Rules and Strike System

THE STRIKE/ BENCHING SYSTEM

The Demerit/Benching system will be used as a measurement of discipline for the team. These guidelines will be in effect immediately and will remain in effect throughout the remainder of the year.

Note: demerits remain for the entire year; they do not fall off at anytime

*Benching means that the cheerleader must attend the event in proper uniform, sit in the stands with the coach, cheer with the cheerleaders, and follow all program rules.

*Strikes are a measurement of discipline that are issued and calculated accordingly.  

**A parent's actions may cause a cheerleader to be suspended from the squad if it is in the best interest of the squad or the entire GSA Middle School Cheerleading Program or school community.

ATTENDANCE – All CHEER EVENTS ARE REQUIRED - INCLUDING PRACTICES, FUNDRAISERS, GAMES, EVENTS, ETC.

***The only excusable absences are as follows and must be prearranged by a parent/guardian:

1. Illness (doctors/parent email before practice)

2. Injury (doctors note/diagnosis/release to return)

3. Funeral (close friends/relatives) 

4. Marriage (close friends/relatives) (must give at least 3 Weeks Notice)

5.        Pre-Arrange/Coach Approved Absence (must give at least 2 Weeks Notice)

6. Unavoidable scheduling conflicts that have been approved by the coach in writing by the first practice. 

NOTE: Vacations, study sessions, doctor appointment, and other activities are NOT considered excused absences, unless it is pre-arranged and approved. 

***All unexcused absences will result in discipline according to the Strike/Benching System. In order for any absence to be excused, due to any of the reasons listed above, an email must be made/left (by your Parent, NOT STUDENT) to a Coach; otherwise it will be considered unexcused.  Do not call any other member of the squad to report an absence! 

If absent from a practice, that individual is responsible to get new information or to catch up & learn what was missed by the NEXT scheduled practice or game. If unable to do so, that individual will be pulled from that particular routine/game performance. It is your responsibility to know all the material. You will not be called by the coach; it is your responsibility.

CONSEQUENCES  

Strike 1- Email to Parent

Strike 2- Meeting with Parent after practice or game

Strike 3- Dismissal from the team.

*NOTE: Any cheerleader dismissed from the program will not receive a refund on any fees paid 

These rules will be enforced at all times. 

It is the responsibility of each member of the cheerleading program to abide by these rules.

*YOU are responsible for YOU*