Welcome to Needham Jr. Cheer
Needham Junior Cheerleading is a recreational program open to children in grades K through 8. We emphasize spirit, teamwork, safety, and commitment. Cheerleading is one of the nation’s fastest growing sports, and we are pleased to be a part of Needham’s proud cheer tradition!
SPIRIT
Needham Junior Cheer squads cheer at all Needham Junior Football games in the fall. Our cheerleaders promote spirit and crowd support during the games as well as perform a cheer routine at half-time. Home games usually take place on Saturdays at Memorial Field, and away games can be on Saturday or Sunday.
TEAMWORK
Cheerleading is a team sport that combines dance, tumbling, stunting and overall athleticism. It requires a high level of commitment from each participant. In addition to games, our squads participate in at least one cheer competition each season. Older squads often advance to regional and even national competitions.
COMMITMENT
Needham Junior Cheer has no tryouts and is open to children in grades 1 through 8 regardless of size or ability. Conditioning and skill repetition, however, are paramount to a safe and rewarding experience for every child. Each participant in our program is required to commit to attend practices and games, as well as competitions.
Summer practices for all teams start in mid-August. Older squads practice 4 nights a week, younger squads practice 3 nights a week until school starts.
After Labor Day, practices move indoors, and will be 2 hours, 3 times a week for older squads; and 90 mins, 2 times a week for younger squads. (Specific days/times will be determined soon.)
Competition is a wonderful way for our squads to show off all their hard work! Stay tuned for more information and dates.
Please note extra practices will be held for the two weeks leading up to competition. And while ALL practices are important, they are especially vital leading up to competition.
SAFETY
All Needham Junior Cheer coaches emphasize safety in practices and routines. All parents and participants should be aware of the inherent risks of the tumbling and stunting that are part of any cheer routine. We make every effort to ensure safe practice space, ensure proper conditioning and mastery of specific building skills before progressing to more difficult levels. Additionally, at least one member of each cheer squad, including its Head Coach, is required to be First Aid Certified.