What is Acrobatics & Tumbling? By, Coach Hannah

“Acrobatics & Tumbling is the evolution of different disciplines of gymnastics, which includes the athletic aspects of competitive cheerleading.”— National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association (NCATA)

This definition perfectly sums up the sport, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Acrobatics & Tumbling (A&T) is not only the blend of gymnastics and cheer—it’s the bridge between two powerful disciplines. It combines the strength, skill, and precision of gymnastics with the excitement, teamwork, and performance of cheer. For athletes who love both, A&T is the best of both worlds.

And that’s exactly why Liberty Cheer All-Stars brought youth A&T to our community. Liberty is built on a legacy of cheer and gymnastics, making us the perfect place for young athletes to discover this growing sport.

Why Liberty is Built for A&T

Liberty’s roots are in cheerleading, and over time we added a thriving gymnastics program. With this dual foundation, the transition into Acrobatics & Tumbling was natural. Our athletes don’t just tumble or stunt—they learn how to combine those skills in a way that prepares them for college opportunities.

As a former competitive gymnast, I know firsthand the grind of long training hours and limited options after high school. Gymnastics was my world, but the choices were simple: keep competing or walk away. If A&T had existed then, it would have been a game-changer. Athletes today don’t have to make that choice—they can continue pursuing what they love in a sport that offers variety, challenge, and the thrill of team success.

With Liberty’s coaching staff, facilities, and culture, we are uniquely positioned to train athletes for success in A&T. Our expertise in both cheer and gymnastics makes us the perfect launchpad.

A Growing Collegiate Sport

Acrobatics & Tumbling is one of the fastest-growing collegiate sports in the nation. It’s officially recognized by the NCAA as an emerging sport, and each season more colleges and universities are adding programs. Last year alone, 48 schools competed in A&T at the collegiate level, and the number continues to climb.

For athletes, this means more opportunities, more scholarships, and more pathways to continue their athletic careers. A&T is opening doors for gymnasts, cheerleaders, and multi-sport athletes like never before.

Liberty’s Role in Youth A&T

This year marks Liberty’s fifth season of youth A&T, and each season brings new growth and momentum. While youth competitions are still developing, the opportunities are expanding rapidly. We’re not just keeping up with the trend—we’re helping lead it.

• Memorable Experiences: Last season, Liberty’s youth A&T team was invited to perform during halftime at Baylor University—the nation’s A&T powerhouse with nine national titles. Performing in front of collegiate athletes and coaches was a milestone moment for our program and an unforgettable experience for our girls.

• Groundbreaking Program: We are on the ground floor of something special. Our athletes aren’t just learning a sport—they’re becoming part of a movement that is shaping the future of cheer and gymnastics.

  
  

Why Choose Liberty for A&T?

Choosing Liberty Cheer All-Stars for Acrobatics & Tumbling means joining a program that is built for success. Here’s why:

• Expert Coaching: Our coaching staff brings years of experience in both cheer and gymnastics. Their knowledge, passion, and dedication have fueled the growth of Liberty’s A&T program.

• Proven Track Record: Liberty has a 20-year history of producing strong, confident athletes across multiple disciplines. Adding A&T was a natural extension of our mission to provide the best opportunities for our athletes.

• Opportunities Beyond the Gym: A&T isn’t just about today’s training—it’s about preparing athletes for the future. With collegiate opportunities expanding every season, Liberty is giving athletes a head start.

• Community & Culture: At Liberty, every athlete is more than just a number. We build confidence, foster teamwork, and create an environment where athletes feel supported and inspired.

  
  

More Than a Sport

Acrobatics & Tumbling is more than just flips, stunts, and routines. It’s an opportunity—a chance for athletes to discover a new love for competition, to continue their athletic journey beyond high school, and to experience the best of both cheer and gymnastics.

At Liberty, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this exciting sport. We invite you to come see what A&T is all about, watch collegiate performances, and imagine the future opportunities for your athlete. We promise—you’ll see why Liberty is the perfect place to start. - Coach Hannah