1Q. How Do I start a Cheerleading Squad?
2Q. What certifications should I have to coach?
3Q. What kind of forms do I need?
4Q. What’s the best fundraising idea?
5Q. Do I need insurance?
6Q. How do I keep my squad motivated?
7Q. What are the rules for a competitive squad?
8Q. Where can I find judges?
9Q. Where can I find a coaching position?
10Q. What’s the best kind of camp or clinic?

1A. Starting a cheerleading squad is a major decision and should be given careful consideration. Ultimately it can affect you and your family in a number of ways including financially, time wise and physically. So, do your research, talk to other coaches and gym owners and then think the decision through. If you still want to start a squad, begin by laying some groundwork and rules. Check out our instructional books and videos and consider these things:

Get the Word Out – Flyers, Radio, Posters, and word of mouth
Try Outs – Where, When, Who and What Qualifications
Practices – Where, When, Rules and Insurance
Insurance – Practice, Competitions, and Traveling
Finances – Fees, Fundraising and Sponsors
Competitions – What Associations and Organizations
Motivation – Squad bonding and togetherness
Material – Music, Cheers, Choreography, and Stunts
Equipment – Mats, tramps, CD player and other office supplies
Apparel – Uniforms, shoes, jackets, socks, poms, camp wear and more.
Camps and Clinics – Prices, travel, resident, commuter or personal

2A. Besides being safety certified in cheerleading, all coaches, advisors and directors should be certified in first aid and CPR. Check with your local YMCA or Red Cross for these classes. Be sure to keep all certifications current and up to date.

3A. You’ll need all kinds of forms, rules and signed permission slips for your squad. We have a good collection here on the site [insert link to forms]. It’s always best to consult with an attorney to get their professional opinion on your liabilities and what you need.

4A. Research the company you plan to deal with. Ask for references or talk to other coaches. Try to find the highest percentage of profit for your squad. It’s also great if you don’t have to come up with any funds to participate in the program. If there are other clubs, organizations, or associations in your area that hold fundraisers, contact them so that your squad’s fundraiser is not at the same time or even worse the exact same program.

5A. The simple answer is “YES”. You’ll definitely need insurance coverage for something. Check with your local insurance agent and explain exactly what you’ll be doing. If you rent or lease a building, check with the owner to see what their insurance covers and if there is anything you have to add. Also, don’t overlook your vehicle insurance if you’ll be traveling with your squad.

6A. Instill in your squad the mindset that they are family and a team. They should think and act as one. Remind them that their behavior and actions reflect on each of them. That even when they are not in uniform they are considered a member of their squad and that everything they do and say should represent the squad in the best light. Plan fun activities for them to get together and learn more about each other. Cheerleading is hard work, but it should also be fun. Teach your squad good sportsmanship, leadership and make them proud of what they are doing.

7A. Competition rules can vary from association to association. It’s always best to contact the association or organization your plan to compete in for a set of up to date rules. If you don’t understand something, ask questions and have them point to where it’s written in the rulebook.

8A. Ask other coaches or contact coaches cheerleading associations/organizations for recommendations. Check our Judges Directory for a complete list of judges available in your area. And if you’re a qualified judge, please submit your info to our site.

9A. Contact schools, Coaches Associations, the YMCA, gyms, recreation departments, Pop Warner, and even churches. If there are no positions available then consider volunteering your services at first. This will help you establish a reputation and it looks great on your resume.

10A. It’s important that a camp or clinic fits your squad’s needs, schedule and finances. Research what’s available in your area by contacting different associations. There are usually a number of different camps available such as: Resident, Commuter and Private/Custom. Decide what your squad can afford and where your money will be best spent. Ask for references and talk to other coaches. Since a lot of camps are put on by associations that also hold competitions, that could be a deciding factor on where you go.