2019-2020 Cheer Handbook Table of Contentsmedia.hometeamsonline.com/photos/htosports/...Cheer teams (formed within the sideline cheer teams) will be selected in May. All members of

Dear Candidates and Parents, Welcome to the process of considering being a part of the Bowie Cheer program for the 2019-2020 Cheer Year! This year will have many Bowie traditions continued and several new policies put in place. Please look through the packet in detail to ensure all parties understand the commitment level required of you and your family over the next year. This year the Bowie Cheer program will continue our focus as a school spirit organization and a competitive program; we want to support our school and athletic teams with as much spirit and sideline support as possible. While doing this, we want to continue in our pursuit of excellence as a nationally competitive cheer squad. Tryouts in March will be held to select the teams for freshman, JV, and Varsity Sideline Cheer teams. Competitive Cheer teams (formed within the sideline cheer teams) will be selected in May. All members of sideline cheer will be on a competitive team. Cheerleading is a YEAR-ROUND SPORT unlike many other sports. Students must be physically capable of fulfilling all of the responsibilities and expectations of a cheerleader throughout the entire year. Every candidate needs to understand that he/she will be expected to participate in physical conditioning including but not limited to stunting and tumbling. Cheerleaders are required to attend practice every day. In addition to the traditional cheer aspects, we will be working on physical strength and conditioning in the weight room. The responsibility of the Bowie High School Cheer Squad is to support all other sports and organizations on campus. If you decide to take the position on, you will be responsible for being present at several sporting events of different types. Our main priority is supporting our school and school activities. This position takes a great deal of time and effort, but is well worth it if you are willing to devote yourself to making the Bowie High School Cheerleaders and Mascot the best ever! I look forward to an exciting year!! Good Luck!

Bowie High School Cheer **If you have any questions please contact the staff at [email protected]

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2019-2020 Cheer Handbook Table of Contents

● Philosophy and Purpose 3

● Cheer Tryout procedures and expectations 4-6

● Bowie Cheer Guidelines ○ Communication 7 ○ Cheer Class Procedures 7-8 ○ Academic Grades Expectations 8 ○ Cheer class Grade Scale 8-9 ○ Practice Expectations 9-10 ○ Attendance Policy 10 ○ Sideline Cheer Expectations 11-12 ○ Competitive Cheer 12-13 ○ Limited Varsity Sideline policy 13-14

● Expectations

○ Behavior expectations 14-15 ○ Merit/ Demerit process 15-17

● Parent expectations 18-19

● Financial Obligations 20

○ Varsity 21 ○ Junior Varsity 22 ○ Freshman 23 ○ Payment schedule and additional costs 24

● Mandatory Tryout Dates 25

● 2019-2020 Important dates Calendar 26

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Philosophy/Purpose: 1. To be the foundation of spirit for Bowie High School. 2. To carry out old and new traditions that will involve the entire student body. 3. To serve as ambassadors for Bowie High School. 4. To represent Bowie High School with a strong work ethic in all activities. 5. To build the morale of the entire Bowie campus. 6. To demonstrate teamwork, positive attitudes, and strong leadership as well as

serving as model students at Bowie High School and in the community. 7. To demonstrate school spirit through performances at various athletic activities as

well as competitions.

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Tryout Information and Procedures

Sideline Cheerleader

I. Judges 1. The candidates are scored by a group of professional cheer judges, hired by the

program and approved by the campus principal. There will be 3 judges of various ethnicities.

2. The cheer coach(es) do not have any part in the selection of the team members in the March tryout process.

3. Mandatory Clinic in March will be conducted by the current senior cheerleaders and coaches. Those conducting the clinic will not be judging the candidates on the day of tryouts.

4. Current cheerleaders have no prior knowledge of the tryout cheer or dance. 5. Tryouts will be held on Friday, March 15, 2019, beginning at 4:30 p.m. 6. Only the judges, campus administrator, and Bowie cheer coaching staff will be in

the room while tryouts are being conducted.

II. Tryout Order 1. Tryouts will be conducted in small groups. You will draw numbers to determine

which order and group you will try out in, and what order the groups will perform in.

2. When it is your group’s turn to enter, each individual cheer candidate in that group will “spirit in” by himself/herself, travelling to the back of the mat where the judges are located..

3. Once in the back of the mat, turn around so the judges can get your tryout number.

4. Each cheer candidate will individually do his/her highest running tumbling pass to the front of the mat. This will be done individually.

5. Once at the front, each member will throw their highest single standing tumbling pass. Once one person is done, the next person will begin when prompted by the head judge..

