Expert: Kimmi - 11/30/2007

Question
Hi! I want to go to a university, but I don't want to lose my love of cheerleading either. Getting on the school squad is so competitive. Is there anyway I could start an open "club" squad, or do I have to be 21 for us to compete? Do we need someone 21 years or older to coach us? I saw an article on this but how could we become recognized? Do I have to be certified?

Thanks!

Answer
Hey Kasia,
   Unfortunately, I don't have the best news for you. If you're under 21 alot of the legalities and details of starting a team is near impossible. If you have someone over 21 that you can ABSOLUTELY trust, like your mom, etc. and that person is willing to take this on with you, then you might have a possibility. I didn't start my all-star team until I was 21 and it was still tough being a young person. Once you have the age worked out, the first step is to find space and equipment to practice, people who want to cheer and are willing to pay to cheer, and a coach if you're not going to do it yourself. Once you've done all that, you can go through the USASF website www.USASF.net to see the written tests and dates for hands on testing for certification. Good Luck with everything!
Happy Cheering!
Kimmi