Is everyone ready or scrambling

Date: Tue Oct 9 10:51 PM, 2007

RE: Is everyone ready or scrambling

coachb · Veteran Member

if you want to check the gym out online go to cheerodyssey.com, your fist class is always free and we have divisions 1-5 dispersed across 9 teams currently practicing including 2 hip hop teams.

I'm not sure where you are commuting from but if you're in the central valley there's also Athletic Perfection in Tracy athleticperfectioncheer.com.

good luck I really hope u find a gym that you can be proud of and enjoy as much as your athelete does =).

-coach b

Cheer411 · Senior Member

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

My Friend read this and suggested I come on here and read about others who are experiencing dealing with poor attendance at cheer gyms. I agree that we should not pay for cheer programs that have bad attendance, I too am dealing with the same problem in the sac area. I have expressed my concern as a parent in the most respectful way that I could. Trying hard to respect their program and not step on toes, but it is now getting to the point that I may need to take my daughter out of the program. I have no problems paying to get her into a new program where the athletes,coaches and parents are just as committed as we are. It is a hard place to be at right now with the season getting ready to kick off. I am trying to support the gym and the coaches, but it is getting difficult. Does anyone know of any outstanding programs with dedicated athletes,coaches and parents in the sac area?????

i am realistic and know that no gym will be perfect, but when you are spending the kind of money for All Star cheer you should at least be content and some what satified without expecting things to be perfect. i really would like any suggestions you may have

Sac Area Gyms -

Sacramento Royals - South Sacramento
University Cheer Force - Elk Grove
Club Spirit - Rancho Cordova
Sac All-Stars - North Sacramento
Roseville Cheer Starz - Roseville
Power - Rocklin
Rebels - Lincoln
American Powerhouse T&T - Rocklin

You can choose from any of those gyms, hope it helps.

What is your definition of poor attendance? 1 or 2 cheerleaders missing? Half the squad missing?    There are lots of teams that will miss cheerleaders for different reasons here and there:   school, illness, injuries, family, even extrodinary emotional situations (some one close to them is battling a terminal illness, they just lost a love one, something tragic has happened to them personally, a BAD relationship - ABUSE).

Does the lack of attendance come from just individual or is it skattered throughout your gym? If it's the same person on a consistant basis, then there may be more to the puzzle then you know(or should know for that matter).   Perhaps, something very tragic has happened? ANd if the coaches haven't kicked that person off yet, there has to be a really good reason, and I would look at the tail end of my examples.   If you don't know the reason for the absence (because all cheerleaders talk and now the reasons before even the coaches) and all the other cheerleaders don't know, you bet it's something more than just a cold. So, you may want to cut this person a break.

As a parent it is not my right to ask the whys, but it is my right to ask if my cheerleader is going to be competition ready.

It is the coach's job to ensure that your cheerleader is able to practice what (s)he needs to, to get his/her job done. Is this the case? Is your cheerleader able to base, back spot, or fly consistantly? If the answer is yes! Then honestly, you do not have an attendance problem. Now take it one step higher, is 3/4 the team able to run the skills? Again if the answer is yes, then there isn't an attendance problem.

I would stick it out at least through the season.  Nothing worse than a parent pulling their cheerleader because of someone else on/off the floor. It's not your cheerleader's fault or the other 98% of those other cheerleaders that (show up with your cheerleader) EVERY single night.

And finally, I honestly, do not believe you are going to find a gym that has a perfect attendance record.   It doesn't matter if the gym charges for missed practices, something is going to happen. However, if you do find that "perfect attendance" gym, write that gym's name on this message board. This gym needs to be publicly recognized.

Date: Wed Oct 10 7:11 AM, 2007

coachb wrote:

if you want to check the gym out online go to cheerodyssey.com, your fist class is always free and we have divisions 1-5 dispersed across 9 teams currently practicing including 2 hip hop teams.

I'm not sure where you are commuting from but if you're in the central valley there's also Athletic Perfection in Tracy athleticperfectioncheer.com.

good luck I really hope u find a gym that you can be proud of and enjoy as much as your athelete does =).

-coach b

Hey there Coach B -
I know Cheer Odyssey has been growing like crazy, I was wondering if you guys have any plans to open a gym more on the north side of Stockton, espeically since some of your gym population is from the lodi/galt area?