6. Each cheerleader will then show a double toe touch individually. 7. Each group will perform the previously taught routine as a unit. 8. Wait for the judges to finish writing. Do not leave until the judges dismiss you. 9. If a judge needs to see something from you again, you will do so at this time. 10. Spirit out to the exit (no tumbling).

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III. Eligibility Requirements 1. 2019-2020 rising 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade boys or girls may tryout.

a. Candidates must be enrolled at Bowie to be eligible. 2. Current GPA of at least a 2.0.

a. If you are currently ineligible due to grades you must gain eligibility by the next grading cycle and maintain it the rest of the 2018-2019 academic school year.

3. Good attendance and good behavior records. a. Any school records will be examined from both middle

schools and Bowie. b. Clearance from the cheer program: previous removal from

the Bowie cheer team due to behavior or grades will deem the candidate ineligible.

4. The cheer candidate athlete along with a parent must attend the Mandatory Parent Meeting on February 26th from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Bowie Cafeteria.

a. A secondary meeting is scheduled for those unable to attend the first meeting.

5. Application packet must be turned in PRIOR to 4:45 pm on Friday March 8th, COMPLETED. No late packets will be accepted and incomplete packets will disqualify you from trying out.

6. Candidates deemed ineligible to try-out will be informed before 4:30 on the first day of the clinic.

7. Candidates must attend all three days of Cheer Clinic for the entire time period. March 11th, 12th, 13th from 5:00 - 6:30 pm.

8. Candidates need to be dressed in comfortable athletic clothing and tennis shoes (Non-Bowie Cheer attire). Candidates need to be ready to start working out at 5:00 p.m. so be prompt!

9. Applicant must be eligible to perform all skills required for the routines. If there is an injury prohibiting the candidate from executing a full tryout, then a doctor’s note stating the injury with the time frame of limited mobility must be received.

a. The staff must deem the injury prohibition viable. b. A video with skills must be submitted. c. Performing these skills is expected once physical clearance

is given. IV. What will the judges be looking for?

1. Tight and sharp motions such as the high V, low V, touchdown, low touchdown, diagonals, right and left punch.

2. Proper form on jumps. Point toes, chest up, arms tight and in proper location. 3. Memory - know the motions and dance well before tryouts. 4. Facials and spirit. Smile and make them believe this is what you want to be

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doing!

5. Confidence. Look at the judges in their eyes; don’t look at the ground. 6. Tumbling. Be confident in the pass you choose to throw.

● Review the score breakdown in advance to see which skills gain what points.

● Technique is its own score; we want elite clean tumbling. 7. Voice Projection. Your words should be loud, sharp, and strong, plus the judges

should be able to understand what you are saying. Keep the volume up! V. Attire

1. All candidates will wear the same clothing. 2. Females must wear solid black shorts (can be purchased at Academy) and a solid

white T-shirt (with sleeves). 3. Males will wear solid black shorts and a solid white T-shirt (with sleeves). 4. You may wear a solid red bow in your hair. 5. All candidates must wear solid white ankle socks. 6. All candidates will wear a number given to them on the day of tryouts,which for

identification purposes will be pinned to your shirt. VI. Team Selection

1. All rising 10th -12th grade athletes who score above the first “natural break” will be on the Sideline Varsity squad.

2. All rising 10th-11th grade athletes who score above the second “natural break” will be on the Junior Varsity Sideline squad.

3. All incoming 9th graders above the natural break will be on the freshman sideline cheer squad.

4. All Seniors who have cheered for Bowie since their freshman year will be eligible to be added to the Varsity Sideline squad (guidelines below).

5. There is no set number of spots on each team; rather all athletes with comparable skill level will make their respective squads.

VII. Team announcement

1. All candidates trying out will need to wait in the cafeteria until the tryout process is complete.

2. If there are any call-backs, it will happen after all groups have tried out. 3. Once released, everyone must leave campus immediately. 4. The Freshman, JV, and Varsity Sideline Team numbers will be announced (time

is tbd) on the Bowie Cheer website www.bowiecheer.org and the names will officially be posted after Spring Break

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Bowie Cheer Guidelines

I. Communication: A. Once the teams are selected we will begin using email and the website for

all forms of communication. 1. The coach may create a “groupme” chat for minor information to

be communicated to teammates only. 2. All communication to the group will go through the sponsor,

booster president or booster secretary only. B. Communication between cheerleader and (or) parent with the coach is

key! 1. When a child is injured or ill, communicate with coach. 2. When academics are in trouble or tests need to be redone, please

communicate with the coach for options that work. 3. All communication must be done in written form: email. If it is

discussed in person something written must follow it up. II. Class Procedures: All members of the Freshman, JV, and Varsity

