StEPS: How to Build a Strong Cheer Program and Succeed as a Coach
If you're thinking about becoming a cheer coach and building a successful cheer program, there's a lot to consider! It’s more than just teaching stunts and routines – it’s about creating a solid foundation for your athletes and ensuring their safety and growth, both physically and mentally.
Welcome to Beyond the StEPS
Starting with Identity
One of the key elements of running a successful cheer program is understanding who you are as a coach and what your program stands for. Your personal and program identity should drive everything you do. According to Gina Harris, founder of Cheer Coach Academy, if you don't have a solid sense of your identity, you’ll end up comparing your program to others – and that can lead to insecurity. Focus on what makes you and your gym unique instead of comparing yourself to other programs. Your journey is yours, and every program has a different personality. Plus, you never know what's happening behind the scenes in other gyms.
Do Your Homework
If you're new to coaching or just starting your program, research is key. Look into potential programs and gyms, paying attention to their reputation, safety protocols, and how they progress their athletes through skill levels. It’s essential to ensure that athletes are in the right level and have proper training, not just for success but for safety as well. Don't forget to ask about the equipment and flooring too – avoiding injuries is crucial, and the right setup can help prevent long-term damage to athletes' bodies.
Set Your Program Apart
Building a cheer program takes time, so don't rush it. Some of the most successful programs are those that have grown slowly and steadily over time. Winning competitions is great, but it’s not the end-all, be-all. Focus on teaching your athletes to be proud of who they are and what they accomplish, even if they aren’t the most advanced team on the mat. When teams walk in with confidence and a clear sense of who they are, it shows.
Navigating Growth
As your program grows, you'll need to adapt. What worked for you when you first started may not work when your gym is more established, and that’s okay. Be sure to revisit your values and goals each season and make sure you’re meeting the needs of your athletes and families. Growth is good, but it requires checking in with yourself and your program regularly.
The Importance of Reflection
A big part of being a successful coach is knowing yourself. Take time to reflect on your identity as a coach and where your values lie. Gina suggests finding time to journal, hike, or just sit quietly to really think about what drives you. When challenges arise, like a tough season or unhappy parents, having that strong sense of self and identity will keep you grounded.
Final Takeaways
Running a successful cheer program is about more than just skill – it’s about creating a safe, supportive environment where athletes can grow. Focus on your unique strengths, avoid comparing yourself to others, and always be willing to adapt and reflect. And most importantly, keep in mind that at the heart of a strong program is a strong leader – that's you!
For more tips and resources, check out Gina Harris and her Cheer Coach Academy – they offer virtual coaching, resources for stunt progressions, and even an annual coaches conference to keep you up to date on the latest in the cheer world.
Watch the full Beyond the StEPS Episode Below!
For those new to Beyond the Steps, this is a weekly video series available on YouTube and Facebook every Friday. Each episode features a special guest, and we dive deep into one important question related to health and wellness for performance athletes. These conversations are thought-provoking, backed by evidence-based research, and meant to inspire growth—because when you know better, you do better! We’re kicking off Season 5, but you can catch up on Seasons 1-4 on YouTube and Facebook at Apolla Performance and TP Dance Creations. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
Dive into the Steps Initiative Course. What is it, you ask? Well, it's a FREE five-part course designed to educate on critical issues like racism, gender inequity, sex abuse prevention, nutrition, psychology, and science—all crafted by field experts. Whether you’re a leader, parent, or athlete, it’s self-paced, evidence-based, and a game changer! When you know better, you do better—so why not take that leap?
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