Murray High School

2018-2019
Constitution
Dear Prospective Cheerleader and Parents/Guardians,
Thank you for your interest in the MHS Cheerleading program. I find it necessary to inform you of the
responsibilities of a MHS Cheerleader because it is a big commitment. There will be a number of expectations for
you, if chosen for the squad. We consider cheerleading to be a sport so it must be treated like one and given first
priority, next to academics. You may find this to be a time consuming activity. You will be required to come to all
practices, games, and other team functions, which will include community service and fundraising projects.
Because you will be representing MHS if chosen, you will be expected to conduct yourselves properly, on and off
campus. You must follow the rules and regulations for the school as well as those designated for the team.
Academics are an important factor in my decision for choosing the squad and allowing cheerleaders to stay on the
team. Please carefully read the constitution. Every year we have cheerleaders that are unable to fulfill their
commitment and some get overwhelmed. Make sure you are ready to take this seriously; it is hard work.

Dates for tryouts have been set for March 19-22nd in the Main Gym from 3-6pm. All tryout material will be
taught at clinics and performed at tryouts. Thursday, March 22nd, will be the actual tryout beginning at 3:00pm in
the Main Gym. You are encouraged to arrive at 2:30pm to warm up and review. All prospective cheerleaders must
get a new physical to cover the entire season. Tryouts will be CLOSED. We will not allow ANY spectators. By the
first day of tryouts, March 19th, you MUST HAVE ALL REQUIRED ELEMENTS in the following order*:

1. Application with a recent photo (Competition interest form attached on top)

2. Copy of this year’s grades
3. Parental/Cheerleader Agreement, signed
4. Parental Financial Agreement
5. Cheerleading Constitution, all pages, with Signatures and Dates
6. Physical Form stating clearance to participate with required signatures
7. Eligibility Form with required signatures
8. Merit page, signed

To be comfortable and flexible for movement, you should wear:

1. Athletic/Cheer Shoes
2. Plain athletic attire in school colors (Orange, Black, and White) the cover midriff, cleavage, and buttocks
3. Hair up and pulled away from the face
4. No Jewelry (we will not be responsible for holding these items)
5. Fake nails and gum are not permitted
6. BRING A GOOD ATTITUDE AND LOTS OF SPIRIT!

We are excited about our upcoming tryouts and to work with your child. I hope you and your child
understand that I am basing my decisions for a limited number of spots and on a number of requirements. I thank
you for your cooperation and the support you have for your child’s decision to try out!

Best of luck to you,

Cassie Pedersen
CPedersen@MurraySchools.org
 Important Dates:
Date Time What Where What to Bring
Monday, 6:00 pm Mandatory Parent Commons Parents/note paper and pencil
March 5th Tryout Meeting
Monday, Check-in Workout Attire in Murray
March 19th 2:30pm Workshop Main Gym Colors
Clinic Water/healthy snack
3-6 pm
Tuesday, 3-6 pm Workshop Main Gym Workout Attire in Murray
March 20th Colors
Water/Healthy Snack
Wednesday, 3-6 pm Workshop Main Gym Workout Attire in Murray
March 21st Colors
Water/Healthy Snack
Check-in TRYOUTS! Wear Murray colors: shorts
2:30 pm Tryouts will begin Main Gym and form fitting shirt with no
words or logos.
Thursday, Tryouts promptly at 3:00 pm. Cheer shoes or white, non-
March 22nd 3 pm You should arrive marking shoes
early to warm-up and Ponytail (with bow preferred)
stretch.

You will be trying clothes on!

Friday, 3:00pm Uniform Fitting; Dance Room Wear a comfortable sports bra
and compression shorts
April 13th Directly after Team Social that
school for jr evening at 6:30pm
high students

May 3 Arrive at 2:15 MANDATORY Main Gym TBD

Lasts from Safety Clinic
2:30-7pm

Thursday, Arrive at Spartan Spec/New Main Gym New Uniform/TBD

May 24 5:30pm Team Introduction
Show is at
6pm

June 25-27 Cheer Camp! Heber City TBA

 Time Commitment (Approximate)
March-July
 Tryouts
 Fundraiser for Uniform needs TBA
 Orientation Meeting (immediately after new squad announcement)
 Uniform fitting- mandatory (Varsity Brand: Friday, April 13th 3pm)
 Safety Clinic
 Spartan Spectacular- 1st performance/New Team Introductions
 Summer Practices
 Opening Team Social
 Epic Pro Cheer Camp
 Murray 4th of July Parade
 Photos

August-October
 Morning Practices
 Class Practices
 Cheer at Football (1/week)
 Cheer at Volleyball (1-2/week)
 Fall Service Project

November-January
 Class Practices
 Junior Spartan Cheer (Team Fundraiser)
 Cheer at Basketball (2-3/week)
 Competition (Optional)

