Top-level cheerleading coaches are some of the most inspiring people in sport. As a beginner level cheerleading coach, you will need to understand your team inside out, know each athlete’s ability and how to develop them further in order to become successful.
To develop into the best coach you must consider many different aspects of physicality, mentality and a deep understanding of how your athlete’s train and perform. This will be crucial towards the growth of yourself and your team.
From starting a community team to managing an Allstar squad, this overview should give you an idea of what is required to get started as a cheerleading coach.
Characteristics
Team building is an essential part of being a coach as it sets the tone for success. It also creates an atmosphere of positivity and trust. Athletes must trust each other when practising and performing, so building friendships in training is vital in any team.
Training can get stressful especially in the build-up to competition, so work hard to keep things fun and enjoyable whilst working towards your goals. Athletes rely on having a strong team spirit and this reflects well on your coaching.
Below are some typical attributes a successful coach must have:
- Good communication
- Ability to build healthy relationships
- Creating a harmonious atmosphere
The fundamental requirements of a cheerleading coach
As a cheerleading coach, you will be responsible for the safety of everyone at the practice session and therefore discipline is crucial. Bad behaviour or attitude needs to be corrected as this could put others at risk. This could become detrimental to the team’s overall progression. Cheerleading can be very dangerous if not taken seriously, so make sure everyone respects your authority and understands your instructions clearly.
You must be able to keep emotions in check in tough situations and make smart, efficient judgement calls when required.
You’ll be working to tight deadlines during competition season, therefore being able to deal with pressure is vital. Make sure you have a good network of support and always be aware of upcoming deadlines. Have a clear plan set out for both you and your team to keep on remain organised.
You must be:
- Discipline and focus
- Being proactive and not reactive
- Dealing with pressure
Making decisions
There will be times where an athlete or parent may disagree with your decision. In this case, you need to be able to remain firm and communicate your methods in a way that is clear and concise.
- Be diplomatic. listen to your athletes and seek an opinion from your assistant coaches
- Making difficult, smart decisions such as selecting a team for competition
- Trust your instincts first and do what needs to be done for the team
Leading by example
A cheerleading coach must lead by example in competitions, training and life in general. However, being approachable is a huge factor in gaining trust and this will build professional relationships with your athletes and their parents. They rely on you as much as you rely on them.
Coaches must be organised and reliable as they set the standards for the rest of your team. All top-level coaches live and breathe the sport – they’re obsessed and consistently proactive until they have achieved what they set out to accomplish. In order to reach their personal and team-based goals, having an extremely regimented approach is crucial.
They have a strong and driven mentality and their work ethic will inevitably reflect on their athletes. They are always looking at ways to improve their teams and individual performances by setting goals and overcoming hurdles.
Criticism will always come your way but you will learn how to deal with it and use it constructively. Appreciating the opinions of others lets you also see things from their point of view and develops you as a coach.
If you’re thinking about taking coaching seriously, having the passion and drive to succeed is an absolute necessity. By projecting all of these qualities you will inspire others to follow in your footsteps.
To lead by example you must be:
- Reliable and trustworthy
- Highly organised
- Able to show a relentless work ethic
Gaining experience
Community teams may be looking for help but might not have the funds to pay you. This can be a positive experience for you and many of their athletes who may be less experienced and eager to learn. As a bonus, it provides an opportunity to promote your team and yourself!
Allstar teams may also be looking to expand their programmes and this can open up opportunities for new or potential coaches. If you have cheered for an Allstar team in the past then transitioning to a coach at team is more likely.
You should always look to develop and educate yourself on the rules and other aspects of the sport. This will keep you updated with everything within the cheerleading industry, boosting your professional credibility.
Coaching hours will usually be sporadic and you may have to work for free. Be prepared to work on evenings and weekends and keep your schedule flexible so you are available when you get the call.
You will need to be determined but the hard work will pay off if you are dedicated to your craft. Becoming a coach is a rewarding experience and you get to do something that you love. By actioning some of the above points, you will be able to transition from beginner level cheerleading coach to top-level in no time!
There are a number of different ways that coaches can gain experience such as:
- Regularly attending competitions
- Speaking to other coaches
- Being involved in community events
Already have your programme up and running? Check out our article on how you can maximise the full potential of your athletes.
