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- The Association for International All Star and The Cheer Buzz Announce Official Media Partnership Ahead of the 2026 AIA Global Tournament
The Association for International All Star (AIA) is proud to announce an official media partnership with The Cheer Buzz ahead of the 2026 AIA Global Tournament taking place July 15–20, 2026, providing audiences both onsite and internationally with event coverage, updates, and information surrounding the inaugural competition. The partnership brings together two organizations committed to growing visibility, communication, and connection across the global all star cheer and dance community. As part of the partnership, The Cheer Buzz will work alongside the AIA to provide coverage surrounding major events, industry updates, international initiatives, and the continued growth of the all star community worldwide. Founded with a mission to unite and support the international all star industry, the AIA continues to expand its global presence through collaboration with event producers, clubs, coaches, athletes, and industry leaders across multiple countries. The Cheer Buzz has become one of the industry’s leading independent media platforms, recognized for delivering weekly coverage, news, and educational content designed to help the cheer community stay informed, educated, and connected. “This partnership represents an exciting opportunity to continue elevating the global all star industry through communication, collaboration, and shared visibility,” said Jibreel Rayam, President of the Association for International All Star. “The Cheer Buzz has built a respected platform within the cheer community, and we are proud to welcome them as an Official Media Partner to help ensure the story of the Global Tournament reaches audiences digitally while showcasing what is happening on the ground throughout the event,” he said. Through the partnership, athletes, coaches, gym owners, and fans can expect expanded event coverage, industry storytelling, community updates, and increased visibility surrounding the growth of international all star cheer and dance. Together, the AIA and The Cheer Buzz look forward to continuing to build a stronger, more connected future for the sport worldwide. END RELEASE To learn more about the Association for International All Star, visit https://www.associationofinternationalallstar.com To learn more about The Cheer Buzz, and to stay up to date with industry news, visit https://www.thecheerbuzz.com
- AIA Announces Strategic Technology Partnership with Drop Band for the 2026 AIA Global Tournament
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AIA Announces Strategic Technology Partnership with Drop Band for the 2026 AIA Global Tournament Official wearable credentials powered by Drop Band will support access, communication, and event operations for the inaugural AIA global tournament. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada — May 10, 2026 — The Association of International All Star (AIA) today announced a strategic technology partnership with Drop Band, naming the company an official technology partner of the AIA and the 2026 AIA Global Tournament. As part of the partnership, every attendee, coach, hotel package participant, and full-admission purchaser attending the Global Tournament will receive an official AIA credential powered by Drop Band technology. The band will serve as an all-access pass for the tournament experience, helping streamline access, communication, credentialing, safeguarding, and event operations throughout the competition. The AIA Global Tournament will serve as the first large-scale implementation of Drop Band technology within the AIA ecosystem, marking a significant step forward in the organization’s commitment to innovation, accessibility, safeguarding, and operational advancement within the All Star cheer and dance industry. Drop Band is a tap-based wearable access layer for payments, entry, identity, giving, loyalty, and connection, built to help organizations simplify access, engagement, communication, and event operations. The company collaborates with universities, health and wellness organizations, professional sports properties, government contract opportunities, and live event organizations globally. Through this partnership, the AIA aims to introduce enhanced event experiences and modernized systems designed to better support athletes, coaches, event producers, families, and spectators alike. “We are excited to see this come to life,” said Jibreel Rayam, President of the AIA. “Ted Baker, CEO of Drop Band, has been able to see the vision that I have for the Global Tournament and the future of communication, safeguarding, and easy processing, which continues to be a pain point within the industry we serve. I’m looking forward to leading the way on some new processes that the sport desperately needs from an external source.” The partnership reflects the AIA’s long-term commitment to building a modern, globally connected ecosystem for All Star cheer and dance through collaboration, transparency, and innovation. The inaugural 2026 AIA Global Tournament will welcome teams from around the world to Montréal for a multi-round international tournament experience built around advancement, global representation, and cultural exchange. For the AIA, the partnership adds a modern credentialing system intended to support the scale, movement, safeguarding, and communication needs of a global tournament environment. About the Association of International All Star The Association of International All Star is dedicated to advancing the global All Star cheer and dance community through collaboration, transparency, innovation, and international opportunity. The AIA Global Tournament is designed to bring teams from around the world together for a competitive, culturally connected, and forward-looking tournament experience. For more information about the AIA Global Tournament, visit:www.associationofinternationalallstar.com About Drop Band Drop Band is a tap-based wearable access layer for payments, entry, identity, giving, loyalty, and connection. Built for large-scale events and organizational environments, the band works with a simple tap — no battery, Wi-Fi, or charging required. Drop Band partners with universities, health and wellness organizations, professional sports properties, government contract opportunities, and live event organizations to support more connected, efficient, and engaging experiences. For more information about Drop Band, visit:www.drop.band Media Contact Jibreel Rayam - President Contact: aiaglobaltournament@gmail.com
