Things Every Cheerleading Squad Needs

Team spirit and cheers to chant might be at the top of the list, but they are not the only things a cheerleading squad needs. Cheerleading squads require a lot of dedication, training, practice, enthusiasm, safety precautions and, in the best case scenarios, a motivational and likable coach.

Training

Regular practice and training are musts for cheerleading squads. Practicing helps perfect the routines while training ensures you know how to execute the moves without getting hurt. Training needs to be progressive, starting with basic skills using spotters and moving to the more advanced moves. Don't rush to tumble through the air off your teammate's back if you haven't perfected your forward roll, for example. Training requires practicing cheers and routines as well as the proper equipment and environment, such as a large, open area with protective mats and no distractions.

Coach

A coach to lead the squad is essential for guidance and organization. Many school districts and the NCAA require coaches be certified through the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators. The certification ensures the coach has gone through the organization's safety awareness training and passed its safety test. Credentials, experience and personality are important aspects for choosing a coach. It's hard to promote enthusiasm and team spirit, for instance, if the you and your squad members can't stand your leader.

Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm can be contagious, and a cheerleading squad needs to infect fans with it. Apathy and negativity are easily apparent and a turn-off for the crowd. You and your squad need to maintain an upbeat attitude under any circumstances. Successfully pumping the crowd at games, pep rallies and events is a strategy you can help along with crowd-wowing routines, loud cheers and your team spirit.

Emergency Action Plan

An emergency action plan outlines the action your squad should take in the event of an injury or accident. An example from the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators illustrates a plan's necessary components. First create a phone script for calling 911 that includes the address, room or gym location, phone number and nature of the cheerleader's injury. The coach stays with the injured cheerleader while other squad members take on assigned duties in pairs. Duties include calling 911, alerting school authorities of the injury and guiding paramedics from the front door to the injured teammate. The coach contacts the injured cheerleader's parents and stays with the squad unless another supervisor is on hand. Practice the plan regularly.

Other

Other cheerleading squad necessities include squad uniforms, rules and safety procedures each member needs to sign and equipment such as pom-poms, megaphones and whistles. Keeping up appearances is also essential, with proper grooming and clean uniforms. Fund-raising and money are often other necessities for the squad.