Welcome — Black Hills Youth Football and Cheer (BHYFL) — Youth Sideline Cheer

Welcome to Black Hills Youth Football and Cheer (BHYFL) — Youth Sideline Cheer! Whether you’re new or returning, we’re excited you’ve chosen to be part of the Sideline Cheer Program.

Cheerleading has been around for about a century and continues to grow and evolve. Its changing rules, techniques, divisions, and disciplines make it an exciting sport to participate in, watch, and coach.

Youth Sideline Cheer is open to all athletes in 1st–7th grade.

During the BHYFL season, cheerleaders will learn what it takes to be sideline cheerleaders — sportsmanship, endurance, perseverance, cheers, chants, sideline stunts, routines, and more. Being present at practices and games with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn is essential. Like any sport, consistent attendance and participation determine how much each athlete will gain from the program.

Season Structure: Games, Showcase, & Beyond

Towards the end of the season, every squad gets to display what they’ve learned at the BHYFL Sideline Cheer Showcase — a highlight event that celebrates each team’s progress. In addition, the Overall Award Winners from each category during the Showcase will be invited to perform during halftime at the BHYFL championship football games, so there’s an exciting opportunity to shine on an even bigger stage.

Cheerleaders will support their association’s football teams at home and away games (typically 6 games or until their association’s season ends). The season does not end with the BHYFL Sideline Cheer Showcase. If a football team advances to the playoffs or the BHYFL Football Championships, cheer squads will follow and continue to cheer for their teams through those games.

Practices, Attire & Safety Rules

Safety and uniformity are important to us. The following rules apply to all cheer participants:

  • Cheer shoes and proper practice attire are required at every practice. Shoes must be appropriate for cheer activities.
  • No jewelry is allowed during practices or performances (including visible body jewelry). This is for safety — please remove rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings before practice. (If your athlete needs an accommodation for medical or religious reasons, please reach out to their coach.)
  • Coaches will enforce proper attire and safety guidelines during practices and at games.

Coaches & Training

Safety is BHYFL’s #1 priority. All Cheer Coordinators and Coaches complete background checks and mandatory training that covers basic instruction, safety protocols, conditioning, and first aid. Coaches also learn cheer etiquette and what it means to be a Sideline Cheerleader.

Before the season starts, Cheer Coaches will hold a meeting (or otherwise provide information) to share all expectations with parents and participants — practice schedules, attendance policies, uniform requirements, volunteer roles, and any association-specific rules.

Fees & Extras

Parents may be responsible for additional association-specific costs, which can include but are not limited to: volunteer deposit, fundraiser deposit, uniform or uniform deposit, bows, poms, cheer shoes, and other required gear. Associations will notify families about specific fees and deadlines.

Medical & Registration Requirements

All cheerleaders must have a sports physical before participating in practice. Physicals must be dated no earlier than 90 days before the first practice. Associations will also collect a copy of the athlete’s birth certificate and a recent wallet-sized photo for team rosters and identification.

We look forward to an incredible season filled with energy, teamwork, and unforgettable moments on the sidelines and beyond. Thank you for being part of Black Hills Youth Football and Cheer—where hard work truly pays off!