The Proper Way to Cheer at a Football Game

Believe it or not, there is a right way and a wrong way to cheer at a football game. Basically, it's a set of unwritten rules that govern what is considered proper and what is not. You'll find them below with short explanations. (Plus, read How to Cheer at a Basketball Game and our cheer lists.)

Difficulty: Easy

Time Required: Hour and a Half

Here's How:

Arrive early so that the squad can set up and go over any new cheers. Check out our library of Football Cheers for new ideas.

Football Cheers, Vol. 1
Football Cheers, Vol. 2
Football Cheers, Vol. 3

This is also a great time to warm up and stretch.

Before the game starts, your squad should walk over to the opposing team's cheerleaders and greet them. Be friendly and offer your help with any problems they might have. Some squads will bring the other team's cheerleaders to their side of the field and introduce them to the fans either before the game or at halftime. This is entirely up to you.
If your squad does an "Hello" cheer, then it should be one of the first cheers at the start of the game.
As you cheer during the game, make sure you're paying attention to what is happening on the field. There are offense and defense cheers and you want to make sure you're doing them at the correct time. Offense is when your team has the ball and defense is when your opponent has the ball. So, you don't want to be hollering about a touchdown when the other team has the ball. This is also when you want to make sure your motions are sharp.
While you should be paying attention to the game, you'll also want to be facing the fans and work on getting them involved (crowd involving cheers) in your cheers. Encourage them to clap along with your squad and to say the words to your yells or cheers.

If an injury occurs on the field you should stop cheering immediately. The squad should face the field and watch for the downed player to get up or to be carried off. When this happens your squad should clap.
Although a football game is a big social event at most schools, it's not the time for cheerleaders to socialize. Make sure the squad stays together and that they do not talk to fans or friends for long periods of time.
Take a break at halftime if you need one or arrange for someone to bring you drinks if you need them.
Always conduct yourself to a high standard. You should put safety, integrity, respect and good sportsmanship at the core of your values.
After the game, clean up your area and make sure you gather all your things.

What You Need: