⚖️ Small Clubs vs Big Clubs: Let’s Go There (S3.8)

janie724
Nov 5
2 min read

Episode released on October 21, 2025

In this episode, we dive headfirst into a topic that always sparks debate: small clubs vs big clubs in All Star cheerleading. What really defines a club’s “size”? What are the advantages and challenges at each level — small, medium, or large? And most importantly, how can we build sustainable growth without losing our soul… or our athletes?

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🧭 Defining Club Size: A Matter of Perspective

In Quebec, there’s no official rule that determines what makes a club “small” or “large.” But according to Janie, experience on the ground provides a good guideline:

Small club: about 150 athletes or fewer
Medium club: between 150 and 300 athletes
Large club: over 300 athletes, some even reach a thousand across all divisions

Beyond the numbers lies a cultural difference. A small club often means closeness, familiar faces, and flexibility. A large club means structure, specialization, and a wide variety of levels. Two realities that complement each other more than they compete.

💙 Small Clubs: Connection and Authenticity

Small clubs are the heartbeat of cheer. Everyone knows each other, the gym owner is involved, and athletes feel seen. But with a limited pool, it’s tough to cover all levels or retain advanced athletes.

The challenge: to train, grow, and start over again each season, without losing the passion.

💪 Big Clubs: Structure and Ambition

Large clubs offer a wider range of teams and professional coaching. They attract athletes with their facilities, specialized staff, and national or international goals. But the bigger the gym, the heavier the management.

The key: stay human, even when your gym has 500+ members.

🌱 Building the Next Generation: The Foundation Before the Sparkle

Whether big or small, it all starts with development. Recreational and pre-competitive programs are the foundation that feeds the top of the pyramid. Training athletes, guiding parents, and keeping the sport accessible — that’s what truly builds a lasting club.

“Just because you’re small doesn’t mean you can’t train great athletes. Everything starts from the bottom.” – Janie

🌍 Worlds: The Dream, Not the Income

Worlds are a dream, but they don’t pay the bills. It’s an accomplishment, not a revenue stream. Teams that make it there do it for passion, often after years of work and athlete cycles.

The secret: focus on stability and understand that success comes in waves, not straight lines.

🔁 A Sport to Build Together

Small clubs form the base. Big clubs push the sport upward. And in between lies a network of coaches, families, and passionate young athletes keeping the flame alive. This isn’t a competition between sizes — it’s an ecosystem we must strengthen together, season after season.