1. Adhere to the AYC Code of Ethics
2. Must pass a background check
3. Coaches must have the ability to manage several children in a group setting.
4. Meet the performance standards set for each youth squad:
Mini
Motions: Cheer stance, clasp, clap, high V, low V, T, touchdown
Jump: Spirit jump
Dance: 30-second dance (can be from youtube)
Cheers: 10-15 chants
JV
Motions: Cheer stance, clasp, clap, high V, low V, T, broken T, touchdown, low touchdown, right and left fight (punch), dagger
Jumps: Intro to proper jump technique, spirit jump, toe, touch, hurdler
Dance: 1-minute dance (can be from youtube)
Cheers: 25-30 chants and one hello cheer
Varsity
Motions: Cheer stance, clasp, clap, high V, low V, T, touchdown, low touchdown,
right/left fight (punch), daggers, right/left diagonal, right/left L, right/left
K, lunges combined with motions
Jumps: Proper jump technique, spirit jump, toe touch, hurdler, pike, herkie
Dance: 1-minute 30-second dance (can be from youtube)
Cheers: 30+ age-appropriate chants (no more “bang, bang choo-choo train”), one hello cheer, and prep for Jr. High cheer tryouts
No tumbling, mounts, partner stunts, or pyramids are permitted at any time.
All cheer motions, words to chants, portable Bluetooth speaker, team roster, parent contact information, and other items will be provided by the Amherst Youth Cheer Board. Coaches will have access to a private Facebook page with instructional videos for chants. Additional instruction is available by contacting the AYC Board. Our goal is to provide as much support as needed to our volunteer coaches!
5. Practices
Coaches are expected to conduct a one-hour practice, one time per week for the season. Additional practices must be cleared by the Board to ensure building availability.
Coaches should arrive 10 minutes before practice. You may be required to unlock doors, turn on lights, and move chairs or other items from the practice area. Items must be moved back to their original spaces at the conclusion of practice.
Restrooms should only be used in emergency situations. Coaches should only permit one child to use the restroom at a time. If a child uses the restroom during practice, the coach must check the restroom and ensure that the toilet is flushed, trash is thrown away and lights are turned off before leaving the building. If a parent is available it is their responsibility to take their child to the restroom.
Cheerleaders must arrive in appropriate clothing and gym shoes in order to participate. No gum, candy, food, or cell phones are permitted while practicing or at games. Coaches are responsible for communicating information on practices, games, pictures, and other events to parents or guardians in a reasonable and timely manner.
6. Games
Cheerleaders must arrive in their full cheer uniform with white gym shoes in order to participate. White leggings may be worn during inclement weather.
Cheerleaders should remain in their assigned spots for the duration of the game. Coaches are expected to maintain order and redirect youth back to their assigned spots as needed. If the youth is unwilling to cooperate, they will not be permitted to cheer.
Cheerleaders are expected to perform at the start of the game. Coaches are encouraged to allow the cheerleaders to take turns calling the chants. This can be accomplished by simply “going down the line” while youth are in formation.
Cheerleaders are not permitted to have their cell phones in their immediate area while they are in formation. Cell phones should be kept in their bag, with their parent, or by the coach. If the youth is unwilling to cooperate, they will not be permitted to cheer.
Cheerleaders are expected to behave appropriately at games and other cheer events. Cheerleaders should not be chewing gum, throwing poms in the air, sitting on the ground, or creating any disturbances while performing. Coaches are expected to address this type of behavior immediately. One warning should be given before removing the cheerleader from the game.
Most importantly, please remember we cheer rain or shine!
If the football and basketball players are out there playing, we are cheering!