Student OrgsGustavus Cheerleading Team

Rules and Guidelines

General

• Respect your coach, your captains, and each other. I am happy to listen to all ideas and suggestions, but the coach has the final decision with NO argument. 
• We are a team. That means there are no personal problems at practices or games. Leave it, any attitude, at the door. Cheerleading is a positive sport, so use your positive energy! We bring people up, not bring people down. 
• Attendance at practices, games, fundraising events, team gatherings, etc. is mandatory. We do them to benefit you. 
• Keep your uniforms nice! Wash them on cold and hang dry them. Do NOT dry-clean. Uniforms are NOT to be worn anywhere but team events.
  • Uniform pieces: bows, poms, top, skirt, spanks, mock top, sports bra, shoes, WHITE ankle socks, WHITE tall socks, pants, backpack
• Look out for each other; safety doesn’t only apply in the gym! 

Practice

• Practices are Sunday 6-8, Tuesday 8-10,  and Thursday 8-10 pm.
  • A calendar of all practices and games will be provided to members. 
• Each team member has two excused absences for practice, use them wisely. I DO keep attendance. Three absences automatically disqualify you from the team. Missing the practice before a game, you will not be allowed to stunt at the next game, as there is no way for you to be prepared. At the discretion of the coach, too many unexcused absences will result in you being booted off the team. Do not be booted off the team. Let the coach know if you are unable to attend a practice and why.
• Perfection before progression! For stunt safety, you must master basic stunting skills before moving on, three times in a row. 
• Be on time! Have your shoes and practice attire on by the start of practice. If you are late, you will run! 
• Practice attire: no jeans, street shoes, jewelry, or long nails. Shorts/leggings and a t-shirt are ideal with your hair off your shoulders.
  • No extremely loose clothes that could get caught during a stunt
• Eat before any organized cheer activity. Bring a full water bottle. 
• No unnecessary talking during practice. We have limited time and need to be efficient. During stunting, only the back and coach can talk. Discussion about the stunt can resume when the top girl is safely on the ground. 
• Four corner spots will be utilized in all new stunts. Always use safe stunting techniques! 
• Be Positive! 
• If you are unable to participate due to injury or illness, a doctor’s note must be given to the coach. 
• Report any injuries to the coach immediately! SAFETY IS KEY 

Game Day

• Make sure you have your entire uniform for game day! (See description above)
• 24-hour sobriety rule: you cannot drink 24 hours before any organized cheer activity. Failure to abide will disqualify you from cheering at the game as well as other reprimands at the coach’s discretion.
• Arrive on game day at the scheduled time dressed and ready to warm up.
• Bring a snack and water bottle.
• No talking during the games. Cheers and stunts will be passed through the lines. Watch the game and be engaged, it’s fun! 
• Know your cheers and stunts! If you need help, we are more than willing to set aside a time to work with you. Text your buddy or coach!