team-specific choreography sessions is mandatory for all.
Drop Fee
Athletes who withdraw after June 1st will be charged a $500 drop fee. Uniforms and practice gear will not be given if withdrawal occurs before distribution. Injury-related withdrawals are exempt.
End of Season Events/Parties
The Summit/Post-Season Fee is $275 and includes an additional choreography clinic for all qualifying teams. April tuition is also charged to teams that attend the Summit. With the exception of the All-Star Banquet, team parties and events are not included in the 2025-2026 travel fees.
Uniform & Practice Attire Fees
All athletes must purchase a Dakota Spirit uniform. Practice gear is included in your fees; extra sets can be purchased for $150. Full practice attire, including bow and red lipstick, is required at every practice. Forget something? Rental gear is available for $10.
Practice Top, Bottom & Bow: One set of practice gear for the 26-27 season is included with your travel fees. Athletes who are new to the All-Star Elite team must also purchase the 25-26 practice gear, which is $150. Athletes can purchase additional sets if they would like.
Full Top Uniform – Mini, Youth & Junior: $600
Crop Top Uniform – Senior: $600
Competition Bow: $50
Footwear: Nfinity brand shoes (style of choice); pricing varies.
Order available in May & August through DS’s discounted Nfinity online store.
Shoes can be sized at the Parent Meeting in June.
Red Lipstick: $20
Additional Considerations Regarding Costs
Additional required expenses to consider are USASF membership fees, hotel accommodations, travel expenses (athletes are required to stay at the team hotel unless formally excused), and admission to competitions. Final costs will vary based on travel preferences, competition bids, and fundraising participation. If you have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Pricing listed above is all base pricing so that fees don’t have to be adjusted in June. Teams attending specialty events, like JamFest and NCA must pay an additional fee. (ex. Blaze had to pay a competition fee for JamFest. Juniors and Seniors pay a competition fee for NCA of $275. This ensures we have a similar base rates for the entire program, so you can plan ahead for the general idea of the season. Since Varsity doesn’t release pricing until July, we add an additional fee for Grand National Events (like NCA).
Fundraising Opportunities
We offer 3-4 optional fundraisers each season. While profit margins vary, an admin fee applies to credit your account. Participants in fundraisers are 100% responsible for the distribution of the goods sold. Typical fundraisers include sales and volunteer events, such as cleaning at the Sanford Pentagon. When opportunities arise, we’ll pass them along.
Team Placements
Athletes will have multiple opportunities to showcase their skills over the course of several days. We’re excited to see what each athlete brings to the floor!
All athletes—regardless of session or availability—must register on GoMotion.
Some athletes may be invited to attend more than one session based on skill level, age, or position needs.
Trying out at another cheer gym will result in immediate removal from tryouts.
CAN’T ATTEND GROUP EVALUATION?
No problem! We’re happy to arrange a private evaluation.
Practice & Attendance
Consistent participation is essential to the success of every Dakota Spirit team. All practices are mandatory, and athletes are expected to arrive prepared, focused, and in the proper practice uniform. Missing practices may impact an athlete’s role or choreography within the routine.
Seasonal Practice Schedules
Summer: The All-Star Elite summer schedule is dynamic and exciting, featuring special clinics and training opportunities led by top industry professionals. Athletes will attend regular team practices, along with an additional stunt and tumble class each week.
Fall/Winter: During the competitive season, teams will practice a minimum of two days per week and continue to attend a required tumbling class. Additional practices may be scheduled for choreography sessions, guest instructor visits, and special events. All-Star Sunday practices will begin in September.
Practice Uniform
Athletes must wear the required Dakota Spirit practice tank and shorts to each practice.
Absence Policy
Consistent attendance is essential for team success. Missing practice may affect an athlete’s role or choreography in the routine. Please review our absence policy.
Flyer Requirements
Flyers must follow specific safety and training expectations, including attending mandatory workshops, completing challenges, and meeting stunting safety guidelines. Review the full flyer requirements to ensure your athlete is fully prepared.
Gym Closures
Wondering when the gym will be closed? Visit our Gym Closures page for a full list of holiday breaks and planned downtime—perfect for family trips or much-needed rest days.
Communication & Support
Staying informed is essential to a smooth season. Parents are responsible for keeping up with all team and gym updates, so please check BAND, GoMotion, and your email regularly — we use all three throughout the year to share important information. If you ever have an urgent question or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out directly. We’re here to help every step of the way!
Billing/Registration
Office Director
Lesley Good
lesleygoodds@gmail.com
Office Contact
info@dakotaspirit.com
605-373-0414
Team Info, Practices & Coaches
Email info@dakotaspirit.com for coach contact details.
Classes & Lessons
Tumbling Director
Triana McCloud
triana.mccloud@dakotaspirit.com
Athlete Well-Being
Program Director
Joanna Naatjes
joanna.naatjes@dakotaspirit.com
Gym Owner
Robin Fritsch
robin.fritsch@dakotaspirit.com
Get Ready for the Season?
To keep the season running smoothly, families are encouraged to stay organized and connected. Make sure all required forms are completed, your GoMotion account is up to date, and you’ve joined your team’s BAND group for updates.
You’ll also receive reminders for uniform orders, hotel bookings, volunteer sign-ups, and USASF membership steps throughout the year. Customize your BAND notifications, sync your calendar, and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to other families—our community thrives on teamwork and communication.
Above all, be early, be gracious, and be flexible as we work together to make this a fun and rewarding season for every athlete.
Checklist
Don’t worry — we’ll guide you through each step.
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Complete & submit forms:
Best Practices for a Great Season:
Customize your BAND app notifications and alerts.
Use your full name and a clear profile photo in BAND.
Subscribe and sync to program and team calendars in BAND.
Review your GoMotion account for accuracy.
Introduce yourself to fellow parents and athletes .
Be early, be positive, and be flexible!
Respond promptly to polls and surveys.
Book travel and hotel accommodations early.
More Than Cheer. It’s Character.
Dakota Spirit’s mission is to promote the physical, mental, and Christian development of youth through cheerleading. Our Christ-centered culture sets the foundation for teamwork, humility, and confidence on and off the mat.
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Join All-Star Elite!
Build your skills, grow your spirit, and get ready to shine on the mat. Secure your spot for the All-Star Elite season today!