20th - Tryout Clinic
21st - President's Day - no school

27th - Tryouts

4th - Students return from holiday

17th - MLK Day - No school

17th - Last day of school

11th - Veteran's Day - No school
12th - Weather Day - No school

22nd - 26th - Thanksgiving Holidays

12th - Moody @ Tarrant, 6pm

19th - Championship Game, TBA

6th - Labor Day - No School
7th - Moody @ Ashville, 6pm

14th - Moody @ Leeds, 6pm

21st - Duran @ Moody, 6pm

28th - Odenville @ Moody, 6pm

11th - First day of school

31st - Springville @ Moody, 6pm

13th - Competition Clinic @ Sidelines, 8am-12pm
14th - Competition Clinic @ Sidelines, 8am-12pm
15th - Competition Clinic @ Sidelines, 8am-12pm

1st - Cheerleading Camp @ Sidelines 8am-3pm
2nd - Cheerleading Camp @ Sidelines 8am-3pm
3rd - Cheerleading Camp @ Sidelines 8am-3pm; Group picture @ Bob Moore Photography, 7pm

8th - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm; $ due to Sidelines for classes

15th - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm

22nd - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm

29th - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm

3rd - Final fees due to Ms. Callaway @ MJHS
4th - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm; $ due to Sidelines for classes
6th - 6th Grade Orientation @ MJHS

11th - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm

18th - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm

25th - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm

1st - SAT Mathematics at school
2nd - OLSAT at school

5th - Fees due to Ms. Callaway @ MJHS
6th - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm; $ due to Sidelines for classes
7th - Alabama Science Assessment at school (7th grade only)
8th - Alabama Direct Assessment of Writing at school (7th grade only)

13th - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm

20th - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm
21st - Baron's Field Trip at school (jr. high only)

27th - Stunting class @ Sidelines, 6-7pm

Follow the instructions on the care label, and for follow ALL subsequent washes!

The FIRST WASH is the most important!
·Do not exceed temperatures recommended on the care label.
·Each garment should be washed separately (i.e. wash shell by itself, then skirt, etc…).
·Use a mild detergent without fabric softener. Tide is recommended. Do not use bleach.

If the initial washing instructions are not followed, the colors may bleed onto one another. If this happens, wash the garment AGAIN (before drying), following the instructions above.

ALWAYS remove the garment promptly from the washer once the cycle is completed.
·Leaving the garment in the washer for prolonged periods of time can cause the fabrics to bleed and/or leaving unsightly wrinkles in the garment.

DO NOT machine dry the uniform.
·Once the uniform has been washed, immediately hang it up to dry.

DO NOT dry clean the uniform.
·Dry cleaning can yellow the uniform or leave an unsightly sheen. Dry cleaning also causes tackle twill lettering to fade, bubble, or stiffen.

Never use fabric softener or stain removers.
·Fabric softeners block the soil release properties (Visa treatment) and can cause dirt and stains to resist removal.
·Do not use a stain remover. Stain removers may lock the stain into the garment.

Do not store wet poms in their plastic bags.
·Let them air dry first. This will keep the unpleasant mildew smell from attacking your poms.
·If you spill a soft drink on your poms, wash them off with mild soap and water and let them air dry.

1. Go to: www.starsportsmanship.com

2. Go to: “student sign-in.”

3. Enter: star00800

4. It will say Moody High School, but that is correct. Select “ok.”

5. Select your grade. If you see your name, select your name. If you do not see your name, select “register.”

Complete the program, print the certificate and return it to Ms. Moseley. If you have already completed it, log-on and print a certificate.

Purpose and Goal
Being a part of any St. Clair County Cheerleading Team is a privilege that you, as an athlete, must earn through dedication, desire, and discipline. Being a part of the cheerleading organization provides the opportunity to participate in a leadership development activity. Conduct in class, in the community, and at school functions, as well as performance on the field/court, should be of a caliber which sets a positive example to other students and people around you.


Your behavior in the classroom, in the community, and at all school-sponsored events reflects on the entire team and on MJHS. Inappropriate behavior, even outside of cheerleading events, as well as poor grades, can result in punishment. Be classy!


The purpose for all cheerleading teams of the St. Clair County School System is to:


·Promote and uphold school spirit and pride. This includes all school teams, not just basketball or football!
·Promote good sportsmanship among students and the community.
·Promote positive competitive cheerleading.
·Develop better relationships between schools during all athletic events and school functions.
·Work in harmony with administration, faculty, band, athletic teams, and other school organizations.


