Category Archives: Coaching

Cheer How-To Series, Coaching, Featured, Gear/Clothing, Practice Tips, Spotting, Tips

Mastering the Art of Spotting: A Coach’s Guide

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
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12
Sep
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 12, 2023

Cheerleading is a sport that demands not just energy and enthusiasm but also a high level of precision and skill. As a coach, your role is pivotal in ensuring that your athletes are well-equipped to excel. One of the critical skills that often gets overlooked is spotting. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the various facets of spotting, from drills and video analysis to essential safety tips. Let’s dive in!

cheerleading-spotting-how-to

1. Spotting Drills: Building Strength and Trust

What It Is:
Spotting drills serve as the cornerstone for developing the strength, skills, and confidence required for effective spotting. These exercises can be tailored to meet the specific needs of any athlete or squad.

Detailed Example:
Partner drills are excellent for fostering trust between athletes and enhancing their spotting techniques. During these drills, athletes should stand close to the flyer and bend at the knees. They should place their arm around the flyer’s mid-section, ensuring shoulder contact. This helps in mastering various positions, such as jumps or intricate stunts.

2. Video Analysis: A Tool for Precision

What It Is:
Video analysis is an invaluable resource for dissecting and refining a routine. It helps identify areas needing additional spotting assistance and highlights what is already being done correctly.

Detailed Example:
Recording your routine and reviewing it in slow motion allows you to scrutinize whether athletes are effectively spotting each other. It’s crucial to watch the flyer closely and call out stunts audibly enough for everyone to hear.

3. Visualization Techniques: The Power of the Mind

What It Is:

Visualization is a potent tool that can help athletes internalize how to spot each other correctly by imagining themselves executing the moves flawlessly.

Detailed Example:

Encourage your athletes to sit comfortably and visualize themselves performing the stunts. They should focus on details like proper arm and leg positions and imagine the spotter assisting them in landing safely.

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4. Spotting Apps: Technology to the Rescue

What It Is:

Spotting apps offer a convenient way for athletes to hone their spotting skills during their personal time. These apps allow you to record your athletes and then view an analysis of accuracy, time, and progression.

Detailed Example:

Skill Shark is an excellent app that includes a range of resources for improving spotting skills. It’s perfect for coaches who want to practice hands-on spotting and get a granular analysis of their progression while learning a new skill.

5. Spotting Harness: Safety First

What It Is:
Spotting harnesses are invaluable for practicing advanced stunts safely. They eliminate the fear of injury, allowing athletes to focus solely on improving their skills.

Detailed Example:
Spotting harnesses come with adjustable straps and padding, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. They’re ideal for practicing catching the flyer’s head and neck first if they fall and catching them at the highest point possible to slow their descent.

spotting-harness-for-cheer

Spotting is an essential skill for any cheerleading team, and mastering it requires dedication and practice. With the right tools, techniques, and resources, you can help your athletes improve their skills and safely achieve their goals.

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Coaching, Featured, Gear/Clothing, Gym Ownership, Practice Tips, Practice Wear, Safety, Tips

The Cheer Coach’s Toolkit: Essential Resources and Tools for Success

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
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10
Sep
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 10, 2023

In the fast-paced, competitive world of cheerleading, having the right tools and resources can make or break your team’s success. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer, this comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to excel. Let’s get started!

cheer gym floor

Training Aids

Spring Floors

Why It’s Essential: A quality spring floor provides the necessary bounce and cushioning, reducing the risk of injury. The springs absorb the impact, allowing athletes to perform high-flying stunts and complicated tumbling passes with a lower risk of injury.

How to Employ: When selecting a spring floor, consider factors like spring density, foam thickness, and surface material. Make sure it meets the safety standards set by cheerleading organizations.

Example: A spring floor with a carpet-bonded foam surface can provide both the grip and cushioning needed for intricate stunts and tumbling.

Tumble Tracks

Why It’s Essential: Tumble tracks are inflatable or foam tracks that mimic the feel of a spring floor but are portable. They are excellent for practicing tumbling skills without the hard impact on the body.

How to Employ: Use tumble tracks for focused tumbling practice. They can be set up in gyms, outdoors, or even at home for extra practice.

Example: Use the tumble track to practice back handsprings. The softer surface reduces the fear factor, encouraging athletes to commit to the skill.

