MIAMI CHEER SQUAD RULES AND REGULATIONS

MIAMI CHEER SQUAD RULES AND REGULATIONS Personal appearance, personality, application and performance skills were major factors in the selection of the Miami Cheer Squad. Team members must maintain the personal appearance and level of skill upon which their selections to the organization were based, and learn and practice the Miami Cheer Squad routines. A. GAMES, PERFORMANCES AND PRACTICES: 1. Attendance at all practice sessions, all sporting events and/or other performances are MANDATORY. Any absence which has not been previously approved by the Coach is considered an unexcused absence and grounds for disciplinary action, at the discretion of the Miami University Athletic Department. If Cheerleader is excused from a practice it is his/her responsibility to get all information and learn all new choreography prior to the next scheduled rehearsal or performance. 2. Tardiness is unacceptable. All Cheerleaders MUST BE at rehearsals 15 minutes prior to the start time of all rehearsals. CHEERLEADERS WHO ARE NOT PRESENT AT THE START OF REHEARSAL WILL BE DISCIPLINED FOR THAT REHEARSAL. CONSISTENT TARDINESS WILL RESULT IN CONSEQUENCES. 1 st tardy running 2 nd tardy push-ups 3 rd tardy meeting with Coach, consequences TBD. 3. All Cheerleaders MUST BE at games at the assigned call time. IF THE CHEERLEADER IS TARDY, HIS/HER PARTICIPATION IN THAT GAME WILL BE REDUCED. If the Cheerleader is going to be late (emergency/car problems), he/she must call the Coach prior to the game. 4. Any Cheerleader who misses a rehearsal prior to a game and does not know required choreography COULD BE PROHIBITED FROM PERFORMING AT THE GAME. 5. All Cheerleaders must rehearse and know all routines and timeout performances before game days. If a Cheerleader does not know the routines or timeout performances, he/she will be pulled from those performances. The rules for being pulled from performances are as follows: 1 st performance- warning 2 nd performance- running 3 rd performance- meeting with Coach *All disciplinary action will be dealt with by the Coach and Anthony J. Azama. 6. Any Cheerleader who misses more than three (3) rehearsals WILL BE AUTOMATICALLY SUSPENDED FROM THE TEAM for a period to be determined by the Coach. 7. Any Cheerleader who misses a promotion, game or other scheduled engagement without notifying the Coach WILL BE AUTOMATICALLY SUSPENDED FROM THE TEAM for a period to be determined by the Cheer Squad Coach. 1

8. All members of the Miami Cheer Squad will participate at every Miami RedHawks home football and basketball game unless otherwise specified by the Coach. (Cheerleaders will rotate games if needed) 9. In the event a Cheerleader becomes injured or disabled, Cheerleader shall, at the discretion of the Coach and Team Administrator, continue to attend all rehearsals and games and be present in their entirety. If the Coach does not require such Cheerleader to attend any game or rehearsal OR the Cheerleader does not have the proper medical release forms completed, Cheerleader will not be required to attend such events. 10. Cell phones and pagers must be turned off or in silent mode during all meetings, rehearsals, game days, and events. 11. All team members are required to stay on campus during a portion of Winter Break and Spring Break for team National competition practices. All team members are also required to attend the MAC Conference Basketball Tournament for approximately one week in March. These dates will be announced to the team in advance. Involvement in the team as well as absences for Program-sanctioned events will be announced via an official letter to all faculty members at the beginning of every semester. However, it is still the requirement of each team member to follow-up with their professors regarding individual class needs and schedules as they pertain to Cheerleading conflicts. 12. Summer camp is a required event. Missing the Camp with an unexcused absence is grounds for dismissal from the Program. The Program Sponsor and Head Coach will make arrangements for summer camp. Some expense to the individual may be incurred for camp clothing; every attempt will be made to keep this expense to a minimum. B. TEAM TRADEMARKS: 1. Cheerleader acknowledges that the Cheer Squad s logos, symbols, emblems, designs, uniforms, identifications, photos, routines and creations are trademarks of Miami University and Miami Athletics and are exclusively owned by Miami. 2. All out of arena and/or broadcast commercial use of the Cheer Squad logo and Miami trademarks, like all NCAA team trademarks are subject to NCAA approval by way of NCAA reporting procedures of the Team Marketing Guidelines. 3. Any Cheerleader using team trademarks without prior written authorization of Miami may be subject to dismissal. Such conduct may give rise to legal action. C. REPRESENTATION & PERSONAL APPEARANCE: 1. The Miami Cheer Squad is constantly in the public eye. Therefore, it is each Cheerleader s responsibility to always look his/her best when representing the team. Any time a Cheerleader is wearing the Miami Cheer Squad uniform, his/her appearance should be the same as it would be for a game performance. This includes hairstyle, hair color, nails and make-up. Each individual must have a workout program. Once a month you will meet with the Coach to discuss your progress. Cheerleaders must be in physically good shape so that we don t put any team members at risk for injury. If the Coach feels that you 2

are not in good physical condition, we will have someone help you, so you can get to the point you need to be a healthy and good participant for other team members. 2. Each Cheerleader becomes a representative of the Miami Cheer Squad as well as Miami University Athletics each time he/she appears in any public place. Conduct and appearance must be guided accordingly. 3. Cheerleader shall not perform any services or participate in auditions for any other sports team for the duration of his/her involvement with the Miami Cheer Squad. 4. Cheerleader may not alter his/her current likeness including, but not limited to, face, body, fingernails, or hair, without permission from the Coach. 5. There shall be NO gum chewing, smoking or consuming alcoholic beverages at any Cheer Squad rehearsals, games or appearances while in uniform. 6. All tattoos must be covered with body make-up and all piercing with an exception of one rhinestone earring in each ear, must be removed at all games and appearances. 7. With the exception of wedding or engagement rings and rhinestone earrings, all Cheerleaders are PROHIBITED from wearing any jewelry or accessories while in uniform or at rehearsals, unless approved in advance by the Coach. D. CONDUCT It is mandated that Cheerleaders conduct themselves in a proper and professional manner at all times when representing Miami University Athletics. It should also be noted that a Cheerleader s personal conduct outside of his/her team responsibilities could also reflect on the reputation of the team. Therefore, a strict set of standards and policies govern the conduct of all Cheerleaders. The following standards shall apply in addition to any other standards of conduct that the Coach or Team Administrator may communicate from time to time. 1. Engaging in inappropriate fraternization, and having personal, romantic and/or sexual contact or relationships with Miami players, coaches, personnel, and/or similar persons from visiting teams ARE PROHIBITED. Any activity or behavior which gives that APPEARANCE of dating will be considered dating and cause for dismissal from the team. Any such conduct will result in AUTOMATIC TERMINATION from the squad. 2. Irresponsible conduct, as determined by the Coach, is grounds for suspension and/or termination. Drunkenness, profanity and public displays of anger will not be tolerated and are grounds for dismissal. 3. If a Cheerleader becomes involved in any questionable scene or incident, he/she is required to remove himself/herself from the situation as quickly as possible. 4. The Cheer Squad s goal is to meet and entertain the public. Pleasant manners and a positive, friendly and enthusiastic attitude are a must and expected. 5. Cheerleader shall not linger or loiter outside of any Locker Rooms before, during or after any games/events. This includes Miami s, visiting team s and referees locker rooms. 3

