As your season progresses, do you start to notice that some members on your team do not interact with some of the other teammates? Do you see signs of possible “bullying”? Here are some things to keep in mind and to help create a unified, happy and productive team:
1. Have a conversation with your entire team about bullying and make sure EVERY CHEERLEADER is heard and encourage everyone to give their input.
For example, have the cheerleaders sit in a circle during your conversation so everyone can see each other. As the facilitator, ask them questions and then have EVERY cheerleader give their answer. Here are some questions to ask:
- Ask the team what they think bullying is and to give examples.
- How does it make you FEEL when you are “bullied” or feel disrespected?
- Who here has maybe said something that is not so nice to someone else? How does it make you feel to say negative things to others?
- Do you want people to say these things to you or treat you this way?
- How does it make you FEEL to be NICE to someone?
- To help someone?
- To stand up for someone?
2. During your team meeting, discuss options for your athletes of what they can do when they feel they are being bullied. For ideas, check out the full article HERE.
3. When you see cliques or mini teams beginning to form on your team, it is imperative that you promptly have the athletes start working with other teammates too. Check out our full article for team building ideas HERE.
4. Have everyone sign an Anti-Bullying Contract as a TEAM.
For more Anit-Bullying Solution, check out the Cheerleading Coaching Center Solutions HERE.