Cheer will be enrolled in a cheer class. A. All cheerleaders and mascots receive PE credits for the year they are enrolled in

Bowie Cheer. a. Once the team is selected, the staff will notify the registrar to have cheer

added to their schedule. B. Freshmen will be in one period (4 or 8), JV and Varsity will be in another period

(4 or 8). C. Roll call will be taken at 3:10 in roll lines and 3:15 if not dressing out! D. All cheerleaders and mascots will be completely dressed out and ready to go

while in roll lines. a. Everyday we will have a set outfit to wear; this outfit will be the same all

year. Each member is required to wear this ENTIRE outfit at practices. E. In order to be excused from participating in class or other activities, you will be

required to turn in a doctor’s note specifying the prohibited activity and the anticipated date of return.

F. If you are excused from participating with a doctor’s note, you will still be required to dress out.

G. During study hall, cheerleaders/mascots will not be allowed to run errands, talk on the phone, or “talk” to teachers during class time. Study hall will be used for just that - studying.

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a. If you need to arrange doing school work during the cheer class, you must

arrange it with your coach prior to class and an email must be received from the teacher to coach to make sure both parties are in agreement.

H. Please wear pants or athletic shorts and a t-shirt when traveling across campus during school hours. No spanks or sports bras in the school building during school hours.

I. Tardiness is a conduct problem. See grades for consequences for tardiness. III. Academic Grades expectations A. Overall UIL policy

1. Failure to maintain a 70 in each class will result in scholastic probation for 3 weeks. You have 3 weeks to bring it back up to be off of probation. You need to be passing at the next progress report to be removed from probation.

2. If you receive an NG you will also be placed on scholastic probation for 3 weeks.

3. While on scholastic probation, you will be required to attend all practices, but cannot perform, compete, or wear uniforms.

4. Receiving one or more “F’s” in any six week period will constitute scholastic probation. This probation period will coincide with state law

5. “No Pass, No Play”. Receiving an “F” in any two six-week grading periods may result in dismissal from cheer.

B. Cheer Eligibility policy 1. If eligibility is lost twice in an academic year, you will be removed from

the team for academic focus to be prioritized. C. Grade Checks:

1. The first check will be the UIL grade check in early October. 2. The second check will be at the end of October, typically two weeks later. 3. The third check will be mid-November, and so on throughout the school

year. Please be aware that these checks are for your child’s benefit. Academics are the priority.

IV. Cheer Class Grading Scale A. Class Participation

i. Punctuality 15% 1. Each 6 weeks will have a total of 100 points, each tardy

will result in a 25% deduction. ii. Attendance 15%

1. This includes coming to class in the proper attire. At each 6 week grading period cheerleaders will have 100 point total. Each infraction will result in a 25% loss in points. An infraction will include but is not limited to: practice clothes,

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jewelry and shoes.

2. Game Day 20% i. Every cheerleader is expected to be at each game. If you have an

unexcused absence, you will automatically lose 20% for that semester.

3. Rallies 15% ii. For the fall semester you are expected to attend and participate in

every rally. For every rally you do not participate in you will be deducted 50% of this portion in your grade.

4. Community service 20% i. Each semester you are required to participate in 8 hours of

community service projects, and each project is worth 25% of this grade.

5. Work ethic 15% i. As a member of the team you are expected to be a contributing

member. If coaches have to speak to you about your work ethic, your grade can be affected. This will be discussed with the cheerleader and coach.

V. Practice Expectations

A. Scheduled during class time, before or after school, or on weekends (Saturday or Sunday).

B. The practice uniform shall include T-shirt, shorts, socks, and Game Day shoes (Comp Shoes are for comp practices to be worn on the mat only. At no time, unless specified by Coach, may a member practice without shoes. Please bring to class running shoes on the assigned days so that we can run. You will not be excused from running simply because you forgot your running shoes.

C. You may NEVER wear jewelry to cheer class, practice, or while in uniform! NO EXCEPTIONS! This includes cartilage piercing and facial piercing.

A. This is a state policy that will be enforced by the Bowie Cheer staff. B. Do not plan to get a new piercing while cheer is in season.

D. Hair must ALWAYS be worn up in a ponytail. This means when class begins! E. All practices are mandatory! When one person is out it affects the “entire”

routine. Changes are made at almost every practice so you must attend when you are sick even if it means sitting out, when your child is sick please contact coach immediately to discuss a plan to ensure your child’s health and the well being of the team.

F. Failure to attend a practice may result in pulling you from the performance for that week. We need to do what is best for the squad.

