Forms Needed for Cheer Squads

Being part of a cheerleading squad is like being part of any team sport that requires rules, regulations and expectations from team members. The most effective way for cheerleading team administrators to ensure these guidelines are met is through the use of various written forms. Putting things in writing clarifies information for all parties, and, for cheer squads who typically distribute most information at the beginning of the season, these forms can prove to be valuable reference tools.

  1. Behavioral Expectation Form

    • Almost every cheer squad -- from the elementary to the professional levels -- has behavioral expectations that are distributed in list form at the beginning of the season. Depending on the level of squad you belong to, you may or may not be required to sign the form. Typical provisions included in the behavioral expectation form can include the number of practices a squad member can miss before she is removed from the team, policies on tardiness, attitude expectations towards other team members and a policy on tobacco, alcohol or drug abuse.

    Physical Upkeep Form

    • While it may seem archaic to have the physical upkeep expectations of a cheer squad member put into a written form, in reality this particular form serves an important purpose. For professional squads, an image is created based upon the members selected, and it is reasonable to expect these members maintain the same physical appearance they did when they were selected as team members. For nonprofessional squads where members may be experiencing puberty at differing times, physical upkeep forms provide a written reminder about the importance of hygiene, proper grooming, exercise and good nutrition.

    Noncompetition Agreement

    • A noncompetition agreement is a common form included in both the welcome packets of amateur squads and the contracts of professional ones. For a professional cheerleader, a noncompetition agreement is necessary to ensure the cheerleader will not quit the squad for a similar position in a competing organization mid-season. For an amateur cheerleader, these types of agreements usually include less formal provisions, such as an agreement the cheerleader will not participate in other cheer- or dance-related activities that conflict with the squad's practices or performances.

    Medical Waiver Form

    • Perhaps the most important form that every single cheer squad around the globe must have from each member is a medical waiver form. The medical waiver form should indicate that the organization the cheerleader is a member of bears no liability should the cheerleader incur any injury while practicing or performing with her squad. The waiver form should expressly release all directors, administrators and coaches from liability as well. It is advised that every medical waiver form should be signed and returned before the first practice of the season.