Grand Traverse Bay YMCA·Traverse City, Michigan
The instructor will lead beginner-level cheerleading practices, teaching basic motions, jumps, and routines to youth participants. They are responsible for maintaining a safe, inclusive environment while fostering teamwork and YMCA core values.
Description Do you have a passion for creating positive experiences for youth through sports and recreation?
Are you someone who enjoys teaching new skills, encouraging growth, and helping children build confidence?
Apply today if you have experience in cheerleading, coaching, dance, gymnastics, or youth programming and enjoy making a difference in your community.
YMCA CULTURE: Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture.
At the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.
We are welcoming: We are open to all.
We are a place where you can belong and become.
We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality.
We are hopeful: We believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world.
We are nurturing: We support you in your journey to develop your full potential.
We are determined: Above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.
Youth Cheerleading Coach Reports to: Sports Director Department: Youth & Sports Programs Classification: Part-Time, Seasonal, Non-Exempt
The YMCA is seeking an enthusiastic and positive Introductory Cheerleading Coach to lead beginner-level cheerleading programs for youth participants. The coach will create a fun, safe, and inclusive environment where children can develop basic cheerleading skills, build confidence, improve teamwork, and learn sportsmanship. This role focuses on introducing participants to cheer motions, chants, jumps, basic stunts (as appropriate), and performance fundamentals.
Plan and lead age-appropriate introductory cheerleading practices and activities. Teach basic cheerleading skills, including motions, chants, jumps, stretching and beginner routines. Promote YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility Foster a positive, encouraging, and inclusive atmosphere for all participants. Ensure participant safety by following YMCA policies and cheerleading safety guidelines. Monitor attendance and communicate program information to parents and guardians in collaboration with Sports Director. Assist with organizing demonstrations and end of program performance for participants parents and guardians. Maintain equipment and report any safety concerns to Sports Director. Serve as a positive role model for youth participants.
Previous cheerleading, coaching, dance, gymnastics or youth sports experience preferred. Knowledge of basic cheerleading techniques and safety practices. Experience working with children ages 5 – 14. High school diploma. Experience coordinating youth sports, recreation programs, or related activities. Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills. Ability to motivate and encourage young participants. CPR, First Aid, and other YMCA-required certifications (or ability to obtain upon hire). Ability to work evenings, weekends, and seasonal schedules as required. WORKING CONDITIONS: Ability to stand, walk, and actively demonstrate cheerleading movements and basic routines. Ability to lift and move equipment weighing up to 20 pounds. Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. CORE COMPETENCIES: Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.
Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
Operational
Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.
Personal
Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to- date knowledge and skills in technology.
Market context
In Michigan, youth cheerleading instructor roles typically draw candidates with hands-on experience coaching children and flexible evening or weekend availability. These positions are competitive because employers often look for a high school diploma, CPR and First Aid readiness, and comfort leading age-appropriate instruction for children ages 5-14. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your certification status and highlight any cheer, dance, or gymnastics experience in your application.