Cheerleading Information
The Westlake Bulldogs cheerleading program was founded to promote recreational cheerleading with a major emphasis on fun, teamwork, and competitive sportsmanship. Our cheerleading program is led by our Cheerleading Director, who is a member of our Board of Directors, The cheerleading head coaches, Junior coaches, and team mothers are a dedicated group of people who volunteer their time and talents to coordinate each cheerleading squad.
Our Junior coaches are an ambitious group of young people that volunteer to teach Westlake cheerleaders the art of "cheer". Head coaches and Junior coaches are interviewed and approved by the Westlake Board of Directors. Coaches must be 21 years of age. Junior coaches must be at least 14 years of age.
There are no try-outs and all girls registering are rostered on a team. The teams are limited to a maximum of 30 girls. Cheerleaders perform every Saturday during football season, August through December. They will participate in the Southern Maryland Cheer Competition, to be hosted by the Westlake Bulldogs. The cheerleaders may also participate in other league approved functions, such as other competitions outside of our conference, parades, exhibitions, etc.
* Exception: 120 LB & Unlimited games are typically held on the weekdays.
General Practice Information
Practice begins in August 1, 2009. During August and until the first full week of school, practice is five days per week, Monday through Friday. Practice is held at our practice field located at Mattawoman Middle School. Times are generally 6:00-8:00 p.m. Some teams may vary slightly on times with board approval. Check with one of your child's coaches for the exact times. Once school starts, practices are from 6:00- 7:30 p.m. Again, some team practice schedules may vary slightly on times with board approval. Your coach will advise you of the exact practice schedule.
Charles County Youth League Cheerleading is an all-weather sport that supports the league’s football teams. Since the football games are also played in rainy weather, there may be occasions when we also will practice in the rain. Of course, if the rain becomes severe, or there is lightening/thunder in close proximity, practice will be temporarily suspended or canceled for the safety of everyone. Your coaches will discuss specifics on procedures each team will use regarding inclement weather.
What to expect during the first week of practice
During the first week of practice, your coaches will review information regarding cheer administration, expectations, and other guidelines:
Administrative reviews will include: coaches introductions, the philosophy of your team, verification of eligibility (see Cheer Matrix), contact information updates, practice schedules, uniform information, attendance policies, etc.
A discussion of the expectations will include a review of the Parent and Player Code of Conduct, concession duty commitments, sportsmanship, uniform care, etc.
The first week is also spent on physical conditioning and acclimation to the weather. The cheerleaders will get plenty of exercise during the summer months, especially out in the sun. Please bring plenty of water to practice. You will get a number of water breaks during practice.
Note: Glass bottles or containers are strictly PROHIBITED. We suggest that you bring a small insulated personal water cooler, plastic jug, or any other non-glass containers of your choice.
Remember: NO GLASS OF ANY TYPE
Cheerleader Ages/Grades
Westlake Bulldog cheerleading squads range in age from 5 to 14. Cheerleaders are placed on teams strictly according to grades. Select the link below to view the current grade matrix for the Charles County Cheerleading Program:
The following table lists the grade and weight divisions for the 2009 Charles County League Cheerleading Program. These divisions are mandated by Charles County. We cannot make exceptions.
Charles County Cheerleading Eligibility Matrix
Child must be 5 years old by August 1, 2009
Division |
Grade |
Ankle Biters |
Kindergarten |
70 lb |
1st – 2nd grade |
80 lb |
3rd – 4th grade |
90 lb |
5th grade only |
100 lb |
6th grade only |
120 lb |
7th grade only |
Unlimited |
8th grade only |
Grade Verification: A copy of the final report card is due by August 7, 2009. Failure to provide the required documents may result in ineligibility to participate in the Cheerleading program.