Stunt Stands

Why It’s Essential: Stunt stands help athletes practice stunts safely by simulating the hands of bases. They are especially useful for training flyers on balance and body control.

How to Employ: Use stunt stands to isolate specific elements of a stunt, such as the flyer’s body position or the timing of the cradle.

Example: Have your flyer practice liberty stunts on the stunt stand to improve ankle stability and body alignment.

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Software Solutions

Routine Choreography Software

Why It’s Essential: Choreography software allows you to design and visualize routines, making the process more efficient and collaborative.

How to Employ: Use the software to map out formations, transitions, and stunts. Share the visualizations with your team for better understanding.

Example: ProCheer software can help you visualize a pyramid sequence, ensuring that all athletes are in the correct positions.

Video Analysis Tools

Why It’s Essential: Video analysis tools like Coach’s Eye enable you to record and analyze performances, providing valuable feedback for improvement.

How to Employ: Record your team’s practice or performance and use the software to break down each element. Look for areas that need improvement, such as timing or technique.

Example: Use Coach’s Eye to analyze the height and form of basket tosses, providing precise feedback to your athletes.

video-analysis-for-cheerleading

For a deeper dive into video tools for cheer, check out our other post here

Team Management Software

Why It’s Essential: Managing a cheer team involves juggling schedules, communications, and tracking athlete progress. Team management software streamlines these tasks.

How to Employ: Use platforms like TeamSnap to schedule practices, send out notifications, and track attendance.

Example: Set up automated reminders for upcoming competitions or fundraising events, ensuring everyone is informed and prepared.

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Music and Audio

Customized Cheer Music

Why It’s Essential: Music sets the tone for your routine. Customized cheer music ensures that your soundtrack is unique, engaging, and compliant with copyright laws.

How to Employ: Work with a specialized service like IPP Music to create a customized mix that complements your routine’s theme and tempo.  You can get a fully customized mix, where you pick all the songs used and it’s fit perfectly to your routine, or you can go with a premade mix which is much less, cost-wise, and customize that with one of our many options, like voicoeovers or sound fx.  We’ll add your team name to the mix for just $10!

Example: If your routine has a “Superhero” theme, a customized music mix can incorporate iconic superhero themes with beats that match your choreography.  Alternatively, our premade mixes are sortable by their theme, so you can easily find the right fit for your routine 

Portable Speakers

Why It’s Essential: High-quality portable speakers are essential for practice sessions to ensure that the music is loud and clear, allowing athletes to catch musical cues.

How to Employ: Choose speakers with good battery life and sufficient volume range. Place them in a position where the sound evenly covers the practice area.

Example: Use a Bluetooth speaker with a built-in battery for outdoor practices, so you’re not tied down by power outlets.

Safety Gear

Mats

Why It’s Essential: Safety mats provide a cushioned surface for stunting and tumbling, reducing the risk of injury from falls.

How to Employ: Use mats for high-risk elements like pyramids or new stunts that the team is still learning.

Example: Place mats under the stunt group when practicing a new dismount to ensure a softer landing in case of a fall.

Wrist Guards and Ankle Braces

Why It’s Essential: These provide additional support to joints, reducing the risk of sprains and other injuries.

How to Employ: Athletes should wear wrist guards and ankle braces during both practice and performances for added support.

Example: Flyers can wear wrist guards to reduce the impact on their wrists during handstands or other weight-bearing elements.

wrist-guards-for-cheerleading- essential tools-for-cheer-coaching
cheer-coach-speaking-to-team

Educational Resources

Coaching Clinics

Why It’s Essential: Coaching clinics provide hands-on training and insights into the latest techniques and safety protocols.

How to Employ: Attend clinics regularly to stay updated and network with other coaches.

Example: A clinic might introduce you to a new stunt progression method that you can implement to improve your team’s performance.

Books and Journals

Why It’s Essential: Publications like the “Cheer Coach’s Handbook” offer valuable insights into coaching strategies and athlete management.

How to Employ: Use these resources to supplement your knowledge and resolve specific challenges you may face.

Example: A book might offer strategies for effective team communication, helping you resolve conflicts and build a cohesive team.

Online Blogs and Forums

Why It’s Essential: Blogs like YouHitZero offer a wealth of information, from tips and tricks to event information and competition results.

How to Employ: Regularly read articles and participate in forums to stay updated and gain new perspectives.

