When making any major purchasing decision, be it a personal or cheer team purchase, it is pivotal to understand the constraints of a properly calculated budget. This is undeniably true regarding cheer gear and cheerleading uniform purchases for athletic teams. After calculating a budget, the next step in the purchasing process is deciding where to purchase the cheerleading uniforms. The items may be purchased entirely from one retailer or wholesaler, or they may be purchased from several different sellers. The decision of where to purchase cheerleading uniforms should be guided principally by the aforementioned budget.

After tallying a budget and researching various suppliers for the desired cheerleading gear, it is necessary to decide which items, if any, should be name brand, while the remaining items required to complete the purchase will be generic. Name brand gear can usually be purchased for an entire team at a discount by buying from a wholesaler or directly through the cheerleading apparel and gear company itself. Purchasing all of the necessary items (i.e., cheerleading uniforms, shoes, pom poms, etc.) from the same company can also result in further discounts, as dictated by economies of scale and the supplier’s willingness to create a strong seller/buyer bond, or even an exclusive purchasing agreement, with the team. If a price quote for desired name brand cheerleading gear falls within the delineated budget, and the need to purchase name brand equipment is rather strong, then name brand gear is probably a good purchasing decision. However, it is imperative to avoid stretching the budget too thin in the pursuit of more expensive gear, as future replacement, repair, and unforeseen cost considerations must be considered.

It is the expected and unexpected future costs that lend deference to the idea of purchasing generic cheerleading gear as opposed to name brand gear. Generic gear will not only fall within the parameters of more budgets than name brand gear, it can also give a similar air of authenticity without undermining the functionality of the gear itself. It is the opportunity cost of price versus durable functionality that truly highlights the importance of researching the products and the reputation of the suppliers when purchasing generic gear. As opposed to name brand gear, which is generally presumed to incorporate higher levels of quality into its products in order to preserve brand equity, generic gear can come at a lower price but a higher replacement cost. Therefore, product research is vital when choosing appropriate generic gear.

A compromise between name brand and generic alternatives is another way to proceed with purchasing cheerleading uniforms. For instance, a specific team might find it desirable to wear uniforms that bear a brand name logo. On the other hand, the same team may want to cut total costs by purchasing functionally sound gear that happens to be generic. Conversely, if logo-emblazoned uniforms are not a necessity, it might be more appropriate for a team to purchase generic cheerleading uniforms while investing in specific cheer shoes and other more expensive gear that are tailored to the specific type of cheerleading routine that the team performs at athletic events and competitions. For example, shoes with arches and soles that are designed for greater impacts would be necessary for routines that employ a lot of acrobatic jumps and leaps from high positions.

In conclusion, understanding the needs and funds that are available to a singular cheerleader or an entire team, and consequently creating a customized budget that accounts for future necessary expenditures, is the most necessary way to determine whether to buy brand name or generic cheerleading gear. Such a purchasing decision is independently relative to each scenario, therefore no single methodology described above can be universally correct. Understanding individual needs, and the best way in which to satisfy them within the confines of a proper budget, is the underlying bedrock of any major purchase.

Popularity: 83% [?]

Looking great on the squad is every cheerleader’s number one priority. Unfortunately, the school budget cuts and slow economy are causing many cheer teams to reevaluate how to keep a crisp sparkling appearance without overspending the budget. Every person on the team should be able to afford to participate and feel comfortable with the financial decisions. No one wants to feel slighted if they’re unable to afford to join the team and be humiliated in front of their friends. There are plenty of ways to keep the team going and give everyone who dreams of being a cheerleader a chance to excel in this versatile and fun sport.

How to Raise Funds for the Squad

The first action that needs to be done, usually by the team coaches for the younger cheer teams, is to figure out the best fundraising activities for the squad. For the high school and college level members, taking an active part in raising funds will generate team spirit and give everyone a sense of accomplishment. After the excitement of making the squad settles in, take a look at the other groups in the area, scout troops, school sports teams for example, and try and think about the ways they generate money for the group. They may be selling candy, cookie mix or wrapping paper either door to door in the neighborhood or in front of the supermarket. A clever way to raise funds without the hassle of offering merchandise that friends and neighbors may not want is to use a fund raising card. These cards provide a large profit for the group and allow each donator to choose an amount that works for them. The cheer team returns the card to redeem cash that can be used for uniforms, equipment or travel expenses. Information about the fundraising cards may be found at CheerleadingOnline (Fun”D” 2 Raise). Cheerleading is a fun and active sport that brings great joy and fulfills a dream for many young gals and guys. Getting the funding issues taken care of early on will bring a year filled with pleasure and memorable times on the squad.