February-May:
 Class Practices
 Competition (Optional)
 Assist with promotion of tryouts
 Year End Banquet
 Spring Service Project
 Spartan Spec
 Selection Process
1. Prior to Tryouts: All applicants and their parent/guardian will be required to attend an
information meeting prior to tryouts. Cheer candidates who do not attend this meeting with a
representative from their family (must be over 21 years of age) may not be permitted to try out.
Conflicts will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
2. Application: Each applicant must submit an application and photo in order to tryout.
Application must have a photo attached to application. Candidates are responsible for
completing, signing, and returning all required documents. These forms must be turned in by the
first day of the tryout process. Parents need to read all information carefully and sign forms
indicating their understanding of the expectations set forth.
3. Fitness Testing: Candidates must be able to run a mile in under 10 minutes and perform the
following skills in 10 minutes: 50 squats, 25 burpees, 100 Full Sit ups, and 30 push ups.
4. Tryout Clinics: Clinics will be held to teach tryout material. Clinics will be held March 19-21 3-
6pm. Candidates will receive a score based on clinic attendance and participation.
5. Tryouts: Tryouts will be based on the following skills and attributes: motions, jumps, dance,
ability, enthusiasm, kicks, tumbling, stunting, overall appearance, attitude, teamwork, work
ethic, dedication level, etc. on Thursday, March 22 from 3-6pm.
6. Judging: Qualified judges will be selected by the head coach. Each candidate will be given a
numerical score based on their application, GPA, coach’s evaluation for returners, and tryout
material. The score sheers are the property of Murray High School and are not made public.
All judges’ decisions are FINAL.
7. Previous squad members: making a squad one season does not guarantee making the squad again
or moving up from JV to Varsity. Behavior and dedication the previous season will be taken into
account. If you have been dismissed from the previous year’s squad, you are not permitted to try
out.
Description of Squads
Murray Cheer

 Squad will be part of the B1 cheer class

 All members must have a minimum of a round off; higher tumbling may mean that you are
utilized more
 Murray Cheer is assigned to cheer where needed and may cheer for JV, and/or Varsity girls and
boys sports teams.
 Members of team may be individually assigned to cheer at various games; WE WILL PUT YOU
WHERE WE NEED YOU FOR ANY REASON AT ANY TIME
o Typically students will be assigned games based on their grade level (freshman-senior)
and performance. Cheerleaders who do not meet requirements and expectations for
games will cheer “down” (junior and senior classmen) at a JV or away game and/or be
benched or appropriately disciplined.
 9 -12 grade students
th th

Competition (THIS IS AN OPTIONAL OPPORTUNINTY)

 Primary focus is competition but will cheer at some sporting events as a team
 Part of “Murray Cheer” but also competes
 Additional practices are required
  Attitude and commitment will be highly considered
 Membership is not guaranteed once students make this team; students can be removed at any
time for any reason.
 Additional financial commitment (appx $2,000+)

MURRAY HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADER CONSTITUTION

ARTICLE I- NAME AND PURPOSE
Section I: Name
The group in its entirety shall be known as the Murray High School Spartan Cheerleaders.

Section II: Purpose

It shall be the purpose of the Murray High School Spartan Cheerleaders to promote and uphold team spirit
for those we encounter, to develop good sportsmanship by example, to support good relations in the
community and between teams and squads during events. This group shall support the goals and
objectives of Murray High School. These goals will be met by such qualities and activities as:
A. Performing in half-time activities and at other athletic events or school and community functions
as appropriate and assigned.
B. Cheering for and supporting MHS Teams
C. Developing character, good citizenship, good sportsmanship, and positive leadership skills.
D. Promoting the school community by participating in activities
E. Supporting and upholding the rules, policies, and traditions of Murray High School.
F. Maintaining personal standards and performance consistent with the purpose and goals of this
organization.
G. Working and collaborating with other groups and organizations of Murray High School.

ARTICLE II- MEMBERSHIP

Section I: Eligibility
The organization will consist of members who have satisfactorily passed all requirements and who
continue to maintain eligibility.
A. A Cheerleader must have a 2.75 or higher overall GPA upon entrance and must not have ANY Fs
on their transcript. A minimum of a 2.75 GPA must be maintained during the terms of service,
including 2th term grades from 2018. Cheerleaders must not have any Fs at any time during term
of service or they will not be permitted to participate.
B. Teachers shall not be appealed to or requested to make any grade changes in order to maintain
your position on the squad. Grades to determine term ineligibility will be checked and final the
first day after the end of the quarter, unless an administrative error has been made.
C. Cheerleaders must have satisfactory citizenship in all classes at all times.
D. If an opening occurs prior to safety clinic, an alternate may be selected from the unpublished list
established by the judges at the time of tryouts.
E. A cheerleader candidate must support the Murray Spartans above all other teams.
F. Must not maintain membership with any other sports team.
G. A candidate must be neatly presented and medically fit.
H. Acceptance of a candidate shall be on the basis of ability, the coach’s agreement, acceptance of
the squad rules, and without prejudice of race, creed, or color.
I. Any changes to the membership requirements deemed necessary by the coaches and/or
administration of Murray High School can be made at any time for any reason.
Section II: Tryouts
Tryouts to select the team for the following year shall be conducted as designated by the coach. This
will take place after a meeting has been held for prospective members to explain requirements for
membership.
A. Tryouts are closed and shall be conducted by the coach.
B. The coach shall select the judges for the tryouts.
C. Members who previously quit this team may not try out for another season directly following the
season in which they quit.
D. Former members desiring another year of participation must tryout again. Making the team one
season does not guarantee making the team again. Behavior, dedication, attendance, and grades
the previous season will be taken into account.
E. Tryouts will consist of fitness testing, coach evaluation, application, clinics, overall GPA, and
tryouts material.
F. Following tryouts, new members are required to attend all practices, attend parents’ orientation
meeting, summer camp and practices, and team socials.
G. Each team member will get the TeamSnap app at the conclusion of tryouts.

