Spirit Comments on the Rules - 2026-27

Definitions in Rules 2 and 3:

• Loading Position/Load: This definition was revised to clarify that a loading position is a position where the bases (supporting dancers) support the top person (executing dancer) under their foot/feet while holding them below shoulder level. This change also clarifies that this position may be used in transition.

• Tumbling: This definition was revised to refer to any hip-over-head skill that is not supported by a base (supporting dancer) that begins and ends on the performing surface. This change clarifies confusion about certain “acrobatic” skills that are not considered tumbling and how those skills are allowed or restricted in rules involving “tumbling” or “non-tumbling” divisions.

2-3-5a and (NEW) k — New language added to allow a flip inversion when the top person and bracer have a hand-to-foot connection. Additionally, when a hand-to-foot connection is the only connection, new restrictions have been added. This change allows a hand-to-foot/feet connection for the top person without a hand-to-arm connection and prohibits twisting in those cases.

2-3-5d — New language added to allow a bracer to release the top person or move to a load position during a flip inversion when the top person is descending and goes to a cradle, a horizontal position, or the performance surface. This change provides consistency in the types of skills that allow the bracer to move to a load position.

2-4-2c and 3-4-3c — New language added to clarify criteria for new catchers during releases from a vertical to horizontal position. Catchers who are not the original bases (supporting dancers) must not be involved with any other skill when the transition is initiated. This language ensures there is no additional risk to the top person moving to a horizontal position.

2-5-5g (NEW) — New language added to clarify that a top person is prohibited from passing over another top person or bracer during stunts.

2-5-6c — New language added to allow non-braced vertical releases from an extended position to involve up to a single twist. This is a natural progression of the rule, which already allows a full twist from prep level to extended level.

2-5-6e — New language added to clarify that two catchers are required for releases from a vertical to a horizontal position. This change clarifies that two catchers are required, even when the transition begins as a single-based stunt.

2-7-8d and 3-7-8d — New language added to allow a ¼ twist during a dismount to new catchers. This change allows a forward-facing top person to dismount to new catchers who are standing to the side without increased risk.

3-1-3a — New language clarifies that when footwear is required, it must be worn on both feet.