Uniform and Equipment Costs

Once a squad team’s budget becomes established the fun begins. Choosing a uniform that makes a statement about the team yet provides comfort and mobility takes some research. The cost of outfitting the cheer team with quality uniforms, warm up gear and accessories could become a significant expense and exclude some members. Choosing a reasonably priced outfit will make every team member feel confident that they may enjoy the sport. Typically, a basic uniform cost ranges from $40 to $75 depending on the style and size. Add that to shoes, socks and accessories and each member may expect to pay well over $150. Warm up suits are also often required, particularly for cool weather climates, and may cost about $40 to $50. One of the least expensive sources for purchasing uniforms and equipment may be found through the website www.cheerleadingonline.com. Quality items may be purchased and are guaranteed by Campus Team Wear that has been supplying cheer team products for over twenty years.

Costs for Team Dues and Competitions

Every school district varies on the amount of dues that a cheerleading is required to submit. Many schools absorb the cost of the team and provide facilities and transportation to sports events. For cheer teams that choose to compete in events outside the resident school district, costs for housing, food, transportation and additional uniforms are required. In the high school years, a cheer team squad may have the opportunity to compete in regional events and each member is normally expected to contribute additional money toward their expenses. These costs may range between several hundred to over five hundred to a thousand dollars if the team continues to national level competitions. Cheerleading camps offer a chance to gain new skills, learn competitive techniques and make new friends with similar interests. Normally each camp attendant is responsible for paying their own fees and expenses; however, fundraising events may raise enough money for a squad to offset some of the costs. A group fundraiser generates money that is shared among all participants and could make the difference in the team’s ability to compete.

Keep Cheering and Keep the Costs Down

There is no denying that joining a cheer team means making some financial commitment from each member. The minimum expense includes a uniform, accessories and transportation to sporting events and practices. At some schools, purchasing several uniforms may be required as well as warm up clothing, school logo bags and towels, shoes and other items. Professional cheerleading lessons give a member an advantage and may help them make the team. Once they join the squad, participating in competitions and continuing their practice adds to the cost. All of this expense may seem overwhelming to a young person who only dreams of becoming a cheerleader but may feel unable to participate. The goal of every cheer team coach, every member already on the squad and parents should be to ensure that the sport is open to all who strive for a chance to make the team. By carefully considering fundraisers, evaluating where costs may be saved and keeping a careful budget, the squad will be successful. The best approach to keep the costs down is to use a proven source such as www.cheerleadingonlin.com to purchase uniforms and start a fundraising campaign with donation cards. Then all that’s left to do is concentrate on having fun!

Campus Team Wear is a leading cheerleading apparel company specializing in cheerleading uniforms, shoes, camp wear and accessories.

Popularity: 35% [?]

With the growing popularity of cheerleading, for boys and girls alike, as it is continually glamorized in such classic movies as Bring It On, High School Musical, Fired Up, etc, you may be wondering if cheer camp is for you. What does it take to be a great cheerleader?

If you are young and athletic, love to be the center of attention, have a winning smile and a personality spark that reads enthusiasm into the smallest things; if you’re not afraid to step out and try the new, have enough self-discipline to work together with, and learn to love and trust your teammates, and if you love to have a lot of fun—then the cheerleading world needs you! Step up to the challenge today! Here are a few tips to help you get started, and make sure you have a great time at cheer camp.

This may be the first time your squad goes to a new place together, and if so, it’s important to be prepared. Being in a new situation, meeting new people, and learning new things can often make you a little nervous at first. If you have already been to cheer camp before as a team, then you already know this: it’s very important to be a close-knit team, even before you arrive at camp. There will be plenty of time and activities to bond once you arrive, but why not get a jumpstart on the process and go out to a movie together, or have a sleepover? You can’t be too unified as a team. It’s impossible! The closer you are, the better you’ll perform.

