When it comes to being a cheer coach, having a well-stocked bag is essential. Whether you’re heading to practice, a competition, or a game, being prepared with the right items can make all the difference. In this blog article, we will discuss the must-have cheer coach bag necessities that every coach should have in their arsenal. From first aid supplies to essential tools, we’ve got you covered!
First and foremost, every cheer coach needs to have a comprehensive first aid kit in their bag. Accidents happen, and being prepared to handle minor injuries is crucial. Your first aid kit should include items such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, and adhesive tape. Additionally, having instant cold packs, ibuprofen, and a small pair of scissors can also be beneficial in case of emergencies.
Another essential item for every cheer coach is a whistle. Whistles are not only used to grab the attention of your team during practice or competitions, but they also serve as a safety measure. In case of an emergency or when you need to communicate with your team from a distance, a whistle can be a lifesaver. Make sure to choose a whistle that is loud and durable, ensuring that it will last throughout the season.
Cheer Uniform Essentials
Summary: This section will cover the necessary items related to cheer uniforms, including spare uniforms, poms, bows, and shoes.
Spare Uniforms
Having spare uniforms in your cheer coach bag is crucial for any unexpected wardrobe malfunctions or accidents. It’s always a good idea to have at least one spare uniform for each team member. This ensures that if a uniform gets stained, ripped, or damaged, you can quickly replace it and keep your team looking sharp.
When choosing spare uniforms, make sure they are the same style and color as the rest of your team’s uniforms. This way, there won’t be any noticeable differences if you need to swap out a uniform. It’s also a good idea to have a variety of sizes available, ranging from small to extra-large, to accommodate any last-minute changes or new team members.
Poms
Poms are an essential accessory for cheerleaders, and having a few extra sets in your bag is a must. Poms can easily get dirty or damaged during practices or performances, so having spares ensures that your team always has vibrant and full poms to enhance their routines.
Consider having poms in various colors to match different uniform combinations or to add visual interest to specific routines. Additionally, make sure to choose poms with durable handles and high-quality streamers that won’t unravel easily. Having spare poms also allows you to provide poms to new team members or replacements for any lost or damaged poms.
Bows
Every cheerleader knows that bows are a symbol of team spirit and unity. As a cheer coach, having spare bows in your bag ensures that your team always looks coordinated and put together. Bows can easily get misplaced or damaged, so having extras is essential.
When choosing spare bows, opt for ones that match your team’s colors and style. Consider having a variety of sizes and designs to accommodate different hairstyles and preferences. Additionally, make sure the bows have secure clips or bands to keep them in place throughout practices and performances.
Shoes
Proper footwear is crucial for cheerleaders to perform their stunts and routines safely and effectively. In your cheer coach bag, make sure to have spare pairs of cheer shoes for your team members. It’s common for shoes to wear out quickly due to rigorous practices and performances, so having backups is essential.
When choosing spare cheer shoes, consider the specific requirements of your team’s routines and the preferences of your team members. Look for shoes that provide proper support, cushioning, and traction. It’s also a good idea to have a range of sizes available to accommodate any changes in your team’s roster or unexpected shoe malfunctions.
Safety Equipment
Summary: In this section, we will discuss the safety equipment that every cheer coach should have in their bag, such as knee pads, ankle braces, and wrist supports.
Knee Pads
Knee pads are essential for cheerleaders, as they provide crucial protection and support during jumps, tumbling, and stunts. As a cheer coach, it’s important to have spare knee pads in your bag in case a team member forgets or loses theirs or if they become worn out or damaged.
When choosing knee pads, look for ones that offer adequate cushioning and fit securely around the knees. Adjustable straps can help ensure a proper fit for different team members. It’s also a good idea to choose knee pads made from durable materials that can withstand regular use and provide long-lasting protection.
Ankle Braces
Ankle injuries are common in cheerleading, especially during jumps and landings. To prevent and support ankle sprains, having spare ankle braces in your cheer coach bag is essential. Ankle braces provide stability and minimize the risk of injury, especially for cheerleaders with a history of ankle issues or those recovering from previous injuries.
When selecting ankle braces, choose ones that offer a combination of support and flexibility. Look for braces with adjustable straps or laces to ensure a secure fit for different ankle sizes. It’s also important to choose ankle braces made from breathable materials to prevent discomfort or sweating during practices and performances.
Wrist Supports
Cheerleading involves repetitive motions that can put strain on the wrists, such as tumbling, stunting, and constant hand movements. Having spare wrist supports in your bag can help prevent wrist injuries and provide additional stability and comfort for your team members.
