What Are the Responsibilities of a Cheerleading Captain?

High School Cheerleading Team Using Digital Tablet

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The positions of cheerleading captain and co-captain are often the most coveted on a squad. And it's important that these positions not be filled based on a person's popularity, but rather based on their ability to fulfill the responsibilities and duties associated with being a cheerleading captain or co-captain.

There is more than one type of cheerleader who will be able to take on those responsibilities and duties. She or he may be quiet and reserved or outspoken and bold. Either way, they must be ready to work hard for what's best for the team.

Being the captain of your team means more than leading the warm-up or telling everyone to quiet down. In many teams, the captains help the coach organize fundraisers, choreograph routines, settle team squabbles, and much, much more. It's a big job, but one you might find rewarding.

The duties of captain can vary from squad to squad. Some traits and skills are normally looked at when selecting a Cheerleading captain. So, what are the responsibilities and duties of being a Cheerleading captain? And do you have the skills it takes to be your squad's captain or Co-captain? Let's take a look.

Traits of a Good Cheerleading Captain and Co-Captain

  • Good Communication Skills: You should be able to not only speak clearly but also be a very good listener.
  • Responsibility and Maturity: You should be dependable, punctual, and emotionally mature.
  • Be a Good Role Model: Your behavior is a reflection on not only yourself but the whole squad. You should always set a good example in what you say and how you act.
  • Fair and Impartial: You should be able to separate your friendships from your responsibilities. Your decisions should not be based on favoritism, and you should always do what's best for the whole squad and not any one individual.
  • Helpful and Friendly: You should always be willing to do a bit extra for others or to get tasks accomplished.
  • Be Approachable: The squad should feel like they can discuss situations and problems with you.
  • Be Able to Delegate Without Being Bossy: Remember it's not always what you say that's important but the way you say it. Be tactful and respectful of others feelings.

Cheerleading Captain and Co-Captain Responsibilities

  • Start Practices: See that all materials and supplies are ready to go.
  • Notify Squad Members: You should have a calling list and be sure everyone on the squad is notified of upcoming events.
  • Call Cheers: You might be asked to plan what cheers are used and call them at games and events.
  • Organize Sign Making: This duty is sometimes assigned to the squad captain.
  • Help Organize Fundraising Events: Work closely with the Coach/Advisor on setting up any fundraising events
  • Help with Publicity and Advertising: You should act as your squad's ambassador by greeting and making visiting squads feel welcome. Help with recruiting and any positive exposure for the squad.
  • Help Solve Conflicts: This is where your skill at being fair and impartial will come in handy.
  • Discuss Your Role and Duties with Your Coach: It should be made clear from the very beginning what exactly you'll be responsible for and what is expected of you. Each squad and coach is different, so it's best to have this spelled out clearly from the onset.
  • Be Able to Communicate with the Coach: You may sometimes be asked to act as a go-between from the squad to the coach. You should realize this and not hesitate to do what is right for the whole squad.