G. All practices are closed practices due to distractions. Cheerleading is a rigorous athletic activity and everyone must be focused at all times to prevent

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injuries.

H. There will be no messing around, laughing, talking at inappropriate times at practice, especially during stunting!

I. Bathroom and water breaks will be given at designated times. Cheerleaders will not leave practice without Coach’s permission.

J. Everyone is expected to give 100% at each practice. Remember we are only as strong as our weakest link!

K. Should you have a problem with anything that we are doing at practice, feel free to talk with the coach after practice.

L. Keep talking to a minimum. M. Always be positive! There is a zero tolerance policy for negativity (ex:

rude/disrespectful comments, selfish concerns, rolling eyes). Any negativity displayed in any form, as perceived by the coach, will result in immediate dismissal from that day’s activity.

N. If at any time the coach feels the athlete’s technique is putting them or others at an increased risk of injury, the coach may choose to pull them from that activity.

VI. Attendance

A. ALWAYS be on time. NEVER be late! While I understand that things happen that we cannot control, the tardiness rule still applies.

B. If you know ahead of time that you may be late to practice or to an event, notify Coach or a captain immediately.

C. If you are late to practice, the necessary consequence will be a grade reduction and demerits.

D. Attendance is not excused for: All Star practices or competitions, Other school sports or activities.

1. Exception to the rule: If you are already on a team when tryouts take place you will receive an excused absence. You must submit a schedule with clear understanding of what will be missed in cheer. This does not apply to summer practices.

2. It is encouraged that cheerleaders think about the commitment level of Bowie Cheer and please know that outside commitments will not be excused.

3. Freshmen are able to be on JV dance team; there are no conflicts. E. Absences – Summer practices

1. All scheduled summer practices are mandatory. 2. If a member is not on vacation any part of the summer they are

encouraged to attend tumbling classes at their cheer gyms. 3. Attendance is expected at all scheduled practices this summer. Work IS

NOT an excuse to miss practice! 4. Doctor appointments are not excused absences. I understand that it is

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difficult to make appointments so please schedule in advance based on the cheer schedule.

VII. Sideline Team Expectations A. As a sideline cheerleader you will be expected to represent Bowie the moment

you enter campus - while you are at games/events and even when you leave a game/event.

B. Game time expectations 1. When the time is set for arrival that means you are 100% ready to cheer;

this includes: bow, makeup, shoes, lipstick, etc. 2. Absolutely no eating during a game. 3. At half-time, there will not be any socializing with spectators including

parents. We will sit as a group and watch the half-time performances. 4. Restroom breaks will be taken before the game (when we arrive) and at ½

time with coach approval. 5. Cell phones will not be seen at any game. They are to be put on silent and

kept in bags (not in pocket of jacket). 6. Everything will be kept in your cheer bag (poms, warm ups, ribbons,

purses etc.). Only cheer bags will be allowed into the game. 7. Cheerleaders will be responsible for taking their megaphones to and from

games. 8. If you do not have any part of your uniform, you will be benched that

game. 9. Game equipment: For each game or event, new cheerleaders will assigned

jobs and are responsible to get the items to the game and back to campus. 10. At no time will cheerleaders “re-do” their hair in front of spectators. You

must double or triple band your hair so that it does not come down while tumbling!

11. Your job is to cheer at games, not talk to spectators or players in the stands or while you are in the stands!

12. If you are not doing your job by yelling during cheers/chants or jumping and tumbling during or after cheers/chants you will be benched for 1 quarter. After 1 quarter you will be given another chance. If it happens a second time you will be benched for the rest of the game and sit out the next game and issued appropriate demerits.

13. Cheerleaders/mascots will be graded on their performances at games. This is, in a sense, their homework assignment. They must apply everything they have learned about game etiquette or it will jeopardize their grade.

14. There will be no talking or acting silly during the National Anthem, Moment of Silence, and school songs.

15. All cheerleaders are expected to maintain their skills the tried out with. Routines will be created with skills tried out with, if you are not throwing

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or showing these skills you will be removed from the performance. This includes roll call and the football team run out.

16. If you stay for another game you must change out of your uniform completely or stay in it fully. You cannot be in partial uniform at any time.

C. Program support 1. Varsity will attend several JV and freshman games together, dressed in

uniform to cheer on their fellow cheer team and show support to the JV and freshman sports teams.

2. Freshman and JV will be required to be at Varsity home games to help promote Bowie spirit.

3. All cheerleaders/mascots are required to ride the bus to and from the away games. Only under extenuating circumstances accompanied by a note prior to the game and approved by the coach will the cheerleader/mascot ride home with a parent. No one will be allowed to ride home from games/performances with friends/boyfriends.