Example: An article on YouHitZero about competition preparation could provide you with a checklist that ensures you don’t overlook any details 😉

Success in cheerleading coaching is not just about your skills and passion; it’s also about having the right tools and resources. This comprehensive toolkit is designed to help you excel in every aspect of coaching, from training your athletes to managing your team effectively.

 

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IPP's Premade Mixes are USA Cheer Compliant and customizable!  Add Sound FX, swap songs, & more!  Add your Team Name to the mix for only $10! 

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Coaching, Featured, Gym Ownership, Tips

Marketing Mastery: Proven Strategies to Attract More Athletes to Your Gym

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
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10
Sep
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published September 10, 2023

If you own a cheer gym, i know what’s on your mind a lot: “How do we get more signups?” Let’s go through some modern, effective strategies to elevate your gym’s appeal and attract more athletes. From leveraging social media to forging local partnerships, here’s how you can make your gym the go-to spot for aspiring cheer athletes.

get-more-cheerleaders-signed-up-in-your-gym

1. Leverage the Power of Social Media

The Strategy

Instagram has become a powerful platform for showcasing your gym’s capabilities. By posting short video clips of your athletes performing routines or stunts, you can create a buzz and attract attention.

Hypothetical Example

Let’s say you have 40 athletes in your gym. You could create a weekly video series featuring different teams or levels. One week could be the junior team performing a new routine, and the next could be your elite team executing complex stunts. Use hashtags relevant to cheerleading and your local area to increase visibility. If done correctly, you could see a significant increase in followers, and more importantly, potential athletes showing interest in your gym.

2. Forge Local Partnerships

The Strategy

Collaborate with local businesses that align with your gym’s ethos. For example, partnering with a local smoothie shop can be beneficial for both parties.

Hypothetical Example

Imagine you strike a deal with a local smoothie shop where your athletes get a 10% discount on all smoothies. In return, the smoothie shop’s customers receive a voucher for a free trial class at your gym. This symbiotic relationship not only promotes community engagement but also drives new potential athletes to your gym.

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3. Engage with the Community

The Strategy

Hosting free events like cheer clinics can serve as a fantastic way to give back to the community while subtly marketing your gym.

Hypothetical Example

Suppose you decide to host a free cheer clinic for the local community. You could invite local media to cover the event, gaining you free publicity. You could ask current athletes at your gym to come and have them serve as mentors during the clinic. The hands-on experience could be the push needed for some kids to sign up for a beginner’s class at your gym.

4. Master the Art of Email Marketing

The Strategy

While it may seem outdated, email marketing remains an effective way to keep your current members informed and to attract new ones.

Hypothetical Example

Let’s say you’re planning an annual showcase event. You could send out a well-crafted email newsletter to your mailing list, highlighting the event’s features and what makes it unique. Using a service like Mailchimp or Stampready will make this process a cinch.  If last year’s attendance was 100 people, a compelling email could potentially double that number, making the event more exciting for both athletes and spectators.

cheer-gym-marketing-strategies

By implementing these strategies, you’re not just waiting for athletes to find you; you’re actively drawing them in. So go ahead, make your gym the go-to spot for aspiring cheer athletes.

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Cheer How-To Series, Coaching, Featured, Info, Tips

The Art of Retention: How to Keep Cheer Athletes Coming Back to Your Gym

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
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24
Aug
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 24, 2023

Attracting new athletes to your gym is only half the battle. The true challenge lies in retaining those athletes, nurturing their growth, and building a loyal community that feels like family. Retention is more than a business strategy; it’s an art form that requires understanding, creativity, and a genuine passion for the sport and the individuals who dedicate themselves to it. How do you keep cheer athletes coming back to your gym, season after season? How do you transform a cheer gym into a home where athletes grow, thrive, and succeed?

This comprehensive guide delves into the art of retention, offering practical strategies, examples, and ideas to foster loyalty and keep cheer athletes engaged in your program. Whether you’re a seasoned cheer coach or a gym owner looking to enhance your retention efforts, these insights will empower you to create a cheerleading environment that resonates with athletes and their families, setting your gym apart in a competitive market.

