What Certification Do I Need to Be an Assistant Cheerleading Coach?
- Most assistant coaches do not need to have any formal education in teaching, coaching or dance. If you are coaching at a school you may have different requirements than if you are coaching through a parks and recreation department or gym that specializes in cheerleading. Some programs will require you to have a degree in coaching or a significant amount of experience as a coach. As an assistant coach, the program may hire you and allow you to work on the requirements while you are coaching.
- Coaching at a high school or middle school may require you to become a certified teacher. Each state has different guidelines, though the basic requirements are the same. You will need a four-year degree in teaching. The certification can be in any subject, but if you are planning on coaching you may want to major or minor in dance or cheer. In addition to the degree, you will need to undergo background checks. Some states have subject testing that teachers are required to take.
- In addition to the teaching certification, 13 states require coaches to get certified through a national cheerleading association. This certification will teach you how to keep your cheerleaders safe, the best ways to hold practices and other precautions you need to take as a coach. Some states only require the head coach to be certified, but if you are leading practices on your own, you should be certified as well. Even if your state does not have this requirement, it is beneficial to receive the extra training to better protect your students. The training can be completed online or in person.
- Cheerleading does lead to injuries, sometimes serious ones. In addition to the certification through the cheer association you should become certified in first aid and CPR. Your state or school district may also require in-service training about cheerleading or sports safety each year.
