Starting a Cheer Team

Getting a cheer program started takes more than a passion for the sport and a love of coaching athletes; it takes planning, support, and a lot of hard work! 

Educating yourself and committing the time to prepare before starting such a venture will go a long way in avoiding issues and setting your program up for success. It’s also important to recognize that while there are some similarities, there are also many differences between starting a scholastic program and an all-star club.

Regardless of what type of program you’re interested in starting, there are some global considerations; here are just a few:

  • Determine whether there is a demand for a cheer program - does the school or community have an interest in offering opportunities for participation in cheer? Is there a viable population of athletes to build teams from?

  • Determine what training facility/space is needed e.g.: a stand-alone gym/space within a school.

  • Administrative support:

    • Staffing for all-star gym

    • Staff advisor/administrative permission for scholastic team(s)

  • Coaching staff:

    • Number of coaches needed

    • Coaches must be adequately certified (hold certification to the level of team they are coaching AND hold all supplemental certifications required)

  • Membership with governing bodies:

    • ACA

    • Cheer Canada

    • Additional registrations, if applicable, e.g.: high school teams must register with the ASAA

  • Insurance through the ACA or other provider

  • Program Planning:

    • Type of team(s)

    • Goals of the program

    • Preparing a program plan (scholastic) or business plan (all-star)

    • Scheduling/calendar of events (e.g.: practices, competitions, social events)

    • Securing service providers (e.g.: equipment, gear, uniforms, music etc.)

    • Developing/confirming program information and preparing information packages for athletes/parents

  • Budgeting:

    • Equipment/facility costs

    • Gear/uniform costs

    • Competition/travel fees

    • Staffing

    • Fundraising

    • Other

It is recommended that you do as much research and preparation as possible before getting a team/program/club started. Talk to other coaches, staff advisors, gym owners etc. to educate yourself and set your venture up for success!

If you require additional information or assistance, please email info@albertacheerleading.ca.