021 Jake Chester - What Makes Cheer Dance Actually Score

What makes a dance score? Is it more movement? More difficulty? Or is it something else entirely?In this episode of More Than Counts, Judge Mimi sits down with choreographer and coach Jake to explore one of the most debated parts of a routine: dance. Together, they unpack what makes choreography memorable, why readability matters just as much as difficulty, and how seamless transitions, musicality, and visual design can elevate a routine.Jake also shares how an unexpected background in marching band shaped his choreography philosophy, what he's learned coaching athletes from Level 2 through Level 6, and why creating routines that fit the team will always outperform trying to force complexity.As always, they put theory into practice—breaking down routines from Cheer Athletics' Ocelots, a developing 4.2 team, and a listener-submitted routine, discussing pacing, formations, cleaning, recovery, and the small details that can make a big difference on the scoresheet.Whether you're a coach, choreographer, athlete, or simply love the creative side of cheerleading, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what judges actually see—and what makes great choreography stand out.TakeawaysImportance of Readability in DanceBalancing Difficulty and Execution Choreography and Routine DesignTeam Development and ProgressionChapters00:00 The Art of Dance01:39 Choreography and Coaching Journey02:36 Influence of Gymnastics and Marching Band03:46 The Role of Music and Dance in Cheerleading20:38 Dance Cleaning and Strategy26:38 Visual Movement and Showmanship27:40 The O'Baby Queens28:51 The NCA Experience30:15 The Aftermath32:18 The Oslo Routine33:31 Building a 4.2 Team48:57 Routine Analysis