Date: Wed Oct 10 7:21 AM, 2007

Cheer411 wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

My Friend read this and suggested I come on here and read about others who are experiencing dealing with poor attendance at cheer gyms. I agree that we should not pay for cheer programs that have bad attendance, I too am dealing with the same problem in the sac area. I have expressed my concern as a parent in the most respectful way that I could. Trying hard to respect their program and not step on toes, but it is now getting to the point that I may need to take my daughter out of the program. I have no problems paying to get her into a new program where the athletes,coaches and parents are just as committed as we are. It is a hard place to be at right now with the season getting ready to kick off. I am trying to support the gym and the coaches, but it is getting difficult. Does anyone know of any outstanding programs with dedicated athletes,coaches and parents in the sac area?????

i am realistic and know that no gym will be perfect, but when you are spending the kind of money for All Star cheer you should at least be content and some what satified without expecting things to be perfect. i really would like any suggestions you may have

Sac Area Gyms -

Sacramento Royals - South Sacramento
University Cheer Force - Elk Grove
Club Spirit - Rancho Cordova
Sac All-Stars - North Sacramento
Roseville Cheer Starz - Roseville
Power - Rocklin
Rebels - Lincoln
American Powerhouse T&T - Rocklin

You can choose from any of those gyms, hope it helps.

What is your definition of poor attendance? 1 or 2 cheerleaders missing? Half the squad missing?    There are lots of teams that will miss cheerleaders for different reasons here and there:   school, illness, injuries, family, even extrodinary emotional situations (some one close to them is battling a terminal illness, they just lost a love one, something tragic has happened to them personally, a BAD relationship - ABUSE).

Does the lack of attendance come from just individual or is it skattered throughout your gym? If it's the same person on a consistant basis, then there may be more to the puzzle then you know(or should know for that matter).   Perhaps, something very tragic has happened? ANd if the coaches haven't kicked that person off yet, there has to be a really good reason, and I would look at the tail end of my examples.   If you don't know the reason for the absence (because all cheerleaders talk and now the reasons before even the coaches) and all the other cheerleaders don't know, you bet it's something more than just a cold. So, you may want to cut this person a break.

As a parent it is not my right to ask the whys, but it is my right to ask if my cheerleader is going to be competition ready.

It is the coach's job to ensure that your cheerleader is able to practice what (s)he needs to, to get his/her job done. Is this the case? Is your cheerleader able to base, back spot, or fly consistantly? If the answer is yes! Then honestly, you do not have an attendance problem. Now take it one step higher, is 3/4 the team able to run the skills? Again if the answer is yes, then there isn't an attendance problem.

I would stick it out at least through the season.  Nothing worse than a parent pulling their cheerleader because of someone else on/off the floor. It's not your cheerleader's fault or the other 98% of those other cheerleaders that (show up with your cheerleader) EVERY single night.

And finally, I honestly, do not believe you are going to find a gym that has a perfect attendance record.   It doesn't matter if the gym charges for missed practices, something is going to happen. However, if you do find that "perfect attendance" gym, write that gym's name on this message board. This gym needs to be publicly recognized.

Thank you this is good advice and I agree that there may be other issues that I am unaware of and do not need to know. I do have to say that the attendance problem has been all around poor. I specifically remember only 1 week since beginning this program that they announced everyone finally made it to practice. I guess the real issue is practices are just not productive for a squad who is constantly missing someone. The girls who are not there also cheer for other schools and when they return to allstar or even show up late, they dont get down to business. a lot of talikng, kids checking cell phones and coaches who think its ok to sit and coach. I understand issues coming up and sympathize with that, but the gym from my perspective is not handling the responsibilty properly.

You made a great point when mentioning if the squad members are able to continue basing,flying etc... and they do, however consistently the flyer is being dropped completely on the floor. Which brings me to a safety issue. Even if the girls are able o practice with out someone from the squad missing everyday (and I do mean every practice) they are not able to practice the skills needed and therefore injuries occur.

As I stated befor I am not expecting perfect attendace or for a gym to be perfect.

That is the furthest thing from the truth. But I am expecting the gym to be responsible with our childrens well being as a whole.

There is nothing worse than watching a squad with the fulliest potential, a great choreographed routine, talented cheerleaders go out on the competition floor and not perform well , not because they are not capable, but because they were not able to. Due to unprepardeness.

I guess what I feel is... If practices seemed more organized with less chattering, the coaches getting down to business and if the squad as a whole looked prepared and you could see them progressing in all areas besides tumbling. You know the coaches are cleaning up the routine, you werent watching the kids laying on the floor, checking their phones etc..... It would not seem so bad

I hope that makes sense? Maybe there are great reasons for the girls not being there and I believe thats the case. What I am starting to get unhappy about is what takes place at the gym even though those girls are not there.

Really I hope smile I am making a legitimate point. I do not wish to bash the gym. reassurance that our children are honestly getting the most out of each practice. That they are not losing their self esteem and confidence that we all know they gain from any competitive sport.

