Because missing practices hampers the progress of the entire team, we expect that members will attend every scheduled practice.  The full time allotted for each practice will be used.   Tardiness is defined as arriving fifteen minutes late to practice or competitions.   Absences include missing a practice completely or leaving early from practices, competitions, or other scheduled events.  Because we need each team member present in order to properly train and practice routines, the tardiness/ absence of one member completely disrupts the flow and function of the team.   Adjustments must be made which are not normal parts of the routine and then readjustments are required when the team is complete. 

 The reality is that there are times when cheerleaders will be late to practices or must leave early.  If you are going to be even 10-15 minutes late, please call your coach on their cell phone or call the Haydens front desk (868-0608).  If you need to leave early from a practice, let your coach know at least two days in advance.  Do not send a message via other cheerleaders.  Absences from practices may be excused for medical reasons, emergencies, school-graded activities, or any reasons which are deemed acceptable by the coach.  Examples of excused absences are a major family event (death or wedding) or a contagious illness or serious injury.  For major family events which are known well in advance, coaches need to be notified as soon as possible so that alternate plans can be made for the squad.

 Except for an illness that is contagious, any absence (even partial) of a cheerleader during a “competition week” will result in the cheerleader not being permitted to participate in that competition. This includes participation in school extra-curricular activities.  No refund will be given for missing that competition as a result of that cheerleader’s absence.  

Examples of unexcused absences are minor injuries or non-contagious illnesses, homework, non-graded school activities, or participation in other sports.  You can also receive an unexcused absence if you fail to complete two of your required monthly tumbling classes.  Coaches should be notified of unexpected absences prior to a practice if at all possible.  This can be done with a phone call to the coach or the Haydens front office and will allow the coach time to modify the practice plan to allow for the missing cheerleader. In the event of an unexpected absence, a written note is required afterwards.  

Summer vacations present a challenge…Please let your coach know well in advance of your planned vacation dates.  If there are an excessive number of days, cheerleaders can lose their spot in the routine, not compete at the first competition or be dismissed from the team.  Check with your coach if you have questions on this.     

Missing more practices than allowed can result in dismissal from the team.  

Absences must not exceed the guidelines below:  

April 19 through August 8:   3 absences 

August 9 through December 31:  2 absences 

January 1 through End of Season:  1 absence  

Pre-paid trips already scheduled for the summer will be excused if detailed information on trip dates is delivered to Leslie Anderson not later than April 25, 2010.