CAPITAL CHRISTIAN COUGARS Colossians 3:23, And whatever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord and not to men CHEERLEADER HANDBOOK 2013-2014
Dear Parents and Cheerleaders: This packet is designed to give you some information regarding the expectations of being a part of the Capital Christian Cougars cheerleading squad. The cheer team exists to represent the Capital Christian Cougars through servant leadership by promoting team spirit, encouraging and supporting the football athletes, and by being positive examples among their peers. Whatsoever you do in word and in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. Colossians 3:17 If you have any questions, please refer to the CCC website, http://www.capitalcougarfootball.org. There you will find our schedule, mission, code of conduct, registration information, etc. Thank you so much for your interest in cheerleading! Please contact me with any cheerleading related questions you may have. In HIS service, Kari Matney, 512/745-7010 karimatney@gmail.com Julie Christianson, 512-563-8614 julieachristianson@yahoo.com
A CHRISTIAN PHILOSOPHY OF CHEERLEADING Cheerleading is an important part of the Capital Christian Cougars because: It is a ministry of encouragement and service: Hebrews 10:24, And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works. It is a sport which has the potential and purpose of developing the whole person according to the pattern of Jesus Christ in wisdom, physically, spiritually, & socially. Luke 2:52: And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men. It is of vital importance that cheerleading in a Christ-centered organization actually be a Christ-like endeavor. It must have a purpose; to bring honor and glory to God and to build Christian character in the lives of the cheerleaders and those to whom they minister. Every aspect of cheerleading and every cheerleader should be subject to the question: How does this bring glory to God? Colossians 2:8, See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. I Peter 2:9, But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
GOALS OF THE CCC CHEERLEADING PROGRAM We want... to develop and demonstrate Godly character as individuals and as a team; Galatians 5:22-23, But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. to glorify God with your speech, actions, behavior, body language, demeanor, countenance, and attitude; Ephesians 4:29-32, Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. Galatians 5:26, Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. to learn cooperation, unity, and loyalty within a team/group situation; I Peter 3:8-9, Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing. Romans 14:19, Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
to develop leadership skills such as: how to maintain a daily walk with God, positive communication, punctuality, motivation, responsibility, accountability, respect for authority and peers; to encourage the players on the athletic team by serving as a bridge between the spectators and the teams in promoting team spirit; to develop and perfect cheerleading skills according to your God given ability; Philippians 3:12-14, Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. to learn dependence on God for resourcefulness and creativity; Proverbs 3:5-6, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. and to maintain Godly character under the pressures of physical training, performance as cheerleaders, and maintenance of academic responsibilities at home. Romans 15:1-2, 7, We who are strong out to bear with the scruples (failings) of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification. Therefore receive one another, just as Christ also received us, to the glory of God. Galatians 6:9, And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
CHEERLEADING COACHES A cheerleading coach is the same as any other coach on an athletic team. He or she is the God-given head of the squad and responsible for the content and quality of what the cheerleading effort produces. CHEERLEADER COACH JOB DESCRIPTION The cheerleader coach will be directly responsible for the supervision and activity of the cheerleader program. These duties include. Attendance at all practices, games, and other CCC sponsored events. Implementation and enforcement of the cheerleader handbook. Responsible for the supervision of all cheerleader activities and programs. Keep records of attendance, fees, costs, and the accountability of assigned responsibilities. Work with the Cheer Parent Support Team in providing supervision and support for all cheerleader activities. Attend all Cougars football games. Select camp clothes and other uniform needs keeping costs as low as possible. Be sure all cheerleaders medical statements release forms are always accessible. Romans 13:1, Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is not authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.
CHEERLEADER EXPECTATIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES COOPERATION! The coach is the direct authority and her directions and decisions are to be followed at all times. Each cheerleader pledges to submit to the authority of the coach. Hebrews 13:17, Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you. KNOWLEDGE! Each cheerleader is responsible for knowing, understanding, and following the information and requirements stated in this handbook. The handbook must be read each year prior to the first pre-season practice and it will be taught to the cheerleaders throughout the year. COMMITMENT! Each cheerleader must commit to help with fund-raising projects if any are instituted, such as Cheerleader-for-a-Day, birthday parties, car washes, bake sales, etc. which the coach and parents deem necessary. Proverbs 12:27, The lazy man does not roast what he took in hunting, but diligence is man s precious possession. II Thessalonians 3:10, For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: if anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.