Thank you for making very good points

Date: Wed Oct 10 7:52 AM, 2007

Anonymous wrote:

coachb wrote:

if you want to check the gym out online go to cheerodyssey.com, your fist class is always free and we have divisions 1-5 dispersed across 9 teams currently practicing including 2 hip hop teams.

I'm not sure where you are commuting from but if you're in the central valley there's also Athletic Perfection in Tracy athleticperfectioncheer.com.

good luck I really hope u find a gym that you can be proud of and enjoy as much as your athelete does =).

-coach b

Hey there Coach B -
I know Cheer Odyssey has been growing like crazy, I was wondering if you guys have any plans to open a gym more on the north side of Stockton, espeically since some of your gym population is from the lodi/galt area?

Thank you I will check you guys out online and judging from the comments and I have a friend who just joined your squad and has nothing but wonderful things to say about the orginization as a whole we will be def looking into your program. If not this season next season for sure! commuting is not a problem for us, we will make the commute. She told me like any other gym, CO has the same things, but it is the overall atmosphere of the orginization. The gym spirit is amazing and contagious. The team unity and bonding help the girls so they want to be at practice and there for each other. That is what being in this sport is all about.
I just want to point out I noticed that myself last season about your gym. just from sitting near your fans. One of your parents asked what gym we were form and we told them (a relatively small gym) and she passed it a long to some of your other parents and they yelled with us it was great. Then we you came on they sad ok we are up next this is our chant and we yelled with them. Like I said contagious.

It is nice to see at cheer competition the unity and family like feel. Your orginization,all the cheer gym teams including AP, airborne and so many others. I dont know what you are doing at your gym to bring that type of unity and spirit but you guys have it.

I don't even know if my daughter even has a friend or has connected with anyone on her squad yet

OdysseyMom · Veteran Member

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

coachb wrote:

if you want to check the gym out online go to cheerodyssey.com, your fist class is always free and we have divisions 1-5 dispersed across 9 teams currently practicing including 2 hip hop teams.

I'm not sure where you are commuting from but if you're in the central valley there's also Athletic Perfection in Tracy athleticperfectioncheer.com.

good luck I really hope u find a gym that you can be proud of and enjoy as much as your athelete does =).

-coach b

Hey there Coach B -
I know Cheer Odyssey has been growing like crazy, I was wondering if you guys have any plans to open a gym more on the north side of Stockton, espeically since some of your gym population is from the lodi/galt area?

Thank you I will check you guys out online and judging from the comments and I have a friend who just joined your squad and has nothing but wonderful things to say about the orginization as a whole we will be def looking into your program. If not this season next season for sure! commuting is not a problem for us, we will make the commute. She told me like any other gym, CO has the same things, but it is the overall atmosphere of the orginization. The gym spirit is amazing and contagious. The team unity and bonding help the girls so they want to be at practice and there for each other. That is what being in this sport is all about.
I just want to point out I noticed that myself last season about your gym. just from sitting near your fans. One of your parents asked what gym we were form and we told them (a relatively small gym) and she passed it a long to some of your other parents and they yelled with us it was great. Then we you came on they sad ok we are up next this is our chant and we yelled with them. Like I said contagious.

It is nice to see at cheer competition the unity and family like feel. Your orginization,all the cheer gym teams including AP, airborne and so many others. I dont know what you are doing at your gym to bring that type of unity and spirit but you guys have it.

I don't even know if my daughter even has a friend or has connected with anyone on her squad yet

We have a few different options in our area. One gym is within a five minute drive, we checked it out but my daughter felt the environment was not for her. Our previous gym also a 5-10 minute drive is a very successful program and we were there for 2 years. Both of these gyms are a hop skip and jump from our house. Now we drive to Stockton on a good day it takes us about 35-45 minutes. If I knew sooner where CO was I would have went there last year. When I think Stockton I think Hammer Lane, You could barely call where Odyssey is Stockton. It is right off of Arch Road. I know in the winter it will take us on hour or so, but it is worth the drive. We chose to go to Odyssey because our previous program was no longer fitting my daughters needs. After a frustrating year and not wanting to cheer anymore she took the summer off and checked out a few of the gyms in our area. After attending a tryout practice at CO, she fell in love!!!!!!!!!! I measure the success of the program not only by how many first place trophies they win, but by how my child feels and is treated. She cannot wait to get to the gym and she never wants to leave. She might not be the most flexible or the best tumbler, but she has found a team where she is really starting to come in to her own. Not only that, we have so many bonding activities its hard to keep track, from Luaus, camping trips, B-B-Qs and Halloween parties. It feels like home and we love it. Her teammates and coaches are so encouraging even if they have a bad practice they know how to make each other feel better and not leave upset or disappointed. I LOVE CO!!!

