Ridgedale Athletic Association Cheer Program

Cheerleading continues to grow in popularity throughout North Central West Virginia, and the Ridgedale Athletic Association (RAA) is proud to offer a dynamic and supportive cheer program for local youth.

The RAA Cheer Program is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of cheerleading in a positive, inclusive, and non-competitive environment. Our program typically includes seven to nine individual teams, organized by grade level from Pre-K through 5th grade.

All teams are led by dedicated parent and family member volunteers. The program is currently coordinated by Kristina Cecil, Esq.

Throughout the season, RAA cheerleaders will learn a range of skills including sideline and floor cheers, jumps, basic tumbling, stunts, and a choreographed cheer-dance routine. Instruction is tailored to each age group and skill level to ensure a safe and encouraging learning experience.

The primary goals of the RAA Cheer Program are to promote confidence, teamwork, and school spirit; to support our basketball teams by energizing the crowd during games; and to help students continue developing their cheerleading abilities. For our older teams, we also aim to help prepare students interested in trying out for middle school cheer squads.

Each team will cheer at basketball games within their respective age group. At the conclusion of the season, all teams will perform at our annual Cheer Showcase—a celebratory, non-competitive event that highlights the hard work and progress of every cheerleader in the program.

Volunteer Cheer Coach Expectations and Responsibilities

As a volunteer cheer coach, you play a vital role in creating a positive and supportive environment for young athletes. The following outlines the expectations and responsibilities for this position:

Practice Commitment: Conduct cheer practice with your team at least once per week.

Effective Communication: Maintain regular communication with team parents regarding practice schedules, game times, and other important updates. Utilizing a Facebook group or email distribution list is highly encouraged.

Game Attendance: Attend all scheduled games with your team (typically 1–2 games per weekend). If you are unable to attend, it is your responsibility to arrange for a qualified backup coach or parent to cover your absence.

Cheer Instruction: Teach your team both sideline cheers and floor cheers. A few pre-approved cheers will be provided for your use.

Routine Preparation: Develop and lead your team in a cheer routine that includes elements such as a floor cheer, tumbling, stunts, and dance, appropriate to the age and skill level of your team.

Event Participation: Attend the end-of-season Cheer Showcase with your team.

Team Culture: Promote teamwork, inclusivity, and good sportsmanship at all times.

Thank you for your dedication and enthusiasm in helping our athletes grow both on and off the floor. Your leadership makes a lasting impact!

Student Cheerleader & Family Expectations

To ensure a positive and successful experience for all participants, the following expectations apply to all student cheerleaders and their families throughout the season:

Practice Attendance
• Cheerleaders are expected to attend all scheduled weekly practices to build skills, routines, and team unity.

Stay Informed
• Families should stay up to date on all practice and game schedules. Communication will be shared via designated team channels (e.g., email, group chat, or Facebook group).

Game Participation
• Cheerleaders are expected to attend all scheduled games, typically 1–2 per weekend during the season. Consistent attendance is important for team performance and spirit.

Cheer Showcase Participation
• Participation in the end-of-season Cheer Showcase is required, as it serves as a culminating event to celebrate the team’s hard work and progress.

Uniform Care
• Cheerleaders and families are responsible for keeping uniforms clean and in good condition throughout the season.

Sportsmanship and Conduct
• All cheerleaders and their families are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship at all practices, games, and events.
• Participants must follow all Ridgedale Athletic Association and school rules, including the Code of Conduct, with respect and integrity.