How to Coach College Cheerleading

If you want to coach college cheerleading, you have to have a solid background in competitive cheerleading, great physical stamina and a dedication to this ever-changing sport. College level cheerleaders are considered varsity athletes at most institutions and must be prepared by the best coaches in order to be competitive.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• College degree (depending on the program)
• First aid and CPR training (depending on the program)
• Background in cheerleading

Secure a Coaching Position

1. Gain at least 5 years of high school or competitive squad experience before applying for a college coaching position.
2. Stay on top of the latest trends in competitive cheerleading so that you can develop routines and stunts that are cutting edge at the collegiate level. The Universal Cheerleading Association, or UCA, features new stunts and lifts online.
3. Apply for a coaching position at the college of your choice. The larger the school, the more competitive the applicants will be, so you may try applying for an assistant coach position at first if you feel you aren't as qualified as some of the other applicants.
4. Volunteer with a local college program until you can work your way up to a coaching spot.

Develop Your Program

5. Select a college squad of men and women who together offer a varied mix of able spotters, strong bases and agile flyers with superior abilities.
6. Design your cheerleading program around the skills of your squad, choosing routines that accent tumbling skills, stunting skills and impressive jumps.
7. Incorporate team-building and spirit-focused activities into your practice routine. These include charity events, after-school rallies and study groups that will help your squad build solidarity and set a great example for the student body.
8. Stress the importance of scholastic achievement as much as physical achievement to your squad. Like any other college sport, college cheerleaders are typically required to maintain a minimum grade point average (2.5 at least) in order to compete.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep in mind that most Division I cheerleading coaches are required to have a college degree and extensive training and experience in the field. You must often be certified in first aid and CPR as well.
• College cheerleaders and coaches must follow strict performance rules according to the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators, or AACCA.

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