“It’s all about the skirt” is what we often hear when people talk about cheerleading. We laugh, knowing there is so much more to cheerleading than just the cheerleading uniform, but there really is some truth to the matter. Fashion is an issue. The skirt, or more accurately, the total cheer uniform is an important part of what makes a cheerleader sparkle and light up a crowd. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the options when it comes to choosing that perfect “cheerleading skirt” to help your squad dazzle the crowds at your next event.

First, let’s start with the less exciting, practical part. How much is this cheerleading uniform going to cost? As with any product, you can pretty much spend as much as you want on a cheerleading uniform. The key is to know what you are paying for. Shop around to compare prices, products, lettering and shipping costs. Companies offer package deals that include the cheer shell and cheer skirt, but be sure you look to see how much the lettering will cost as this figure is often not included in the package price. Basic prices seem to range from $30 to $100 with lettering running around $10-20 per cheer uniform depending on whether you go with a one, two or three color design. Look for quantity discounts and consider these when you decide how many uniforms you will order. A late addition to the squad could cost you a bundle if you need to order a single uniform later. And don’t forget the accessories. If you make extras, such as briefs, socks, poms, nylon half or full tops, part of your uniform, be sure to add their cost to the bottom line when you consider your uniform budget.

Some other practical concerns are uniform comfort and fit. You want to wear a uniform that feels good, is appropriate for the sport/season, and allows you the full range of movement you need to do those cheers, stunts and moves that set your squad apart from the competition. Most cheerleading uniforms are made of polyester and spandex that allows for some stretch in the fabric, but there are also 50/50 cotton/polyester blends available and more expensive moisture wicking fabrics that are lighter and cooler. Check whether the fabric is washable or not so you are aware of the additional work and cost if you choose a “dry clean only” fabric. As to the uniform fit, most companies do not want you to order stock sizes, but rather to give them measurements. With form fitting shells and various skirt lengths, honesty is more important than modesty, so make sure you get accurate measurements from your squad members so the uniforms fit right and your squad looks sharp.

Finally, we get to the good stuff. Choosing the right cheerleading uniform is about getting the right “look” and here you have a lot of choices. Cheerleading uniform companies offer a wide variety of styles and features from the traditional to the hip to the modern. With tops/shells you can choose from crops to jumpers with or without long-sleeve full-length or crop-length tops. And then you need to choose V-neck, sweetheart neck or round neck all with or without braid options. In regard to bottoms, you have the classic A-line, modified A-line, low rise and twister skirt styles in addition to a wide range of pleated options including box, eight, knife, three or twelve pleat style. You also have short, skort and pants options available to match your shell choice. Make a choice that suits the tastes of your squad members, is suitable for your cheer purpose, complies with your school/organization dress code and colors and brings your squad to life!

So, choosing a cheerleading uniform, like cheerleading itself, is about way more than “just the skirt.” Be sure to consider all your options as you search for that perfect uniform, the one that will make your squad feel good and look great!

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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.

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Campus Team Wear, your leading supplier of cheerleading uniforms and apparel, is holding a sale on printed cheerleading t-shirts that ends on Tuesday, May 19th. The printed cheer tees were originally $10.95 and have been reduced to $8.95. Here are some of my favorite printed cheerleading t-shirts

1) Eco Cheerleading Tee: Show your love for the Earth and Cheerleading with this planet-friendly tee.

2) Love To Cheer Heart Tee: A super cute “Love to Cheer” slogan is featured across this white jersey t-shirt.

3) Cheerleader Flair Tee: This white jersey tee features an adorable “button” design. Now no one can ask you where your flair is!

4) Multi Cheer Leader Tee: A black jersey fitted tee with the word “cheer” in multiple different types.

To learn more about our cheerleading shirt sale and to purchase some sale tees, go to our Twitter page.

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