-- Edited by OdysseyMom at 10:57, 2007-10-10

Alton · Newbie

wow i guess its true the gym owners are all over this site and well aware of what pertains to them so why be annoymous, i was hoping this forum really was annoymous but may not be
can the owners contact cheergyms and find out who the person is

maybe i have a owner who is just really smart but i got a phone call today asking if i am the unhappy parent at the gym. so it is out there it is me. i wonder how this will effect my daughter?

thank you for the great advice it has helped our decision

Date: Wed Oct 10 11:00 AM, 2007

Alton that sucks and takes the anonymous right out of it.
To be honest, I still think you could have been from any number of gyms.. I actaully thought you were from my gym.

Date: Wed Oct 10 11:13 AM, 2007

If you received a phone call asking if you were the parent I would hope it was just a lucky guess on the part of the person asking. I don't believe cheergyms or anyone else tracks down who anonymous posters are, otherwise it really would defeat the purpose. The site has monitors who will pull inappropriate posts off (gym bashing for instance) but other than that I would hope that all subjects are open for discussion.

Danny · Senior Member

Ya...trust me. As the host of this site, cheergyms.com has no more access to identity or information than anyone does when they look at someones profile page.

I just think a descriptive post and a guilty conscience brought that situation to the light.

Cheer411 · Senior Member

Anonymous wrote:

Cheer411 wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

My Friend read this and suggested I come on here and read about others who are experiencing dealing with poor attendance at cheer gyms. I agree that we should not pay for cheer programs that have bad attendance, I too am dealing with the same problem in the sac area. I have expressed my concern as a parent in the most respectful way that I could. Trying hard to respect their program and not step on toes, but it is now getting to the point that I may need to take my daughter out of the program. I have no problems paying to get her into a new program where the athletes,coaches and parents are just as committed as we are. It is a hard place to be at right now with the season getting ready to kick off. I am trying to support the gym and the coaches, but it is getting difficult. Does anyone know of any outstanding programs with dedicated athletes,coaches and parents in the sac area?????

i am realistic and know that no gym will be perfect, but when you are spending the kind of money for All Star cheer you should at least be content and some what satified without expecting things to be perfect. i really would like any suggestions you may have

Sac Area Gyms -

Sacramento Royals - South Sacramento
University Cheer Force - Elk Grove
Club Spirit - Rancho Cordova
Sac All-Stars - North Sacramento
Roseville Cheer Starz - Roseville
Power - Rocklin
Rebels - Lincoln
American Powerhouse T&T - Rocklin

You can choose from any of those gyms, hope it helps.

What is your definition of poor attendance? 1 or 2 cheerleaders missing? Half the squad missing?    There are lots of teams that will miss cheerleaders for different reasons here and there:   school, illness, injuries, family, even extrodinary emotional situations (some one close to them is battling a terminal illness, they just lost a love one, something tragic has happened to them personally, a BAD relationship - ABUSE).

Does the lack of attendance come from just individual or is it skattered throughout your gym? If it's the same person on a consistant basis, then there may be more to the puzzle then you know(or should know for that matter).   Perhaps, something very tragic has happened? ANd if the coaches haven't kicked that person off yet, there has to be a really good reason, and I would look at the tail end of my examples.   If you don't know the reason for the absence (because all cheerleaders talk and now the reasons before even the coaches) and all the other cheerleaders don't know, you bet it's something more than just a cold. So, you may want to cut this person a break.

As a parent it is not my right to ask the whys, but it is my right to ask if my cheerleader is going to be competition ready.

It is the coach's job to ensure that your cheerleader is able to practice what (s)he needs to, to get his/her job done. Is this the case? Is your cheerleader able to base, back spot, or fly consistantly? If the answer is yes! Then honestly, you do not have an attendance problem. Now take it one step higher, is 3/4 the team able to run the skills? Again if the answer is yes, then there isn't an attendance problem.

I would stick it out at least through the season.  Nothing worse than a parent pulling their cheerleader because of someone else on/off the floor. It's not your cheerleader's fault or the other 98% of those other cheerleaders that (show up with your cheerleader) EVERY single night.

And finally, I honestly, do not believe you are going to find a gym that has a perfect attendance record.   It doesn't matter if the gym charges for missed practices, something is going to happen. However, if you do find that "perfect attendance" gym, write that gym's name on this message board. This gym needs to be publicly recognized.