1. Provide Exceptional Coaching

  • Invest in Professional Development: Encourage coaches to attend workshops like the USASF National Meeting, ensuring they stay current with industry best practices.
  • Offer Personalized Attention: Implement small group sessions to focus on individual needs, such as specialized tumbling classes for those struggling with specific skills.
  • Foster a Positive Environment: Create a “Shout Out” board where athletes can publicly praise each other’s achievements, fostering a supportive atmosphere.

2. Develop a Strong Community

  • Encourage Team Bonding: Organize team sleepovers or outings to amusement parks, fostering camaraderie and friendship.
  • Engage Families: Host family potluck dinners or parent-child practice sessions to create a sense of community.
  • Celebrate Successes: Create a “Wall of Fame” to display team trophies and individual achievements, fostering pride and recognition.

3. Offer Competitive and Flexible Pricing

  • Provide Value: Bundle coaching sessions with gym merchandise or competition entry fees to enhance perceived value.
  • Offer Flexible Payment Options: Implement a monthly payment plan or sibling discounts to accommodate various financial situations.
  • Create Loyalty Programs: Offer a “Refer a Friend” program that provides discounts for both the referring athlete and the new recruit.
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4. Maintain Top-notch Facilities and Equipment

  • Invest in Quality Equipment: Regularly update mats and safety gear, ensuring the highest standards of safety.
  • Create a Welcoming Environment: Design lounge areas with comfortable seating for athletes and parents, creating a home-away-from-home feel.
  • Prioritize Safety: Conduct monthly safety drills and maintain clear safety guidelines posted throughout the gym.
cheer-gym-facilities

5. Communicate Effectively

  • Keep Athletes and Families Informed: Utilize a gym app that sends push notifications for schedule updates, announcements, and achievements.
  • Solicit Feedback: Implement a suggestion box or regular surveys to gather feedback and demonstrate that opinions matter.
  • Provide Clear Expectations: Create a handbook outlining policies, expectations, and goals, ensuring clarity and transparency.

6. Offer Diverse and Engaging Programs

  • Provide Varied Training Opportunities: Offer themed workshops like “Stunt Fest” or “Tumble Mania” to cater to various interests.
  • Create Opportunities for Competition: Participate in both local showcases and national championships, providing varied competitive experiences.
  • Implement Off-season Activities: Organize summer cheer camps or specialized clinics with guest coaches to keep athletes engaged during the off-season.

Retention is an art that requires creativity, commitment, and a keen understanding of what makes athletes and their families feel valued. By implementing these strategies, you can create a cheer gym that not only attracts athletes but keeps them coming back, building a loyal and thriving community in a competitive market.

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IPP's Premade Mixes are USA Cheer Compliant and customizable!  Add Sound FX, swap songs, & more!  Add your Team Name to the mix for only $10! 

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WAKE UP THE FIRE
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Coaching, Featured, Practice Tips, Safety, Tips

Rookie to Pro: Developing a Successful Cheerleading Progression Program

Posted on by Steve Pawlyk
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21
Aug
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By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 21, 2023

Progression is key. Whether you’re a cheer coach or a gym owner, developing a successful cheerleading progression program can be the difference between building champions or falling short of your goals. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to create a structured and effective progression program that helps athletes grow and succeed in cheerleading.

1. Understanding the Importance of Progression in Cheerleading

Progression in cheerleading is about more than moving up levels; it’s about growth, mastery, and success. A well-designed progression program:

  • Ensures Safety: By gradually building skills, athletes avoid attempting maneuvers beyond their abilities, reducing the risk of injury. For example, mastering a back handspring before attempting a tuck ensures proper technique and confidence.
  • Enhances Skill Development: A structured progression allows athletes to build on foundational skills, leading to more advanced abilities. For instance, starting with basic stunts before progressing to elite stunts ensures a strong foundation.
  • Builds Confidence: Achieving milestones boosts self-esteem and motivation. Celebrating an athlete’s first successful cartwheel, for example, can inspire them to tackle more challenging skills.
  • Creates a Pathway to Success: A clear progression path provides a roadmap for athletes, coaches, and parents. For example, outlining the journey from novice to elite levels helps set expectations and goals.