Section III: Attendance Requirement

A. Cheerleaders must be in class to make grades. Attendance and grades will be checked frequently,
and as needed. Anyone with unexcused absences will be benched for the next game.
B. All classes must be attended on game days. If classes are missed, cheerleaders will be benched
for the game that day. This includes being checked in more than 15 minutes late for a class and
being checked out for any reason on a game day.
C. If a cheerleader must miss a class on a game day, it must be excused in advance by the
administration. Same day requests will be denied, except for emergencies.
D. Absences from cheer classes or practices will result in missed points. Cheerleaders missing a
game prep day (class period directly before a game) may be pulled from the routine.
E. All cheerleaders are required to attend annual camp as a squad.
F. Team activities other than games such as social activities, service projects, etc. will be required
attendance and graded. There are a reasonable proportion of these duties throughout the year and
there is usually a cost involved to be covered by cheerleaders/parents.
G. If any other activities or opportunities are chosen by the coaches, the coaches shall decide if the
event is mandatory or optional. Reasonable notice of all such activities/opportunities will be
given for mandatory events, and as early as possible for others.
H. Work is not an excuse for missing, leaving early from, or being late to a practice, game, or
performance, ever.
I. You shall not consider yourself excused from an event unless coach says, “you are excused.” A
typical response will include, “thank you for letting me know.” That is not an excusal; that is
acknowledging respect given.
J. If you miss any practice for any reason (excused or not) you will be responsible for missed
conditioning (to be completed upon return) and mastering the material immediately (check
website, get videos, etc.). Failure to do so will result in consequences.
K. Chronic illness/injuries may result in membership changes. If a team member must sit out for a
period of 6 weeks, they must have a written plan to return to participation that is deemed
reasonable by the coach and school administration. If the cheerleader cannot provide that, they
will be removed from the cheerleading class, or, at the very least, be ineligible for the following
term. Any illness/injury that takes 6 weeks to heal from can be foreseen by medical staff and can
be adequately documented.
Section IV: Tumbling Requirement
Tumbling is a major component of cheerleading. All cheerleaders must be willing to tumble.
A. Cheerleaders are required to continue to improve their tumbling skills.
B. Tumbling will be worked on during practices; additional training is strongly encouraged.
C. Skills used to tryout with must be maintained without regression; these skills will be
demonstrated and passed off regularly.
D. You are expected and required to tumble at your level.

Section V: Dedication
A. Once selected as a Murray High School Cheerleader, it is assumed that students selected will
fulfill the duties and commitments for the entire year. Cheerleading MUST and WILL take
precedence over all other activities including, but not limited to, jobs, other teams or other school
activities.
a. Cheerleaders are not permitted to be part of any other sports team, especially those not
affiliated with Murray High School.
i. Club soccer, Junior Jazz, and All-Star cheerleading are examples.
ii. Any cheerleader found to be in participation with these activities will have 24
hours to quit their other team. If a cheerleader fails to do so, they will be assumed
to have chosen the other team. Ineligibility or dismissal will result.
B. Being a member of the cheerleading squad is the equivalent of being a three sport athlete.
Cheerleaders should be aware that there will be no exceptions made for missing events,
including: work, social events, etc. If you are going to be a member of this team, we ask you to
be prepared to make the same commitments and sacrifices that would be expected from any other
athletic team.