Membership
A. The number of cheerleaders chosen each year is determined by the principal and sponsor.

B. Membership for cheerleading includes spring semester practices, summer practices, camp, clinic, and football and basketball seasons, other sport seasons as decided by the coach, competition(s), and fundraisers.


Eligibility Requirements
A. A candidate must comply with the guidelines for eligibility and participation set by the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA).
-Students entering the 8th grade must have passed during the last two semesters in attendance and summer school.
-If applicable, at least five new subjects with a minimum composite numerical average of 70 in those five subjects.
-Students entering the 7th grade for the first time are eligible.
-Students may regain eligibility at the end of the first semester by meeting the same requirements listed above during their last two semesters in attendance and summer school, if applicable. All first semester work used in regaining eligibility must be completed by the fifth day of the second semester.

B. Each candidate must turn in written certification, signed by a physician, stating the candidate has passed a physical examination and is physically able to participate in all phases of cheerleading.

C. Each candidate must carry school accident insurance or present a waiver signed by parent/guardian stating they have adequate insurance.

D. Each candidate must provide a copy of his/her original birth certificate.

E. Each candidate must sign up on a mandatory pre-signup sheet and attend a mandatory pre-tryout meeting (parent/guardian meeting). The candidates must turn in a signed parent/guardian permission form and medical information form, in addition to all other forms required to be eligible to cheer.

F. A candidate should possess leadership qualities and must set a positive example by behaving in a mature and responsible manner at all times. Cheerleaders are representatives of the school, not entertainers.

G. ALL previous cheerleader debts must be paid in full before the first day of clinics. If a balance has not been settled, the candidate will not be allowed to tryout for the upcoming team.

H. Above requirements must be met prior to the first day of tryout clinic. Anyone not meeting the above requirements by the first day of tryout clinic will not be allowed to attend the tryout clinic.

I. All St. Clair County handbook rules and regulations will be followed.

J. The AHSAA Spirit Rules Handbook guidelines will be followed.

K. Any cheerleader who fails to complete a full season of events for any reason (except a serious documented medical excuse) will NOT be eligible to tryout for the following year.


Tryouts
A. The tryout process will consist of participation in a pre-tryout clinic and a closed tryout in front of a panel of judges.

B. The panel will consist of independent professional judges and the cheerleader coach. The independent judges will be selected from previous or current collegiate cheerleaders, cheer association instructors, and college or high school cheer coaches from OUTSIDE St. Clair County.

C. All skills will be scored on the basis of the level of perfected execution.

D. Cheerleader tryouts will be held annually during the second semester of the school year.

E. Skills necessary to try out for cheerleader will be presented at a clinic conducted by the outgoing senior varsity cheerleaders, the coach, or outside professionals. Independent judging will take place after the clinic.

F. Missing clinic will result in automatic dismissal from tryouts with the exception of school events AND prior approval from the cheer coach.

G. The entire tryout process will be closed to the public. This includes pre-tryout clinic and the actual tryout in front of the judging panel. Failure to abide by this rule will disqualify the candidate involved. Senior cheerleaders and former cheerleaders are not allowed to view the tryout process.

H. NO PART of the clinic or tryout process may be filmed or photographed. This includes snapshot cameras, video cameras, cell phone cameras, or any other recording device.

I. Candidates become a part of the team after tryouts. Their responsibilities, commitment, and term are for a one-year period—beginning and ending with the tryout date.

J. A tryout fee of $25.00 will be required to pay for the judges’ travel and time as well as other miscellaneous costs associated with the tryout process. This fee is due before the deadline for the cheerleader sign-up date. This fee is non-refundable.

K. Tryout selection will be based one-hundred percent (100%) on the judges’ scores.

L. The number selection for each contestant trying out for cheerleader will be determined AFTER the judges have been seated for tryouts.

M. Anyone trying out for cheerleader will leave school grounds after the tryout process has been completed. Results from the tryout process will be posted on a website.

N. Candidates may be awarded points for activities not actually performed live at tryouts with approval from cheerleading coordinator.

O. A candidate may only start over three (3) times for each portion of the tryout process. Judges will score accordingly based on what has been attempted during the first three (3) attempts.


Financial Responsibility
A. Parents are responsible for ALL costs of the tryout fees, clothing items, camp, and competition(s) as set by the coach. This may include, but is not limited to, uniforms, pompons, socks, tights, warm-ups, pep rally uniforms, camp clothes, hairbows, gloves, headgear, etc. All fees must be paid before the first football game in order for any cheerleader to participate in games or competitions.

