So Long, Farewell: Resigning As a Cheer Coach or Captain

No matter what the reason, there occasionally comes the time when a coach or captain feels he/she must resign from leading a cheer squad. It’s not an easy decision and takes much consideration and deliberation. If you, as a coach or captain, have decided that you need to step down from your responsibilities, leave maturely and considerately. Remember, your decision affects an entire team! Here are a few things you should and shouldn’t do when you need to resign: DO… give enough notice as you would any other job. Talk to the supervisor or school official and notify them of your decision ahead of time, giving them enough time to find a replacement. Even as a captain you should treat your position as a job and give at least a two-weeks notice. DON’T… leave on the fly. Unless a family emergency or personal crisis has occurred, your team doesn’t deserve to be abandoned. DO… give a reason for leaving. If there was something wrong with the structure or with one of the leaders, the coach or supervisor deserves to know. If it’s really personal, try to explain as much as you feel comfortable revealing. DON’T… leave without first trying to work it out. If something is bothering you or making you uncomfortable, talk with a coach, supervisor, or program director. There may be a solution to your problem. Maybe someone doesn’t even realize you’re having problems with something. If you’re struggling with leadership as a captain, ask the coach for tips or advice. If you’re having trouble getting supplies or support you need as a coach, talk to a school or gym supervisor or director about your concerns. DO… offer to help find a replacement and/or to train the new coach or captain. It’s hard being new, especially if you take over a team mid-season. Help him/her adjust to the team before stepping down. DON’T… leave your team in the dark. Your squad members deserve to know why you’re leaving. Explain to them your reasons without bad-mouthing anyone. DO… leave on good terms. Whatever the reason you’re resigning, try to leave on the best of terms with your squad and school or gym officials/supervisors. As upset as you may be in the moment, you’ll regret it later if there’s bad blood between you and someone or something else. Let go of any anger or problems you have now that you’re leaving. DON’T… spread rumors or talk negatively about your team or organization after you’ve left. This is especially the case if you want to continue working within the cheer industry. No one, especially cheerleaders, wants to work with someone who causes trouble or drama. TRY TO AVOID… leaving mid-season. Even if you can’t finish out the entire year, try to wait until a season is over. Leaving in the middle of competition season or football season can take a toll on a squad and no one deserves that. Unless there is a serious reason for leaving, try to stick it out. What are your tips for resigning? Have you ever had a coach or captain leave the team mid-year?