5 Things every cheer coach needs before back to school.

Julie Olinger
Jul 29
2 min read

Prep for the season like a pro and hit the ground cheering!

Back-to-school season hits fast—and if you're a cheer coach, it can feel like a whirlwind of uniforms, schedules, and new faces. Whether you're a rookie or a veteran on the sidelines, having your essentials ready can make or break your season kickoff. Here are five must-haves every cheer coach should have on deck before the school year starts:

1. A Season-Long Practice Plan

Don’t just wing it. A solid practice plan sets the tone for your entire season. Map out your goals by month—game-day material, pep rallies, competition prep, and team bonding. When you plan ahead, you avoid the chaos and keep your squad progressing with purpose.

Pro Tip: Use a planner designed specifically for cheer coaches (like the Ultimate Cheer Coach Planner 👀) to track practice goals, attendance, and routines.

2. Parent Communication Strategy

From booster updates to game day changes, consistent communication with parents is a lifesaver. Before the first whistle blows, decide how you'll keep everyone informed—email, SportsYou, GroupMe, or a private Facebook group.

Set expectations early so you’re not answering last-minute questions at 10 PM.

3. Uniform & Equipment Inventory

Take stock before the madness. Do you have enough bows? Are your poms matching? Is there a megaphone hiding in someone’s trunk from last season? Organize, label, and list what needs replacing so you’re not scrambling days before the first game.

Bonus: Create an inventory log that your assistant coach or captain can help maintain.

4. Emergency & Medical Forms

It’s not the glamorous part of coaching—but it’s the most important. Keep copies of athlete medical info, allergy alerts, and emergency contacts with you at every practice and event. Use a binder or digital folder to keep it all accessible and secure.

Peace of mind is priceless when you're responsible for a team of teens.

5. Your “Why”

Yes, you need gear. Yes, you need a plan. But more than anything—you need to remember why you do this. Coaching can be exhausting, especially at the start of a new year. Come back to your why when things get stressful: the growth, the confidence, the team moments your athletes will remember forever.

Write it down and keep it somewhere you’ll see often—like the inside cover of your planner.

Final Thoughts

You’ve got the passion, the skills, and the drive—now all you need is the right prep to make this season your best one yet. Whether you're building a championship team or just aiming for consistent stunts and stronger character, a little planning now saves a lot of chaos later.

Need help staying organized?👉 Check out the Ultimate Cheer Coach Planner – built by a coach, for coaches.