4. Homecoming game - Freshman, JV, and Varsity will cheer at the game to promote school spirit.

i. There may be additional Varsity games that JV will cheer at. This is at the coach's discretion based on what is needed for Bowie and for school spirit. This does include Senior night.

D. Football Games 1. Freshman, JV, and Varsity Cheer cheer at all home football games.Varsity

will cheer at all away games. 2. Varsity will cheer at all playoff games (they can go from the middle of

Nov. until the middle of Dec for volleyball & football). Freshman and JV may cheer at some or all in support of the student body.

E. Basketball Games 1. Varsity:

i. Boys and Girls Home Basketball Games, we will all cheer all home games. Each cheerleader is expected to be at the amount of games set the beginning of the season.

2. Freshman and Junior Varsity i. Cheer at all Home and away girls and boys games

ii. May fill in for Varsity during Nationals VII. Competitive Cheer

A. Who competes: Everyone who is a sideline cheerleader will compete. B. How teams are selected: In May we will have a clinic in which all members of

Bowie sideline will be evaluated by Bowie Cheer staff which may include other qualified judges. In selecting members for these various competitive teams, coaches will be looking at skills and abilities as well as citizenship, discipline records, attendance records and academic performance.

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○ Sideline team placement does not reflect your placement on a competition

team. Meaning: you may be a Sideline Varsity cheerleader but compete on the JV team and vice versa.

○ Teams will run in a fluid/ transitional fashion. This means that your spot can change based on the needs of the program. This encourages our athletes to maintain skills and promote commitment in working new skills.

○ Alternates: the position of an alternate will be in place if a member of the team is not performing to the level that is needed and expected by the team, or if having alternates serves in the best interest of the team.

C. Teams: ○ We will have a traditional Varsity team.The size and amount of members

is TBD. We want to ensure that we compete at the level that suits the program the best and we will include alternates.

■ Alternates will be members who learn the whole routine and are expected to be at all practices and events. They are team members but may not necessarily perform. Alternates may be asked to learn the routines for more than one competitive squad.

○ All non-traditional Varsity comp team members will form a Game Day team. The makeup of the two competitive teams will be determined by the coaching staff in the Spring of 2019. Freshmen may compete with the Varsity competitive team if coaching staff deems it necessary for the overall success of the program.

D. Competitions ○ All Competitive teams will compete at the fall regionals at Texas State in

November. ○ The Traditional Competitive Team, the Game Day team, and the mascots

will compete at the State Championship at Texas State in January. ○ The Game Day Team will compete at the UIL competition in Fort Worth

in January. ○ The Varsity Traditional Comp Team will compete at Nationals in Orlando

(All Seniors will be eligible to attend if they wish.)

Varsity Limited Sideline

As the Bowie sideline cheer program’s number one focus is school spirit and unity amongst the student body at school and athletic events, we will continue offering a unique opportunity for the 2019-2020 school year. Rising senior cheerleaders who have served as Bowie cheerleaders and have demonstrated Bowie pride throughout their high school cheer experience will be eligible for the opportunity to be selected to serve in a Limited Sideline Varsity position.

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I. Limited Sideline Varsity position: A limited Sideline Varsity position is only offered for seniors only who meet the following criteria:

1) must have gone through the tryout process and made a score that falls within the JV sideline score. 2) must have cheered for Bowie in both his/her sophomore and junior years 3) must never have been put on any form of probation in cheer or probation in school 4) must be in good standing with the Bowie Cheer program 5) must meet all the eligibility requirements for the Bowie Cheer program tryout process.

II. Expectations: The following expectations must be met to fulfill the terms for being on the Limited Varsity team; and some limitations may be applied:

A. You will not be allowed to compete on the Varsity Comp team. B. You must maintain all skills thrown at your tryout. C. You must participate in the game day competitive teams, as noted in

Section VII.

Expectations I. Expected behavior:

A. Being a part of Bowie Cheer means following guidelines in behavior and representation of the school. Listed below are expectations:

1. Cursing: swear words are not allowed in and out of uniform. This means even when coach is not around.

2. Bowie attire: Your current and old Bowie cheer wear is yours and yours alone. You may not lend out anything that is Bowie Cheer to people at any time (with the exception of a parent supporting his/her child). When someone else is wearing Bowie attire you are responsible for, all of their actions in your clothes become actions in our program name, which reflects poorly on the Bowie Cheer program.

3. You may not show any sign of PDA (public display of affection) while representing Bowie cheer; this includes in and out of uniform.