Section VI: My philosophy, coaching style, and a note to parents

A. My purpose and motivation as a coach is to help create responsible young adults that are capable
and prepared to move on to bigger and better things. I show a lot of tough love, but at the end of
the day it is love. We are here to cheer, bottom line, but we also have a bigger purpose. I know
from personal experience that high school extracurricular activities can help shape and build
character and I intend to help students in a positive way, even when that means that we have
some rough spots.
B. There are times where I have to make decisions about discipline, and that is necessary to uphold
my coaching values, and fulfil the requests and demands that have been made by our school’s
administration. When you are a part of my team, you are part of something more. You will leave
here knowing that you were pushed harder than you thought you could handle, and you will know
that you are better than you were the previous day. Everything I do is to ensure that students are
growing and learning, whether that is with soft words or hard conditioning. At times you will
think that cheer sucks and that I suck, but I promise that you will be better. One bad day or bad
week does not equal a bad life/bad team/bad year.
a. I typically use kind words and encourage students. I have a loud voice and use it when it
is necessary. I have high standards and expect them to be upheld.
b. Because I am so nice, when I must discipline students it can catch them off guard but is
no worse than any other team; in fact it is usually much easier than other teams.
c. I do not accept any sort of poor attitude, meaning that poor attitude and behavior result in
the most strict and difficult conditioning.
C. I believe that kids’ attitudes start in the home. I believe that those students who have great
attitudes have them due to their home environment and to their parents’/guardians’ guidance, and
that the opposite is also true. I implore parents to know what is going on with their kids and
familiarize themselves with the rules and guidelines set forth in this constitution and at school. If
students are doing what they are supposed to do, they will have no problem when they are at
cheer. If students are breaking rules they will have consequences. It is that simple.
 a. In my experience, if a student has a parent fight their battles, they will not learn to fight
them on their own. Students have their own voice and I expect them to use it in a
respectful manner. Sometimes parent contact is imperative, but most of the time problems
can be solved or questions can be answered by the student having a conversation with the
coach. Furthermore, students are expected that accept what is presented to them whether
it be rules, consequences, or the like. Students grow when they are allowed to.
b. If your student calls you after being punished and you would like to inquire about details,
etc., that is fine although not ideal and I ask that you trust my judgement. I will not
change my decision based on any parent conversation but will discuss those matters with
the student’s parent. I appreciate getting both sides.
c. Other students’ discipline is not up for discussion.
D. It is my expectation that parents/students/guardians/other involved adults will respect and honor
coaching decisions. (Please refer to Article IV, Section IV, Point F). Everything we do is for a
reason. You may not always agree with our reasons or decisions, and we encourage questions, but
at the end of the day we have rules and expectations and those decisions are final and supported
by administration. Students made this team; parents did not. Parents are expected to support their
children and help them learn how to handle situations. We love our parents and appreciate the
overwhelming support that they can show. However, it makes it difficult on us when we are
constantly questioned or tasked to consistently explain ourselves. Please exhibit healthy
boundaries and let students learn responsibility.
E. High school is a stepping stone to the real world. This is prime time for students to learn how to
deal with situations on their own.
F. Focus on what is important, which is cheering for sports teams and improving character, rather
than what other people or teams are doing, how something is “unfair,” or looking for flaws in our
program.
G. It is ok to ask questions and raise concerns, but I encourage each person involved to separate ‘big
deals’ from ‘little deals’ and to decide what is a battle worth fighting. It can take away from the
experience and lessons when we focus on little things.
H. I am not here to be a warden. I try to work with students as much as possible; every situation is
different and every student is different. I am here to work within the best interest of the team and
each student on the team.
I. Thank you, parents, for supporting us from the sidelines.

ARTICLE III- ORGANIZATION

Section I: Leadership
Leaders will assist in various responsibilities during the season. These assignments may include
running warm-ups at practices and games, calling cheers, designating game plan, planning team parties,
and other functions as deemed by the advisor, to be outlined to candidates at a later time. Selection of
Leadership will take place prior to summer practices. Leaders are held to a higher standard.
A. The elected officers MAY include at least some, if not all of the following:
1. Team captain, or head cheerleader (must be a second year team member in the senior
class)
2. 1-2 Co-captains, or co-head cheerleaders
3. Social Captain/Secretary
B. Failure to fulfill duties as an officer, failure to comply with the team rules and participation in
behavior unbecoming of an officer can result in termination of that individual’s service.
 ARTICLE IV- RULES AND REGULATIONS

Section I: Grading Policy

Cheerleading is part of the school curriculum. Credit and grades are given accordingly.
Cheerleaders will earn grades based on their attendance, participation, and attitude in the following areas:
class time, poster sessions, games, and other activities as specified by the advisor. Grades are in addition
to merits/demerits. The grading policy will be as follows:

Points Earned Reasons for Loss of Points

 Class Time: 50 pts/day  Being Unprepared (hair, gum, jewelry,
 Team Recognitions: 100 pts/term uniform, shoes, poms, etc. including bag
 Games: 100 pts/game checks): 10 pts EACH
 Performances: 100 pts/performance  Poor Attitude/Lack of Respect: 25-100
 Appearances/Service Projects: 100 pts pts; depending on severity
each  Breaking any rule or expectation set forth
 Summer practices: 50 pts/day (will go on in this constitution: 25-100 pts; depending
1st term grade) on severity.
 Tardiness
 Game benching: You will receive 25
points for showing up ready and on time.
 Absences will receive “0” points.

If there is a perceived error, any grade change must be completed within the following quarter or
by June 30 for the fourth quarter.

