Coaching little league cheerleading can be an enjoyable experience for the coaches AND the cheerleaders. Cheerleading at this age level should be 30% learning, 30% hard work and discipline and 40% fun! Here is a list of the ten most important things to keep in mind while coaching:
- Make sure that you, the cheerleaders and their parents understand your organization's rules. If your organization doesn't have rules regarding cheerleading, get together with the other coaches and write some up yourselves. Make sure that the organization has a copy of them also. Stress the importance of sticking to these rules. You also need to have permission slips that give the child permission to cheer, permission for you to give them aspirin/aspirin substitute if needed and permission for them to carry their own medication, such as asthma inhalers.
- Regardless of the size of your squad, most cheerleaders in this age group will be at different skill levels. Take your time and don't rush through the teaching process. Make sure that each girl understands what is expected of her during the cheer.
- Every coach wants their squad to be the best on the field or court but don't push the girls beyond what their age level (mentally & physically) will allow. You want to encourage them to stay with the sport as they grow.
- Stress the importance of being a "squad". No teasing or making fun of each other's performance. The only one that should be giving constructive criticism is YOU. When it comes to showing good sportsmanship, you should be their prime example.
- Take the time to compliment each girl individually during practice and games. Regardless of what the compliment may be. Children at this age need lots of encouragement!
- Allow the girls to learn and grow with the program. Save the last 15 minutes of practice so that the girls who want to, can show you new moves, cheers, jumps, etc… Try not to be too critical of them and try not to laugh. Sometimes they come up with the funniest things!
- Parents play a big role in little league sports. They can help your program run smoothly or they can change a person's mind about coaching. Try not to let them discourage you too much. Every year you will encounter a new parent or two that will make your coaching experience miserable. Just hold your head up and know that you are doing the best job that you can do.
- If your cheerleaders are paying for their own uniforms, make sure that the prices are reasonable. Every child deserves a chance to participate in sports regardless of the cost.
- Start practicing a little earlier than you think you should. Trust me on this one!
- SMILE, SMILE, SMILE…….it's contagious!
