Expectations

Cheerleading is a physically demanding and highly rewarding sport. In order for all athletes to have a safe, successful, and fun season, consistent practice attendance is essential. Practice schedules and attendance policies are determined by each Head Coach.

Milford offers a comprehensive cheerleading program for ages 4–16 (with Inspiration Team ages 5–21). Athletes participate in:

• Sideline cheering
• Dance
• Stunting
• Tumbling
• Competitive routines

Practice commitment 📍

Summer schedule (July 15 – Labor Day)

During the summer months, teams focus heavily on conditioning, skill progression, and competition choreography.

• Inspiration Team: 1 hour, once per week
• Division 6: 1 hour, twice per week
• D8–D14: 8–10 hours per week
• Practices typically held between 5:00–9:00 PM (indoor & outdoor)

Adjustments or cancellations due to extreme heat or weather will be communicated through each team's BAND app and email.

Fall season schedule 🍂

Beginning Labor Day weekend, teams begin sideline cheering at football games. Competitive teams practice time is reduced to 8 hours max per week, typically 2 to 2.5-hour evening practices and/or Saturday morning practices.

Games & postseason

Football games are typically scheduled on Sundays, and our cheerleaders support our football teams by cheering at home games held at local high school fields.

• Regular season runs approximately 8 weeks (Labor Day through mid-October).
• Football teams may advance to postseason play based on performance.

Competitive opportunities 🏆

All competitive athletes compete locally in Connecticut, with opportunities to advance to Regionals & National Championships. Milford has competed at the national level for over 12 years, earning 11 National Championship Titles.

Competition cost overview (estimated)

The league is not responsible for travel expenses; however, many teams fundraise to help offset costs.

• Spectator tickets: approx. $25 per person
• Nationals (Orlando, FL – if qualified): minimum estimated cost $600+ per person, airfare additional, 3-night stay-to-play requirement

Inspiration Team 💙

Designed for athletes ages 5–21 with special needs, providing the opportunity to be part of a team, build new skills, gain confidence, and grow alongside peers.

Coaching & safety

• Coaches are certified through YCADA (Youth Cheer and Dance Alliance)
• Coaches from each competitive roster attend annual coaching clinics
• Each team includes at least one coach certified in CPR