Section III: Make Ups

Cheerleaders will be allowed to make up points for excused absences or emergencies (determined by
the coach). However, the maximum number of points that can be made up is 200 points per quarter.
Unexcused absences are not available for make up. Make up can be done by completing the following:
 Cheer at an extra game
 Service dictated by advisor
 Other assignments given by advisor

Section II: Absences

In helping develop responsible citizens, cheerleaders, not parents are to address the head coach to
ask permission for absences in writing.
A. If special circumstances arise that prevent a team member from attending cheer functions, the
cheerleader must request permission in writing to miss a practice at least TWO WEEKS
PRIOR TO ABSENCE or it will be considered an unexcused absence. This does not
mean that we will definitely excuse you. The absence may or may not be excused. If a
cheerleader is sick or injured, they will still be required to attend practice and/or games in
appropriate attire but not participate. Severe injuries that require long-term healing must be
accompanied by a doctor’s note (3 days or longer). Every practice is mandatory. If a cheerleader
must miss, it will be an unexcused absence except in the following cases:
a. Extreme personal illness requiring hospitalization; doctor’s note required
b. Death in immediate family
c. Wedding of an immediate family member
B. Illnesses and injuries are understandable, however, squad members must still be at practice to
watch and learn changes that may be made to the routine. They will not be expected to
participate unless able. If the illness is contagious, please DO NOT come to practice, as we do
not want more cheerleaders to miss practice than necessary. These absences will only be excused
 with a written doctor’s note and the coach must be notified prior to the absence. If a practice or
game is missed for any health related reason, a doctor’s note is required before the cheerleader
can resume participation.
C. If a member is excessively absent from cheer, or absent from practice the week of a performance
or game, he/she may be dropped from performance, regardless of whether the absence was
excused. This decision will be made by the coach on an individual basis. Cheerleader will be
permitted to cheer at games in this circumstance at the discretion of the coach but will lose points
for not being in the performance on a case by case basis.
D. All cheerleaders are required to attend all football, volleyball, and basketball games as assigned.
Additional games for other sports team may be required. If a cheerleader is not in attendance,
he/she will receive an unexcused absence.
E. In extreme cases, an unexcused absence may also be given for not wearing appropriate practice
attire or not being prepared for practices, games, or performances. In which case, the cheerleader
will not be able to participate.
F. You are not considered excused unless the coach says, “you are excused.” A typical response will
include, “thanks for letting me know.” That does not mean you are excused, that is simply to
acknowledge that the message was received and we appreciate the respect.

Section III: Tardies

Punctuality shows respect for your teammates and coaches. If a team member is late more than 3 times
per quarter, their grade will be dropped half a letter grade.
A. All cheerleaders must be willing to practice at designated times and in designated areas.
B. A cheerleader being late for practices, performances, and games will receive a tardy. Being
tardy will have consequences such as running extra laps, conditioning, cleaning, etc. in addition
to missing points. Sleeping through an alarm, parents making you late, etc. ARE NOT
ACCEPTED EXCUSES!!! There is no reason to be late.
C. Cheerleaders not present within 30 minutes of designated starting times for practices,
performances, and games will receive an unexcused absence and demerits.
D. If a cheerleader has more than one tardy for the term, they will earn a “U” citizenship grade in
addition to demerits.
E. You are considered tardy if you are not lined up ready to go at the EXACT start time.
F. You are not considered excused unless the coach says, “you are excused” or, “you will not lose
points.” A typical response will include, “thanks for letting me know.” That does not mean you
are excused.

Section III: Rules of Conduct (Applicable at ALL times)

A. All standards of the Murray High School Policies must be upheld.
B. No drinking, smoking, drug use (or appearing to be in possession of or around alcohol, drugs, any
type of smoking material, etc.) attending parties or clubs where alcohol or drugs are used,
sluffing, dishonesty, disregard of any regulation in the constitution, or unlawful conduct is
allowed. If it reasonably appears that you are participating in this type of conduct, it will be
assumed that you are and you will be punished accordingly.
C. Cultivate modesty in dress and language. You are a representative of Murray High School and
your behavior is an example to others. This includes showing midriffs, butt cheeks, cleavage, etc.
on social media or at school, or using unbecoming language. This includes the reasonable
appearance of student participation in such.
D. If there is a disagreement, it will be settled by the group in private and not in the eyes of the
public or other students.
E. Commendable conduct in the halls, classroom, on social media and outside of the school will be
exhibited at all times. This includes attire, body language (open legs/”duck face”), and vocabulary
(do not use inappropriate language at school or on social media). Failure to maintain this
professionalism will result in consequences.
 F. No visible body markings, i.e. tattoos, nose rings, tongue rings, etc.
G. Hair color must be of a natural hue for all cheer events (games, performances, appearances, etc.)
H. Unhealthy dieting, use of laxatives or improper behavior with the respects to nutrition and weight
loss is strictly prohibited. Immediate dismissal may result.
I. Any violation of one or more rules of conduct is cause for a warning, strike, benching,
ineligibility, or immediate dismissal.