II. Behavior Management & Discipline (Subject to change) A. Being a cheerleader/mascot is an important and very visible position. You are a

role model for other Bowie students, for other students around the Austin area, and a role model for the Bowie & Austin communities not only when in uniform or at school, but at all times, on or off campus.

B. Although all infractions cannot be listed in the handbook, cheerleading is a school sponsored activity and discipline infractions also fall under the AISD Student

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Code of Conduct. All laws set forth by the state of Texas, all listed rules, and all rules in the student handbook must be strictly followed at all times.

III. Possible Dismissal After Hearing

A. Students may be dismissed from the squad after conference with the student, parent, school personnel (administrator, counselor), and coaches/sponsors for the following infractions:

1. Any activity involving tobacco, vapes, alcohol, or drugs, on or off-campus. *This includes possession, use or abuse. *Being in the wrong place at the wrong time could result in dismissal from the squad

2. Any offenses of moral turpitude, including but not limited to: robbery, theft, burglary, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, pornography, obscenity offenses, weapons, aggravated assault, etc. on or off-campus.

B. Inappropriate pictures in circulation on the internet or other modes, including but not limited to: party pictures, pictures with alcohol or drug paraphernalia in your possession or in the background, pictures that suggest alcohol or drug use, inappropriate dress, inappropriate actions with another individual, suggestive or provocative photographs, deeming comments towards a staff member or other student, etc.

C. Repeated violations of school rules and regulations or a pattern of lack of cooperation with organization members and/or coaches.

D. Lack of interest in fulfilling duties of office or membership as reflected by documented poor performance.

E. Any incidence of bullying or harassing others, including but not limited to modes via: face-to-face harassment, texting, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, etc.

IV. Immediate Dismissal WITHOUT Hearing A. If any of the following occurs, the student will be dismissed from the squad

(following a parent, student, and coach/sponsor meeting). 1. An activity resulting in an assignment to the AISD Alternative Learning

Center (ALC), Gardner-Betts Juvenile Detention Center, or the Travis County Jail Facilities

2. Any arrest 3. Multiple instances of misrepresentation of Bowie Cheer program 4. Multiple instances (2 in an academic year) of academic ineligibility (see p

14 on “failing classes”) V. Merit & Demerit System

A. We will be using a merit/demerit system to provide support and accountability for

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all team members. Each merit and demerit will be documented by the coach and the cheerleader notified. The parent will be contacted once the demerits begin to add up as a consistent problem is showing. All merits must be handed in to the coach for approval. The merit/demerit system will begin upon election to the Bowie Cheer program and will continue all year.

B. Demerits: a. Tardies

i. To practice 1 per occurrence 1. an additional demerit every 5 minutes after for each

occurrence ii. To games 2 per occurrence

1. an additional demerit every 5 minutes after for each occurrence

iii. Leave practice early unexcused 2 per occurrence b. Absences

i. Unexcused from practice 3 per occurrence ii. Unexcused from game 8 per occurrence

iii. Unexcused from fundraiser 8 per occurrence iv. No call/No show from practice 5 per occurrence/benched 1 game v. No call/ No show from game 10 per occurrence/benched 2 games

c. Behavior i. Disrespect to team members 3 per occurrence

ii. Disrespect to coaches 5 per occurrence/benched 1 game iii. Insubordination 5 per occurrence/benched 1 game iv. PDA 2 per occurrence v. Refusal to comply 3 per occurrence

vi. Talking/Horseplay during game 3 per occurrence (a warning will be given first)

vii. Eating/chewing gum/drinking/on cell phone during a game or at practice without the coach’s consent 1 demerit per item per occurrence

viii. Talking/Horseplay during stunts 3 per occurrence ix. Talking/Horseplay during practice 2 per occurrence x. Arguing/Causing conflict within the squad 3 per occurrence

xi. Poor behavior inside/outside of school Coach’s discretion per occurrence

xii. School referral 3 per occurrence/benched half a game xiii. In school suspension 8 per occurrence/benched 1 game xiv. Out of school suspension 10-15 coach’s discretion/benched 1-2

games or possible removal from squad xv. Inappropriate pictures/negative social media 5-15 coach’s

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discretion/benching possible

xvi. Uniform/Appearance 1. Jewelry/hair at practice 1 per occurrence/benched until

fixed 2. Jewelry/hair/finger nail polish at game 2 per

occurrence/benched until fixed 3. Wrong uniform shoes/socks/ribbon/poms/etc. 2 per piece

per occurrence/benched until fixed 4. Wrong uniform 3 per item per occurrence/benched until

fixed 5. Wrong practice outfit/bow/shoes/poms etc. 1 per piece per

occurrence Responsibility 6. Unprepared for game or practice 2 per occurrence 7. Failure to turn in forms/money 1 for every two days (unless

the coach has approved the reason) 8. Failure to learn chants 2 per occurrence/possible benching 9. Failure to learn performances 4 per occurrence/possible

benching xvii. Coaches have the right to issue demerits for situations not specified

on this list. Cheerleaders may be dismissed from the squad for situations that warrant dismissal at the discretion of the coaches and the principal.