6. Cheerleaders shall act respectful and professionally toward all other members of the Miami Cheer Squad. E. TRAVEL: 1. Any actions deemed disrespectful or distracting to the competing team (football or basketball) will result in dismissal from the squad. F. CURFEW: 1. Will be determined by the Coach and Anthony J. Azama. Curfew will be followed by all team members. Breaking of curfew will result in two week suspension. G. PROMOTIONS, DANCE WORKSHOPS, POSTERS AND OTHER APPEARANCES: 1. Each Cheerleader is required to complete eight (8) complimentary Charity/Marketing based appearances during the length of involvement, where at least the minimum number of eight (8) were offered by Miami. Failure to fulfill your required eight (8) complimentary appearances could result in not being re-selected as a Miami Cheerleader the following season. 2. The Miami Cheer Squad Coach, with the Director of Marketing, shall be solely responsible for scheduling any and all promotions, calendar signings, dance workshops and personal appearances on behalf of the Cheer Squad. Once committed to an appearance, it is mandatory that the Cheerleader fulfill the commitment. Failure to do so will affect the Cheerleader s chances for future appearances and could result in dismissal. 3. Once booked for an appearance, it is the Cheerleader s responsibility to fulfill the obligation. If he/she must find a replacement he/she is responsible for notifying the Coach as soon as possible. If there is more than one Cheerleader appearing at an event, one Cheerleader will be designated as the person in charge of the appearance. 4. As a professional courtesy, Cheerleaders MUST be at least 15 minutes early for all appearances. Failure to not be on time to an appearance will affect the Cheerleader s chances for future appearances and could result in dismissal. 5. No personal appearances as a Cheerleader may be made without the prior approval of Miami Athletics. Unauthorized appearances or endorsements will be grounds for immediate dismissal. 6. It is the responsibility of the Coach to notify all the Cheerleaders of the logistics of the appearance. (Directions, times, etc.) 7. If any problem should arise at an appearance, a Cheerleader should call the Coach as soon as possible, either from the location or as soon he/she leaves. If the Coach is unavailable, such Cheerleader shall leave a detailed message on the answering machine with a number where she can be reached. H. ACADEMIC STATUS: 4

1. Each Cheerleader must maintain a yearly minimum grade point average of 2.0. Any semester with less than a 2.0 GPA will result in immediate dismissal from the MU Cheer Program. In the case that a freshman cheerleader receives less than the required 2.0 at the end of her fall semester, he/she will meet with Program Administration and be placed on academic probation for the spring semester. At this time, he/she will be allowed to participate in Cheerleading and will also be offered assistance in the form of tutoring or academic advising. If his/her spring GPA is again less than the required 2.0, he/she will be dismissed from the team and not allowed an invitation to tryout again until her junior year. I. UNIFORMS/EQUIPMENT: 1. Miami University Athletics have trademark rights in the Cheer Squad s uniforms and logos, and said uniform/equipment is deemed the property of the Miami and must be surrendered upon request. 2. Cheerleaders are responsible for all equipment issued to them including uniforms, costumes, accessories and props, and will be held responsible in case of loss, theft or damage. Cheerleader must maintain the condition of such equipment and is responsible for its care and cleaning. 3. The uniforms and costumes may not be altered without the permission of the Coach. 4. No part of the uniform or costume may be worn in public unless Cheerleader is representing Miami at an approved appearance. It MAY NOT be worn as anyone s personal wardrobe. 5. Missing uniform pieces at scheduled games and/or appearances may result in nonperformance or non-appearance. 6. Cheerleaders must wear Miami Cheer Squad warm ups to all games and appearances. If changing into personal clothes after the game or appearance, Cheerleader must use their best judgment that the attire is within good taste and representative of Miami University Athletics vision and values. If the Cheer Squad Coach or Team Administrator deems personal attire inappropriate or if this privilege is abused, the privilege to change into personal clothing following a game may be suspended indefinitely. 7. At the end of the season, all uniforms and said equipment must be hand washed and damage free before returning to Miami. Any costumes or equipment damaged or not properly cleaned will result in fines. J. DRESSING ROOM REGULATIONS: 1. Cheer Squad dressing rooms are private areas for Cheer Squad members. In order to respect the privacy of those involved, no one other than authorized team personnel is permitted in the dressing room. K. DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS: 5