B. The cheerleaders are responsible for the upkeep of all cheerleading items. Uniforms should be kept in good condition and be presentable at all times.

C. All purchases to be used during cheer activities will be approved by the coach regardless of the method of payment. All items worn by cheerleaders during assigned activities must be the same. All items must be worn in the manner in which they were designed to be worn.

D. Fundraising activities will be required to pay for expenses that the cheerleading teams will incur (paint, paper, goodies, etc.). If team members are unable to raise their fair share, a dollar amount will be assessed to cover this amount. These activities will be in accordance with the St. Clair County Board of Education.

E. Membership for cheerleading includes football and basketball seasons, other sport seasons, competition and fundraisers.


Attendance Requirements
A. Cheerleaders will be expected to cheer at all athletic events as designated by the coach. They should not miss any game, practice, or cheerleading activity except in case of an emergency which has been approved by the coach. A parent/guardian note is required for any absence of any activity. If a written note is not received by the coach before the absence, the absence will be unexcused.
-Football – Cheerleaders are expected to cheer at all home and away games.
-Basketball – Cheerleaders are expected to cheer at all home games. Cheering at away games is at the discretion of the sponsor and local school administrator. A schedule of games that are to be cheered will be given to cheerleaders and parents before the first basketball game.
-If you have an emergency that will force you to miss a cheerleading event, a written note or email from a parent/guardian is required. Emergencies that occur at the last minute may be excused with a phone call. The coach may be reached on his/her cell phone 1 hour before events. You may leave a voice message if necessary, as the time of the call is recorded. An excuse turned in, or a phone call received, after the event will not be considered. Doctor’s excuses will typically be required.

B. The coach will review available opportunities for competitions and present those to the team. Final decisions will be made by the coach. This will also apply to one-day clinics.

C. The sponsor has the discretion of removing members from competition due to lack of effort or defiance to the sponsor. Incidents will be documented and reported to the principal before removal.

D. All members of the team are encouraged to attend social activities planned by the team. Advance notice is required for members who are unable to attend.

E. If any other activities are chosen by the team, the coach will determine if the event is mandatory or optional.

F. Any requests for missing a performance must be in writing to the sponsor before missing the event and be approved by the sponsor and the principal.


Selection of Captain and Co-Captain
A. The MJHS cheerleading team may have one Captain and one or two Co-Captain(s), or no Captain/Co-Captain at all, as determined by the coach.

B. Positions will be determined by tryout score, GPA, coach ranking and squad member ranking.

C. The Captain and Co-Captain must be responsible leaders and will preferably have at least one year of experience.


The Captain and Co-Captain will be responsible for the following (under the guidance of the coach):
1. Set an example for the rest of the team by following all rules and regulations for cheerleaders and students.

2. Always be willing to do more than your share.

3. Work closely with team members.

4. Be at practice early and start practice on time.

5. Carry out practice and meeting instructions along with the coach.

6. Be responsible for contacting all cheerleaders to notify them of practice, change of plans, etc.

7. Select cheers and chants to be used at games and pep rallies.

8. Organize groups to paint signs outside of practice/school time preceding all football games and any other times signs are required for a cheerleading-sponsored event.

9. Call for a vote in case of a disagreement concerning team decisions and act as a peacemaker in such disagreements.

10. Be responsible for greeting visiting cheerleaders BEFORE the start of the game and inform visitors of plans, seating arrangements, refreshments, etc.

11. Get a team roster from the football coach. Coordinate “Spirit Gifts” each week for the football team.

12. Select uniforms to be worn at all cheerleading events (with coaches’ approval). Distribute, in writing, a list of complete uniforms to be worn for the entire season. This should be done prior to the season and there should be no last minute changes.

13. If a Captain or Co-Captain receives an internal or external school suspension, they will be removed from the position of co-captain.

14. In the event a Captain or Co-Captain is unable to perform or refuses to perform the above listed duties, or if he/she receives more than 10 demerits, he/she will be relieved of duties and a new Captain or Co-Captain will be appointed to the position.


Practice Schedule
A. NOBODY is allowed in practices, or to stand in the doorway of practices, at any time. ALL practices are closed. This gets uncomfortable, so please don’t put the coach in the position where he/she has to ask a parent to leave.

