Acrobatics & Tumbling Moves Toward NCAA Championship Status
Yesterday brought exciting news for student athletes training in the growing sport of acrobatics and tumbling. Many of the families we work with have middle school daughters who are already deeply committed to all aspects of the discipline, on the mat and beyond.
As a result of the widespread growth of the sport, the NCAA Committee on Women’s Athletics voted yesterday to recommend that all three NCAA divisions sponsor legislation to establish a National Collegiate Championship in acrobatics and tumbling is such a meaningful development. If approved (as expected), the first NCAA-sanctioned championship could take place as early as spring 2027.
We’re always encouraged to see new doors opening for student athletes, and this milestone represents a significant step forward for a sport that continues to gain momentum nationwide.
What This Means for Current High School Student Athletes
Since being added to the NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program in 2020, acrobatics and tumbling has grown rapidly. More than 40 schools sponsored teams in 2023–24, and at least 48 are expected to participate in 2024–25. The NCAA requires at least 40 sponsoring schools to consider a new sport for championship status, which means this recommendation signals real momentum.
For high school athletes with a passion for acrobatics and tumbling, this shift is significant. It means expanded opportunity, broader recognition, and the potential for greater access to college competition across all divisions. If the legislation is passed at the 2026 NCAA Convention, student athletes will be able to compete for an official NCAA title beginning in 2027.
For Younger Athletes, the Horizon Looks Even Brighter
If you’re a middle schooler or just beginning your journey in acrobatics and tumbling, now is a great time to lean into your sport. The infrastructure is growing, and the sport is gaining national attention. As the number of programs continues to increase, so will access to collegiate opportunities. Not just in terms of participation, but in regards to competing and being seen as part of a rising movement in women’s athletics.
This moment also reflects something deeper: a continued commitment to expanding space for young women to grow through sport.
What Comes Next
The next steps include each NCAA division reviewing the recommendation and sponsoring formal proposals during the 2025–26 legislative cycle. If approved at the 2026 Convention, a newly formed NCAA Acrobatics and Tumbling Committee will begin preparations for the first national championship.
Until then, the focus remains on participation, growth, and continuing to build a strong, inclusive community around the sport.
A Moment Worth Celebrating
This isn’t just about one event or a single championship—it’s about what this recognition represents: validation of a sport, acknowledgement of its athletes, and the creation of long-term pathways for those who aspire to compete at the next level.
To the student athletes who are already part of this journey, and to the younger ones just discovering their love for acrobatics and tumbling: your hard work is shaping the future of the sport. We’re proud to witness your progress and excited about what’s ahead.
Keep training. Keep growing. The future is wide open!