1. An incorrect uniform, unkempt uniform, or the improper wearing of a uniform will result in a warning from the Coach. 2. Improper personal appearance will result in a warning. 3. Smoking or the consumption of alcoholic beverages while in uniform will result in automatic suspension. 4. No drinking during football travel. No drinking 24 hours before a game or practice. 1 st offense will result in two week suspension. 2 nd offense will result in expulsion. 5. Not wearing proper cover clothing to an appearance or practice will result in a warning. 6. Improper conduct, profanity, drunkenness or public displays of anger will result in automatic suspension from the team and are grounds for suspension or termination. 7. All suspension, probation and dismissals will be put in writing and kept on file by the Coach and Team administrator. 8. No foul language while in uniform or while traveling. Result is suspension of trip or other consequences TBD. L. LEADERSHIP 1. Officers The role of Officer is considered a privilege, with the individual being responsible for higher expectations and more tasks than his/her team members. At the discretion of the Head Coach, officers will be chosen either in the beginning or end of the season in a democratic manner by the squads. 1. Captains The number of captains depends on the amount of members per squad. The Program Coach reserves the right to choose all or one of the Captains before or during the team vote. The Captains are responsible for keeping the attendance record and imposing disciplinary action as necessary. This responsibility applies to demerit disciplinary action, practices, workouts, and games/events. The Captains may help develop practice schedules and the year s activities with the Head Coach and Program Sponsor. Captains are also required to attend regular meetings with the Coach before games and practices. Captains will send out information via e-mail to squad members, judge tryouts and run practice and games efficiently. Team captains are also responsible for choosing team partners and mounts as well as keeping a positive atmosphere while being a role model. 2. PR/Marketing Chair The Program Coach reserves the right to choose the PR/Marketing Chair before or during the team vote. The PR/Marketing Chair is responsible for assisting in web upkeep, outreaching to various media, writing articles and press releases, all media and marketing needs of the Program, as well as other responsibilities as assigned. The PR/Marketing Chair may help develop practice schedules and the year s activities with the Head Coach and Captains. The PR/Marketing Chair is also required to attend regular meetings with the Coach and/or Captains at assigned times. 3. Social Chair The Program Coach reserves the right to choose the Social Chair before or during the team vote. The Social Chair is responsible for assisting in enhancing social 6

dynamics of the team; planning and executing team dinners, outings and formals, team bonding opportunities; upkeep of the Program s trophy case; as well as other responsibilities as assigned. The Social Chair may help develop practice schedules and the year s activities with the Head Coach and Captains. The Social Chair is also required to attend regular meetings with the Coach and/or Captains at assigned times. M. CHEER SQUAD/ MIAMI MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE: 1. The Miami Cheer Squad is a division of the Miami University Athletics Department. The Director of Promotions is directly responsible for overseeing all the operational aspects of the program. The Promotions Director will provide assistance with the operational aspects of the program, while the Cheer Squad Coach will handle all day to day operations of the Cheer Squad. The Director of Promotions reports to the Director of Marketing. N. TICKET PRIVILEGES: 1. Will be defined in accordance with Miami University Athletic Department ticket policies. O. CHEER SQUADS MUST KNOW THE FIGHT SONG AND ALMA MATER: Fight Song Love and honor to Miami, Our college old and grand. Proudly we shall ever hail thee, Over all the land. Alma mater now we praise thee, Sing joyfully this lay. Love and honor to Miami, Forever and a day. Forever and a day. Alma Mater Old Miami, from they hillcrest, Thou hast watched the decades roll. While thy sons have quested from thee, Sturdy-hearted, pure of soul. (Alma Mater Chorus) Old Miami, New Miami, Days of old and days to be; Weave the story of the glory, Our Miami, here s to thee. Aging in they simple splendor, Thou the calm, and they the storm, Thou didst give them joy in conquest, Strength from thee sustained their arm. Thou shalt stand a constant beacon, Crimson tow rs against the sky; Men shall ever seek thy guiding, Power like thine shall never die. The policies stated in this document are intended as guidelines only and are subject to change at the sole discretion of the Cheer Squad Coach and Team Administrator. This contract should not be construed to be and does not constitute a contract guaranteeing continued involvement for any specific duration. 7