What Is Cheerleading?

Our INTRO TO CHEER program is the ideal way for new athletes and their families to “try out” cheerleading.   This is our FUNdamental program – teaching physical skills like beginner tumbling, motions, dance, jumps and some basic stunts.  It is the perfect class to start with.  As with all of our classes, our professional and well-trained staff will guide your child in this 45-55 minute class weekly. The class is meant to have your child falling IN LOVE WITH CHEER – getting them sweating, smiling and learning! If your child is curious about cheer, this is the class for you!

Our NOVICE program is designed for athletes who are looking for an introduction into competitive cheer. Our Novice cheer teams run in 2 sessions: September-December and January-April. Novice teams practice once per week for 1-1.5 hrs at a time (depending on age). Teams will put together a choreographed routine that they will perform at 2 local events during each term.  Teams compete in a team t-shirt and bow (included with registration), a pair of black shorts, and any clean, indoor-only running/cheer shoes. Please note that attendance at all practices is very important and every effort should be made to attend.

Our level 1 competitive teams are for athletes and parents looking to become a part of the Midnight Panther Cheer family and be immersed in our culture that focuses on perfection before progression, teamwork, leadership, friendship, and fitness. Families who choose to join one of our Premier cheer teams recognize that the success of these teams depends on full team attendance at all practices. Summer training (1x/week) begins in June and Fall team practices (2x/week) begin in September and go through until the end of May. Level 1 teams will compete at 5-6 local competitions (approx. one competition per month from December-April). Teams compete in a uniform & cheer shoes and have team practice gear (included in pricing). Any “new to cheer” athletes interested in registering for a level 1 team must be assessed to ensure they are placed on the correct team.

Our elite teams (level 1-6) are for athletes who are serious about making a commitment to their team and want to enrich their experience with Midnight Panther Cheer through expanded opportunities to compete and travel. Summer training (1x/week) begins in June and Fall team practices (2x/week) run September-May.  Athletes on these teams must be prepared to make every effort to attend ALL PRACTICES and schedule/plan carefully to ensure they are prepared to be a true team player and put the team ahead of themselves. If you plan to take vacations between September-April (outside the school calendar holidays) or have other serious commitments that will conflict, our premier teams may be a better choice for you. Athletes on elite teams compete throughout the season as outlined in a competition schedule confirmed in September. At least one of these competitions is a ‘destination’ travel competition to a large Nationals so that they can compete against stronger and more varied teams than they can here in BC.