When choosing wrist supports, look for ones that provide adequate compression and support without restricting movement. Adjustable straps or closures can ensure a proper fit for different wrist sizes. It’s also important to choose wrist supports made from breathable materials to prevent discomfort or irritation during practices and performances.
Hygiene and Personal Care Items
Summary: Here, we will delve into the personal care items that are essential for every cheer coach, including hand sanitizers, wet wipes, and deodorant.
Hand Sanitizers
Keeping hands clean and germ-free is crucial, especially in a high-contact sport like cheerleading. Having hand sanitizers in your cheer coach bag allows you and your team members to maintain proper hand hygiene when soap and water are not readily available.
Choose hand sanitizers with a high alcohol content to effectively kill germs. Look for travel-sized bottles that are easy to carry and distribute to your team. Encourage your team members to use hand sanitizers before and after practices, competitions, and any other activities that involve physical contact with others.
Wet Wipes
Wet wipes are versatile and essential for keeping both your team and yourself clean and fresh during practices and competitions. They come in handy for wiping away sweat, removing makeup, and cleaning hands and surfaces.
Choose wet wipes that are gentle on the skin and hypoallergenic. Look for individually wrapped wipes or travel-sized packs that are easy to carry in your cheer coach bag. Having wet wipes readily available ensures that you can quickly clean up any spills or messes and maintain a hygienic environment for your team.
Deodorant
Staying fresh and odor-free is important for both the comfort and confidence of your team members. Having spare deodorants in your cheer coach bag ensures that your team can maintain good personal hygiene and feel their best during practices and competitions.
Choose deodorants with long-lasting protection and a scent that is not overpowering. Opt for travel-sized or roll-on deodorants that are easy to carry and distribute to your team. Encourage your team members to apply deodorant before practices and competitions to stay fresh and confident throughout their routines.
Tools for Hair and Makeup
Summary: This section will focus on the necessary tools and products for creating and maintaining the perfect cheerleading hairstyles and makeup looks.
Hairbrushes and Combs
Creating flawless cheerleading hairstyles requires the right tools. Having a variety of hairbrushes and combs in your cheer coach bag ensures that you can tackle any hair type or style. Different brushes and combs are suitable for detangling, smoothing, and styling hair.
Choose brushes with bristles that are gentle on the hair and prevent breakage. Wide-tooth combs are ideal for detangling wet hair, while finer combs are perfect for creating precise parts and sleek styles. Having a few spare brushes and combs ensures that you can help your team members achieve their desired hairstyles and fix any hair mishaps that may occur.
Hair Accessories
Hair accessories are essential for adding flair and holding cheerleading hairstyles in place. In your cheer coach bag, make sure to have spare hair ties, bobby pins, and hair clips in various colors and styles. These accessories come in handy for creating ponytails, updos, and securing flyaways.
Choose hair ties that are sturdy and won’t easily break or stretch out. Opt for bobby pins and hair clips that have a strong grip and won’tslip out of the hair easily. It’s also a good idea to have a few spare headbands or hair wraps that can add a pop of color or keep hair out of the face during routines.
Hairspray and Hair Products
To ensure that cheerleading hairstyles stay in place throughout practices and performances, having hairspray and other hair products in your cheer coach bag is essential. Hairspray helps hold hairstyles in place and adds extra shine and volume to the hair.
Choose a hairspray that provides a strong hold without making the hair feel stiff or sticky. Look for travel-sized bottles that are easy to carry and distribute to your team. Additionally, consider having other hair products on hand, such as hair gel, mousse, or texture spray, to help create specific styles or add extra volume and texture to the hair.
Makeup Essentials
Makeup plays a vital role in completing the cheerleader’s look and enhancing facial features during performances. In your cheer coach bag, make sure to have a selection of makeup essentials that match your team’s uniform and performance requirements.
Include items such as foundation or concealer, blush, eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara, and lipstick or lip gloss. Choose makeup products that are long-lasting, sweat-proof, and suitable for different skin tones. It’s also a good idea to have makeup brushes and sponges available for precise application and blending.
Communication Tools
Summary: In this section, we will explore the communication tools that can greatly assist cheer coaches in effectively conveying instructions and messages to their team.
Whistle
A whistle is not only a safety measure but also a powerful tool for grabbing your team’s attention and signaling different commands during practices and competitions. Having a whistle in your cheer coach bag ensures that you can effectively communicate with your team, even in noisy or crowded environments.