Thank you this is good advice and I agree that there may be other issues that I am unaware of and do not need to know. I do have to say that the attendance problem has been all around poor. I specifically remember only 1 week since beginning this program that they announced everyone finally made it to practice. I guess the real issue is practices are just not productive for a squad who is constantly missing someone. The girls who are not there also cheer for other schools and when they return to allstar or even show up late, they dont get down to business. a lot of talikng, kids checking cell phones and coaches who think its ok to sit and coach. I understand issues coming up and sympathize with that, but the gym from my perspective is not handling the responsibilty properly.

You made a great point when mentioning if the squad members are able to continue basing,flying etc... and they do, however consistently the flyer is being dropped completely on the floor. Which brings me to a safety issue. Even if the girls are able o practice with out someone from the squad missing everyday (and I do mean every practice) they are not able to practice the skills needed and therefore injuries occur.

As I stated befor I am not expecting perfect attendace or for a gym to be perfect.
That is the furthest thing from the truth. But I am expecting the gym to be responsible with our childrens well being as a whole.

There is nothing worse than watching a squad with the fulliest potential, a great choreographed routine, talented cheerleaders go out on the competition floor and not perform well , not because they are not capable, but because they were not able to. Due to unprepardeness.

I guess what I feel is... If practices seemed more organized with less chattering, the coaches getting down to business and if the squad as a whole looked prepared and you could see them progressing in all areas besides tumbling. You know the coaches are cleaning up the routine, you werent watching the kids laying on the floor, checking their phones etc..... It would not seem so bad

I hope that makes sense? Maybe there are great reasons for the girls not being there and I believe thats the case. What I am starting to get unhappy about is what takes place at the gym even though those girls are not there.

Really I hope I am making a legitimate point. I do not wish to bash the gym. reassurance that our children are honestly getting the most out of each practice. That they are not losing their self esteem and confidence that we all know they gain from any competitive sport.

Thank you for making very good points

Wow! To me it sounds like you are able to watch every practice on a consistant bases? So, they let you parents watch practice every night? If this is true, you are in the minority. There are not many gyms that let parents in the gym at all....not for any reason. Perhaps, this could be a reason why the cheerleaders are behaving in this fashion....I don't know.

You have changed up on the reasons why you question your current gym. And I don't want to go into those details. I want to get back the attendance thing.

Our gym does a great job acknowledging those that have PERFECT attendance throughout the season. However, as the awards are handed out, you can count the number of girls that receive this award on one hand. Is your cheerleader one of these cheerleaders? If so, fantastic! You have an amazely healthy cheerleader. To be able to perform every single night and not miss a practice is a tribute to you cheerleader.

However, there are times that our cheerleaders may have a tumbling injury, a school injury, or is just really sick, and they need to sit out and just watch. These cheerleaders can not contribute to the stunting sequences, can't jump, etc. However, they get credit for attending. Is this really contributing to a great practice?

What are your thoughts?

Alton · Newbie

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Not sure what area you are from or if you are commuting to Sacramento, but I would also recommend Cheer Odyssey which is in Stockton, they picked up a lot of previous 720 cheerleaders when 720 closed.

Thank you I will call Cheer Odyssey and visit the gym. Thank you for the suggestion

Thanks danny im sure you are right but hey no harm in the gym knowing if someone is uhappy
i stand by my statements as they are true to how i feel

as i said before not here to bash the gym just seeking some good ol advice and insight

and with that said this forum has been helpful

Alton · Newbie

Cheer411 wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Cheer411 wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

My Friend read this and suggested I come on here and read about others who are experiencing dealing with poor attendance at cheer gyms. I agree that we should not pay for cheer programs that have bad attendance, I too am dealing with the same problem in the sac area. I have expressed my concern as a parent in the most respectful way that I could. Trying hard to respect their program and not step on toes, but it is now getting to the point that I may need to take my daughter out of the program. I have no problems paying to get her into a new program where the athletes,coaches and parents are just as committed as we are. It is a hard place to be at right now with the season getting ready to kick off. I am trying to support the gym and the coaches, but it is getting difficult. Does anyone know of any outstanding programs with dedicated athletes,coaches and parents in the sac area?????

i am realistic and know that no gym will be perfect, but when you are spending the kind of money for All Star cheer you should at least be content and some what satified without expecting things to be perfect. i really would like any suggestions you may have

Sac Area Gyms -

Sacramento Royals - South Sacramento
University Cheer Force - Elk Grove
Club Spirit - Rancho Cordova
Sac All-Stars - North Sacramento
Roseville Cheer Starz - Roseville
Power - Rocklin
Rebels - Lincoln
American Powerhouse T&T - Rocklin

You can choose from any of those gyms, hope it helps.

