Dear Parents
This page is intended to provide you with some information about our cheerleading teams. We generally get asked lots of questions before new members start and we hope this page will answer some of those questions.
Who can join the Scorpions?
We do not currently have try-outs for the Scorpion teams but at the current growth rate (very fast), we may have to introduce these to determine which individuals will make up which teams for competitions. We do not turn away new members as we are a community based team and are not linked to any club, school or other organisation. Where possible we will enter as many competition events as possible so that as many team members as possible get a chance to compete. Most practices are currently open to new members as we are happy to work with all new individuals, however, due to a strict training plan during the run up to competitions, we often have to close our books to any new members as entry forms must be completed and choreography of the routines is vital. After competition dates, new members are once again welcome to training. In the meantime, new members are welcome to come and watch training free of charge or join in where possible for £1, in the run up to a competition.
Do you have to have cheerleading experience to join?
We do not expect any new member to have been a cheerleader before. The skills which make a great cheerleader include good coordination, dance training, gym training, flexibility, physical strength and stamina, hard work, determination and the ability to get on with others. Any previous experience helps but we train in all these areas and every member of the team often has many of these assets to contribute to the team.
How much does it cost?
Training costs are currently £2.50 an hour on Sundays and extra for the Senior/Co-ed gymnastic training sessions on Tuesdays. This covers the cost of the sports hall, coaching and safety equipment, insurance AND entry fees to competitions. Team members are required to cover the costs of certain personal items such as cheer training shoes (£25-£30 depending on shoe size) and items such as shorts (£10), body tops and socks (£3.50). Other uniform requirements such as skirts, trousers and tops belong to the team and are to remain the property of the team. The team also have tracksuits and holdall or shoe bags which individuals can opt to buy.
Extra competition costs (travel and accommodation where appropriate) can be paid for either out-right or using the team savings plan i.e. as little or as much can be paid in advance of the due dates at times to suit the individual/parents. The final costs which are imperative to be able to practice and/or compete are the very small cost of cheerleader insurance which must be paid at the second practice session in order to continue training with the team and BCA/UKCA organisation fees to be paid in good time before competition entry. These costs can be confirmed by further enquiry to the team manager/treasurer.
How is the team set-up?
The Scorpions currently have a Coach who runs the team and the training sessions and also two Assistant Coaches who assist at the training sessions. We encourage all parents to get involved with the team and provide a support network.
The team has grown rapidly over 4 years and therefore assistance with car sharing etc. is truly appreciated.
What commitment is required from cheerleaders and their parents?
Cheerleaders must attend all practices unless prior notice is given for non-attendance. We ask all cheerleaders to inform a committee member before a practice session if they cannot attend due to sickness or holidays. We believe this to be courtesy to the other cheerleaders as well as the coaches. It also allows training sessions to be planned around abscences. We need confirmation early on as to whether cheerleaders can attend competitions. Plenty of notice is given for these and we ask that holidays be organised around these dates wherever possible. We ask that during the run-up to competitions, all training sessions should be attended by each cheerleader competing. Parents are encouraged to provide fund-raising ideas and any assistance where possible to the committee. It is the responsibility of the cheerleader to get to training but we understand the commitment this requires from parents also. Remember, it is of advantage to the cheerleader and respectful to the team to attend and train hard when required.
Looking after Team Uniforms
The main parts of the uniform are owned by the Blackpool Scorpions squad itself. As mentioned above, individuals must pay for personal items such as shoes, socks and shorts. Skirts, trowsers and tops are owned by the squad but must be cared for by the cheerleader. They must be washed and pressed as per care instructions and returned to the team on a hanger with the cheerleaders name on, at the training practice 1 week after the competition dates. Training shoes should be cleaned regularly and at least before each competition.
Coaches' and Managers' Qualifications
The Blackpool Scorpions Coach has a Sports related degree and has also attended the National Council for Spirit Safety and Education courses in Cheer Coaching Pricipals and Ethics and also Cheer Coaching Fundamentals. These courses offer a comprehensive overview including the following key elements:
- Roles and Responsibilities of a Coach
- Safety Management
- Sportsmanship Ethics
- Relationship Building
- Program Development
as well as an in depth and interactive approach to Program Development (practices, legal liability, etc.) and Safety Management. These topics include the following fundamental coaching skills:
- Motion and jump technique
- Practice organisation
- Conditioning
- Tryout Implementation
- Legal responsibilities
The coach also has almost 7 years cheerleading experience and has competed at international level representing the UK in that time. If you have any further questions or queries regarding this particular matter, please approach the coaches and/or manager directly.
