I also think some people need to realize that not everyone has capability to be "great" and/or excel in this sport. Just as some people aren't meant to be in the top of their class academically. However, you are way more likely to get results from kids in either group with quality instruction and setting high standards than accepting mediocrity IMO. If that's not happening (your kid isn't learning, progressing, etc.) to meet those standards, then maybe one must re-evaluate their situation. I mean, you don't get numerous years to try to pass geometry in high school do you and that's a requirement! You have to master numerous new academic skills every single year! And before anyone says something about comparing the two again, let's remember that there are plenty of children who fare far worse academically than in sports. It's not their forte. Anyway, the point is if I'm paying for instruction of any kind and I don't see progression then either a)the instruction isn't meeting my child's needs or b)my child isn't meant to do this. There are plenty of other recreational activities you can choose for building confidence, self-esteem, etc. (including non competitive cheerleading) We chose competitive cheerleading over rec. cheerleading for a reason didn't we? If the goal isn't to be the best, then why would we (as parents) want to fork over thousands of dollars for our kid to compete in cheerleading at a level 2 for 10 years (which is probably closer to tens of thousands of dollars at that point), just so she can be the "best damn level 2 cheerleader she can be"? Seriously? While I agree with Kingston that everyone can't be a level 5 cheerleader and that there's nothing wrong with it, why continue to take someone's money for that long if you know they'll never progress? Is is just about the money to you? Why not suggest a non competitive, but similar sport to them at that point?