From
http://www.wiaa.com/ConDocs/Con273/ocrguidance.pdf
1. Whether selection for the team is based upon objective factors related to athletic activity. Discussion: The type of factors usually considered when selecting athletes includes speed, strength, agility, ability to be cooperative and competitive, citizenship and the role the athletes fulfill on the team. For activities such as dance, drill, and cheerleading to be considered an athletic offering, selection must be based on factors similar to those used for selecting athletes for other sports.
2. Whether the activity is limited to a defined season. Discussion: The state association will be responsible for establishing a starting and ending date as well as rules and regulations that are similar to other sanctioned sports. Typically those determinations are made with input from school personnel and others who are knowledgeable about the activity/sport.
Each school must determine if it will sponsor competition squad(s) and the impact that such a decision will have on providing the traditional cheerleading and dance and drill squads that have been a part of the support groups for athletic events for decades. A school could choose to field competitive squads and continue to provide squads that support athletic events through sideline activity and halftime entertainment. In fact, some participants may choose to be involved in both offerings. (To review the WIAA’s goal for this issue, please read the addendum.)
3. Whether the activity is administered by the athletic department. Discussion: This is self-explanatory and a matter of developing the proper chain of responsibility, oversight, and funding.
4. Whether the team prepares for and engages in competition in the same way as other teams
in the athletic program with respect to the following:
a. Coaching -- Individuals who coach dance and drill and cheerleading would need to meet the same hiring and evaluation criteria as other coaches. This would also include monetary stipends and any other benefits such as opportunities to receive training.
b. Budget -- The programs would receive a budget that would meet the needs of the activity and is comparable to that school’s other programs. The budget would include allowances for equipment, uniforms, travel, meals, lodging, and any other items similar to other sports programs.
c. Tryout and Eligibility – Participants would be required to meet the same local school and state association eligibility guidelines. (Please review the WIAA’s goals in the addendum.)
d. Length and number of practice sessions – The squads would receive comparable practice time as well as use of comparable facilities. The state association will establish the number of practice sessions prior to initial competition.
e. Competitive opportunities and recognition – While the number of regular season competitions would be established by the state association, the athletic director and coach would be responsible for establishing league affiliation to insure that a schedule is as complete as other sports teams in the school district. Awards such as a varsity letter, “all-league” and “top scorer,” which are appropriate and are common with other sports, must also be provided.
5. Whether the primary purpose of the activity is athletic competition and not the support or promotion of other athletes. Discussion: Competition must be the focal point of the event in which the student participates. The traditional “appearances” that are part of other athletic contests are not appropriate avenues to showcase these participants as athletes.