The Fine Print

Every great Factory runs on precision, communication, and teamwork- and that means having a few gears in place to keep everything moving in sync. This page outlines our official Factory Policies & Commitments: the attendance expectations, financial responsibilities, and communication standards that help keep our program fair, focused, and sustainable.

These details aren’t meant to overwhelm; they’re meant to protect the athletes, coaches, and families who pour their time and energy into the Factory. Every time a family commits to a season, our coaches, staff, and teammates count on that commitment. When everyone understands how the gears fit together, the whole team thrives.

If questions ever come up, please reach out early so we can find a solution together — that’s how we keep the Factory turning smoothly.

Attendance & Commitment

Missed Practices:
Cheerleading is a team sport, and everyone plays an integral part in the routine. The entire team is affected when someone does not show up. It is essential that every cheerleader is at every practice on time and ready to work so as not to delay the progress of the team as a whole.
⚙️Any unexcused absence within two weeks of a competition will result in a $25 Missed Practice Fee, added to the next month’s invoice.
⚙️Two unexcused absences in a month or one within two weeks of a competition may result in removal from stunts or routine sections.

Missed Gym Practices and Choreography Sessions:
Rental and choreography fees are paid in advance and cannot be refunded or transferred.
⚙️Families are responsible for the full cost of the session if an athlete misses a scheduled gym practice or choreography day.

Missed Competitions:
All competitions are mandatory. If an athlete misses a competition for any reason other than an approved emergency, the family will be responsible for:
⚙️Their athlete’s competition entry fee, plus an additional $250 Missed Competition Fee to cover re-choreography, staff hours, and routine adjustments.
⚙️If an athlete’s absence results in reworking stunt groups, a $100 Stunt Group Rework Fee per affected group will also apply (if applicable).
⚙️This fee helps cover gym rental costs, staff hours, and the additional time required from teammates who must learn new roles.

Withdrawal Mid-Season:
Families who withdraw mid-season are responsible for:
⚙️The remaining balance of their athlete’s registration and all competition fees (prior and future),
⚙️A $500 Withdrawal Fee to offset the disruption and re-planning required, and
⚙️Repayment of any fundraised or subsidized amounts applied toward their athlete’s uniform or fees (or return of the uniform in new condition).

Financial Policies

Late Payments:
⚙️ Monthly tuition is due on the 1st of each month.
⚙️ A $25 late fee will apply after the 10th unless prior arrangements have been made.

Returned Payments:
⚙️ A $35 returned-payment fee will be charged for any failed ACH, Venmo, or check payment.

Refunds:
⚙️ Tuition and competition fees are non-refundable and not prorated for missed or canceled practices.

Fundraising:
⚙️ All families are expected to participate in fundraising efforts organized through DD Cheer Gemstones. Fundraised amounts directly offset team expenses for everyone and allow us to keep our registration fees low.

Communication & Grace

We understand that life happens- illnesses, emergencies, and unforeseen situations arise. DD Cheer Factory is always willing to work with families who communicate early and honestly. Please reach out to the Executive Coach as soon as possible if a conflict or hardship arises. When communication happens proactively, we can often make accommodations. When it doesn’t, these policies will be enforced as written to protect the program and the team as a whole.