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Berkshire Youth Cheer Player Code of Conduct

Berkshire Youth Cheer is a recreational cheerleading program serving youth in Great Barrington and the surrounding communities. The purpose of our program is to develop cheerleading skills while promoting physical fitness, sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership, confidence, and respect. We strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where every athlete has the opportunity to grow individually, excel in athletics, and appreciate the value of teamwork and healthy competition.

Our program functions through practices where athletes learn cheerleading techniques, motions, jumps, stunts, tumbling, game-day responsibilities, and performance routines. Participants may cheer at games, exhibitions, showcases, parades, and competitions throughout the season.

Berkshire Youth Cheer has established this Code of Conduct and requires that each participant commit to being responsible for their words and actions while attending or participating in any Berkshire Youth Cheer event. Athletes are expected to conform to the following standards:

1. I will follow the rules and expectations of Berkshire Youth Cheer and conduct myself in a respectful and dignified manner at all times when representing my team. I will ensure that my uniform, shoes, pom-poms, and all required equipment are complete, safe, and in good condition.

2. I understand that while competition and performance are important, doing my best, staying safe, supporting my teammates, and having fun are equally important parts of cheerleading.

3. I will treat everyone—including coaches, teammates, parents, opponents, officials, event staff, and spectators—with kindness and respect.

4. I understand that I am part of a team and will act as a team player. I will put the success, safety, and well-being of the team ahead of personal recognition or individual goals.

5. I will attend and actively participate in practices, games, performances, and competitions to the best of my ability. If I must miss an event due to illness, injury, school responsibilities, family obligations, or other unavoidable circumstances, I will notify my coach as soon as possible.

6. I will work hard in school and understand that academic responsibilities take precedence over cheerleading activities.

7. I will demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times. I will not use foul language, engage in bullying or taunting, or show disrespect toward teammates, coaches, officials, opponents, parents, or others involved in Berkshire Youth Cheer activities.

8. I will promote a positive team environment by encouraging others, accepting constructive feedback, and representing Berkshire Youth Cheer with pride both on and off the performance floor.

9. I understand that cheerleading requires focus and attention to safety. I will follow all coach instructions regarding stunts, tumbling, conditioning, and performance techniques to help protect myself and my teammates.

Athletes who fail to follow this Code of Conduct may be subject to disciplinary action deemed appropriate by Berkshire Youth Cheer leadership, which may include warnings, suspension from activities, or dismissal from the program.

By participating in Berkshire Youth Cheer, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.

I, ______________________________ (Parent/Guardian Name), hereby acknowledge and accept responsibility for the proper care and use of the equipment and uniform provided to my child, ______________________________ (Cheerleader's Name), by Berkshire Youth Cheer.

I understand that all uniforms, bows, pom-poms, and any other equipment issued by Berkshire Youth Cheer remain the property of the organization and are intended for use solely during Berkshire Youth Cheer activities. I agree to comply with the following terms and conditions:

Proper Care:
I will ensure that all equipment and uniforms are used and cared for responsibly. I understand that issued items should not be mistreated, damaged, or lost due to negligence. Uniforms should be washed according to the care instructions provided, typically using a gentle cycle and air or line drying when recommended.

Safe Use:
I will ensure that all equipment is used only for its intended purpose and that my child follows all safety instructions and guidelines provided by Berkshire Youth Cheer coaches and staff. I understand that failure to follow safety guidelines may increase the risk of injury.

Return in Good Condition:
At the conclusion of the season, upon withdrawal from the program, or when requested by Berkshire Youth Cheer, I will return all issued equipment and uniforms in clean and good condition, allowing for normal wear and tear. Any items that are damaged beyond normal use, lost, or not returned may require reimbursement for replacement costs.

Timely Return:
I understand that all equipment and uniforms must be returned by the date designated by Berkshire Youth Cheer. Failure to return issued items by the specified deadline may result in financial responsibility for the replacement value of the outstanding items.

Financial Responsibility:
I understand that I am responsible for the care of all items issued to my child. In the event of loss, theft, damage, or failure to return equipment or uniforms, I agree to reimburse Berkshire Youth Cheer for the cost of replacement.

Alterations:
I will not alter, modify, decorate, cut, resize, personalize, or otherwise customize any equipment or uniform issued by Berkshire Youth Cheer without prior written approval from the organization.

Personal Responsibility:
I understand that Berkshire Youth Cheer is not responsible for personal injury or harm resulting from the misuse of equipment or failure to follow safety instructions and program guidelines.

I have read, understand, and agree to comply with the above terms and conditions regarding the equipment and uniforms provided by Berkshire Youth Cheer. I understand that failure to adhere to these terms may result in disciplinary action, suspension from participation, withholding of future uniform distribution, or additional charges for replacement costs.

In order to meet safety recommendations per USA Cheer and for Berkshire Youth Cheer to continue advancing our skills, it is important to ensure cheerleaders are at practices and games. The schedule is available here with required and optional dates. Cheerleading Exhibition and Competition dates are still to be determined and parents will be notified as soon as possible.  

Cheerleaders who arrive late to game-day warm-ups and cause last-minute adjustments to stunts will not be permitted to perform in the revised stunt for that game. Additionally, any cheerleader who misses more than 50% of required practices leading up to a game may be removed from stunts for the upcoming halftime, exhibition, or competition, as other athletes have stepped in to fill those roles.