PREP TEAMS
Building Strong Cheer Foundations and Confident Athletes
Dakota Spirit’s Prep Teams introduces athletes to the excitement of local competitive cheer in a positive, structured setting. With weekly practices focused on building fundamentals—stunting, tumbling, timing, and performance—athletes gain the foundation needed for future All-Star pathways. This program supports steady growth, teamwork, and confidence through a Christ-centered approach that nurtures both skill development and character.
Program Overview
Our Prep Teams are designed for athletes who are ready to dive into cheerleading and start building strong fundamentals. Prep athletes practice once a week and compete at local events, focusing on age-appropriate stunts, tumbling, and performance skills in a supportive environment. No experience is required—just enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a great attitude.
Weekly practices that build technique and teamwork
Local competitions to gain experience without extensive travel
Emphasis on safe progressions for stunts and tumbling
A Christ-centered, family-first environment
Find the Prep Team That Fits Your Athlete
Each team is designed to match age, ability, and experience—so every athlete can shine.
| Team Name | Level | Ages | Practice Day | Practice Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sparks | Tiny - Prep | 5-7 years | Wednesdays | 4 - 5:15 pm |
| Heat | Mini - Prep | 7-9 years | Mondays | 5:30 - 6:45 pm |
| Fury | Youth - Prep | 8-12 years | Thursdays | 5:45 - 7:15 pm |
| Fusion | Junior - Prep | 9-15 years | Tuesdays | 5:15 - 6:45 pm |
No experience is necessary for our prep teams, with the exception of Fusion. Fusion is a team that requires a backwalkover or a coach recommendation. New athletes must go through a 15-minute evaluation at the Dakota Spirit open house or via a private evaluation.
Prep Teams Season Information
Season Duration: August 2026 – April 2027
Registration Opens: June 1, 2026
Open Houses: June 10, July 8, and August 5, 2026, from 6-8 pm
Parent/Athlete Meeting: At First Practice
Summer Tumbling & Training: One practice per week starting in August
Regular Season Practice: Once a week starting August 2026
Performances: 6-8 performances
Dakota Spirit Showdown
Spiritfest
4 Competitions
1 Halftime performance
Valentine’s Classic
Tuition & Fees
Dakota Spirit works diligently to keep the sport of cheerleading accessible. This is done in many ways. We understand that you will want clarity about the financial commitment involved and have provided details about the costs accordingly. If you have concerns about costs, please reach out.
Tuition
Prep Teams costs—including tuition, competition fees, choreography, bootcamps, and music—are evenly spread over 10 months for a consistent monthly payment.
Tuition charges appear in your GoMotion account on the 1st of each month, with your selected payment method automatically charged on the 10th. Tuition covers weekly training and facility access, and registration includes your athlete’s first set of practice gear.
Additional Fees
Additional fees not included in tuition: a $300 uniform fee, comp bow, cheer shoes, USASF membership (Fusion Only), and hotel/travel expenses for competitions.
| Tuition or Fee | Cost | Due Date | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sparks, Heat, Fury | Fusion | ||
| Registration | $150/year | $150/year | At the time of registration. |
| Monthly Tuition | $95/month | $110/month | 10th of the month |
| Full Tuition | $760/year | $880/year | Aug. 1 |
| Uniform | $300 | $300 | Aug. 1 |
| USASF Membership | Not Applicable | $49/year | June 1 |
| US Finals | TBD | TBD | |
Practice Gear and Uniform sizing will be by appointment.
Practice & Attendance
Consistent participation is essential to the success of every Dakota Spirit team. All practices are encouraged, and athletes are expected to arrive prepared, focused, and in the proper practice attire. Missing practices may impact an athlete’s role or choreography within the routine.
Season Schedule
Prep Teams practice once a week in the summer and during the regular season (August).
Practice Uniform
Athletes are required to wear the designated Dakota Spirit practice tank top paired with black shorts to every practice. Jewelry of any kind is not permitted for safety reasons.
Absence Policy
Families are encouraged to schedule vacations during school breaks or gym closures when possible.
We understand that unexpected situations—such as injury, illness, or family emergencies—may arise. When they do, we will work with families to find the best solution. Please communicate any potential conflicts as early as possible so we can adjust accordingly.
Gym Closures
Wondering when the gym will be closed? Visit our Gym Closures page for a full list of holiday breaks and planned downtime—perfect for family trips or much-needed rest days.
Communication & Support
Staying informed is essential to a smooth season. Parents are responsible for keeping up with all team and gym updates, so please check BAND, GoMotion, and your email regularly — we use all three throughout the year to share important information. If you ever have an urgent question or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out directly. We’re here to help every step of the way!
Billing/Registration
Office Director
Lesley Good
lesleygoodds@gmail.com
Office Contact
info@dakotaspirit.com
605-373-0414
Team Info, Practices & Coaches
Email info@dakotaspirit.com for coach contact details.
Classes & Lessons
Tumbling Director
Triana McCloud
triana.mccloud@dakotaspirit.com
Athlete Well-Being
Program Director
Joanna Naatjes
joanna.naatjes@dakotaspirit.com
Gym Owner
Robin Fritsch
robin.fritsch@dakotaspirit.com
Get Ready for the Season?
To keep the season running smoothly, families are encouraged to stay organized and connected. Make sure all required forms are completed, your GoMotion account is up to date, and you’ve joined your team’s BAND group for updates.
You’ll also receive reminders for uniform orders, hotel bookings, volunteer sign-ups, and USASF membership steps throughout the year. Customize your BAND notifications, sync your calendar, and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to other families—our community thrives on teamwork and communication.
Above all, be early, be gracious, and be flexible as we work together to make this a fun and rewarding season for every athlete.
Checklist
Don’t worry — we’ll guide you through each step.
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Complete & submit forms:
Best Practices for a Great Season:
Customize your BAND app notifications and alerts.
Use your full name and a clear profile photo in BAND.
Subscribe and sync to program and team calendars in BAND.
Review your GoMotion account for accuracy.
Introduce yourself to fellow parents and athletes .
Be early, be positive, and be flexible!
Respond promptly to polls and surveys.
Book travel and hotel accommodations early.
More Than Cheer. It’s Character.
Dakota Spirit’s mission is to promote the physical, mental, and Christian development of youth through cheerleading. Our Christ-centered culture sets the foundation for teamwork, humility, and confidence on and off the mat.
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Join a Prep Team!
Build your skills, grow your spirit, and get ready to shine on the mat. Secure your spot for the Prep season today!