- AIA Appoints La’Mya Jackson as Lead Ambassador for the 2026 AIAGlobal Tournament and Opens Global Ambassador Search
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AIA Appoints La’Mya Jackson as Lead Ambassador for the 2026 AIA Global Tournament and Opens Global Ambassador Search Edmonton, Alberta – The Association of International All Star (AIA) has officially appointed La’Mya Jackson as the Lead Ambassador for the 2026 AIA Global Tournament, marking the beginning of an international campaign to appoint ambassadors representing countries in All Star around the world. A core mission of the tournament is to give athletes a meaningful voice in shaping the support, opportunities, and global platforms that surround their sport, ensuring the future of All Star cheer is influenced directly by the athletes who live and represent it. As Lead Ambassador, La’Mya Jackson will play a key role in representing the athletes of the tournament, helping elevate the visibility of the global cheer community while creating a platform where athletes can share their perspectives, influence the culture of the sport, and inspire participation in one of the most exciting international events in All Star cheer. In addition to this appointment, AIA is officially launching a global search for Country Ambassadors to represent the tournament in their respective nations. The AIA Ambassador Program is designed to highlight individuals who embody the core values of the Association of International All Star. Ambassadors will represent the international cheer community while promoting the tournament and encouraging athlete participation through their digital platforms, while also helping ensure athlete voices remain central to the evolution of the sport. “The global cheer community is incredibly powerful, and today athletes have the ability to inspire far beyond the competition floor,” Said Miss Jackson. I believe strong sportsmanship, positive leadership, and kindness are what truly define our sport. I am proud to represent AIA as Lead Ambassador and to help amplify athletes who are passionate about performance while using their platforms to positively influence and grow the All Star cheer community around the world.” Athletes, coaches, creators, and community leaders from around the world are encouraged to apply. Applicants must submit their application through the official Google Form available via AIA’s social media channels. The Ambassador Program will run from April 2026 through August 2026, during which ambassadors will actively promote and, if attending onsite, support the documentation and storytelling of the inaugural tournament. With La’Mya Jackson leading the global ambassador network, AIA is set to build a powerful international team of representatives who share a passion for sport, culture, and the future of All Star cheer. Applications are now open. Apply via the link available on AIA social media platforms. For more information visit: www.associationofinternationalallstar.com Media Contact aiaglobaltournament@gmail.com
- AIA Opens Global Call for Judges for Montréal 2026 Global Tournament
MEDIA RELEASE The Association of International All Star (AIA) has opened its global call for judges for the inaugural AIA Global Tournament , taking place in Montréal, Québec from July 15–20, 2026 . As the only sports-only, multi-round international cheer and dance championship, the event will bring together teams from across the world in a structured, head-to-head tournament format. The competition will feature Cheer (Levels 1–7) , Dance (Pom, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary/Lyrical) , and specialty divisions including Partner Stunt, Group Stunt, and Dance Doubles . AIA is seeking experienced judges to support the delivery of a consistent, transparent, and performance-driven competition across all rounds. Applications are now open here AIA Global Tournament Judges application Selected judges will be confirmed in early May 2026. Learn more and apply: www.associationofinternationalallstar.com COMMUNIQUÉ DE PRESSE L'AIA lance un appel aux candidatures internationales pour les juges du Tournoi Global de Montréal 2026 L'Association of International All Star (AIA) est ouverte à recevoir les candidatures des juges du tout premier Tournoi mondial de l'AIA, qui se tiendra à Montréal, Québec, du 15 au 20 juillet 2026. Cet unique championnat international de cheerleading et de danse réunira des équipes du monde entier dans le cadre d’un tournoi structuré en étapes avec affrontements face-à-face. L’événement comprend des divisions Cheer (niveaux 1 à 7) , Danse (Pom, Jazz, Hip-hop, Contemporain/Lyrique) et des divisions spécialisées, notamment Partner Stunt, Groupe de Stunt et Danse en duos . L'AIA recherche des juges expérimentés pour garantir une compétition cohérente, transparente et axée sur la performance tout au long des différentes étapes qualificatives. Pour déposer votre candidature: Candidature en tant que juge du tournoi mondial de l'AIA Les juges sélectionnés seront confirmés début mai 2026. Pour en savoir plus et postuler: www.associationofinternationalallstar.com
- A Statement regarding Jeff Webb
It is with great respect and a deep sense of loss that the AIA acknowledges the passing of Jeff Webb, President of the International Cheer Union. Jeff was a central figure in the global development of competitive cheerleading and dance. His vision, leadership, and commitment to growth helped shape the international framework of the sport and created opportunities that continue to impact athletes, coaches, and organizations around the world. The AIA recognizes and appreciates the lasting contributions Jeff made to advancing our sport. His legacy will continue through the many pathways he helped establish and for generations to follow. We extend our sincere condolences to his family, colleagues, and the ICU, its members and affiliates. A personal note On a personal level, Jeff was my former boss, my mentor, and an old friend. We shared a belief in what this sport could become. I am deeply grateful for the trust he placed in me as a leader and the opportunities he provided. His influence on my journey will not be forgotten. His vision lives on in the work we continue and in the future we are all still building. Jibreel Rayam President, Association of International All Star (AIA)
- We are looking for Volunteers!
