Being a cheerleading coach can be a very rewarding way to stay involved in a sport you love. However, sometimes coaching a large group of adolescent girls can take it’s toll on even the most tolerant and patient individuals. A good way to keep your team on the right track is to have a set of rules to guide your actions as a team. By taking time to decide how you will address things like rules, rewards, and disciplinary actions you can create a healthy environment for your cheerleaders to grow and bond together. Consider using the following suggests to help make each season a spectacular one.

• Start Out on the Right Foot: Before your first practice, plan a meeting for cheerleaders and their guardians. During this meeting hand out a typed list of rules and other important information that members of the squad will need to follow in order to participate in cheer activities. At this time it will also be beneficial to discuss exactly what will be happening during the year. Include a tentative list of things like games, parades, competitions, and fundraising events so that members and their guardians know what to expect during the upcoming year.
• Deal with Problems Immediately: If a situation arises in which a member of the team violates a rule or regulation be sure to address the situation immediately. Letting problems go unaddressed can send the wrong message to team members and may cause additional problems when you try to address them later on.
• Create a Clear and Concise System of Punishment: At times it may be necessary to punish team members for inappropriate behavior or excessive absenteeism. When explaining the rules to your team members inform them of what actions will be taken if they do not follow the them. For example, if a member of the team misses “X” amount of practices they will have to sit out “X” amount of games. Be sure that each team member has a copy of this information so they know what the consequences will be before they even break the rules.
• Create a Reward System: Everyone, regardless of age, gender, or interests enjoys being rewarded for a job well done. Reward members of your team who have perfect attendance or go above and beyond their call of duty. It can be as simple as a gift certificate to a local restaurant for members who attended every practice. If you put a reward system in place, be sure to be fair about it and give all members of the team the opportunity to benefit.
• Be Consistent and Fair with Punishments and Rewards: It’s important to maintain uniformity when disciplining and rewarding team members. When you are not consistent or make exceptions to the rule on a daily basis, you run the risk of team members seeing you as playing favorites or singling out members.
• Set an Example: > As the coach you it’s important to set a good example. Members of your team will see you as a role model, therefore you need to follow your own rules. This means, being on time for practice, always being prepared, and acting appropriately during games and practices.