You’re ready to try out for cheer. Before you do so, you need the details, including how much the cheer competition fees are and whether competitive cheer is something that you want to engage in on a routine basis. Comp fees range widely, but there is some insight we can offer to help you prepare.

Introduction to Cheerleading Competition Expenses

Cheerleading competition fees typically range from $100 to $200 or more per athlete per competition. That could amount to $1,000 to $ 1,200 per season in entry fees alone. For national championships, expect these costs to rise to $400 or more per athlete.

Cheer competition fees are a big part of the process because they can impact the team’s budget. In some situations, each person must pay or raise funds to cover total team costs. Other times, the participant must cover the costs.

Every single competition is different in terms of the costs and what is included in comp fees. It is up to you to know what to expect before you sign up. That’s going to help you manage those costs over time especially when you are supporting a team of cheerleaders taking on the biggest competitions of the year.

Breaking Down Cheer Competition Fees

As noted, competition fees differ from one event to the next and are based on age and competition size. However, some of the most common fees you may pay for cheer competitions include:

• Individual competition entry fees: This is a per-participant fee ranging from $100-200 per event.
• Coach’s fees: These fees range from $15 to $25 per athlete, per competition, covering the coach’s time and travel.
• Travel expenses: Don’t overlook the importance of including the cost of traveling, which, depending on location, can range from $1,000 up to $1,500 per trip for hotels, flights, food and other necessities.
• National championships: A national championship fee schedule is typically much higher, usually ranging from $400 up to $650 per athlete.
• Uniforms: Depending on the situation, you may need to budget $200 up to $500 per competition for any specific gear for that competition.

Costs range by region, but also by age and the type of experience a person can expect. Smaller teams and regional cheerleading competitions typically are no more than $2000 per season for entrance and operational costs. However, larger events and more elite events will be significantly more, often as much as $5,000 per season.

Budgeting for Cheer Competitions

You can expect and budget for cheer competition costs. To do so, start by considering which events you plan to participate in and document each event’s required costs. Then, consider building a budget that allows for the most shows and events based on your current operational budget.

There’s always the opportunity to raise funds. Make sure you’re paying close attention to what you’re spending along the way, though. Numerous cheerleading expense tracking apps can help you gain better insight into costs. Financial management is a must for all squads.

Cost-Saving Strategies for Cheer Competitions

You know the costs, but how to make the most out of your budget? Like any other type of business expense, you’ll need to play for the best ways to cost-effectively use your budget. Consider a few strategies that may help:

• Sign up early. Many competitions offer a lower price if you sign up early for the event. If you don’t see one offered, ask.
• Consider group accommodations to lower travel costs. Play for your team to share living spaces and compare several types of hotels and rental spaces to find the most affordable option.
• Consider the value of fundraising. Depending on the type of event and the people involved, you may be able to fundraise to offset some of the cost.

Teams can minimize travel and accommodation costs significantly by just paying attention and planning ahead. Calculate all costs based on realistic information from area comps. Keep travel costs lower by avoiding too many overnight stays, for example. Look at each expense to determine how you can reduce it.

Exploring Financial Aid and Scholarships

Whether you want to enter some of the elite dance competitions and need cheer uniforms for your team, or you’re looking for ways to support your brand-new program, think outside the box. There are various financial aid and scholarship opportunities that can help you bring your competitive cheer team to the biggest events for less.

You may find scholarships and grants available for cheerleaders in several ways. Some local sports programs may offer them. Also, you may be able to build relationships with local businesses and groups to work with them to raise funding.

Most of the scholarship and grant applications found online are for those applying for college programs to get into school and to save with their cheerleading experience and skills. However, it’s not uncommon for local businesses to want to help support the team with additional costs, a uniform budget, especially with a company logo on them, or for travel expenses.

Effective Fundraising for Cheer Teams

Fundraising is a very common component of building a successful cheerleader program. Most organizations will need to fundraise every few months to maintain budgets and create new opportunities. Work with your competitive cheer team to build local community relationships that will help offset their costs.

• Create a fundraising campaign that inspires locals to support your squad.
• Work with local nonprofits to provide time for earnings.
• Make sure each team member is doing their part to raise awareness and funds. They should know what is needed, why and how to present the opportunity to invest in the team to prospective donors.

Organizing a successful fundraiser will take some time, and you’ll want to have help. What’s most important is getting your cheerleaders engaged in the process. That way, they understand what the goal is, such as to pay for additional costs for a new uniform for a competition or cheer shoes for the team that match, and they know how to play their role.

Managing Recurring Cheerleading Expenses

Every cheerleading squad will have ongoing costs. From paying for insurance to covering team transportation costs, it’s often overwhelming to get those costs right. The key here is to be aware, track and continuously be vigilant of new ways to reduce costs overall.

Managing and reducing these ongoing expenses can be possible with good oversight. Always ask for hotel discounts for your group. Make sure you’re considering the most cost-effective strategies for travel expenses or paying to feed the team.

Cheer Competition Fees Overwhelming You?

Understanding what your cheerleading competition fees are and what you can actually afford to compete in as a squad is always important. It’s a good idea to put at least one person in charge of costs and reducing those costs through research and relationship building. Financial management in cheerleading often drives success and provides your team with more opportunities to participate. It’s all about being aware of what to expect and the methods available to reduce your costs.