Season XI aims to increase accessibility for athletes, coaches, and...Read More
Season XI aims to increase accessibility for athletes, coaches, and spectators across the league by bringing together the various competitive tiers and circuits.
Over the past few seasons, Tier 1, Tier 2, and Head to Head have each flourished as standalone competition series. Each series provided its own season, regionals, and championships. These independent opportunities often resulted in community members needing to choose which opportunities they had the time, resources, and energy to support. This choice often resulted in fewer shared experiences and created obstacles for coaches looking to support their athletes across all types of competition.
In an effort to increase the accessibility of the sport by bringing athletes together across all tiers and circuits, Tier 1, Tier 2, and Head to Head competitions will align in season length and scheduling. Additionally, select competitions will be combining tiers and circuits at the same event to make it easier for athletes and coaches to support the various competition opportunities.
This unified approach means:
Larger combined Regional and Championship competitions mean bigger crowds and more exciting opportunities for athletes and their sponsors. Additionally, increased participation will provide opportunities to enhance event experiences, attract more families, and expand awareness of the sport.
These unified events also provide unique opportunities to the athletes competing in each tier and circuit. Tier 2 athletes will gain visibility and inspiration from competing alongside top-tier athletes. The athletes in Tier 1 will perform in front of larger and more electric audiences. Finally, Tier 1 athletes interested in Head to Head can do so more easily through these combined events. Together, these changes strengthen every competitive tier and make the competition experience more exciting for everyone.
At the Championship Level:
The World Championships will bring together Tier 1, Tier 2, and Head to Head competitions under one roof, with athletes earning their place by qualifying through their respective Regional Championships. Planning is already underway to ensure these combined events maintain the same quality and accessibility as previous years, while also enhancing the experience for coaches, spectators, and athletes alike.
At the Regional Level:
– World Ninja League Hosted Regionals (Northeast and New England) will include Tier 1, Tier 2, and Head to Head
– Most Facility Hosted Regionals will combine Tier 1 and Tier 2, with Head to Head Regionals being hosted at a separate location/time*
– The All Star Break will feature combined Tier 1 and Tier 2 events in each region, preparing everyone for the new World Championship competition structure.
At the Qualifier Level:
Gyms can now host Tier 1 and Tier 2 qualifiers simultaneously. This makes it easier for gyms to send coaches to one location to support all of their athletes’ interests. The WNL team is working with gyms to ensure that the athlete experience continues to support the high-quality competition our families have come to expect from World Ninja League qualifiers, while also improving accessibility and support for coaches. More athletes. More energy. More fun.
*There will be several locations that host Tier 1, Tier 2 and Head to Head at the same location. The specific locations will be released along with the Regional schedules in the coming weeks.
There are a few critical details about these combined competitions that are important to note:
Single Head to Head Regional – Athletes competing in the Head to Head Circuit during season XI will be competing for a chance to qualify for their region’s single regional championship at the end of the season.
Community YouTube Page – This year, standard qualifiers will start streaming on a new World Ninja League Community Channel. The community YouTube channel will allow for enhanced streaming opportunities for gyms and fans alike.
Tier 2 Stats – Athletes competing in Tier 2 will now have access to season stats. This will provide athletes with the opportunity to track their progress and compare their season stats with those of other athletes.
Lifetime Qualification – Athletes who have earned the honor of becoming an Elite World Champion will now earn a lifetime qualification to compete in the Elite division at the World Championships.
Reigning World Champions – All returning World Champions from last season who qualify and compete at this year’s championships will earn the final run order spot for their division to defend their title.
– Tier 1, Tier 2, Head to Head Regular Season: August 29th – April 19th
– All Star Break: January 16th – 19th
– Tier 1, Tier 2, Head to Head Regionals: April 24th – May 31st
Our team is looking forward to making Season XI an unforgettable year of growth and opportunity — one schedule, one vision, one amazing season. Head to the links below to find a competition opportunity near you.
– The World Ninja League Team
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