Section IV: Team Rules

A. Put the team first
B. Communicate truthfully, openly, and candidly
C. Be a part of the solution, not a part of the problem
D. Respect everyone and everything involved
E. Ask the right questions, encourage the right decisions and answers
F. Motivate each other, leave the coaching to the coaches. This goes for students and parents. It is
expected that you will trust and support coaches’ decisions. We welcome questions and opinions,
but at the end of the day we are your coaches and we have the final say.
G. Build trust with integrity and example
H. Commit to excellence
I. No member of MHS cheer or their parent/guardian/family/etc. is permitted to be friends or
associate with any member of the coaching staff on any social media outlet for any reason at any
time until the termination of the cheerleading relationship. You may be ‘friends’ or ‘follow’ MHS
Cheer pages but no individuals. It is your responsibility to terminate those relationships if they are
pre-existing.
J. If there is a problem or concern, address the issue with the head coach first to find a solution.
K. For safety reasons, NO accessories, such as jewelry or watches, shall be worn while cheering or
performing. This also applies to fake nails.
L. Any violation of the team rules is cause for warning, benching, ineligibility, or immediate
dismissal.
M. When you are at cheer you do not have your phone out and it is handed in at the beginning of that
day’s activities.
N. No eating during practice or games unless specifically allowed by coach.
O. You will have the TeamSnap app and check it regularly. It is a good idea for parents to also have
it. IF YOU GET YOUR PHONE TAKEN AWAY IT IS STILL YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO
KNOW THE SCHEDULE AND EXPECTATIONS!!! You can access this app online as well as
on your phone, and your parents will have access and can fill you in.
P. You will run, not walk, to where you need to be.
Q. No retaliation: if a student presents concerning information to coaching staff or administration, it
is not to be talked about among students. Further, any negative treatment or words towards said
student will result in punishment.
a. You will understand that, for the safety and privacy of students, any information given to
coaching staff or administration will be kept private and confidential by any means
necessary. Occasionally it may be necessary to protect a student that has brought forth
important information so, under the direction of administration and coaching staff,
members of MHS Cheer coaching staff may be dishonest about the information given or
by whom it was given as to protect students’ anonymity and prevent retaliation.

Section V: Lettering
Those members of the team who exceed expectations are eligible for receiving a letter in
cheerleading. Those members must meet the following requirements:
A. Cheers at 15 varsity games, meets, or matches
B. 3.0 Overall GPA
C. 90% attendance to cheer practices/games/events
D. 8 hours volunteer service per year (Including those completed with MHS Cheer)
Section VI: 24 Hour Policy
All parents and cheerleaders are expected to respect the coaches or anyone acting on behalf of the
coaches. Although you may not always agree with decisions made you must respect the authority to
make them. I (and my coaches) will always act and make decisions based upon what I believe to be in the
best interests of the TEAM. If there is a disagreement over a decision made by a coach, you must wait at
least 24 hours before addressing the situation. Assistant Principal Ms. Mbaku is available to sit in on any
meetings to discuss concerns after the head coach has been addressed. Negativity can spread like the
plague on a team. Concerns must be addressed with the coach before fellow team mates or other parents.
Extreme disrespect or defiance by a cheerleader or parent may result in immediate consequences or
dismissal from the team.

ARTICLE V- DISCIPLINE POLICIES

Section I: Demerits
 Students will earn demerits for the following reasons:
o Being late or absent
o Showing up unprepared or wearing the wrong item
o Wearing any jewelry at any time to games, practices, events, etc.
o Chewing gum or eating during games, practices, events, etc.
o Phone use during practice, games, events, etc.
o Not listening right away to coaches or captains
o Inappropriate language use in the halls, during practices, at games, events, etc.
 This goes beyond swearing. It includes ANYTHING deemed inappropriate
whether it’s of a sexual nature, racist, about violence, drugs, alcohol, etc.
o Talking while on sidelines, especially during National Anthem
o Horseplay or talking during stunting
o Disrespect to coaches or teammates; talking back, etc.
o Anything else deemed necessary/appropriate by coach
**Please refer to demerit schedule