This summer in Montreal and Verdun we are bringing the world together for a global tournament and cultural celebration! A sporting event unlike any other will launch for competitive cheer and dance under the AIA! If you are interested or have experience in large events please feel free to fill out the form by scanning the QR code or apply https://form.jotform.com/260703809153051
- Vendor Applications Now Open!!!
Applications are now open for vendors to participate in the world’s first global tournament for cheerleading and dance. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your brand, products, or services to an international audience of athletes, teams, families, and fans attending this landmark event. July 15–19, 2026 Verdun Auditorium, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Vendors from all industries are welcome to apply and be part of this vibrant global event. Apply here: https://form.jotform.com/260600689161052
- Swerve Sports Partners with AIA Cheer & Dance for Inaugural Tournament in July
MEDIA RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Swerve Sports, the leading free streaming channel exclusively focused on coverage of women’s sports, today announced a partnership with the Association of International All-Star (AIA) to provide live coverage of its inaugural global tournament taking place July15-20, 2026 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Swerve Sports is operated by Swerve TV, a multi-platform media company that specializes in free ad-supported TV (FAST) channels. AIA is the first global membership-driven body for All-Star Cheer and Dance, serving over 400,000 documented global athletes, an increase from just 23,000 in 2000, making All-Star one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. According to the International Cheer union, industry analysts project a $2.5B market by 2032. “AIA is honored to partner with Swerve TV to bring the Global Tournament to a worldwide audience, said President of the Association of Internal All Star, Jibreel Rayam, “The All Star Cheer and Dance discipline is long overdue for a broadcast partner willingto invest in a fresh and inclusive vision beyond the traditional industry structure. This partnership represents a meaningful step forward for one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, As a stakeholder-driven organization, AIA is committed to creating new opportunities that expand visibility and strengthen the global future of the sport. We believe this partnership reflects the direction the industry is heading, and those who recognize that opportunity early will help shape what comes next. The AIA Global Tournament is only the beginning of a broader movement toward greater awareness, global perspective, and long-term growth beyond any single country,” He said. AIA and its members already reach 20M views and 1.5M followers across digital channels, with “cheerlebrities” like Morgan Lynn (1 million followers) bringing mainstream visibility to the discipline. Swerve Sports is now available on Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, Google TV, Free Live Sports, Hisense VIDAA Channels, Tivo, among others. Content partners include Women’s Football Alliance (WFA), Athletes Unlimited, INTENNSE Tennis, Queen & King of the Court, Red Bull, World Poker Tour, World Surf League, Professional Fighters League, Invicta Fighting Championships, Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, Matchroom Boxing, and more. For more information about AIA Cheer, upcoming events, or broadcast updates, visit associationofinternationalallstar.com .
