Agawam Youth Cheerleading League

Rules & Guidelines

Attendance

Cheerleading requires dedication, teamwork, and consistent practice. Attendance is mandatory for practices, games, exhibitions, and competitions.

• Practices begin in August and are held three times per week:
  Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 4:30–6:00 PM.
• In September and October, practices drop to two times per week:
  Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• Full team participation is critical to achieve our goals—every member matters.
• Agawam Youth Football is part of the Suburban Football League, which may involve travel to away games. Transportation is the responsibility of the parent or guardian.
• The football season runs from September through late October.
  • JV games: Saturday mornings
  • Varsity games: Sunday afternoons
  • One Saturday night game is typically scheduled for a "Friday Night Lights" experience.
• Practices and home games are held at Kirk Parker Field, behind Phelps School on School Street in Agawam.
• Game schedules, times, and directions to away games can be found at:
  www.leaguelineup.com/agawamyouthfootball
• If a cheerleader is unable to attend a practice, game, or event, the coach must be notified in advance.
• Cheerleaders leaving early must also notify a coach.Written permission is required for any cheerleader walking home or staying after an event—no exceptions.
• Academics come first. Cheerleaders are expected to maintain passing grades and demonstrate good behavior and effort in school.

Appearance & Uniform

• Uniforms must be clean and complete for all events.
  • Items include: bodysuit, skirt, vest, sweater, socks, sneakers, bow, etc.
  • Be fully prepared, even if all items may not be used for that event.
• Uniforms may only be worn for team-sanctioned events or as instructed by coaches.
  Do not wear uniforms to school, parties, or non-cheer-related events.
• Parents/guardians are responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged uniform items.
• Hair must be secured (tied back or up) with elastic bands—no barrettes, clips, or bobby pins.
  • Elastic headbands are acceptable.
  • Team bows must be worn uniformly—no exceptions.
  • Replacement bows are available at a cost.
• No hats, visors, or jewelry are permitted at any time during cheer activities.
  • Jewelry and piercings must be removed for safety reasons.
  • Coaches are not responsible for lost or damaged items.
  • No nail polish at games or events.
• Proper attire is required for practices and events:
  • T-shirts or tank tops
  • Cotton shorts or warm sweats in colder weather
  • Cheer sneakers (clean and coach-approved)
  • No jeans, zippers, buttons, sequins, or raised designs—these pose safety risks during stunts.
• No gum or candy is allowed.
  • Cheerleaders must bring water bottles to all practices and events.

Behavior & Conduct

• Cheerleaders are expected to treat everyone with respect—teammates, coaches, parents, and volunteers.
• Bullying, inappropriate language, bad attitudes, or disrespect of any kind will not be tolerated and may result in immediate suspension.
• Safety is our #1 priority. Cheerleaders must remain focused during all activities.
  • No talking or distractions while coaches or varsity helpers are speaking.
• Cheerleaders must display good sportsmanship at all times, win or lose.
  • This includes behavior before, during, and after all practices, games, events, and competitions.
• Absolutely no smoking, alcohol, or drug use is permitted before, during, or after any cheer activity.
  • Violations will result in immediate disciplinary action or suspension.

Final Note

The Agawam Youth Cheerleading Association thrives because of the dedication of its volunteers, coaches, board members, and families. With continued cooperation and positive spirit, we look forward to another successful and fun-filled season.

THANK YOU,

AGAWAM YOUTH CHEERLEADING ASSOCIATION