Section II: Benching

Benching is a situation in which a cheerleader is benched and is not allowed to perform or cheer
at any event, and they will receive a 25 points if they show up ready to go and exhibit expected behavior.
During this time, the cheerleader must attend and participate in every practice, game, and meeting. Grade
checks will be completed regularly at the discretion of the coach. If a student’s GPA at the time of grade
check is below a 2.75, or if they are receiving a D+ or below in any classes, for any reason, they will be
benched for the following games/performances. While benched, cheerleaders must be in full uniform at
all activities. It is the cheerleader’s responsibility to keep their grades up and to ensure that their grades
are input to SIS correctly. Make note that coaches will not be going off of a cheerleader’s or parent’s
word, and will only be going off what is posted in SIS, or “what’s in front of my face.” Students may be
given grade tracking sheets for verification.
Please note, a school excused activity is not a reasonable excuse for having poor grades. Students
shall make arrangements with their teachers to turn in assignments before the date that it is due in the
even that they know they will be absent for any reason, especially for school excused absences. If a
teacher does not deem it necessary to mark any assignment as “excused” at any time, it will not be seen as
“excused” by Murray Cheer.
Students and parents shall understand and accept this consequence. Coaches shall not be asked to
make exceptions for any reason once a student is benched. We understand that friends get invited to
watch you cheer, or you really like a certain dance, etc. but that is not a good reason to have an exception.
Further, it is expected that cheerleaders sit quietly, upright, keeping their hands to themselves, and stay on
the bench for the entirety of the game. They shall not get up to wander or visit, and they shall take
bathroom breaks at halftime. Being benched is a punishment, not a reward.
Section III: Ineligibility
Ineligibility is a 9 week period (1 term) where a cheerleader is not allowed to perform or cheer at any
event, but the cheerleader must still attend the event. During this time, the cheerleader must attend and
participate in every practice and meeting in assigned warm ups, cheer shoes, full hair and makeup, but is
not allowed to wear the cheerleading uniform. A member can only be ineligible once during the year (the
“year” is defined as from tryouts to the end of the following school year). If a member does anything else
that would result in ineligibility, dismissal will result. A member may be ineligible under any of the
following circumstances:
A. Violating any of “Rules of Conduct”
B. An attitude that is considered detrimental to the organization or the team
C. Receiving between a 2.00 and 2.74 GPA
D. Receiving an F or “NG” in any class at the end of a term
E. Having a “U’ for the quarter: cheerleader will sit out until “U’s” are remediated. If a team
member does not remediate their U’s within two weeks, they will receive ineligibility status for
the remainder of the term.
F. If a team member receives one or more “I” grades during the quarter, he/she will be ineligible
(not receive ineligibility status) to participate in any activity until the work is completed in every
class the student received an “I” in. A time period for work to be completed will be determined
by the administration on an individual student basis. If a team member does not complete their
work in the appropriate time deemed by the administration they will receive ineligibility status for
the remainder of the term.
G. Having outstanding fees/fines, cheerleader will not participate until fees/fines are made current.
H. Activity on Social Media, Internet, Email, etc. that is deemed inappropriate by the Cheer
Coaches/Administration.
I. Being in the presence of illegal activity with reasonable knowledge that they are doing so.
J. Acting in an unsafe manner at any time
K. Stunting (or tumbling on MHS premises) without a coach present
L. Having been found in participation of other sports teams
M. Any other reason deemed necessary by the coach
a. Please refer to merit/demerit schedule
An Ineligibility contract will be signed by both the team member and the parent. This contract will
remain on file with the coach.

Section IV: Dismissal

Cheerleaders that have been dismissed, or who resign from the MHS Cheer Program will not be able
to return to the team that year or be permitted to participate in the following year’s team. A member may
be dismissed under any of the following circumstances:
A. Use or possession of drugs or alcohol, or the reasonable appearance of such.
B. Activity on Social Media, Internet, Email, etc. that is deemed inappropriate by the Cheer
Coaches/Administration.
C. Receiving below a 2.0 GPA at the end of a quarter
D. Receiving an F in two or more classes at the end of a quarter
E. Any other reason deemed necessary by the Cheer Coaches/Administration (including but not
limited to: illegal behavior, injuries or changes in health).
If a cheerleader is removed or resigns from the MHS Cheer Program, they will lose all privileges of
the cheerleading organization.

A. Students may no longer wear any part of the cheerleading uniform.

B. All school-issued equipment and uniforms must be returned immediately for the remainder of the
year.
 C. The student will be held financially responsible for any balances due. No refunds of any kind
will be made.
D. The student will receive a “U” for not completing the year and student’s grade may be affected by
the missed points that will occur.
E. The coach may or may not choose to fill any openings that occur after the official tryouts.

Typically, we will place a cheerleader on ineligible status for one term for a first offense (probation). In
extreme cases immediate dismissal will occur.

ARTICLE VI- FINANCES AND FUNDRAISING

Section I: Financial Obligations
Cheerleaders are required to pay all fees/dues at the time of registration and appropriated due
date. Failure to make timely payments may result in ineligibility status and may lead to dismissal.
Payments are due on the due date. Cheerleaders are not permitted to extend deadlines for any reason,
including waiting to see how fundraisers turn out. Any portion of dues that is covered by fundraisers after
already having been paid will be refunded.

Section II: Fundraising

The cheer coach and administration will approve or disapprove fundraisers to help with team
expenses. Fundraisers for personal expenses are optional. Fundraisers to help with team expenses are
required and cheerleader parents are strongly encouraged to participate. Parents and students will
primarily be running the two allowed fundraisers aside from Junior Cheer (Junior cheer is mandatory. The
proceeds from this fundraiser go to the MHS Cheer fund). These are your dues so you will be expected to
cover them one way or another, on time.