- The AIA Scoring System Introduces a New Era of Transparency and Strategy in Competitive Cheerleading
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Edmonton, Canada The AIA Scoring System is setting a new global benchmark for competitive cheerleading judging, introducing one of the most comprehensive and progressive scoring modelsthe sport has seen to date. Developed as the brainchild of long-time scoring official and President of the Association of International All Star, Jibreel Rayam, the system was thoughtfully designed and refined through collaboration with a collective of experts from around the world. This international collaboration ensured the framework reflects not only modern judging standards but also the diverse ways cheerleading is practiced across cultures and nations. The AIA Scoring System represents the best of both worlds, combining modern rubric-based judging with the clarity and excitement of sports-style comparison scoring. The result is a structure that rewards both technical difficulty and strategic routine construction while maintaining a strong emphasis on transparency, execution, and overall athlete performance. At its core, the system encourages teams to make smarter strategic decisions within their routines while rewarding those who perform with precision, confidence, and consistency. “Cheerleading has grown into a truly global sport, but the way we evaluate it has not always evolved at the same pace,” said Mr Rayam. “The AIA Scoring System was created to bring clarity, fairness, and strategy back into the judging process. We wanted to build a system that rewards difficulty and innovation while still prioritizing execution and performance. Most importantly, we wanted to respect the diversity of how cheerleading is performed around the world. This system allows every nation the space to showcase its unique style while still competing on a transparent and balanced playing field.” The AIA framework divides scoring into three major categories designed to reflect the key pillars of cheerleading performance. Building Skills — 60% of Total Score The largest portion of scoring focuses on stunt construction and pyramid work, emphasizing technical difficulty, stability, and execution. This category includes building skills, pyramid structures, and tosses/Level 1 cradle elements. Tumbling and Jumps — 15% of Total Score Athletic skill elements contribute to overall competitiveness through standing tumbling, running tumbling, and jumps. Overall Impression — 25% of Total Score Performance and artistry play a significant role in routine impact and include dance, routine creativity, routine execution, and overall performance quality. Celebrating Global Diversity in the Sport One of the most innovative aspects of the AIA Scoring System is its intentional inclusion of cultural flexibility. Rather than enforcing a rigid Westernized interpretation of cheerleading style, the system acknowledges that the sport has evolved in unique ways across different parts of the world. This approach creates space for national identity, creative freedom, and stylistic diversity, ensuring that teams are evaluated fairly while celebrating the distinctive ways cheerleading is expressed internationally. By combining transparency, fairness, strategic evaluation, and global inclusivity, the AIA Scoring System is positioned to reshape how cheerleading competitions are judged and experienced. Athletes, coaches, and judges can expect a system that not only rewards difficulty but also encourages thoughtful routine design, elite execution, and authentic performance. With its international foundation and forward-thinking philosophy, the AIA Scoring System marks a significant step forward for the global cheerleading community. For more information or to submit a nomination, visit www.associationofinternationalallstar.com Media Contact: For press inquiries, interviews, or partnership opportunities, please contact: aiaglobaltournament@gmail.com www.associationofinternationalallstar.com
- AIA Opens Global Nominations for “Best of the Best” Paid Invitations to the AIA Global Tournament Edmonton, Canada –
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AIA Opens Global Nominations for “Best of the Best” Paid Invitations to the AIA Global Tournament Edmonton, Canada – The Association of International All Star (AIA) has officially opened public nominations for AIA’s Best of the Best, giving the global All Star Cheer and Dance community the opportunity to nominate exceptional teams for the chance to receive a paid invitation to compete at the AIA Global Tournament, taking place July 15–20, 2026 in Montréal, Canada. While AIA’s Best of the Best distinction has traditionally been extended through international committees and event producers, AIA recognizes that many extraordinary teams around the world do not always have consistent access to member competitions. Geographic location, visa limitations, and financial barriers can prevent world-class programs from entering the competitive pathways typically used to identify elite talent. To ensure the true Best of the Best are represented on the international stage, AIA has now opened a People’s Choice nomination process, inviting athletes, coaches, fans, and the global All Star community to nominate teams they believe deserve the opportunity to compete at the highest level of international All Star Cheer and Dance. The initiative is designed to identify and elevate teams who have demonstrated exceptional talent, performance quality, and competitive excellence, regardless of their access to traditional qualification structures. “The goal of the AIA Global Tournament has always been to assemble the strongest possible international field,” said Jibreel Rayam, President and Tournament Director of AIA. “Not every elite program has equal access to member competitions or consistent international travel opportunities. By opening nominations to the global community, we are ensuring that truly outstanding teams, regardless of geography or circumstance, have the opportunity to be seen and considered for this stage.” Selected teams will receive paid invitations to compete at the AIA Global Tournament, an event intentionally designed to move beyond traditional competition formats and