Cheerleading is a highly physical activity with many different components. Cheering, dancing, jumping, tumbling and stunting are all combined in a dynamic performance that requires a high level of expertise. Because there are so many different areas to master, a network of good resources will help coaches, cheerleaders and parents build a stronger, more successful program.
Safety
Safety should be the number one priority of any cheerleading program, as it not only protects the cheerleaders, but also keeps them cheering. The American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators is an organization that publishes safety regulations for cheerleading that are a great resource for all cheerleading squads. The regulations are updated and re-published every year, so teams can stay current and safe. This organization also offers safety certification for coaches who wish to prove they have solid mastery of cheerleading safety concepts. Coaches who enroll in the certification program participate in a 3-hour review of the AACCA Safety Manual followed by a 2-hour open book test.
Stunting
Stunting -- in which one or more cheerleaders lifts or tosses another cheerleader into the air -- is a very exciting part of cheerleading. While they should keep safety as the number one focus, squads should also continually seek out new and fresh stunts. Outsourcing is a great way to incorporate innovative stunting into your routines. Take your squad to summer camp, or to 1-day clinics during the season. Choose a camp or clinic run by a reputable company, such as the Universal Cheer Association, that is known for presenting new stunts while stressing safety.
Tumbling
Your best tumbling resource will be found at your local gymnastics facility. Even a coach who has a vast array of gymnastics experience will not always have access to the equipment offered at a gymnastics school. Consider which gyms offer a specialized cheerleading gymnastics course, typically called "cheernastics." If your local gym does not currently offer such a class, contact the gym owner directly and inquire about tailoring a class to the needs of your squad. Most gyms will not only create this type of class for your squad, they will also offer your squad discounted rates for signing up together.
Uniforms
Cheerleading uniforms include more than just a skirt and shell. Most cheerleaders use pom-poms and wear matching warmups as well. Seek out a uniform company that offers package deals on these items, so your squad gets the best price for them. Each cheerleader is typically responsible for purchasing her own briefs, shoes, and sometimes a turtleneck, but these items must match those of every other girl on the squad. Order these items together, as a squad, in order to ensure uniformity and to get the best prices. Some companies even offer accessory packages, which will give you an even better price.
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