Job Overview
Spokane Youth Cheer is seeking Volunteer Youth Cheer Coaches for the 2026 season, beginning mid-July and running through mid-late November, with opportunities for dedicated coaches to return in subsequent seasons.
Spokane Youth Cheer operates under the Spokane Youth Football and Cheer Association and participates in the Inland Northwest Youth Football and Cheer League, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Together, these organizations serve youth athletes across the region through structured, developmentally appropriate cheer programs that emphasize teamwork, confidence, discipline, physical literacy, and joy in sport.
Responsibilities
-Coaches are responsible for teaching age-appropriate cheer skills, leading practices, supporting athletes on game days, communicating with families, and modeling positive leadership and sportsmanship.
-Plan and teach cheerleading routines, stunts, and cheers tailored to various age groups
-Foster teamwork, sportsmanship, and positive attitude among youth participants
-Monitor safety during practices and performances, ensuring proper use of equipment and facilities
-Manage behavior and encourage respectful interactions among children
-Coordinate practice schedules and communicate effectively with parents and guardians
-Lead warm-up exercises and ensure all activities are conducted in a safe manner
-Support participants in developing confidence, coordination, and physical skills related to cheerleading and other sports
Qualifications
-Ability to pass a background check
-Current CPR certification
-Strong organizational skills
-The ability to learn and adapt quickly
-Demonstrated commitment to being a positive role model for youth.
-Coaches must be team-oriented, community-minded, and capable of working collaboratively with families and league leadership.
-All coaches must complete a coaching interest form, background check, CPR certification, required online trainings, and attend mandatory in-person trainings and pre-season meetings.
Time Commitment
Coaches may set their own practice schedules for their teams. Recommended practice frequency is 3-5 practices (10 hours maximum) per week during the summer before school begins, transitioning to 1-3 practices (6 hours maximum) per week once the school year starts.
The season includes eight regular-season games, up to three playoff games, an all-day cheer clinic in August, and a cheer competition in October, with post-season competitive opportunities available for teams that qualify.
Experience
-Prior experience in youth sports coaching, teaching, physical education, or working with children is highly desirable
-Background in cheerleading, dance, or gymnastics a plus
-Knowledge of behavior management techniques to foster discipline and positive conduct among youth
-Comfort and confidence leading small to medium-sized groups of children. Some coaching positions involve narrower age ranges and may be requested based on coach preference and availability.
Volunteering as a youth cheer coach offers the opportunity to shape confident, capable young athletes while strengthening the broader community through sport, mentorship, and shared purpose.
Youth sports play a critical role in childhood development. Participation supports physical health, social-emotional growth, leadership skills, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
Cheer, as a performance-based team sport, uniquely combines athletic skill, creativity, coordination, and expressive movement while fostering strong peer relationships and positive adult mentorship. Volunteer coaches are essential to creating safe, supportive environments where young athletes can thrive both on and off the field.
Applicants interested in volunteering as a Youth Cheer Coach are encouraged to apply through the Spokane Youth Cheer coaching interest form. Spokane Youth Cheer is committed to providing a positive, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate environment for all athletes and volunteers.