toward a true international tournament structure for All Star Cheer and Dance. The AIA Global Tournament features multiple rounds, meaningful advancement, and sustained performance over time, bringing together teams from across the world in a competitive environment designed to reflect the global reality of the sport. Nominations are open for the following divisions: • Cheer Levels 1–3 • Cheer Levels 4–7 • All Dance Divisions The nomination submission deadline is March 16, 2026, with selected teams to be announced the following week through AIA’s Best of the Best (BOTB) platforms and social channels. The AIA Global Tournament will take place in Montréal, Canada from July 15–20, 2026, with the next tournament cycle scheduled for January 2028. Members of the All Star community are encouraged to nominate programs that demonstrate the talent, discipline, and performance quality worthy of competing on the global stage. For more information or to submit a nomination, visit www.associationofinternationalallstar.com Media Contact : For press inquiries, interviews, or partnership opportunities, please contact: aiaglobaltournament@gmail.com www.associationofinternationalallstar.com
- AIA Appoints Total Spirit as Official Merchandise Partner for the 2026 Global Tournament
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Montréal , Québec, Canada — February 2026 The Association of International All Star (AIA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Total Spirit as the Official and Exclusive Merchandise Partner for the 2026 AIA Global Tournament, taking place July 15–20, 2026 in Montréal, Canada. Following the completion of a formal merchandise Request for Proposal (RFP) process, Total Spirit has been selected to oversee the full delivery and management of official tournament merchandise for the inaugural Global Tournament. Under the partnership, Total Spirit will lead the planning, production, and execution of the official merchandise program, ensuring consistent product quality, reliable inventory management, and professional on-site retail operations. The company will be fully accountable for the successful delivery of merchandise services throughout the tournament cycle, including post-event fulfillment and reporting. Official AIA Global Tournament merchandise will be available on-site in Montréal, with additional approved pre-event and post-event purchasing opportunities available to participants and spectators. The AIA Global Tournament brings together teams and athletes from around the world through a structured tournament format and cultural exchange experience. The inaugural tournament will take place in Montréal, Canada, marking the first edition of the event’s international rotation. Jibreel Rayam, President of AIA Tournament Inc., said: “Total Spirit brings a strong track record of operational experience and product delivery within the All Star community. As a Canadian company that has expanded to operate on an international scale, they have demonstrated a meaningful commitment to the growth of the sport both nationally and globally. Their evolution reflects the same international outlook that defines the AIA Global Tournament.” The agreement remains in effect through August 15, 2026, allowing for post-event fulfillment and reporting. Official merchandise will feature AIA Global Tournament branding and will be available exclusively through Total Spirit. For tournament information and updates, visit: www.associationofinternationalallstar.com
- AIA Expands Global Tournament to Include Partner Stunt, Group Stunt, Dance Duos, and New International Pro Level Divisions
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Montréal, Canada — The Association of International All Star (AIA) has announced the addition of Partner Stunt, Group Stunt, and Dance Duos to the competition program for the inaugural AIA Global Tournament, taking place July 15–20, 2026, in Montréal. AIA has introduced dedicated International Pro Divisions exclusively within Partner Stunt, Group Stunt, and Dance Duos for athletes 18 years of age and older—creating a defined pathway for advanced-level participation and continued progression beyond traditional team competition. This exciting expansion represents another step forward in AIA’s commitment to increasing international access, participation, and competitive opportunity within All Star cheer and dance. By opening these divisions, the Global Tournament will welcome more athletes into a historic moment for the sport while providing meaningful new avenues for involvement. With the announcement of these new divisions: Partner Stunt and Group Stunt (PS/GS Stunt) and Dance Duos, athletes from all over the world may participate with or without gym affiliation, and age divisions will otherwise mirror the existing team category structure within the tournament. “Visa restrictions and cost continue to be major challenges internationally. We know there are athletes who want to be at this tournament, even when their teams cannot attend. I began my career performing professionally at the NFL and NBA level, and my first international opportunity in this sport came through the NBA. With renewed global energy around professional performance—and as we have seen the Pro level begin to emerge in the United States and into Australia with the NFL it is clear the sport is ready. Opening International Pro competition within Partner and Group Stunt and Dance Duos allows athletes to perform at a higher level than what has broadly existed until now, and ensures that opportunity can be shared across all nations.” — Jibreel Rayam, President, AIA The addition of Partner Stunt, Group Stunt, and Dance Duo competition—together with clearly defined International Pro pathways—strengthen the Global Tournament’s mission to present a true international stage that reflects the diversity of cheer and dance athletes across the globe, while honoring the athletes who continue to shape its future. Full registration timelines, division details, and qualification pathways are available in the AIA Global Tournament Registration Packet on the AIA website. https://www.associationofinternationalallstar.com/ Athletes may register directly through the Global Tournament registration link provided on the site.










