Cheerleading

Welcome to the 2025 Cheer Season!

Make sure to join our “Southwestern Youth Cheerleading” Facebook group. We’ll post important updates, practice info, and reminders throughout the season.

Information on this page is slightly condensed. For full Cheerleading Expectations, CLICK HERE!

Age Groups

Cheerleaders are grouped by grade and age (as of August 1):

Flag – Grades 1 & 2 (Ages 6–7)
Rookie – Grades 3 & 4 (Ages 8–10)
Pro – Grades 5 & 6 (Ages 10–12)

Practice Schedule

All practices take place at Packard Field in Lakewood. A rain location will be announced if needed.

Flag: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday | 5:30–6:30 PM
Rookie & Pro: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday | 5:30–7:30 PM

Please make sure your child uses the bathroom before arriving, especially while we’re at Packard.

As the season progresses, practices may be reduced to two nights per week. The more practices attended, the faster routines come together!

Mandatory Practices Before Competition

Practices leading up to competition will be mandatory for all cheerleaders.
We cannot build a full routine without everyone present.

Competition will be hosted by Fredonia — more details coming soon!

Game Day Info

Each level will cheer at all home games.
If we have two Rookie or Pro football teams, away games will be split evenly to ensure both teams are supported.
There will be one cheer squad per level.

Uniform and Gear

Provided:

Uniform
Pom-poms
Bows
Socks

You’ll Need to Provide:

White cheer shoes (for games and competition)

Optional Cold-Weather Items (Recommended):

Navy cheer hoodie or zip-up
Navy rain jacket
Navy or red gloves/hat
Navy leggings, long sleeves, or mock top
Cheer bag for gear

Group ordering will be available via Falconer Printing and other suggested vendors (posted in the Facebook group).

Cheerleading Expectations & Rules

General Expectations

Be respectful to coaches, teammates, and opponents.
Keep a positive and coachable attitude.
Be supportive on and off the field.
Attend all practices and events unless excused ahead of time.
Bring a water bottle and practice outside of scheduled times.

Skill Development

Focus on motions, jumps, tumbling, and stunts.
Improve flexibility, strength, and fitness.
Work together as a team to improve.

Behavior & Sportsmanship

No bullying or drama — zero tolerance.
Always cheer positively and respect all teams and officials.
Represent our program with pride.

Uniform & Appearance

Wear your uniform with pride and care.
No gum at practices or games.
Hair must be pulled back (as directed by coaches).
Wear proper cheer attire to every practice/event.

Rules Summary

Attendance & Punctuality

Must attend all practices/games unless excused.
More than 2 unexcused absences = possible loss of participation.

Behavior at Practices & Games

Phones stay in a designated area.
No gum or distractions.
Show respect to teammates and coaches at all times.

Safety

No stunts/tumbling without supervision.
Always follow coach instructions.
Report injuries immediately.

Uniform Standards

Full uniform required for events.
Keep uniforms clean and unaltered.

Conduct

No profanity or inappropriate behavior.
Respect the venue, officials, opponents, and fans.

Social Media Etiquette

No negative posts about teammates, coaches, or the program.
Be a positive online representative.

Parent Expectations

Get athletes to practices/games on time and fully prepared.
Notify coaches ahead of time if your child will miss a practice or event.
Support from the sidelines—no coaching from the stands.
Help out with fundraisers and team duties as needed.
Respect coach decisions and reinforce rules at home.

Disciplinary Actions

First Violation: Verbal warning and discussion with athlete/parent
Second Violation: Suspension from next game or event
Third Violation: Possible removal from team (based on severity)