CHARACTER REQUIREMENTS POSITIVE ATTITUDE! Each cheerleader is responsible for reflecting a positive attitude toward the football team and toward the squad as demonstrated by her agreement that: Her conduct reflects on the entire team. Her reputation must be above reproach. Her loyalty to the team and squad is of utmost importance. I Peter 2:11-12, Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation. Proverbs 13:20, He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools will be destroyed. LOYALTY! Loyalty for cheerleaders and their families may be defined as constant and faithful devotion to the cheerleading squad as a team, its members individually, the coach, and the football team. Failure of individuals to control and discipline themselves results in the entrance of a divisive spirit which, in time, destroys team unity and wounds the spirits of individuals. Loyal behavior is demonstrated by the following: Refraining from discussing squad problems or disputes with anyone other than the cheerleaders involved and the cheerleading coach. Proverbs 15:1-2, A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.
Avoiding all behaviors such as lying, gossiping, and backbiting. Proverbs 6:16-19, These six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: a proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren. Supporting fellow cheerleaders when ridiculed or criticized by others. Ecclesiastes 4:12, Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Showing commitment to the squad by sacrificing some personal desires for the good of the group. I Peter 1:22, Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart. Families showing respect to squad, coach, and athletic director by following proper chain of command for requests, suggestions, or complaints. PERSONAL BEHAVIOR ABOVE REPROACH! Each cheerleader is responsible for her personal behavior while representing her team, her coach, and ultimately, her Lord as she serves on the cheerleading squad. Cheerleaders agree to be held to the highest levels of personal integrity in recognition of the responsibility and privilege of carrying the mantle of leadership. When a cheerleader is in team uniform or at practice, she understand the particular responsibility to conduct herself as a leader of high integrity because the manner in which she carries herself reflects directly on her position as a cheerleader. Furthermore, each cheerleader agrees to and understands that all of her conduct, in or out of uniform, must reflect positively on the team and on herself as an individual.
COMMITMENT! Commitment means pledging or obligating oneself to follow through on an agreement in the future. For cheerleaders, this means not only a commitment to the squad, but also, and more importantly, to the Lord. By becoming a part of the Cougar team, the cheerleader then pledges to do several things including: Abiding by every policy stated in this handbook and any others that the coach decides are necessary. Agreeing to fulfill cheerleading responsibilities for the full season unless prevented by illness, injury, or unforeseen difficult family circumstances. Obligating oneself to a life characterized by punctuality and regular attendance. It must be remembered that the decision to cheer for the Cougars is voluntarily made by each person. Therefore, each cheerleader who is on the squad is voluntarily agreeing to live by guidelines that contribute to the enhancement of the entire team. One very important guideline is the necessity of being on time in order to participate in adequate preparation and warm-up, and to be considerate of others who will be waiting for her. Chronic lateness or absence is like theft: the stealing of time from others who are forced to wait on you. Psalm 37:5, Commit your way to the Lord; trust also in Him and He shall bring it to pass. He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday.
APPEARANCE Uniforms should always be clean and neat. It will be the cheerleader s responsibility to care for and maintain her uniform throughout the year. If any uniform is rendered unusable through negligence (stains that cannot be removed, tearing anywhere other than seam lines), the cheerleader s family agrees to pay for the cost of replacement. No jewelry of any kind, including string or rope bracelets or anklets or stud earings, may be worn with the cheerleader uniform or during practice. Solid black slider shorts, a solid black sports bra, and a solid black tank top tucked into your slider must be worn under your uniform. No visible tattoos are allowed during practice or games. No fingernail polish allowed while in uniform. Hair must be neatly pulled back and out of the face during practices and games and fastened securely with the designated hair bow or ribbon (for games). Makeup should be tasteful and reflect the natural beauty of the cheerleader. No heavy eye make-up or lipstick. Game-day hairstyle will vary and be announced the week of the game. Dress for practices should be modest; no see-through or holey t-shirts, no spaghetti-straps, sport shorts need to have spanks under them, and shorts must be at least finger-tip in length. Appropriate shoes and socks must be worn during practice. ACCESSORIES Accessories are the responsibility of the new squad member. Accessories include but are not limited to: socks, shoes (white cheer shoes from Academy), black slider shorts (for games and practice), solid black sports bra, solid black tank, black sling bag, black thermos, pom-poms, uniform hair ribbon/bow, and practice clothes.
