Westlake Youth Athletic Organization’s cheerleading program was founded to promote recreational cheerleading with a major emphasis on fun, teamwork, and competitive sportsmanship. Our cheerleading program is led by our Cheerleading Director, who is a member of our Board of Directors. The Cheerleading Head Coaches, Junior Coaches, and Business Managers are a dedicated group of people who volunteer their time and talents to coordinate each cheerleading squad.
Our Junior coaches are an ambitious group of young people that volunteer to teach Westlake cheerleaders the art of “cheer”. Head coaches and Junior coaches are interviewed and approved by the Westlake Board of Directors. Coaches must be 21 years of age. Junior Coaches must be at least 14 years of age.
General Practice Information
Practice begins July 25, 2016. During July and until the first full week of school, practice is five days per week – Monday through Friday. Practice is held at our practice field located at Mattawoman Middle School. Times are generally 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Some team practice schedules may slightly vary based on approval by the Board. Your coach will advise you of the exact practice schedule.
Westlake Youth Athletic Organization Cheerleading is an all-weather sport that supports the league’s football teams. Since the football games are also played in rainy weather, there may be occasions when we also will practice or cheer at games in the rain. Of course, if the rain becomes severe, or there is lightening/thunder in close proximity, practice/games will be temporarily suspended or canceled for the safety of everyone. Your coaches will discuss specifics on procedures each team will use regarding inclement weather.
What to expect during the first week of practice
During the first week of practice, your coaches will review information regarding cheer administration, expectations, and other guidelines.
Administrative reviews will include: coaches introductions, the philosophy of your team, verification of eligibility (see Cheerleading Eligibility Matrix), contact information updates, practice schedules, uniform information, attendance policies, etc.
A discussion of the expectations will include a review of the Parent and Player Code of Conduct, concession duty commitments, sportsmanship, uniform care, etc.
The first week is also spent on physical conditioning and acclimation to the weather. The cheerleaders will get plenty of exercise during the summer months, especially out in the sun. Please bring plenty of water to practice. You will get a number of water breaks during practice.
Note: Glass bottles or containers are strictly PROHIBITED. We suggest that you bring a small insulated personal water cooler, plastic jug, or any other non-glass containers of your choice.
Remember: NO GLASS OF ANY TYPE
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR CHEERLEADING
Pre-Season Conditioning
Conditioning begins April 3, 2016. During April and until July 25, 2016 pre-season conditioning is ONLY held on Sunday’s from 4:00 – 6:00pm. Conditioning is held at our practice field located at Mattawoman Middle School. During conditioning we offer FREE tumbling, chants, motions, stunts and jump clinics.
Summer Camp
When: Saturday, August 6, 2016
Where:
Mattawoman Middle School by the Tennis Courts
Cost:
$30/per participant (payable at any pre season workout)
Time:
9:00am to 1:00pm (Lunch is provided)
What to bring:
Water and yoga mat
Attire:
Shorts or leggings, t-shirt, cheer shoes or any athletic NON BASKETBALL shoe, cheer bow, and NO JEWELRY
REFUND POLICY
Westlake Youth Athletic Organization is a non-profit organization with financial commitments. Equipment must be ordered by July of every year. The orders are directly related to the registration headcount. Equipment is ordered based on age, weight, and size of each player. Westlake Youth Athletic Organization also has financial obligations to both the GYFL and Metro AYF, of which we are a member. We are assessed these fees based on the number of participants/registrations. The fees are due and payable upon receipt, which typically occurs prior to August 1st. The organization’s financial obligations are paid primarily from registration fees.
All refunds are subject to the approval of the Westlake Youth Athletic Organizations Board of Directors. No refunds are automatic or compulsory. All refunds must be submitted in writing to the WYAO Board of Directors. Requests for refunds received prior to August 1st will be assessed 50% of their registration fees. Any requests for refunds must be received in writing prior to August 1st. NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN AFTER THIS DATE FOR ANY REASON.