B. During the last two months of school, the practice schedule will be determined by the coach. A copy of the spring/summer schedule will be given to each member of the team. Attendance at all practice sessions is required.
-It is your responsibility to keep up with your practice schedule. Do not ask your coach if you have practice; check your schedule! Please remember that there are many of you and only one coach. You may think you’re only asking one question, but once that same question is asked repeatedly, it can become frustrating. If you ask something that has already been addressed, your coach will not answer it.

C. The length of each practice will be decided by the coach.

D. A cheerleader must be in attendance at school for one-half day in order to cheer that day or night.
-If you miss more than ½ day, you may not check-in to school for in-school practice and you may not attend after-school practice. If you are too sick to come to school, you do not need to be at practice. In-school practices will be excused if it’s excused by the school, except for routine doctor’s appointments. Unexcused absences will result in demerits.
-If you are absent from or check-out of school, requiring you to miss a required event, it is your responsibility to let the coach know that you are not in school that day. Not attending school is not an automatic excused absence from a cheer event.

E. Only the coach has the authority to excuse a cheerleader from practice. Excuses will be granted only in the case of illness or emergencies. All routine dental, doctor, and other appointments must be made around scheduled activities. These are not considered emergencies and will not be considered excused absences. This includes missing an activity because of being out of school for a routine appointment.


Appearance
A. Uniforms and shoes must be kept clean at all times. Uniforms are washable but should only be drip-dried.
- DO NOT wear your shoes intended for competition outside. These shoes should be worn only indoors during competition practice.

B. Uniforms must be neatly pressed and not in need of mending.

C. Jewelry is strictly forbidden in accordance with AHSAA rules (no exceptions). This includes any type of body jewelry. This applies to practice, games, competition, etc.

D. No excessive make-up will be worn. A natural wholesome look is desired.

E. No fingernail polish will be worn.

F. Fingernails cannot extend past the tip of the finger.

G. No glitter products, products containing glitter, stick-on body art, etc. shall be worn on the body, hair, or the uniform.

H. Hair should be worn back from the face and up when in uniform. No hair (this includes bangs should fall in the face. Short hair must be pulled back off the face.

I. No metal items may be worn, with the exception of bobby pins in the hair, when allowed

J. Cheerleaders may only wear designated and approved clothes TO, FROM, and DURING any cheerleading or athletic event. Cheerleaders are not allowed to wear street clothes TO, FROM, or DURING an athletic event.

K. Cheerleaders are to come to the activity in uniform, ready to perform.

L. When cheerleaders are on the field/court/competing/or acting as a team, they will be in complete uniform. This means the same shoes, socks, sweaters, etc.

M. Cheerleaders should look their best, physically, at all times. Maintaining strength, endurance, flexibility, etc. will keep a cheerleader’s performance at peak condition. A member must be physically able to participate in all aspects of training.

N. The coach will determine what is acceptable to be worn with the cheerleading uniform.

O. Cheerleading briefs must be worn under clothing at all practices and performances.
-Cheerleaders will dress in uniform during every practice, meaning they will wear the same color shorts/t-shirts and hair pulled back from the face.
-Socks and appropriate shoes are required for every practice. If a cheerleader does not have the appropriate footwear, he/she will not be able to participate, resulting in an unexcused absence.
-During in-school practices, clothing must be in accordance with the MJHS Handbook. Shorts should reach mid-finger when the hands are on the sides of the legs. Shorts may not be rolled up at the waist to make them shorter. Shirts must cover the midriff. Tank-tops may not be worn during in-school practice sessions. Failure to stay in the dress-code will results in School Demerits, as it will be considered a dress code violation.


Conduct During Athletic Events
A. Cheerleaders must appear spirited, smiling, and show enthusiasm throughout the entire athletic event or activity.

B. Talking to fans should be kept to a minimum; this includes talking to family members during a game.

C. There should be no excessive talking among team members during cheer events. You are at the event to cheer—not to socialize.

D. There will be no eating during the athletic event or during practice sessions. A good meal should be eaten before the athletic event or practice sessions.

E. There will be no gum chewing during an athletic event or during practice sessions.

F. Cheerleaders are not to leave the cheering area without the coach’s permission. Do not leave the cheering area to practice. Cheerleaders must cheer during the entire game.

G. Stunting is prohibited during any “live” ball. If a ball is on the court, field, playing area, etc., stunting is not allowed. Basket tosses are never allowed without a mat.

