Grades 1 & 2 Sideline Cheer

Cheerleader-In-Training Program:

Also known as its Mascot Program, the GYCL’s Cheerleader-In-Training program is an opportunity for younger athletes to experience introductory level cheerleading. At the Director’s discretion, first or second grade children may participate in their team’s Mascot program, which is capped at thirteen (13) athletes. Each individual Mascot must have received an invitation from the President of the GYCL to enroll in the program. Upon receiving the email invitation with registration link, he or she has two (2) weeks to accept their spot by completing their registration and paying the $275 registration fee, plus the one-time $50 New Family Fee, if applicable. All GYCL Paperwork must be completed and turned in no later than the first practice.

The purpose of the Cheerleader-In-Training program is to introduce our youngest athletes to the sport of cheerleading. The children will learn the basics of cheerleading, including arm positions, and motions, chants, cheers, jumps, and short dance routines. For the safety of these young athletes, stunting and tumbling is not permitted in the Cheerleader-In-Training program. This level of cheerleading is reserved for Bantams and above. Mascots will cheer as a squad at their corresponding GYFL Flag Football games on Sundays, where they will be getting both sideline and halftime experience. Each Mascot squad will also participate in Exhibition, where they will perform a cheer and a 45-second dance performance to pre-approved music.

How do I register my child for cheerleading?

Please reach out to the GYCL to see if there is room on your athletes slotted Mascot team - GYCLCheerleading@gmail.com

How old does my child need to be to full sideline cheerleader?

Mascot cheerleaders must be in 1st or 2nd grade.

Can my child choose the team she/he cheers for?

When you sign your child up for the GYCL, you are signing up for youth cheerleading. Requests can be made at open registration, but due to home address and squad numbers, requests cannot be guaranteed. The GYCL does have a "sibling rule" and will honor putting cheerleaders on squads where their older brother/sister currently play or cheer.

What is the practice & game schedule?

The season typically starts in the third week of August. Practice days and times vary by team and schedules will be provided to your child once they are assigned to a team. Teams typically practice two to three days a week. Finalized schedules should be available on all teams by August 15. 

ALL teams will play games on Sundays in Greenwich. Times and locations will be announced once the season starts.

What additional items should we purchase? (i.e. uniforms)

Once your child is assigned to a team, their coaches will let them know of any additional gear. All participants must have cheerleading sneakers. Your child's coach will give them the specific shoe their team uses.

Does my child need to have cheer, dance or gymnastics experience?

No, we are delighted to work with all skill levels. There's absolutely no cheer, dance, gymnastic or tumbling experience required to participate.