ARTICLE VI- PRACTICES, CHEERING, AND PERFORMING

Cheerleaders must arrive 10 minutes early for all practices, cheer events, etc. to ensure time to
have hair up, shoes on, jewelry off, and be ready to go. All cheerleaders must be 100% ready once we are
scheduled to start. We don’t have time to wait for you. Strikes will be given if you show up unprepared.
Call time means you are in your designated area ready to go, lined up.

Section I: Practices
A. Practices to prepare for camp and the upcoming school year will be set by the coach.
B. During the school year, regular practices will be held on cheer class days (B1). All cheerleaders
must be on time and in attendance to all practices unless excused by the coach.
C. Additional practices may be needed for upcoming performances and may be called at any time.
D. During all practices, members are to wear appropriate assigned athletic attire. Members are not
to wear school clothes or street shoes. Hair must be pulled up, secured away from the face and
cheer shoes must be worn at all times.
E. Cheerleaders are not to miss cheer practices for doctor’s appointments, detention, test make-ups,
etc. These must be done at another time.
F. When learning routines or cheers, the person in charge will be respected.
G. Material is expected to be mastered quickly (know what you were taught by the next practice) so
that we can move on. You must practice at home.
H. Cheerleaders will not talk, chew gum, eat, or do other distracting things during practice. NO
VISITING with girlfriends, boyfriends, or platonic friends during practices.
I. Cell Phone use during practices is strictly prohibited without receiving the coach’s permission
first. Cell phones must be turned in to the coach at the start of practice and will be returned at the
end.
J. Schedule will be posted on TeamSnap. Sometimes we miss things. Please refer to the school’s
schedule if you are not sure if it’s an A day or B day, etc.
 K. We are required to let students out of class 10 minutes prior to their release time. We typically
give 30 minutes to get ready. In rare circumstances the students may be required to stay later than
usual. This will typically happen when there are behavior issues but they will always be
dismissed with 10 minutes or more until their bell rings.
L. Students are not permitted to leave campus during school hours without being checked out by
parents.

Section II: Cheering and Performing

The following rules shall govern cheering and performances:
A. All cheerleaders are required to attend all assigned games and performances unless previously
excused by the coach.
B. Cheerleaders will be 100% ready and lined up before call time or they will be considered late.
C. Each cheerleader is expected to have ALL uniform items with them at games and performances.
We will do bag checks from time to time to make sure that this is being followed and to make
sure that we are prepared in the event that we need to make a uniform change at the last minute
for any reason.
a. Coaches may ask cheerleaders to dump their bags. For example, if someone is alleging
that a cheerleader has illegal substances, coaches and/or administrators may search cheer
bags/personal backpacks/and lockers at any time.
D. Cheerleaders will be at the appointed place at the appointed time designated by the coach or they
will receive a tardy and reduced points.
E. Cheerleaders shall be dressed in proper cheer attire with hair and makeup done as decided by
coach.
F. Uniform must be kept spotless at all times.
G. Makeup should be natural and not excessive. Nail polish or fake nails are not allowed for
performances. Designated orange lipstick is part of your uniform, with the exception of the month
of October where team members will wear pink.
H. Cheerleaders will not talk, chew gum, text, eat, or do other distracting things during games or
performances aside from designated snack breaks.
I. There will be one person in charge. Strict attention will be given to that person. Whatever
decision they make will be final.
J. Strict discipline will be followed at all times.
K. The coach reserves the right to move cheerleaders within squads as necessary at any time for any
reason.
L. Game requirements:
a. There is no talking while cheering or performing.
b. Rally all the way on and all the way off of your performing surface
c. Cheerleaders are required to kick every time they rally and jump at least every three
times they rally. We do keep track and this is graded.
d. Football season:
i. Tumbling is part of rallying. Students are expected to do so at least 3 times per
game quarter.
ii. Students are required to stunt every quarter during football games.
iii. Students will cheer at least every 3 true minutes (not game minutes)
e. Basketball season
i. Timeouts will be used to dance, stunt, and or tumble; determined by coach or
captains. This is not break time. Please do not have side conversations.
ii. Students will cheer at least every 3 true minutes (not game minutes)

Section III: Travel

For an away game or event, cheerleaders will travel by bus to the event. The following rules govern
travel for cheerleaders:
A. ALL cheerleaders will be required to ride the bus to and from the event.
B. Conduct on the bus should be that of a representative of Murray High School.
C. You must remain seated (sitting up) and all body parts inside the bus at all times.
D. You must keep your voice quiet. No singing or audible music. Do not yell out the windows.
E. Clean up your seat and floor area before exiting the bus.
F. If a cheerleader misses the bus, they will receive an unexcused absence and will not be allowed to
participate in cheering or performing, but will be required to attend the event.
G. If circumstances prevent a cheerleader from riding the bus provided, the only approved
transportation is with that cheerleader’s parent or legal guardian. Under no circumstances may a
cheerleader ride with another student, other parents, or drive in private cars.
H. If a cheerleader attends the cheer team trip, they are required to travel with and stay with the team
the entire trip.