Try getting good at some of these simple games and exercises together before you go to camp. Trust games. One of you brave team members stand up on an elevated surface, facing away from all the others clustered around beneath you. Close your eyes and let yourself fall back into their (hopefully) awaiting arms. It’s not easy at first, but as you learn to trust your team, it will get easier and easier. Once you trust each other enough to let yourselves fall with ease into each other’s arms, it will work wonders for your cohesiveness and performance.

It’s also important to have the right gear at cheer camp, to make sure you’re comfortable, and able to do your best. Cheer shoes are possibly the most important thing to get right. Having shoes that are too tight, too loose, or just not right in some other way could cripple your cheering and make you miserable. Don’t be afraid to try as many different pairs as necessary until you find just the right ones that won’t let you down.

Obviously, having the right cheerleading uniforms are also a crucial point. You need something that not only performs well and gives your body enough freedom, agility, and support to show people what you can do, but also something that looks good on you! Get a consensus from your teammates, and shop around for just the thing. Do you want a tank top style, or would a T-shirt or a blouse be better? Shorts or a skirt? Get the right combination, and don’t leave anyone out of the decision-making process. Make sure to also get a few extra outfits that are not as fancy, but functional enough for practicing in.

Hair bows and pom-poms are fun to shop for, and make sure to get a durable and good sized cheer bag to put it all in. Don’t forget some good rain gear so poor weather doesn’t chase you off the field.

And don’t be afraid of criticism. When your coaches, camp trainers, or peers point something out to you, it’s usually for your own good, to help you be even better than you are. Try to look at every criticism as an opportunity to grow and get better. If you can learn to take suggestions, listen to new ideas, and even ask people for things they might have noticed you can improve in, you will make much more progress than if you reject them.

But most of all, remember—you’re there to have fun. Don’t let the pressure of the camp experience take away from the fun it can be! Give it your heart, determine to enjoy yourself, and your cheering will improve, guaranteed.

Popularity: 16% [?]

Do you often hear people say “Cheerleading is not a sport”? We here that, and our response is “Well, yes cheerleading is most definitely a sport.” According to a report just released by the National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research (NCCSIR) Cheerleading is one of the most dangerous sports that girls participate in.
Sports require active participation, physical exertion and levels of completion. Cheerleading meets all of these criteria and is for sure a healthy and fun and team building sport.
Being a sport and listed as a sport that is dangerous just reinforces how important it is for all levels of Cheerleaders to be health conscious and like all other contact and extreme sports you must focus on your cardio, strength and flexibility if you want to excel and have a long future in cheerleading.
These are the three areas of physical conditioning all cheerleaders must focus on in and out of cheer season.
CARDIO
Cardio refers to the aerobic exercise, which increases blood flow to the heart. Cheerleading routines are usually only several minutes long but time intensive practices and routines require lots of stamina. Cheerleaders who tire out after 30 minutes can cause a team to falter or a teammate to get hurt. Stamina helps cheerleaders perform the dance, stunts and tumbling flawlessly. Some suggestions for improving stamina are walking, running, biking, swimming or any other exercise done for long periods of time that cause you to sweat and increase breathing.
STRENGTH
Cheerleading uses every muscle in the body. Particularly important is the core, or midsection. The core consists of the abdominals, oblique’s and lower back. A strong core allows a cheerleader to balance and tumble. Flyers are able to balance better and bases are able to support more easily. Strength is also needed for fumbling. Hurling your entire body around in mid-air required tons of muscle strength. Some suggestions for improving strength are weight training doing just a few exercises a day with hand and leg weights. This will increase the muscle strength needed to cheer.
FLEXIBILITY
Flexibility refers to the ability to flex, or bend one’s body. Obviously, cheerleaders need to be flexible. Splits, heel stretches, high kicks, backbends, and jumps can only be executed well if a cheerleader has the flexibility to do so. Some suggestions for improving flexibility are to complete a series of stretches every day and hold those stretches for 30 seconds.
Cheerleading has come a long way since its first showing in 1898 when Johnny Campbell stood before a crowd during a Minnesota football game and lead the first organized group yell. Today, cheerleaders still yell, but they also jump, dance, stunt, stretch and perform all types of gymnastics. All of which require the use of a cheerleader’s entire body. So, yes Cheerleading is definitely a sport!

For all your cheer sports needs: http://www.cheerleadingonline.com

Popularity: 14% [?]