H. Use the restrooms before the game begins, at halftime, or after the game.

I. Each team is expected to bolster crowd spirit when the other team is performing. Sitting together at an event as a group and motivating other students and fans is strongly encouraged.

J. Cheerleaders in uniform should not have any physical contact with friends or boyfriends/girlfriends.

K. Cheerleaders are not to use cell phones during games for calling, texting, or photographs.


MJHS Cheerleaders are CLASSY!
Cheerleaders should cheer in a positive manner. It is inappropriate to cheer against the other team or in response to an opposing player’s mistake. Initiating response cheers between home and opposing cheerleading teams is not allowed.

Cheers and chants with suggestive words and/or motions (ex. pointing at opposing teams or fans) shall not be used because in many situations they bring about an inappropriate response. All cheers and chants must be approved by the coach.

Cheerleaders will not yell or cheer “Miss it!” while an opponent is shooting free throws in basketball. Intimidation of opponents has no place in jr. high school athletics.

Obnoxious behavior should not be encouraged nor permitted under the guise of school spirit. Opposing players, officials and fans should be treated with respect and dignity. If inappropriate crowd behavior exists, assistance should be obtained from a school administrator.

Cheerleaders should NEVER “boo” a player. This behavior will not be tolerated. If “booing” develops in the crowd, divert their attention by starting a cheer.

Do not cheer when an opposing player makes a mistake or the opposing team is being penalized.

Do not cheer when an opposing player is injured.

Do not cheer when an unsportsmanlike act has occurred or is occurring.

*If any of these rules are broken, the consequences will be serious. Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated.*


Transportation
A. If you are using school transportation, you must be at the designated place and at the designated time to leave. If you are riding with your parent/guardian, you must arrive at the designated location and time set by the coach. You are only allowed to be transported by your parent/guardian. The coach has the right to require you to use school transportation if a cheerleader is late more than two times while riding with a parent/guardian.

B. Team members are not allowed under any circumstances to drive personal vehicles to or from away athletic events, competitions, or other cheerleading events.

C. Permission may be given to team members to utilize transportation for the return trips other than that transportation provided by the school system.
-School transportation will ONLY be provided for most away Basketball games. You are responsible for your own transportation to and from other events. If you need to carpool, you must arrange this on your own. Because of insurance liability, I cannot arrange this for you.

D. A transportation release form signed by the parent/guardian must be on file with the coach before the cheerleader may travel and participate at any away athletic or cheerleading event.

E. Phone calls giving permission to ride with others will not be accepted.

F. Parents/guardians must make sure that their children not only arrive at the required event on time, but that they are picked up on time from the event as well. Excessive tardiness for either will result in demerits. Please respect others’ time.


Transportation Via Private Vehicle as Defined by the St. Clair County Code of Student Conduct
Private vehicles shall not be used to transport students to or from any activity in which the student is participating except in the following circumstances:

1. The private vehicle is being operated by a parent/guardian of a student participant and all other student participants who are passengers in the vehicle have obtained written permission* from their parent/guardian to be transported by the operator of such private vehicle.

2. The operator of any private vehicle described in the preceding paragraphs must have a valid driver’s license and liability insurance coverage insuring the vehicle being used to transport student participants. The operator of all such private vehicles shall assume liability for student participants who are passengers in his/her vehicle, including responsibility for their safety and well-being.

*Must be on a Transportation Release Form.


Suspension From an Athletic Event or Pep Rally
A. Failing grades are not acceptable. Grades falling below a “C” average on report cards will result in probation.

B. Demerits
1. 5 Demerits = suspension from 1 major sporting event
2. 10 Demerits = suspension for 5 school days and 1 major sporting event
3. 15 Demerits = suspension for 10 school days and 2 major sporting events
4. 16+ Demerits = permanent suspension

C. Attendance requirements during suspension from the team:
1. Required to attend and participate in all practice sessions.
2. Required to attend in uniform but not participate in pep rallies (sit with coach).
3. Required to attend in uniform but not participate in athletic events (sit with coach).
4. Required to bring books and study materials to all events if benched for grades.


Dismissal
A. Offenses that will result in dismissal are as follows:
1. A total of more than 15 demerits.
2. Any Class IV Code of Conduct Violation.
3. Repeated insubordination toward the cheer coach, Captain, Co-Captain, or any school personnel.
4. Conviction of a felony or any other criminal activity will be considered as grounds for dismissal (St. Clair County Code of Conduct).
5. Failure to compete in competitions.
6. Any school related problems that require the cheerleader to be dismissed according to the St. Clair County Board Policy.

