How to Coach a Cheer Team

Cheerleading is a team sport where groups of cheerleaders perform together as a single unit. While cheerleaders are often seen on the sidelines cheering for other sports at the school, cheerleaders also take part in their own competitions. Whether performing in support of another team or before judges at a competition it is important for the team to be well-organized and in-sync. The position of cheer team coach is a vital one for ensuring the team functions as a unit.

Instructions

    • 1

      Outline the goals of the team, as well as the financial, equipment and training-space needs.

    • 2

      Write out the rules for the team, including attendance and conduct policies.

    • 3

      Create a schedule, which includes practices, games and competitions.

    • 4

      Distribute the goals, rules and schedule to every member trying out for the team and require them to return them with signed sheet saying they agree to follow the rules provided. This ensures your team members know what to expect and minimizes the chance of losing members due to miscommunication.

    • 5

      Discipline team members who violate the rules. Teams must have discipline to keep routines properly synchronized, and failing to adhere to basic rules can have a snowballing effect.

    • 6

      Encourage team members who are performing well to keep morale up. Aim to keep practices fun with changes of pace and activities other than cheering if you notice the team is becoming frustrated.

    • 7

      Assess the strengths and weaknesses of your team members, your assistant coaches and yourself.

    • 8

      Delegate responsibility to those best prepared to handle tasks. If you are not strong at choreography, allow an assistant or team leader to help prepare routines.

    • 9

      Emphasize the strengths of your team while hiding weaknesses. If you lack strong acrobatic performers but your team is good at formations, for example, use more formation-based maneuvers in your routines.

    • 10

      Ensure that your team is practicing safe maneuvers that are within their abilities. Attempting throws or flips that your team members cannot perform risks injury.