What is your definition of poor attendance? 1 or 2 cheerleaders missing? Half the squad missing?    There are lots of teams that will miss cheerleaders for different reasons here and there:   school, illness, injuries, family, even extrodinary emotional situations (some one close to them is battling a terminal illness, they just lost a love one, something tragic has happened to them personally, a BAD relationship - ABUSE).

Does the lack of attendance come from just individual or is it skattered throughout your gym? If it's the same person on a consistant basis, then there may be more to the puzzle then you know(or should know for that matter).   Perhaps, something very tragic has happened? ANd if the coaches haven't kicked that person off yet, there has to be a really good reason, and I would look at the tail end of my examples.   If you don't know the reason for the absence (because all cheerleaders talk and now the reasons before even the coaches) and all the other cheerleaders don't know, you bet it's something more than just a cold. So, you may want to cut this person a break.

As a parent it is not my right to ask the whys, but it is my right to ask if my cheerleader is going to be competition ready.

It is the coach's job to ensure that your cheerleader is able to practice what (s)he needs to, to get his/her job done. Is this the case? Is your cheerleader able to base, back spot, or fly consistantly? If the answer is yes! Then honestly, you do not have an attendance problem. Now take it one step higher, is 3/4 the team able to run the skills? Again if the answer is yes, then there isn't an attendance problem.

I would stick it out at least through the season.  Nothing worse than a parent pulling their cheerleader because of someone else on/off the floor. It's not your cheerleader's fault or the other 98% of those other cheerleaders that (show up with your cheerleader) EVERY single night.

And finally, I honestly, do not believe you are going to find a gym that has a perfect attendance record.   It doesn't matter if the gym charges for missed practices, something is going to happen. However, if you do find that "perfect attendance" gym, write that gym's name on this message board. This gym needs to be publicly recognized.

Thank you this is good advice and I agree that there may be other issues that I am unaware of and do not need to know. I do have to say that the attendance problem has been all around poor. I specifically remember only 1 week since beginning this program that they announced everyone finally made it to practice. I guess the real issue is practices are just not productive for a squad who is constantly missing someone. The girls who are not there also cheer for other schools and when they return to allstar or even show up late, they dont get down to business. a lot of talikng, kids checking cell phones and coaches who think its ok to sit and coach. I understand issues coming up and sympathize with that, but the gym from my perspective is not handling the responsibilty properly.

You made a great point when mentioning if the squad members are able to continue basing,flying etc... and they do, however consistently the flyer is being dropped completely on the floor. Which brings me to a safety issue. Even if the girls are able o practice with out someone from the squad missing everyday (and I do mean every practice) they are not able to practice the skills needed and therefore injuries occur.

As I stated befor I am not expecting perfect attendace or for a gym to be perfect.
That is the furthest thing from the truth. But I am expecting the gym to be responsible with our childrens well being as a whole.

There is nothing worse than watching a squad with the fulliest potential, a great choreographed routine, talented cheerleaders go out on the competition floor and not perform well , not because they are not capable, but because they were not able to. Due to unprepardeness.

I guess what I feel is... If practices seemed more organized with less chattering, the coaches getting down to business and if the squad as a whole looked prepared and you could see them progressing in all areas besides tumbling. You know the coaches are cleaning up the routine, you werent watching the kids laying on the floor, checking their phones etc..... It would not seem so bad

I hope that makes sense? Maybe there are great reasons for the girls not being there and I believe thats the case. What I am starting to get unhappy about is what takes place at the gym even though those girls are not there.

Really I hope I am making a legitimate point. I do not wish to bash the gym. reassurance that our children are honestly getting the most out of each practice. That they are not losing their self esteem and confidence that we all know they gain from any competitive sport.

Thank you for making very good points

Wow! To me it sounds like you are able to watch every practice on a consistant bases? So, they let you parents watch practice every night? If this is true, you are in the minority. There are not many gyms that let parents in the gym at all....not for any reason. Perhaps, this could be a reason why the cheerleaders are behaving in this fashion....I don't know.

You have changed up on the reasons why you question your current gym. And I don't want to go into those details. I want to get back the attendance thing.

Our gym does a great job acknowledging those that have PERFECT attendance throughout the season. However, as the awards are handed out, you can count the number of girls that receive this award on one hand. Is your cheerleader one of these cheerleaders?    If so, fantastic! You have an amazely healthy cheerleader. To be able to perform every single night and not miss a practice is a tribute to you cheerleader.

However, there are times that our cheerleaders may have a tumbling injury, a school injury, or is just really sick, and they need to sit out and just watch. These cheerleaders can not contribute to the stunting sequences, can't jump, etc. However, they get credit for attending. Is this really contributing to a great practice?