B. Before dismissal, a panel composed of a school administration member, cheerleading coach, cheerleader, and parent/guardian of the cheerleader will meet to discuss demerits and dismissal.

**Please realize that more demerits than the St. Clair County Cheerleading Constitution allows are given at MJHS. This is more than fair. Therefore, if you receive 16 demerits, there will be no consideration given and you WILL BE removed from the team. At that point, you will already be 5 demerits over what the county requires.**


Miscellaneous
A. Any item or situation not mentioned in this set of rules that causes a problem for the team will be dealt with on an individual basis by the coach in conjunction with the school administration. Rules may be added if necessary to correct those problems. All possible problems cannot be covered in this document. Therefore, it may be necessary to deal with situations not covered in the document. ALL situations will be handled and dealt with in compliance with school and board policies. Disciplinary actions for any of the behaviors/infractions will range from temporary to permanent dismissal from the team.

B. ALL conferences must be scheduled in advance with the coach.

C. Parents must follow a chain of command to discuss any concerns regarding cheerleading.
Step 1 – A conference must be scheduled in advance with the sponsor(s). Practice and games are not the place to discuss concerns.
Step 2 – If the problem is not resolved, a conference should be scheduled with the school principal.
Step 3 – If the problem is not resolved, a conference should be scheduled the cheerleader coordinator at the central office.
Step 4 – If the problem is not resolved, a conference should be scheduled with the superintendent.

D. No personal mechanical devices (phones, CD players, etc.) of any kind are allowed to be used during practices, games, and/or cheer events.

E. Cheerleaders may have jobs and participate in non-school sponsored activities, including competition squads. However, these may not interfere with scheduled practices, games, or competitions.

F. Cheerleaders who participate in other school sponsored activities (basketball, volleyball, etc.) must work with the cheer coach and other coaches to coordinate practice and games.


Amendments
A. All teams will follow guidelines set by the AHSAA. The constitution follows current guidelines but may be revised as AHSAA guidelines are changed.

B. Suggestions for additions and revisions to this document may be submitted in writing by team members, the cheer coach, school administration, or parent/guardian.

C. Submitted, written amendments will be considered annually before tryouts by a committee appointed by the Board of Education. No amendments to this document will be made once tryout clinic begins.


Infractions earning 1 Demerit:
1. Not wearing hair as decided by coach and team members; hair in face.
2. Wearing nail polish or nail length too long.
3. Wearing jewelry or any type of metal other than approved items.
4. Wearing any product containing glitter, stick-on body art, etc.
5. Chewing gum.
6. Late turning in fees, paperwork, or any other items that are due at a specific time. No excuse will be tolerated.
7. Late to practice.
8. Not having all equipment at games or practice when needed (megaphone, poms, ribbons, etc.)
9. General disrespect to the Captain or Co-Captain.
9. Undesignated wearing of uniform.
10. Not having correct uniform or practice clothes (this includes clothes out of the dress code).
11. Late returning from half time or between games.
12. Excused absence from practice (other than doctor’s excuse, conflicting school activity or family emergency within reason).
13. Use of cell phone or other electronic device during practice or cheer event.

Infractions earning 2 Demerits:
1. Unexcused absence from practice.
2. Excused absence from game (other than a doctor’s excuse or family emergency within reason).
3. Late to game or other event, other than practice.
4. Public displays of affection at a practice or game.
5. Attending In-School Suspension (ISS) or Detention (unless it is the direct result of a behavior for which you received cheer demerits, at the discretion of the coach)
6. Leaving excused during a game or cheering event (except in the case of obvious illness).

Infractions earning 3 Demerits:
1. Building stunts without supervision of coach.
2. Refusing to participate.
3. Refusing to participate in a fundraiser.

Infractions earning 4 Demerits:
1. Any Class II violation (unless it is the direct result of a behavior for which you received cheer demerits, at the discretion of the coach)
2. Use of non-direct profanity.

Infractions earning 5 Demerits:
1. Any Class III violation (unless it is the direct result of a behavior for which you received cheer demerits, at the discretion of the coach)
2. Unexcused absence from game or other cheering event (at the discretion of the coach).
3. Leaving unexcused during a game or cheering event.
4. Referral to Saturday School.
5. Rudeness or general disrespect to adult authority.
6. Use of direct profanity.

