FAQ

Is this program just for Perry students?

No, everyone is welcome! Though the practices and games are held on school grounds the PYCA is an independent community program not affiliated with the school.

When can I register my child for youth cheer?

There are 4 in person registration opportunities on May 6th, 9th, 15th and June 5th from 6PM-8PM at the middle school cafeteria. You may also register online by going to the registration tab at the top of this page and filling out our online or mail in application. 

My child is homeschooled, how do I know what grade to sign them up for?

Please go by the child's age rather than the academic level. Most students start Kindergarten at 5, 1st grade at 6, etc.

What ages can participate in the youth cheer program?

The youth cheer program starts at Kindergarten and goes through 6th grade. Registration is based on the grade your child will be in come the fall season.

What is the registration cost?

Registration for the 2024 Fall Sideline season will be $50 per athlete.

Is there a payment plan option?

We do not want any athlete to be unable to play due to financial reasons. We offer a payment plan for those who may need it, please contact the PYCA board at adminuser@perryyouthcheer.com

Where do registration fees go?

 Registration fees go towards overhead costs for the program (insurance, association fees, domain, uniform cleaning, etc.) as well as things that directly affect your athlete (competition fees, uniform purchases, custom bows, t-shirts, etc.). 

Why do we have to fundraise?

Unlike most sports, Cheer has a lot of necessary expenses. In 2024 the PYCA board decided to cut registration costs in half to make the sport more affordable to athletes. In turn, fundraisers will be vital to cover the overhead costs that allow our program to run.

What equipment will I need to provide?

You will need to provide white ankle socks and white athletic shoes for your athletes.

When does the program run?

The youth cheer program starts the beginning of August and runs through October.

When and where are the games?

Games are played on Sundays starting in the morning/early afternoon. The location varies depending on the host school but all locations are within 30 minutes of Perry. 

When and where are practices?

2024 practice times are still TBD. Though the practices will be held on the Perry Public School track/football field.

Can games and practices be cancelled due to weather conditions?

Yes. Since our sport is an outdoor sport there is a chance that practices and games could be canceled due to lightning, excessive heat, or cold. The decision to cancel practices will be up to the coach and should be respected by all athletes and families. The decision to cancel games will be up to the football program. If football is not playing then we have no one to cheer for and will therefore cancel that game.

Will coaches be trained?

Though there is no formal training for coaches, the very experienced and trained varsity coaches will be hosting a private training for all youth cheer coaches in July.  Coaches will also have to pass background checks as well as pass a concussion training program.

I would like to coach, do I need a working knowledge of the sport?

At these ages the desire to coach is all you need! We will provide easy to follow training based on the age group you will be working with. At these ages they are just learning the basics which is an easy to grasp concept for any adult willing to help these developing athletes. And of course the PYCA board of directors and other coaches will be more than happy to help you in any way necessary for you and your athletes to have a successful season. 

I would like to coach but the thought of making a practice schedule is overwhelming?

That is okay! Your desire to coach is enough to get started. The PYCA board of directors will provide you with a sample practice plan that you can adjust to fit your team as needed. 

I can't commit to coaching right now, are there other ways I can help?

Of course! Parents/Guardians willing to help out are always welcome. Signing up for snack days or volunteering at our fundraisers are just a few ways that you can help. Contact your coach to find other ways that your help would be appreciated.

Will my athlete be stunting?

Yes! All athletes will get a chance to stunt. All stunting will build up through the appropriate progressions. Each grade will have its own limitations on stunt height and variety for safety purposes.

Will my athlete be tumbling?

Yes! Much like stunting, all athletes will have the chance to tumble. All tumbling will build up through the appropriate progressions. While tumbling skills will not be limited as each athlete will have their own unique skills, we will be practicing outside on the grass/track so higher skills will be spotted by an appropriate coach.

What else will my athlete be doing?

Of course the benchmark of cheering is... CHEERING! Your athlete will learn 18-20 chants to use between plays at games. They will also work on jumps and flexibility at practice.