What are your thoughts?

as before you bring up very good points we do have an open door policy at the gym and i never thought about it. that the girls may act that way because parents are there . if it would benefit the squad i am for closed practices it would probably do wonders the parents may not like it but the girls and coaches would probably benefit from it. because we do commute i do sit in on practice but would happily sit in my car and sleep if that would benefit practices and the gym wanted that

and yes my initial comment was about attendance but i responded to the questions you asked concerning stunting the reasons why the girls are not there etc which is why i pointed out the other things that were going on at the gym
explaining i understand the attendance issue is morethan i prob know or should know but what happens with that at practice is what i was reponding to

WahiniJen · Member

>>as before you bring up very good points we do have an open door policy at the gym and i never thought about it. that the girls may act that way because parents are there . if it would benefit the squad i am for closed practices it would probably do wonders the parents may not like it but the girls and coaches would probably benefit from it. because we do commute i do sit in on practice but would happily sit in my car and sleep if that would benefit practices and the gym wanted that<<

At Cheer Odyssey we have a comfortable (if somewhat crowded) parents' viewing lounge and snack bar area. Lots of parents watch the teams practice from time to time, yet the coaches do a nice job of keeping the kids motivated and on-task, even with the parents watching

The parents love to cheer on the kids (not just their own) when they hit a stunt for the first time, or finally land their running back handspring or standing tuck. It has a very nice community-feel to it (and this is only our first full season there).

Personally, I don't think I would be comfortable dropping my young daughter off at a closed-door gym and not be able to watch her skills progress, or see the excitement on her face when she masters a challenging dance segment or tumbling run.

(It also wouldn't be much fun without the social interaction between the parents that our gym really encourages.)

Date: Wed Oct 10 4:18 PM, 2007

While there are many things we might miss at our "old gym", the "WINDOW" is not one of them nor are the parents who plant themselves there like a Garfield doll riding in the back window of a Pinto. My children did not like the window and I did not enjoy hearing all the parents sitting around second guessing every move the coaches would make.

Nelson · Senior Member

"While there are many things we might miss at our "old gym", the "WINDOW" is not one of them nor are the parents who plant themselves there like a Garfield doll riding in the back window of a Pinto."

One of the funnier things I've heard this week! And I'd like to think this is true...but, to each their own.

YVCheerCoach · Veteran Member

Anonymous wrote:
I dont know how yu guys do it. I could never let my daughter be a part of a progam with bad overall attendance. That kind of cheerleading is better left to Youth FB & HS.

Do the coaches attend every practice. It's been my experience that bad attendance usually starts with the staff.

I would just like to say, that I coach at the high school level and poor attendance is NOT accepted there either, there are punishments for bad attendance. Why should poor attendance be relegated to high school cheer? We compete and perform, the cost to cheer at our school is not low by any means, we may not have all the skills of an All Star gym but that doesn't mean we should end up with only the cheerleaders who have no commitment, etc.
I don't think poor attendance should be acceptable at any level regardless of skill level. Many high school teams have All Star cheerleaders on them who balance their time between the two, I commend those girls and their parents for their dedication. Attendance is the single most important factor in cheer, we have no second string, when someone misses it affects everyone, regardless.

-- Edited by YVCheerCoach at 01:34, 2007-10-11

Date: Sat Oct 20 9:09 PM, 2007

Cheer411 wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Cheer411 wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

My Friend read this and suggested I come on here and read about others who are experiencing dealing with poor attendance at cheer gyms. I agree that we should not pay for cheer programs that have bad attendance, I too am dealing with the same problem in the sac area. I have expressed my concern as a parent in the most respectful way that I could. Trying hard to respect their program and not step on toes, but it is now getting to the point that I may need to take my daughter out of the program. I have no problems paying to get her into a new program where the athletes,coaches and parents are just as committed as we are. It is a hard place to be at right now with the season getting ready to kick off. I am trying to support the gym and the coaches, but it is getting difficult. Does anyone know of any outstanding programs with dedicated athletes,coaches and parents in the sac area?????

i am realistic and know that no gym will be perfect, but when you are spending the kind of money for All Star cheer you should at least be content and some what satified without expecting things to be perfect. i really would like any suggestions you may have

Sac Area Gyms -

Sacramento Royals - South Sacramento
University Cheer Force - Elk Grove
Club Spirit - Rancho Cordova
Sac All-Stars - North Sacramento
Roseville Cheer Starz - Roseville
Power - Rocklin
Rebels - Lincoln
American Powerhouse T&T - Rocklin

You can choose from any of those gyms, hope it helps.

What is your definition of poor attendance? 1 or 2 cheerleaders missing? Half the squad missing?    There are lots of teams that will miss cheerleaders for different reasons here and there:   school, illness, injuries, family, even extrodinary emotional situations (some one close to them is battling a terminal illness, they just lost a love one, something tragic has happened to them personally, a BAD relationship - ABUSE).