**All Demerits will be issued AT THE DISCRETION OF THE COACH. Precedence will be considered. However, each situation is unique and will be treated as such.


Other Discipline
Altering uniforms without permission - Benched from all events where that uniform is worn until uniform is corrected. Demerits will result from these benchings, as they are not excused absences.

Failing grade (any grade below a 60%) in any class on a progress report - Benched for one (1) major sporting event if grade has not risen above a 60% before that event. However, if the team has been practicing a particular stunt/cheer/activity without that team member due to a possible benching, he/she will not be able to perform.

Poor grade (any grade below a 70%) in any class on a report card - Benched for five (5) school days and one (1) major sporting event.

Failing grade (any grade below a 60%) in any class on a report card - Benched from all events until grade(s) show(s) improvement.

Referral to Alternative School and/or Day Program - Dismissal

Class IV violation - Dismissal

Accruing 16 Demerits - Dissmisal


Demerit Consequences
*5 Demerits - Suspension from 1 major sporting event
*10 Demerits - Suspension for 5 school days and 1 major sporting event
*15 Demerits - Suspension for 10 school days and 2 major sporting events
*More than 15 Demerits - Permanent Suspension

The punishment for demerits will be at the discretion of the coach.

You will be expected to complete conditioning at practices. It is in your best interest to be doing these things at home, on a regular basis, so that you are able to increase endurance and strength throughout the year. Every team member will be expected to do these exercises, as you have all been released from a physician. If conditioning is difficult for you at practice, it is because you are not doing anything during your own time. If you have certain limitations which may prevent you from conditioning with your team, it is your responsibility to notify me with a written doctor’s note.

Warm-Up
General stretching
Hold each split (center, left, right) for 30 seconds
Practice jump sequences

Crunches with arms crossed over chest (25)
Crunches with hands behind head, alternate knee to elbow (25)
Crunches with legs straight in air, crossed (25)

Everyone, but Bases especially
Pushups with arms close together (10 countdown)
Pushups with arms far apart (10 countdown)
Straight arm circles (100 forward)
Straight arm circles (100 backward)

Everyone, but Fliers especially
Leg squats with toes forward, like you’re sitting in a chair (10 countdown)
Leg squats with toes facing sideways (10 countdown)
Walking lunges
Liberty balances

**Every team member should be able to run 1 mile in under 10 minutes.**

The group picture will be taken at Bob Moore Photography in Leeds on Thursday, June 3rd at 7:00pm. IF YOU ARE LATE, YOU WILL NOT BE IN THE PICTURE!!! Others are counting on you, and we are not going to wait for you to show up if you cannot be on time.

Wear your navy uniform. Wear your hair down. Bring your poms and megaphones.

You must schedule your individual photos on your own. To do this, call Bob Moore Photography at 699-8256.

Competition Clinic will be at Sidelines Sports Academy, July 13-15 from 8:00am until 12:00pm.

You will need to bring a snack and several drinks. You may not bring soft drinks. Drinks that are acceptable include water, Gatorade, Powerade, fruit juice, etc. Under no circumstances are “energy drinks” EVER allowed at any cheerleading practice or event!!! We would advice you not to bring anything that must be refrigerated or anything that will be too heavy on your stomach.

You will not be excused for family vacations during this time, as attendance of every team member is necessary for the team’s success!!! Absences will require a doctor’s excuse.

You need to make arrangements for a prompt drop-off and pick-up each day…tardiness, whether it is when you are arriving or when you are picked up, will not be excused.

Uniform Schedule
July 13 - Girls – white ribbed tank & teal shorts; Guys – white MJH shirt & navy shorts
July 14 - Girls – Pink shirt & black shorts; Guys – Gray polo & black shorts
July 15 - Girls - Navy tank & navy skort; Guys – Navy polo & navy shorts

*Appropriate socks & shoes are required daily. No flip-flops!

Cheerleading Camp will be at Sidelines Sports Academy, June 1-3 from 8:00am until 3:00pm.

You will need to bring a sack lunch and several drinks. You may not bring soft drinks. Drinks that are acceptable include water, Gatorade, Powerade, fruit juice, etc. Under no circumstances are “energy drinks” EVER allowed at any cheerleading practice or event!!! You may also bring a snack, but we would advise you not to bring anything that must be refrigerated or anything that will be too heavy on your stomach.

You will not be excused for family vacations during this time, as attendance of every team member is necessary for the team’s success!!! Absences will require a doctor’s excuse.