Choose a whistle that is loud and has a distinct sound that can be easily distinguished by your team members. Opt for a whistle made from durable materials that can withstand regular use. It’s also helpful to have a spare whistle in case the primary one gets lost or damaged.
Megaphone or Portable Speaker
When coaching a large team or speaking to a crowd, a megaphone or portable speaker can be a valuable communication tool. These devices amplify your voice, ensuring that everyone can hear your instructions, cheers, or announcements clearly.
Choose a megaphone or portable speaker with a built-in microphone and adjustable volume controls. Look for devices that are lightweight and easy to carry. Having a megaphone or portable speaker allows you to effectively communicate in outdoor venues, noisy gyms, or during large-scale events.
Notebook and Pen
A notebook and pen are essential for every cheer coach to jot down important notes, create practice plans, or keep track of team progress. Having a notebook and pen in your cheer coach bag allows you to stay organized and have valuable information readily available.
Choose a notebook that is compact and has enough pages to last throughout the season. Consider using a notebook with dividers or sections for different purposes, such as practice plans, choreography notes, or team member information. Having a pen or marker that writes smoothly and doesn’t smudge is also important for clear and legible notes.
Snacks and Hydration
Summary: Here, we will discuss the importance of keeping snacks and hydration items in your cheer coach bag to ensure your team stays energized and hydrated during long practices or competitions.
Water Bottles
Staying hydrated is crucial for cheerleaders to maintain their energy levels and perform at their best. In your cheer coach bag, make sure to have spare water bottles for your team members. It’s important to choose leak-proof and durable water bottles that can withstand regular use.
Encourage your team members to drink water regularly during practices, competitions, and even during breaks. Consider having personalized water bottles with each team member’s name or a team logo to promote unity and ensure that everyone stays hydrated throughout the season.
Sports Drinks or Electrolyte Tablets
In addition to water, sports drinks or electrolyte tablets can provide essential nutrients and electrolytes to replenish the body during intense practices or competitions. These drinks help restore hydration and electrolyte balance, especially during extended periods of physical activity.
Consider having a few spare sports drinks or electrolyte tablets in your cheer coach bag to offer your team members during particularly demanding practices or competitions. Make sure to choose drinks or tablets that are suitable for athletes and provide the necessary hydration and electrolyte replenishment without excessive sugar or artificial additives.
Healthy Snacks
Keeping energy levels up during long practices or competitions is important for your team’s performance and well-being. Having a selection of healthy snacks in your cheer coach bag ensures that your team has nutritious options to refuel and stay energized.
Choose snacks that are easy to eat on the go and provide a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Some examples include granola bars, trail mix, fruit, yogurt, or nut butter packs. Avoid snacks that are high in sugar or processed ingredients, as they can lead to energy crashes and affect performance.
Documentation and Organizational Tools
Summary: This section will cover the necessary paperwork, documentation, and organizational tools that every cheer coach should have on hand.
Roster and Contact Information
Having an updated roster and contact information for your team members is crucial for effective communication and organization. In your cheer coach bag, make sure to have a printed copy of the team roster, including the names, phone numbers, and emergency contact information of each team member.
This information comes in handy for attendance, coordinating transportation, or contacting parents or guardians in case of emergencies. Consider having a separate section in your bag or a small folder specifically designated for important paperwork and documentation.
Practice Plans and Choreography Notes
Planning and choreographing practices require careful organization and attention to detail. Having your practice plans and choreography notes in your cheer coach bag allows you to reference them easily and make any necessary adjustments on the spot.
Consider using a notebook or binder to keep your practice plans and choreography notes organized. Use dividers or sections to separate different practice sessions or focus areas. Having these notes readily available ensures that you can efficiently guide your team through practices and keep track of their progress and routines.
Competition Schedules and Rules
Competitions are a significant part of cheerleading, and being well-prepared is essential for success. In your cheer coach bag, make sure to have copies of competition schedules and rules for each event your team will participate in.
Referencing competition schedules helps you plan your team’s practices and ensure that everyone is aware of the event details and timing. Having copies of the competition rules allows you to review them with your team and ensure that your routines comply with all regulations. Keeping these documents organized and easily accessible helps reduce any last-minute confusion or stress.
Electronics and Entertainment
Summary: In this section, we will dive into the electronic devices and entertainment items that can keep both coaches and cheerleaders entertained during downtime or long trips.
