Frequent Asked Questions
1. What is the August practice schedule?
All of our teams practice daily Monday through Friday, 4:45 pm - 7:30 pm during the month of August. Daily practice in August is sometimes referred to as "Conditioning" or "Camp".
2. Must my child attend Camp in August to cheer?
Yes. We recognize that families often schedule vacation time in August and scheduling around cheer can be tough. However, August conditioning and practice is an essential part of cheer programs everywhere at every level for safety reasons, and safety is our number one priority.
Prior to the first game day performance with stunts at the end of August, we must ensure that each player:
1) has the physical conditioning necessary to allow them to focus mentally
2) has the fundamental skills and knowledge of cheer necessary to be safe and productive on the sidelines.
We will not permit kids to stunt who do not have the skills and fitness they need to have a good experience, and in order for the kids to acquire the necessary level of fitness and skills, they need to attend Camp in August.
3. What equipment will Southern Marin provide and what do I need to provide?
- During the camp, we will issue you the following items that need to be returned at the end of the season
- Cheer Bag
- Pom-poms
- Cheer uniform
- You will need to purchase cheer shoes, socks, and lycra shorts. You will be provided additional information after you have registered.
4. What is the "In Season" schedule?
- Practices are 3 evenings per week, typically 5:15-7:15pm. In season practice times may vary based on coaches schedules.
- Games are Saturday or Sunday.
- We typically cheer for 8 games, starting Labor Day weekend. Playoffs can last into November and even December for National competition.
During the month of August when we practice daily, the coaches will be evaluating and getting to know the kids. This month is a great opportunity to make adjustments designed to provide our kids with the best experience, and kids are sometimes shifted to another team during conditioning if the coaching staff feels that his initial placement will not be the best fit for the child.
5. What does my child wear to practice?
Cheerleaders are required to wear lycra shorts or leggings to practice, cheer shoes, and a non-distracting top. No crop tops that flip up during tumbling. Long hair must be worn up in a ponytail at all times and no jewelry is permitted to be worn. Jeans, skirts, jean shorts and other non-athletic clothing are not permitted. Anyone who shows up dressed inappropriately runs the risk of being sent home or marked absent.
6. Are all practices required?
Yes, because our cheerleaders do stunts, if one member of a stunt group does not show up it impacts their entire stunt group as they are unable to practice their skills. If your child misses practice three times FOR ANY REASON, coaches have the option to ask they leave the program. No refunds are provided if a cheerleader is cut because of frequent absences. Keep all appointments to other days. Also, if your child is injured or mildly sick they are still expected to come and watch.
7. Are there competitions?
Yes. While we will create squads based on age that will perform sideline cheers on game day, all the cheerleaders will combine into one competitive team. We will attend a select number of regional competitions through February.
8. Can my child do another sport like volleyball.
Unfortunately no. The games generally conflict.
9. How much parent involvement is required?
Parents are required to commit 5 hours of volunteer time to the program.
10. What if I don't have time to volunteer?
Parents may opt out of volunteering by making an additional contribution to the organization during registration.
11. What is the refund policy?
Families who communicate their request for a refund of registration fees to us in writing prior to June 1, 2019 will receive a full refund less administration fees. Families who submit a refund request between June 1, 2019 and July 31, 2019 will receive a refund of 50% of fees paid. No refunds will be granted on or after August 1, 2019.
12. Is financial aid available?
Yes. We have a limited pool of funds available to assist families financially. Financial aid is tied to eligibility for the federal free and reduced hot lunch program. If you are interested in our financial aid program, please contact the Registrar at
[email protected].
13. Where do I send forms/checks?
Southern Marin Broncos
P.O. Box 763
Mill Valley, CA 94942
14. Will my child need to try out?
No, we are actively growing the cheerleading program. Your child is guaranteed a place on the squad regardless of skill or experience.
Additional questions can be directed to
[email protected].