A cheerleading team captain can be chosen in a number of ways:
- Selected by cheer peers by private vote
- Highest score from try-outs
- Person of highest motivation, spirit, character and cooperation
- Coach selects or all coaches vote
The team captain is a team member chosen to be the leader of the team and right-hand-man to the coach. Many times it is one of the older or more experienced members of the squad, or a player that can heavily influence the course of the season. Some of the up-and-coming cheerleaders make great captains and are natural leaders, even in their earlier years. Wearing a special pin on the uniform top/shell usually identifies the team captain. A captain is usually appointed for a season.
A Co-captain or Vice-captain may also be appointed and will perform a similar role. The Co-captains may work in conjunction with all duties or split up duties. The Vice-captain will take on the full role in the captain’s absence.
It is important the captain has a good rapport with the club's supporters, sponsors, and boosters. The captain of scholastic and collegiate teams may also take a role in media relations and marketing relations on behalf of the team or for the school or athletic department. A cheerleader is a natural marketing person – networking, communicating…accomplishing.
Crucial qualities of a captain include integrity, good communication skills and being able to get along with everyone. Captains can also take on certain responsibilities within the coaching staff, such as organizing pep rallies and spirit functions, leadership events, fundraising promotions, choreography, team building and team bonding and looking after younger players.
One of the official functions of the captain is to participate in the safe "send off" of the tumblers. After touchdowns or at basketball timeouts, the captain should be sure spectators are clear of the court, the field is clear and safe of ruts or debris.
Your coach will sometimes talk to you about the squad’s general behavior. The captain generally provides a rallying point for the team: if morale is low, it is the captain who will be looked to zest up the side.You also need to reinforce the rules, be aware of skill levels and enforce positive behavior and attitude. Captains lead by example.
The captain of a cheerleading squad is a player who has several additional roles and responsibilities over and above those of a regular player. Make sure schoolwork, home life, work and other obligations can all thrive harmoniously with this added responsibility.