2. Assessing the Current Skill Level

Understanding where athletes are starting is crucial:

  • Identify Strengths and Weaknesses: Conduct evaluations to pinpoint areas of proficiency and areas needing improvement. For example, if an athlete excels in tumbling but struggles with stunting, tailor their training accordingly.
  • Set Realistic Goals: Based on assessments, create achievable targets. If an athlete is close to mastering a back tuck, that may be a short-term goal, while a full twist might be a long-term target.
  • Create Personalized Training Plans: Develop individualized plans that cater to each athlete’s needs. For example, an athlete needing to improve flexibility might have specific stretching routines.

3. Setting Clear and Achievable Goals

  • Specific: Define exactly what is to be achieved. Instead of “improve tumbling,” aim for “master a back handspring.”
  • Measurable: Set criteria for measuring progress. For example, “perform a clean back handspring with no spotter.”
  • Achievable: Ensure goals are within reach. Setting a goal to master a complex stunt within a week may be unrealistic.
  • Relevant: Align goals with overall team objectives and individual growth. For example, if the team’s focus is on synchronized tumbling, individual goals should support this.
  • Time-bound (SMART): Set deadlines for achieving goals. For example, “master a back handspring within two months.”

4. Designing the Progression Pathway

  • Defining Levels and Milestones: Break down the progression into levels with specific milestones. For example, Level 1 might focus on basic tumbling, while Level 2 introduces stunting.
  • Creating Skill Checklists: Develop detailed checklists for each level. For example, a Level 1 checklist might include a forward roll, cartwheel, and roundoff.
  • Integrating Flexibility and Strength Training: Include exercises that build the physical attributes needed for cheerleading. For example, core strengthening exercises to support tumbling.
  • Providing Opportunities for Performance and Competition: Offer chances to showcase skills, such as in-house exhibitions or local competitions, to build experience and confidence.
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5. Implementing Effective Coaching Strategies

Coaching strategies are crucial:

  • Utilizing Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward achievements, big or small. For example, recognizing an athlete’s improvement in jump technique can boost morale.
  • Encouraging Teamwork and Collaboration: Foster a supportive environment where athletes help each other. For example, pairing experienced athletes with beginners for peer coaching.
  • Providing Regular Feedback and Assessments: Offer constructive feedback and regular assessments to track progress. For example, monthly evaluations to update goals and training plans.
  • Investing in Continuous Coach Education: Encourage coaches to attend workshops and certifications to stay current with best practices.

6. Monitoring and Evaluating Progress

  • Conducting Regular Skill Assessments: Schedule assessments to gauge progress. For example, quarterly evaluations to update goals and training plans.
  • Tracking Progress Through Documentation: Keep detailed records of each athlete’s development. For example, a digital portfolio with videos of skill mastery.
  • Adjusting Training Plans as Needed: Modify plans based on progress. If an athlete quickly masters a skill, adjust their plan to introduce new challenges.
  • Celebrating Achievements and Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate successes, such as moving to a new level or mastering a challenging skill.

7. Emphasizing Safety and Well-being

  • Following Safety Guidelines and Protocols: Adhere to industry standards and guidelines. For example, ensuring proper matting and equipment for stunting.
  • Ensuring Proper Equipment and Facilities: Regularly inspect and maintain equipment and facilities. For example, checking spring floors for wear and tear.
  • Providing Adequate Rest and Recovery: Implement rest days and recovery strategies to prevent overtraining. For example, incorporating yoga or foam rolling sessions.
  • Focusing on Mental and Emotional Well-being: Support athletes’ mental health through open communication and resources. For example, providing access to sports psychologists if needed.
cheerleading-coaching-strategies
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8. Engaging Parents and Guardians

  • Regular Communication: Keep parents informed through newsletters, meetings, or apps. For example, a monthly newsletter highlighting achievements and upcoming events.
  • Parent Meetings and Workshops: Host informational sessions to educate parents about the progression program, expectations, and how they can support their athletes.
  • Encouraging Support and Participation: Invite parents to be involved, whether through volunteering or attending performances and competitions.

Developing a successful cheerleading progression program requires careful planning, thoughtful execution, and a commitment to excellence. With these guidelines, you can create a program that fosters growth and success in cheerleading.

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Need Competition Music Blue

IPP's Premade Mixes are USA Cheer Compliant and customizable!  Add Sound FX, swap songs, & more!  Add your Team Name to the mix for only $10! 

SLAM artwork
Full_Out_130 mp3 image
1 minute cheer mix
WAKE UP THE FIRE
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WAKE UP THE FIRE
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1 minute cheer mix
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