Competition & Freestyle Judging
Overview of Amateur and Pro Division rules.
2026 Overview
Information for competition rules is described in full below. Here’s the unique aspects of Spirit Yo-yo Contest 2026:
- Most rules stated in the current NYYL judging system will remain the same here, but weighting for tech and performance scores will be: Tech = 30%, Performance = 70%.
- Pro Division freestyles will be 3 minutes. Amateur Division freestyles will be 1.5 minutes.
- All styles (1A and X-Div. styles) will be allowed in Pro and Amateur Divisions.
- In the Pro Division, switches, restarts, and not having the yo-yo wound up in your hand at the end of your freestyle will be -1.
- Intentionally switching or adding/subtracting yo-yos to change styles will not receive a deduction. Switching styles will be +2 to the final score. The +2 style switch bonus will only be applied once. Example: You do 1A, 4A, and 5A in the same freestyle. Only +2 is added to your score.
- An additional bonus category will be added for 2026. Each judge will select 3 players to have 0.5 points added to their final score. Your name can appear on multiple judges sheets, meaning 0.5 x 6 judges could get you a maximum of 3 more points. Whether you had one fantastic trick, unique music, or unforgettable aura, why you’re awarded the half point is up to each judge.
- We encourage players to approach competing in their own, unique way. If you’re going for the win and want to play by the rules at a high level — great! If you want to do an experimental, 2.5 minute routine with 3 style changes — also great!
Definitions and Routine Scoring
Definitions and routine scoring will be the same as shown here on the Freestyle Rules for 2024 NYYL Events page.Major Deductions
Major Deduction definitions will be the same, except for a few changes. -1 for switches, restarts, and not having the yo-yo wound up in your hand at the end of your freestyle. +2 to final score for switching styles (only counts once). No deduction for intentional switches.
Amateur Division
Amateur division gives players who may not want to compete in one of the championship divisions of a contest the opportunity to grow their skills on stage.
Amateur is a low-stress competition division, perfect for first-time competitors or anyone wanting a more relaxed competition experience. Amateur Division is also a great opportunity to give newer judges experience with judging competitions. Technical execution will be scored without negative clickers & there are no major deductions. All ages can compete.
Amateur Division Rules:
- Duration: 90 seconds
- Technical Execution: 20 points
- Performance Evaluation: 80 points
Evaluation Categories: - Trick Presentation (20 points)
- Performance Quality (20 points)
- Musicality (20 points)
- Routine Construction (20 points)
Pro Division
Pro Division is for all players looking to compete for the title of “Spirit Yo-yo Contest Champion”. This is the division for players with more competitive experience.
Pro Division Rules:
- Duration: 3 minutes
- Technical Execution: 30 points
- Performance Evaluation: 70 points
Evaluation Categories: - Trick Presentation (15 points)
- Performance Quality (20 points)
- Musicality (15 points)
- Routine Construction (20 points)
Music Selection
Players are expected to select music for their routines and present their routines to music. A player is entitled to select whatever music they’d like as long as it is deemed appropriate for all audiences. Failure to select appropriate music may result in disqualification. All decisions are made by the contest head judge or organizers and are final.
Here are some examples of inappropriate music. Please keep in mind that this is not a comprehensive list – if you ever have a doubt about if your specific music selection is inappropriate, please contact us for a judgment.
- Music that contains inappropriate language (curse words, derogatory slurs)
- Music that addresses inappropriate themes (violence, rape, self-harm, sexual content)
- Music glorifying (including but not limited to) violence, rape, suicide, killing, murder, genocide, war.
- Music that explicitly implies sexual activity (heavy breathing, ecstatic noises or screams)
- Music that discriminates against anyone – yoyo is an inclusive sport, and discrimination of any kind is not tolerated.
Contestant Behavior
Contestants in all divisions are expected to behave in an appropriate and professional manner. Any inappropriate behavior, whether it be on stage or off stage, can result in disqualification from the competition. If a breach of conduct is reported and confirmed by Spirit Yo-yo Contest representatives, the breaching player can be disqualified or removed from the competition.
Players may not make inappropriate gestures during their routines. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Inappropriate hand gestures (e.g. middle fingers being shown)
- Indecency (e.g. removal of clothes during a routine)
- Demonstrations of violence towards others
Please note: Spirit Yo-yo Contest does not tolerate bullying or discrimination of any kind. Please report any instances of bullying or discrimination to a Spirit Yo-yo Contest representative and we will investigate and make a final decision. Please treat other contest attendees with respect and decency, and let’s make yo-yo an inclusive sport for everyone.