d. Demerit Consequences: i. 15 Demerits - Dismissed from the squad: If 15 demerits have been

accumulated by the cheerleader, he/she will be dismissed from the squad. If a cheerleader is dismissed from the squad, the cheerleader may not try out the following school year for cheerleader. Coaches have the right to issue demerits for situations not specified on this list. Cheerleaders may be dismissed from the squad for situations that warrant dismissal at the discretion of the coaches and the principal.

ii. All absences and tardies will be considered unexcused until documentation is provided.

C. Merits: The following are ways in which a cheerleader can earn merits to deduct from demerits given.

a. A’s and B’s per 6 week grading report-1 point per 6 weeks 3 possible Merits

b. Community service (outside of the team required events) 2 Merits c. Cheer service hours: assisting the coach in needed program hours 2 Merits d. Going above and beyond in serving a Bowie organization as verified by

the sponsor 1 Merit

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Parent Code of Conduct and Expectations

Bowie Cheer can only be successful if all the components work together as a team; this includes the administration, cheer staff, cheerleaders, and parents. To ensure the success of the team each component play essential roles in our program. As a parent you play a vital role in this program which includes support and understanding in all areas. As a Bowie Cheer parents it is essential that you believe in your role and support the role of all team members and staff. Please read below for expectations of a Bowie Cheer parent:

I. Boosters: All parents are expected to be active members in the Bowie Cheer Boosters club.

A. All members must agree to adhere to the UIL rules and Bowie Cheer Booster Club expectations.

1. All items will be given out the first meeting II. Conduct:

A. Will refrain from coaching/directing their child or other members during practices, performances, and competitions.

B. Will respect coaches, judges, and other district employees and their authority during performances, athletic events, practices, and competitions and will never question, discuss or confront coaches during an events, and will take time to speak to coaches at an agreed upon time and place.

C. Will remember that spirit members participate to have fun and grow as leaders.

D. Supports the competitive program at Bowie and will support the coaches decision in the team in which she/ he feels is best for both the individual and the team.

E. Will remember the organization is for youth, not adults. F. Will help teach their child that doing one's best is more important than

winning, so that my child will never feel defeated by the outcome of a performance.

G. Will demand that their child treat other players, coaches, officials, and spectators with respect regardless of race, creed, color, sex/gender, sexual orientation or ability.

H. Will promote the emotional and physical well being of the student athletes ahead of any personal desire I may have for my own child.

I. Will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and wellbeing of the student athletes.

J. Will be a positive role model for their child and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all program members, coaches/directors, judges, and spectators at every event, practice or competition.

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K. Will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any

coach/director, program member, or parent such as booing and taunting, gossiping or being privy to hearsay and speculation, or using profane language or gestures.

L. Parents or guests in violation of the code of conduct may be dismissed, suspended, or permanently expelled from future athletic contest.

Parent Commitments

To make our cheer program successful we need parent commitment throughout the entire year. Below is the expectations for the year; this applies to each family within the program.

● It is expected that parents join the Bowie Cheer Booster Club and play an active role in the club. Please see boosters bylaws and positions to see where you can participate. The cost to be a member is $45.00 due the first booster meeting.

● Serve on a committee in Boosters: if you are on the board you are exempt. ● Each family must sign up for a minimum of 2 slots for Bowie Cheer Kiddie

Camp.

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Financial Obligations:

VARSITY CLOTHING & UNIFORMS: This year several items will be reused from the 18-19 cheer year. This will make each returning cheerleaders cost vary. This varying cost will

depend on what needs to be replaced.

The following are ESTIMATED costs. ALL PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE!! The total is not listed, each participants will be individualized.

Attire: If you are new to Bowie Cheer ALL items will be needed, If you cheered in the 2018-2019 Cheer year on Freshman, JV or Varsity the items highlighted in gray will be based on individual needs and team you are cheering for. All items not highlighted must be ordered by every member. The goal is to reduce the cost and expenses over the years cheering for Bowie. This includes a program uniform (NEW black) that will be used for several years, squad uniforms (reused from past years), and many general items that once

purchased will not need to be bought again. ● All uniforms will use black spanks, for all teams ● Please note a new all program uniform is being used.

