Any individual that would like to volunteer as a Head Coach or Assistant coach will need to read and acknowledge to these guidelines along with completing the coaches application below.

As a Cheer Coach for Panther Junior Football, I agree to:

General Responsibilities: 

1. Remember that Panther Junior Cheer is for the children, and coaching is a privilege. Foster an enjoyable, positive environment that builds appreciation for the sport.
2. Abide by the Parent Code of Ethics, Zero Tolerance Policy, and BGYFL Cheer Code of Conduct.
3. Submit to a background check every three years, or as requested.
4. Support and uphold decisions of the Panther Board, Cheer Board, and Cheer Coach Committee.
5. Attend required BGYFL/DGP and Panther coaching clinics.

Athlete Development & Conduct

1. Prioritize the emotional and physical well-being of participants at all times.
2. Use positive encouragement to build confidence and self-esteem.
3. Promote good sportsmanship and serve as a positive role model.
4. Treat each participant as an individual and respect their pace of development.
5. Encourage strong academic standards.
6. Maintain appropriate sideline and practice conduct.
7. Supervise participants until properly dismissed after practices and games.
8. Ensure respectful treatment of facilities and property.

Safety & Equipment 

1. Conduct all practices and games in a safe and healthy environment.
2. Ensure participants have required equipment/uniforms prior to participation.
3. Maintain and properly care for cheer equipment and coach-issued materials.

Organization & Support

1. Assist with registrations, uniform fittings, distributions, and assigned volunteer duties.
2. Support Panther fundraising activities and community events.
3. Assist with assigned field duties or volunteer responsibilities during the season.

In addition to the guidelines indicated above, as a Head Cheer Coach for Panther Junior Football, I agree to:

Leadership & Oversight

1. Develop and oversee the coaching staff for the squad..
2. Ensure consistent attendance and adequate coverage at all practices and games.
3. Lead pre-season parent meetings and ongoing communication regarding expectations and program policies.
4. Maintain responsibility for the conduct of athletes, assistant coaches, and team spectators during team activities.

Safety & Administration

1. Ensure all required participant paperwork and emergency information is complete and accessible.
2. Report injuries promptly in accordance with league policy.
3. Ensure coaching staff are familiar with basic first aid and emergency procedures.
4. Monitor participant attendance and health; do not allow participation if ill or injured.
5. Adjust practice plans as necessary for weather or safety conditions.
6. Keep and return the assigned Cheer Coach bag at season’s end.

Organization & Communication

1. Be punctual and attend all scheduled practices, games, and meetings.
2. Obtain Cheer Board approval for any practice or game cancellations.
3. Communicate consistently with parents using approved Panther communication platforms.
4. Create and manage a structured practice schedule that maximizes participant development.
5. Recruit and coordinate a Team Administrator and parent volunteers as needed.
6. Address parent concerns appropriately and escalate serious matters to the Cheer Board when necessary.
7. Report any game-day issues or incidents according to league procedures.