PRACTICES Practices will be held twice a week and attendance is required. Cheerleaders must in position five minutes before practice starts. Don t eat within 45 minutes of practice. We will resume practices three weeks prior to the beginning of football season. If you didn t attend camp, it is your responsibility to borrow the camp video and learn the cheers, sidelines, chants, and the fight-song. No gum-chewing during practice. Wear appropriate shoes and attire. Bring a towel or sheet for stretching. Bring your water bottle and pompoms. If you are too ill or injured to participate, please stay home. Arrive with a SMILE and be ready to work! GAMES Cheerleaders will either be cheering or sitting with the squad, coach, or designated adult during all of the games. Cheerleaders may not leave the squad or designated adult for any reason without permission. Cheerleaders must arrive 45 minutes prior to the game starting. This is necessary for stretching and conditioning before cheering. Cheerleaders must be in position five minutes before the team comes out at the beginning of a game and at least two minute before the end of halftime. No gum-chewing during a game. Be friendly and courteous hostesses to all visitors during home games. Greet and offer assistance to the other squads. BEFORE home games offer to do a cheer for the opposing squad immediately after the second half begins, and invite them to come and do one of their cheers for our home crowd after you cheer for theirs. Cheerleaders must not socialize with friends during a game. If you are in a dating relationship, you must not display affection publically while in uniform; this includes holding hands, piggy-back rides, sitting in laps, etc. Travel arrangements for games are the cheerleader s responsibility.
CAPTAINS Captains will work closely with coach to set up and accomplish squad goals. Captains will set examples for the rest of the squad in attendance, attitude, conduct, punctuality, effort, and integrity. Captains must have at least one year of cheerleading experience with the Cougars. Captains will be responsible to run practice warm-up. Captains will take turns either preparing or assigning another cheerleader to prepare a five to ten minute devotion. Captains will contact all cheerleaders notifying them of practices, change of plans, etc. Captains will work with coach to select performance materials for the games. Captains will keep up with signs and banners. Captains will assist coach with absence and tardy violations. POLICY ON CHOREOGRAPHED ROUTINES Choreographed routines performed should include some incorporation of either pom-poms, stunts, chants, jumps, or cheering motions. Music to be used must be approved by the cheerleader s parents. No suggestive movements will be permitted.
ABSENCES & TARDIES: DISCIPLINE FOR VIOLATIONS For excused absences from games or practices, coaches must be notified via email, phone call, or in person at least 1 week in advance. For absences due to illness, coaches must be notified ASAP via email, phone call, or text. Unexcused absences would include the following: lessons of any kind (piano, dance, etc.), doctor or dentist appointments unless it is an emergency, a cheerleader s outside job- related conflicts, or out-of-town vacation trips, unless pre-approved by the coach. If a cheerleader is injured, she is still required to attend games and practices to support the squad even though she is unable to cheer herself. (This is pending extenuating circumstances.) Consequences for absences: o Unexcused absence from practice: miss first quarter of next game o 1 unexcused absence from a game=sit in uniform with coach for entire next game o More unexcused absences than listed above will result in a meeting with the team and coach to discuss further consequences. Consequences for tardiness: o Late to practice: 1 set of plyometrics per minute late o Late to game: 1 set of plyometrics per minute late up to 5 minutes; after 15 minutes late, sit out first quarter of game BEHAVIOR ISSUES: Repeated disrespectfulness: o After 1 warning: 10 push-ups per occurrence Talking, interrupting, or not paying attention: o After 1 warning: 10 push-ups per occurrence 1
Phone use during practice or game (unless permission is given by coach): o After 1 warning: 2 sets of 10 up/downs per occurrence Wearing inappropriate clothing to practices: o After 1 warning: run 2 laps around the practice area Reasons for Suspension or Dismissal from the Squad Repeated disrespect for God, authority, others, or property Violation of cheerleader handbook and athletic conduct guidelines Failure to meet the Personal Behavior character requirements as stated in this handbook Demonstrating repeated disloyalty to the squad, or coach Failure to meet financial obligation Bullying or intimidation of fellow cheerleaders (includes social media sites, texting, and in person) Posting or making public any suggestive or disrespectful photos or comments of one s self or others, particularly via the internet. Unacceptable Behaviors for Cheerleaders Unexcused absence from event or practice Leaving a game without permission Improper conduct (public display of affection at school or a game, poor sportsmanship) Profanity Lack of dependability/responsibility Unnecessary conversation with crowd, team or squad Uniform worn outside cheerleading duties (at the store; as a Halloween costume, etc.) Inability to cooperate with squad, head cheerleader, or coach Insufficient knowledge of cheers Lack of transportation (pick up after practice/game) Tardiness for practice or performance Chewing gum during practice or any time in uniform Unacceptable appearance (improper jewelry, hair not secured away from face, wrong or no hair bow, etc.)