Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Youth Sideline Cheerleading Program
General Information
Who can join the sideline cheerleading program?
The program is open to youth of various age groups who are interested in cheerleading. Specific age divisions and requirements will be outlined during the registration process. Typically, our program is Kindergarten through 7th grade.
- Fall Season usually begins in July and runs to November.
- Winter Season usually begins in November and runs through February.
- Spring Season usually begins in March and runs through June.
Will my child be on a squad with their age group?
Yes, squads are usually organized by age or grade levels such as Rinks (K-2nd), Ponies (3rd– 4th) and Midgets (5th – 7th). The number of squads will vary on registration counts. We also typically try to cheer for teams within the same age/grade descriptions if possible.
Practice and Game Information
Are there any optional summer activities?
Yes, we offer optional open gym sessions throughout the summer to provide additional practice opportunities for the cheerleaders. Stunt clinics may also be available to improve specific cheerleading skills.
When and how often are practices?
Practices typically occur twice a week after school hours, and typically at Central York Middle School. A detailed schedule with days of the week for practices will be provided by the cheer director prior to registration deadline. The Spring season is typically just one mandatory practice a week.
Are practices open to watch?
At this time, practices are considered open; however, the cheer director and/or coaches have the discretion to ask parents to step outside if it becomes necessary or distracting.
What if my child misses a practice or a game?
If you know your cheerleader will miss a practice or game, please let your coach know as soon as possible.
Where are the games?
Games are typically played on Saturdays or Sundays at the local football fields in York County for Fall Season, Central School District for Winter Season and Central High School for Spring Season. We do not travel to away games for winter or spring cheer.
Attendance Policy?
All practices and games are mandatory as cheerleading is a team sport.
What about snacks and drinks?
Make sure you have a water bottle with you during practices and games. NO GUM or Candy is allowed during practices or games. Snacks and drinks may be provided by team parents after games, but there is no eating during game play.
Cheerleading Uniform and Equipment
What should I wear for practice?
Standard athletic clothing should be worn to practice; try to avoid super baggy clothing as it can get in the way when doing stunts. Also, hair should be pulled back away from the face and sneakers (preferably cheer sneakers) should be worn at practice.
What uniform and equipment are provided by the program for games?
For FALL TACKLE and WINTER SEASON ONLY: The program provides each cheerleader with a cheerleading shell (top), a skirt (bottom), poms, a cheer bow, and a jacket.
For SPRING FLAG ONLY: The program provides each cheerleader with a Jersey/T-shirt, Poms and a Cheer bow.
What additional items do parents need to purchase?
Parents are responsible for purchasing the following items:
- Fall Season: White ankle socks, White sneakers (preferably cheer sneakers), Optional Pink Out T Shirt
- Spring Flag Season: Possible underclothes, like black leggings or black shorts, and either a black T-shirt or black long sleeve T-shirt, White ankle socks, White sneakers (preferably cheer sneakers).
What about jewelry?
Jewelry, except for medical IDs and stud earrings, is not allowed during practice and games. Athletes will be asked to remove dangly earrings, necklaces and bracelets.
Skills and Safety
What skills are necessary for cheerleading?
Cheerleading involves stunts, pyramids, jumps, acrobatics, dancing, and shouting. No experience necessary.
What happens if my child does not know a cheer or dance due to not attending practices?
If your child does not know cheer or dance due to not attending practices, they could be asked to sit on the side while the squad is performing that cheer or dance.
Additional Information
What are the benefits of participating in the cheerleading program?
Participants will develop cheerleading skills, engage in physical activity, learn teamwork and discipline, and build lasting friendships. The program also promotes confidence and a positive attitude through performance opportunities.
How do I register my child for the program?
Registration details, including deadlines and requirements, will be available on our website or through direct communication with the CYJP Program. Make sure you follow the organization on Facebook too.
Are there Scholarships Available?
Some organizations do offer scholarships programs for families in need of financial assistance. Please reach out to the CYJP Board of Directors at [email protected].
I am interested in volunteering, what do I need to do?
There may be opportunities for volunteering as a coach, assistant coach or team parent during the seasons. All volunteers for these positions are required to have their clearances on file and a Code of Conduct signed. Clearances include Criminal Background Check and Child Abuse Clearance.
How do I find out about updates prior to and during the seasons?
Information will be posted on our program website; however, we suggest following the CYJP – Football and Cheer Facebook page. During the season, our cheer program will utilize the Band App program to provide specific season, squad and cheer updates or changes.
Contact Information
Who should I contact for further questions?
For any further questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to the cheer director at [email protected].