○ Please know that all other expenses have been significantly reduced in amounts and costs to help with this change.

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Varsity

Practice Wear (new) 140.00

Practice Wear (reused) 79.00

Red Varsity Specialty Uniform 273.00

White Varsity Uniform 159.00

New Black Uniform 163.00

2 Shoes Game and competition (package) 163.00

Backpack 67.00

Megaphone (new)* 60.00

Rain Jacket/ team jacket 109.00

Loop Front Bowie sweatshirt 49.00

Pants 65.00

Red, White, Pink Bow 25.00

Poms: red and black, pink 44.00

briefs 26.00

Letterman: (seperate company)

*The school has a new logo in which will be printed on the new megaphones. Current Varsity cheerleaders can use their original ones as we will phase them out. This means you can not purchase one from a former cheerleader.

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Junior Varsity

Practice Wear (new) 140.00

Practice Wear (reused) 79.00

Grey Uniform 215.00

New Black Uniform 163.00

2 pairs of Shoes (package) 163.00

Backpack 67.00

Rain Jacket/ Team Jacket 109.00

Loop Front Bowie sweatshirt 49.00

Pants 65.00

Red, Pink and White Bow 25.00

Poms: red and black, pink 44.00

Briefs 26.00

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Freshman

Practice Wear (new) 140.00

Practice Wear (reused) 79.00

New Black Uniform 163.00

Red Uniform 164.00

2 pairs of Shoes (package) 163.00

Backpack 67.00

Rain Jacket/ Team Jacket 109.00

Loop Front Bowie sweatshirt 49.00

Pants 65.00

Red, Pink and White Bow 25.00

Poms: red and black, pink 44.00

Briefs 26.00

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PAYMENT SCHEDULES:

Due Date Item Amount

May 1st Big/ Little Tanks around 20.00

May 20th UCA cheer camp TBD (determined once the booster budget is approved)

April 23rd Clothing: Paid directly to Varsity

individually based

November (attendees only) Nationals deposit $350.00

December (attendees only) Nationals final payment tbd

Additional Costs:

June Mascot rental fee 250.00

Monthly/ quarterly Tumbling paid individually

Fall Football Treats around $100.00

Late Spring Camp gifts $40

Nov/ Dec UIL Game Day accomodations

TBD (approximately $200, determined after Booster budget is approved)

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MANDATORY TRYOUT DATES

February 26th -Mandatory Parent/ guardian Meeting

6:30-7:30 Bowie Cafeteria

*Be sure, parents/ guardian, to sign-in on the chromebook to prove your attendance at this

important meeting.

Friday March 8th - Packet Due

4:45pm ( in Coach R’s box, or handed to her personally)

March 11th, 12th, 13th - Cheer Clinic

5:00-6:30 pm Small Gym

March 15th -Tryouts

4:30pm Small Gym

New Team Sleepover - Saturday March 30th after tryouts! Details to follow.

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DATES TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDAR

There are several spring, summer, fall and winter dates you must be available for. Do not schedule vacations, classes, etc during these dates: The Month of June is ideal for vacation. Missing practice for vacation is not allowed! This means all year - through the 2019-20 school year.

● After school practice 4:45 – 6:00 pm. We will begin April 1st till May 16th ○ Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday

● Booster and New parent meeting Meeting April 15th at 6:30 in the cafeteria ● Uniform resale: Wednesday April 3rd, 4:30-5:30 (small gym) cheerleaders and

parent needs to be present. ● Uniform Fitting: Monday April 8th , 3-6 pm (small gym) cheerleader/ mascot and

parent needs to be present. ● Summer Practice begins Monday July 8th-12th,15th: TBD

● Monday through Friday, Monday ● Tuesday July 16 – July 219th 2019 UCA Camp (Participation in UCA camp is

mandatory; failure to attend will result in loss of position, if selected.) ● Kiddie Camp July 21st (setup) 22-25th (630am-6pm)

○ Please note that UCA camp and kiddie camp are in a different order then years past.

● Off: No Practice July 26th –August 4th ● Practice in August beginning August 5th is TBD based on coaches school meeting

schedule ● Calendars will official dates and times for the entire season will be posted on the

website . ● Competition Dates:

○ November 23rd or 24th ○ January TBD ○ UIL Game day in January is TBD ○ Nationals (Varsity Traditional Comp and seniors only): February

7th-11th

SCHOOL YEAR PRACTICES This practice schedule is dependent upon Bowie’s school schedule and is subject to change.

Cheerleader/Mascot Tryout Forms (This entire packet must be turned in by Friday, March 8th at 4:45 pm to Coach Roggemann’s

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box in the front office or her classroom A122)

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