i don't have a dog in this fight. (actually, I don't even have a dog since my failing body and deteriorating joints have forced me into retirement.:p ) so, for these reasons, I don't really follow many lower divisions. (i do watch the amazing ones posted on here and there are some awesome lower level teams, don't get me wrong!) But since I primarily watch level 5, and you can't "sandbag" the highest level, I rarely see it happen unless it is called out, like in these situations. While I may not see it, I'm sure it is a big enough problem if NCA felt the need to make a rule about it. (a rule that rockstar will not be breaking, i know)
I see it from both sides. a back handspring is a back handspring no matter who does one. but say a level 4 girl has had her layout for a year. so she's probably been doing a BHS for 4/5 years, give or take, depending on how fast she learns. that is 4 years to perfect a skill that the "true" level 2 kids have maybe been perfecting for a few months to a year. There is a noticeable difference in technique even though they are both doing a BHS. (which would probably help your execution quite a bit.)
CoachDerek I don't think you guys are getting called out, you put yourselves out there. And I do appreciate that it's not some hidden secret. i agree that NCA is an experience these kids should have.. but they could have gone another way. this is always something that's going to bother others, especially if they do have a dog in the fight, so to speak. say the shooting stars, just for fun, made a level 4 routine and beat your kids who have been working their tails off all season long. you can't say that wouldn't bother you.
Those who don't agree with you probably never will. you're going to have to agree to disagree.
honestly, congrats to rockstar for pulling off a clean, award winning routine in only 12 practices. still impressive. and congratulations to all of their competitors who put up one heck of a fight.