The Bartlett Raider cheer program is for children from grades K through 8th. Participants are placed on squads by school grade. During our active season participation in any other competition squad is prohibited, with the exception of your school’s squad. Cheer begins practice in July. During the months of July, August and the first two weeks of September cheer practices at outdoor location Monday-Friday, depending on individual team schedules. Changes to this schedule can occur due to availability of practice locations, weather, and our volunteer resources. The 3rd-4th week in September cheer switches to an indoor schedule with varying days and times. The indoor schedule will be distributed by your coach sometime at the beginning of September. The BGYFL Cheer Competition is held during the last couple of weekends in October. Our 4th through 8th grade squads MAY practice everyday the week before competition, but no more than 6 hours a week per BGYFL ByLaws. The Raiders are also a member of the IL Recreational Cheer Association, and encourage all squads of appropriate age/level to compete in additional events including the IL State Competition. The combination of practice, cheering at football games, competition and other events prepares the Raiders' cheerleaders for the rigors of High School cheering, and offers the opportunity to be part of a well run cheer organization. Our coaches, Cheer Committee and Raider Board work hard together to keep our children first. We rely on family participation; you not only contribute to the success of our program but also benefit through new friendships. Your help in volunteering makes the Bartlett Raiders Football and Cheer program a reality not a dream. Looking for ways to connect and help -- go to the Contact Us page and email or call the cheer director, Tondaleya Lyons at 630.674.1299.