The purpose of this letter is to briefly introduce myself as the new Daytona Beach Buccaneers Pop Warner Cheer Director. I very recently joined the Daytona Beach organization, but I have over nine years' experience with Pop Warner as a Coach, a Committee Chairman and a Team Mom, and I am looking forward to facing the challenges of my new position as we move forward into the 2010 season. Registration is open, so be sure to register soon.

My assistant, Melissa Fantozzi, and I are excited about the upcoming season as a member of the new East Coast Conference. We have many fun and challenging events planned for this season. Our goal is to fill the squads - both cheer and dance. Cheerleaders are expected to demonstrate a winning attitude and foster team spirit through cohesion and commitment to common goals. Cheerleader’s conduct at games and team events is especially important. Team pride, positive attitude, and gracious behavior towards competitor teams are EXPECTED AT ALL TIMES.

As you know, Pop Warner is a volunteer, parent-run organization, and it would not be possible to have a successful program without your help. We are currently interviewing candidates for Cheer coaches. To be a Head Coach you have to be at least 21 years of age, Assistant Coaches have to be at least 18 years of age and Jr Coaches are ages 15-17. As a Head Coach or Assistant Coach you will need to complete a volunteer form, a coaching application and undergo a background check. Once chosen, you will go through a coaches' training class to be certified and badged to work with the kids and be on the field. The Jr Coaches will fill out the same paperwork as a cheerleader, and will have to attend a Jr Coaches training class. Our Jr Coaches earn volunteer hours that they need for graduation and/or scholarships. Jr Coaches check in with their squads at games and attend competitions. They are a vital part of the squads as they lend leadership, become role models and set good examples for the younger cheerleaders. If you are interested in any of the cheer coaching positions, please feel free to contact me and I will get an application for you to fill out. I encourage everyone to get involved and volunteer your time this season; you will make a difference in your child’s life and meet many new lifelong friends!

As we get closer to the start of the season we will be setting days for uniform and shoe fitting. This will also be the day that you will meet your coach and the coaching staff. There will also be a parent meeting before the start of the season and again during the season to review our expectations for the season from the cheerleaders, the parents and the coaches. I look forward to meeting with you in the near future.

Sincerely,