You need to make arrangements for a prompt drop-off and pick-up each day…tardiness, whether it is when arriving or when being picked up, will not be excused!

Uniform Schedule:
June 1 - Girls – white ribbed tank & teal shorts; Guys – white MJH shirt & navy shorts
June 2 - Girls – Pink shirt & black shorts; Guys – Gray polo & black shorts
June 3 - Girls - Navy tank & navy skort; Guys – Navy polo & navy shorts

*Appropriate socks & shoes are required daily. No flip-flops!

MJHS Cheerleaders are expected to achieve academic excellence. Being a part of a school-associated extracurricular activity is a privilege, not a right. As with all privileges, this must be earned. There will be strict consequences for poor grades.

As per the MJHS Cheerleading Constitution:
*Any grade below a 60% on a Progress Report will result in the cheerleader being benched for one (1) major sporting event if the grade has not risen above a 60% before that event. However, if the team has been practicing a stunt/cheer/activity without that team member, due to a possible benching, he/she will not be able to perform that stunt/cheer/activity.

*Any grade below a 70% on a Report Card will result in the cheerleader being benched for five (5) school days and one (1) major sporting event.

*Any grade below a 60% on a Report Card will result in the cheerleader being benched from all events until grades show significant improvement.

*While benched for grades, cheerleaders must attend all events in full uniform and study during that event.

*Throughout each semester, your teacher will give me updates on your progress. Expect to run laps or perform some other type of physical exercise for poor class performance.

**Cheerleading is hard work and cheerleaders keep insisting that it be recognized as a sport. I agree, it should be! But since it is, you will be treated as athletes, as members of a TEAM. There will be difficult practices and I will be hard on you when needed. I will bench you if you have a poor performance. If you have a problem with this…sorry! Just know that I’m tough on you because YOU ARE GREAT and you deserve for everybody to see that! Treat cheerleading with the respect it deserves…work hard and accept that you will be treated, and respected, like athletes.

**Smile during a game or performance. Look like you are having fun (even if you are not. The sidelines are not the place to pout.

**Pay attention to the game. Stay in your sidelines formation. Is your team offense or defense? Are you winning or losing? Who has the ball? The game should affect how you cheer.

**If you make a mistake, don’t draw more attention to yourself. Do not stop. Do not laugh. Just keep going. It is not attractive or cute to laugh hysterically because you messed up. Mistakes are inevitable; it’s how you react to your mistakes that is important.

**Save the DRAMA for your Mama!! Being a team does not mean everyone has to be best friends. It does, however, mean that outside issues should be left outside and everyone must be willing to work together.

**BE CLASSY! There is no tolerance on this team for poor sportsmanship. Any type of negative attitude toward your team members or toward an opposing team will result in severe consequences. You’re all better than that.

Dear Parents and Cheerleaders,

Congratulations on making the MJHS Cheerleading Team! Parents, please make sure the email addresses I have for you are up-to-date and that you check them frequently. Students, please make sure I have your email address, if you have one. The majority of communication is done via email, as it is impossible to call every parent for updates and it is easier for you to have all the information you need in writing. Most updates will be able to be found on this blog, so I recommend checking it daily.

Manual
You received a manual at the first meeting that contains a lot of information you will need throughout the year. It is in your best interest to familiarize yourself with this manual and to put it some place where you can easily access it. Being familiar with this information and all of the rules is your own responsibility!!! You are all young adults and you will be held accountable for your own decisions and efforts, not your parents! If you ask questions that are covered in the manual, you will be directed to your manual to look it up…so read it! Information covered in the manual may also be found on this blog.

Behavior
Remember that your behavior in the classroom, in the community, and at all school-sponsored events reflects on the entire team and on MJHS. Inappropriate behavior, even outside of cheerleading events, as well as poor grades, will result in punishment. Receiving demerits in the classroom will result in cheerleading demerits. It is not our intention to remove any person from this team, but we will not hesitate to do so if your behavior earns it. Be classy, be respectful and be responsible and you will do fine!

Cell Phone Policy
Cell phones are not allowed to be turned on at practices or at games. You may have them with you, they may be on silent, and you may use them during your personal breaks. But, if I hear a cell phone ring during practice or during a game, you will be receive demerits and I will take it away from you and return it only to a parent.

Now that all that stuff is out of the way….you guys are going to have a great year!! We have a tremendous amount of talent on our team and I can’t wait for you guys to show your stuff at County Competition!! We will be defending our title of County Champs for the 9th year in a row!