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A COACHES RESPONSIBILITY
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A COACHES RESPONSIBILITY
Taking charge of a group of cheerleaders carries special responsibilities, not least of which is care for their safety and well-being.
The best security is a solid safety programme and keeping parents informed. If you do not already have coaching qualifications you should plan to enroll in a NCSSE or Cheer Technique coaches course this year.
Qualified coaching, clear instructions, the use of safety mats, and effective spotting are a must. As cheerleading continues to advance and grow our aim is to eliminate all avoidable situations through good organisation, knowledge and certification.
Keep detailed records. Index cards for each cheerleader with contact information and any medical requirements.
You will need a squad constitution outlining rules and responsibilities. This should be given to all parents of prospective new cheerleaders. Inform parents with newsletters giving details of scheduled events with positive news and encouragement. Do not just rely on verbal announcements given at practice getting through.
There should be a qualified First Aider at hand for every practice, either from the squad organisation or the school or centre where you train. Both St John Ambulance and the British Red Cross do excellent First Aid courses from one to three days duration.
It's not just practice injuries you have to consider. Someone may have an epileptic attack or fall down the stairs. Prepare for everything and you are less likely to get surprised, like making sure everyone knows the Fire Drill. It's all part of the learning curve and confidence you build as a Coach.
Every squad must have a specified minimum level of insurance cover, either by the squad or being covered by the school/centre where they train. Civil liability cover is mandatory, personal accident cover highly recommended. BCA recommends the cheerleader insurance scheme by Perkins Slade Ltd.
Actively avoid/minimise injuries by good training methods, clear instructions, safety mats, concentration by everyone, and Spot - Spot - Spot! 'Unplanned Dismount' situations can happen at any time. This is your best protection against legal issues, having taken every reasonable precaution.
We have a standard format Health Form to be signed by parents/adult cheerleaders stating the nature of the vigorous athletic activity involved, and that a possibility of injury exists as with any vigorous athletic activity. See 'Sample Health Form' opposite.
Note: It is important that both cheerleader and parents understand and accept the Health Form statements, but this is not a waiver. Waivers carry little weight if any legal question of negligence is involved and will not absolve coaches from due care for safety. Our ultimate defence is a solid qualified safety programme with the added bonus of no injuries.
Anyone coaching under eighteen must have a responsible adult present at all times. Anyone considering coaching under eights should first contact their local council for information about special requirements and vetting.
For further information contact:
St John Ambulance - Training
0161 225 2764
British Red Cross - Training
0181 944 8785
Perkins Slade - Insurance
0121 625 8080
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