Cheer Coaching Roles & Expectations

 Coaches must be 18 years old.  Cheer experience is preferred but not required and this is a volunteer position. There are two roles within our coaching staff available for the 2025 season: Coach & Assistant Cheer Director

 A Pop Warner Cheer Coach plays a vital role in leading young athletes in cheerleading, fostering teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. The responsibilities vary based on the level of the team (Tiny Mite, Mitey Mite, Junior Pee Wee, etc.), but generally include: 

 1. Coaching & Skill Development

• Teach proper cheer techniques, including motions, jumps, stunts, tumbling, and dance.
• Develop and implement practice plans to build skills progressively.
• Ensure all athletes understand and execute cheers, chants, and routines.
• Prepare the team for performances at football games and competitions.  

2. Safety & Injury Prevention 

• Follow Pop Warner safety guidelines, including proper spotting techniques.
• Ensure warm-ups and cool-downs are part of every practice. 
• Educate cheerleaders on injury prevention and first aid procedures.  

3. Leadership & Team Management

• Foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive team environment. 
• Encourage teamwork, discipline, and good sportsmanship. 
• Address and resolve conflicts among team members.  

4. Competition & Game Day Responsibilities

• Choreograph and teach competition routines. 
• Ensure the team is competition-ready by the designated deadlines. 
• Coordinate game-day logistics, including sideline cheers and halftime performances. 

5. Communication & Organization

• Communicate with parents, league officials, and fellow coaches regularly. 
• Keep track of attendance, athlete progress, and team needs.  

6. Compliance & Certification 

• Complete required background checks and certifications (e.g., Pop Warner Coaches Training). 
• Follow league rules, code of conduct, and safety regulations.  

A successful Pop Warner Cheer Coach is patient, organized, and passionate about developing young athletes while ensuring a fun and safe environment. 

 Assistant Cheer Director must do all of the things required of a coach plus the following:

• Keep track of attendance for required 20 hours of conditioning
• Assist with organizing fundraisers as needed, cheer events, and uniform/equipment distribution and collection.
• Assist with ensuring all coaches have completed required background checks and certifications (e.g., Pop Warner Coaches training)
• Ensure all athletes have completed medical and participation forms and monitor and update rosters as needed.     
• Assist coaches and Cheer Director as needed. 

 Coaches must be 18 years old.  Football experience is preferred but not required and this is a volunteer position. 

1. Passionate – Loves the game and enjoys teaching it to young athletes.

2. Patient – Understands that players are still learning and growing.

3. Encouraging – Builds confidence and motivates players to do their best.

4. Disciplined – Sets clear expectations for effort, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

5. Knowledgeable – Understands the fundamentals of football and can teach them effectively. 6. Responsible – Prioritizes player safety, follows league rules, and communicates with parents. 7. Positive Role Model – Leads by example, demonstrating respect, hard work, and integrity.  

• Teach Fundamentals – Train players on proper techniques for blocking, tackling, running, and passing. 
• Develop Game Plans – Organize practices, drills, and strategies for games. 
• Ensure Player Safety – Follow proper tackling techniques and concussion protocols.
• Promote Teamwork & Sportsmanship – Encourage respect among players, coaches, and officials.
• Communicate with Parents – Keep families informed about schedules, expectations, and progress.
• Mentor & Motivate – Help players develop confidence, discipline, and a love for the game.
• Lead by Example – Show commitment, integrity, and enthusiasm for football and character development.  

Coaching Pop Warner football is about more than wins and losses—it’s about shaping young athletes into great players and even better people!