Does the lack of attendance come from just individual or is it skattered throughout your gym? If it's the same person on a consistant basis, then there may be more to the puzzle then you know(or should know for that matter).   Perhaps, something very tragic has happened? ANd if the coaches haven't kicked that person off yet, there has to be a really good reason, and I would look at the tail end of my examples.   If you don't know the reason for the absence (because all cheerleaders talk and now the reasons before even the coaches) and all the other cheerleaders don't know, you bet it's something more than just a cold. So, you may want to cut this person a break.

As a parent it is not my right to ask the whys, but it is my right to ask if my cheerleader is going to be competition ready.

It is the coach's job to ensure that your cheerleader is able to practice what (s)he needs to, to get his/her job done. Is this the case? Is your cheerleader able to base, back spot, or fly consistantly? If the answer is yes! Then honestly, you do not have an attendance problem. Now take it one step higher, is 3/4 the team able to run the skills? Again if the answer is yes, then there isn't an attendance problem.

I would stick it out at least through the season.  Nothing worse than a parent pulling their cheerleader because of someone else on/off the floor. It's not your cheerleader's fault or the other 98% of those other cheerleaders that (show up with your cheerleader) EVERY single night.

And finally, I honestly, do not believe you are going to find a gym that has a perfect attendance record.   It doesn't matter if the gym charges for missed practices, something is going to happen. However, if you do find that "perfect attendance" gym, write that gym's name on this message board. This gym needs to be publicly recognized.

Thank you this is good advice and I agree that there may be other issues that I am unaware of and do not need to know. I do have to say that the attendance problem has been all around poor. I specifically remember only 1 week since beginning this program that they announced everyone finally made it to practice. I guess the real issue is practices are just not productive for a squad who is constantly missing someone. The girls who are not there also cheer for other schools and when they return to allstar or even show up late, they dont get down to business. a lot of talikng, kids checking cell phones and coaches who think its ok to sit and coach. I understand issues coming up and sympathize with that, but the gym from my perspective is not handling the responsibilty properly.

You made a great point when mentioning if the squad members are able to continue basing,flying etc... and they do, however consistently the flyer is being dropped completely on the floor. Which brings me to a safety issue. Even if the girls are able o practice with out someone from the squad missing everyday (and I do mean every practice) they are not able to practice the skills needed and therefore injuries occur.

As I stated befor I am not expecting perfect attendace or for a gym to be perfect.
That is the furthest thing from the truth. But I am expecting the gym to be responsible with our childrens well being as a whole.

There is nothing worse than watching a squad with the fulliest potential, a great choreographed routine, talented cheerleaders go out on the competition floor and not perform well , not because they are not capable, but because they were not able to. Due to unprepardeness.

I guess what I feel is... If practices seemed more organized with less chattering, the coaches getting down to business and if the squad as a whole looked prepared and you could see them progressing in all areas besides tumbling. You know the coaches are cleaning up the routine, you werent watching the kids laying on the floor, checking their phones etc..... It would not seem so bad

I hope that makes sense? Maybe there are great reasons for the girls not being there and I believe thats the case. What I am starting to get unhappy about is what takes place at the gym even though those girls are not there.

Really I hope I am making a legitimate point. I do not wish to bash the gym. reassurance that our children are honestly getting the most out of each practice. That they are not losing their self esteem and confidence that we all know they gain from any competitive sport.

Thank you for making very good points

Wow! To me it sounds like you are able to watch every practice on a consistant bases? So, they let you parents watch practice every night? If this is true, you are in the minority. There are not many gyms that let parents in the gym at all....not for any reason. Perhaps, this could be a reason why the cheerleaders are behaving in this fashion....I don't know.

You have changed up on the reasons why you question your current gym. And I don't want to go into those details. I want to get back the attendance thing.

Our gym does a great job acknowledging those that have PERFECT attendance throughout the season. However, as the awards are handed out, you can count the number of girls that receive this award on one hand. Is your cheerleader one of these cheerleaders?    If so, fantastic! You have an amazely healthy cheerleader. To be able to perform every single night and not miss a practice is a tribute to you cheerleader.

However, there are times that our cheerleaders may have a tumbling injury, a school injury, or is just really sick, and they need to sit out and just watch. These cheerleaders can not contribute to the stunting sequences, can't jump, etc. However, they get credit for attending. Is this really contributing to a great practice?

What are your thoughts?

Just a comment that I dont think that they are the minority for being able to watch. I think it is equal every gym has their rules. I know of 2 gyms in our area because I have been to both gyms.