REGISTRATION

How much is registration?

From March 1st, 2023 through April 30, 2023 the fee is $260 for NEW cheerleaders (returning participants from the 2022 season are $200). On May 1st the fee increases to $275 (new) and $215 (returning). There are also additional uniform fees for shoes & bodysuits/briefs, for those pieces that will not be returned at the end of the year. 

Do you offer a discount if I am registering multiple children?

We do offer multiple participant discounts. Multiple participant discounts will be automatically calculated at checkout.

Do you offer financial aid?

SAYC believes that every child should be able to engage in the sport of cheerleading.  If seeking financial aid please complete registration, mark your request as indicated on the registration screen, then contact us about steps to apply for support. 

Can I register online, but pay by check or cash?

Yes, you may pay via check. All checks can be made out to Sycamore Aves Youth Cheerleading and mailed to Sycamore Youth Cheerleading 9891 Montgomery Rd #175 Cincinnati, OH 45242. Please note that full payment must be received before we issue your child a uniform. 

When will registration close?

Squads will close when they have reached the max capacity set by coaches and the organization; typically 25-30 cheerleaders. Otherwise, registration will have a FIRM closing date of June 1st in order to ensure there is enough time to get every cheerleader the necessary equipment for the season. 

What does my registration fee cover?

All NEW participants will receive a practice shirt, personalized backpack, game-day bow, and fleece jacket to keep (returning participants will use their bags/jackets from the prior year*). At the end each season the organization will sponsor squad celebrations and award trophies to each participant. The fee also covers full uniform (shell/skirt) and pom-pom rental. 

In addition, there are administrative and operation fees, facility rental fees, costs to insure all participants and coaches, and other game-day expenses incurred by the organization.

*If your child has outgrown their jacket, or lost backpack/jacket from 2022, you may purchase these items separately. 

Are there any additional fees after registration?

There will be optional opportunities to purchase additional SAYC spirit wear throughout the season as well as a few fundraisers. We thank you for your support! Cheerleaders may also opt to participate in competition cheer. This is an additional fee. More information on competition cheer will be shared should your coach choose to pursue competition this season. 

GENERAL

Who do we cheer for?

SAYC cheerleaders cheer for the Sycamore Aves Youth Football teams during their fall football season.  

When does the football season start? 

The regular season football games that we cheer for begin in August and will run through the end of October. There is a chance of a few play-off games that will occur at the end of October early November. However, cheer practices will start at the discretion of your coach in June or July. We will hold an evening camp for our registered members at the end of June (more info on camp below). 

Is SAYC sanctioned by Sycamore Community Schools?

No. SAYC is its own entity. We are a non-profit & 100% volunteer organization, relying solely on the dedication and support of the families & businesses that support & sponsor our program.

How does SAYC select coaches?

Our team of volunteer coaches are hand-picked for their cheer experience and are trained in safety as well as how to effectively train and develop young athletes. You will hear from your coaches by the end of May. If you are interested in coaching, please contact Emily Pope at director@sycamoreyouthcheer.org.

How often are practices?

Squads typically practice evenings 1-2 days/week in the summer and may go down to once a week once school begins. Expect practices to be between 1-2 hours. Practice schedules, times and locations are planned and communicated by coaches. 

Is there an attendance policy? 

Attendance to all games and practices is expected. Cheerleading is a team sport, if your child misses practice or a game it will impact the rest of the team. We understand that illnesses and unexpected emergencies occur. If your child must miss a practice or game, please make sure to let your coach know in advance. 

How many games are in a season?

There are typically 8-10 regular season games and a few play-off games after the regular season. Games will take place on Saturdays or Sundays August-October. 

Where are games played?

SAYC participants will cheer for both home and away football games. Locations for our local league opponents can be found on our Field Locations page. Home game locations for the 2023 season will be at Sycamore High School.

In what community events does SAYC participate?

SAYC participants will have an opportunity to participate in the City of Montgomery Independence Day Parade. We also participate in the Sycamore High School Homecoming parade (if high school policy allows).

Is there a cheer camp?

Yes, there will be a cheer camp for our registered cheerleaders only. Camp gives our cheerleaders a chance to bond with their squad and work on cheer fundamentals. Details will be forthcoming. Plans are to have camp June 26-29th, 2023, evening hours, divided out by age group. There is no additional charge for this camp.

Is there a competition team?

Yes, many of our squads will go to local and/or national competitions. Competition participation is optional and details will be forthcoming. It is at the discretion of each coach if their squad will participate in competitions 

Can my child join the competition team only? 

No, it is required to participate on our sideline teams if you want to join a competition squad. 

How can I volunteer this season?

Our home games are our biggest fundraiser. We rely on volunteers to help with set up, concessions, entrance gate, chains, tear down, and more. A sign-up will be sent once the football schedule is finalized. It is expected that each family completes 3 volunteer opportunities per season.  

Who do I contact if I have additional questions? 

If you have any additional questions you may contact our Director, Emily Pope, at director@sycamoreyouthcheer.org.