Portable Music Player and Speakers
Music is an integral part of cheerleading routines, and having a portable music player and speakers in your cheer coach bag ensures that you can play your team’s carefully curated playlists during practices or warm-ups.
Choose a portable music player that is small, lightweight, and easy to navigate. Look for speakers that offer good sound quality and are compatible with your music player. Having a backup set of headphones or earbuds is also useful for individual practice sessions or when traveling.
Tablet or Laptop
A tablet or laptop can be a valuable tool for cheer coaches during downtime or when traveling. These devices allow you to access and review routines, watch training videos, or catch up on administrative tasks.
Choose a tablet or laptop that is lightweight and has a long battery life. Consider installing useful apps or software that can assist with choreography planning, video analysis, or communication with your team. Having a protective case or sleeve for your device helps keep it safe from any accidental bumps or spills.
Books or Magazines
During long trips or breaks between practices or performances, having books or magazines in your cheer coach bag provides a source of entertainment and relaxation for both you and your team.
Choose books or magazines that cater to different interests and age groups. Consider having a mix of fiction, non-fiction, and motivational or inspirational reads. This allows your team members to find something that resonates with them and helps them unwind during quieter moments.
Essential Cleaning Supplies
Summary: Here, we will discuss the cleaning supplies that every cheer coach should carry to ensure a clean and hygienic practice or competition environment.
Disinfectant Wipes or Spray
Keeping your practice area clean and germ-free is essential for the health and safety of your team members. Having disinfectant wipes or spray in your cheer coach bag allows you to quickly sanitize surfaces and equipment.
Choose wipes or spray that are effective against a wide range of bacteria and viruses. Look for products thatare safe for use on different surfaces and equipment. Regularly wipe down mats, props, and any shared equipment to minimize the risk of infections or illnesses spreading among your team.
Hand Sanitizing wipes
In addition to hand sanitizers, having hand sanitizing wipes in your cheer coach bag provides an extra layer of cleanliness and convenience for your team. These wipes are useful for quickly sanitizing hands before and after practices or performances.
Choose hand sanitizing wipes that are individually wrapped or come in travel-sized packs for easy distribution. Look for wipes that are gentle on the skin and contain a high alcohol content to effectively kill germs. Encourage your team members to use these wipes regularly, especially after handling shared equipment or surfaces.
Air Freshener
Practices and competitions can be physically demanding, resulting in sweat and odors. Having an air freshener in your cheer coach bag helps keep the practice area or changing room smelling fresh and pleasant.
Choose an air freshener with a light, refreshing scent that won’t overpower the space. Opt for travel-sized or discreet options that can easily fit in your bag. Using an air freshener not only improves the overall atmosphere but also creates a more comfortable and enjoyable environment for your team members.
Miscellaneous Items
Summary: In this final section, we will cover the miscellaneous items that may come in handy for cheer coaches, such as extra batteries, a mini sewing kit, and a portable phone charger.
Extra Batteries
In a fast-paced environment like cheerleading, having spare batteries for electronic devices or equipment is essential. In your cheer coach bag, make sure to have a variety of extra batteries for items such as megaphones, portable speakers, or timers.
Identify the types of batteries needed for your devices and keep a small supply of each in your bag. Regularly check the battery levels of your equipment and replace them as needed. Having spare batteries readily available ensures that your devices won’t run out of power at crucial moments.
Mini Sewing Kit
Wardrobe malfunctions can happen, and having a mini sewing kit in your cheer coach bag allows you to quickly fix any loose threads, minor tears, or missing buttons.
Choose a compact sewing kit that includes a variety of thread colors, needles, and small scissors. It’s also helpful to have safety pins and fabric adhesive on hand for temporary fixes. With a mini sewing kit, you can address any clothing issues and ensure that your team looks polished and put together at all times.
Portable Phone Charger
In the age of technology, having a portable phone charger in your cheer coach bag is a practical and convenient item. It ensures that your phone, or any other electronic device, remains charged and accessible throughout long practices, competitions, or trips.
Choose a portable phone charger with a sufficient capacity to charge your devices multiple times. Look for one that is compact, lightweight, and compatible with various devices. Having a fully charged phone allows you to stay connected, access important information, and communicate with team members or parents as needed.
In conclusion, as a cheer coach, being prepared with the right bag necessities is crucial for a successful and efficient practice or competition. From safety equipment to personal care items, organizational tools, and entertainment options, having all the essentials at hand will make your coaching experience much more enjoyable. So, make sure to stock up on these cheer coach bag necessities and be prepared for anything that comes your way!
