Building Leaders and Champions on and Off the Field

Empowering young athletes in the Lowcountry to soar to new heights.

Welcome to the East Cooper War Hawk’s Youth Football & Cheerleading club, where we believe in the transformative power of sports to shape lives and futures. Our club isn't just about playing – it's about fostering a community where athletes unite to learn, grow, and achieve. Here, passion, dedication, and teamwork reign supreme as we create an inclusive space for athletes of all ages and abilities. We can’t wait for you to join the East Cooper War Hawk family!

The War Hawk difference

Discover the transformative journey awaiting every member of East Cooper War Hawks. Explore the six pillars of growth and empowerment that define our youth football and cheer club experience. From fostering camaraderie to honing strategic skills, each aspect contributes to the holistic development of our athletes, preparing them for success both on and off the field.

Communication

Fosters effective communication skills, both on and off the field. Athletes learn to express themselves confidently and work together as a unified team.

Community

Become part of a supportive community where athletes, coaches, and families come together to celebrate successes, overcome challenges, and forge lifelong friendships.

Achievement

Opportunities to strive for excellence and achieve goals, whether mastering a new skill, winning, or earning recognition for hard work.

Fitness

Through regular practice, training, and conditioning, our youth athletes develop strength, agility, and endurance.

Strategy

Valuable experience in strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving translate to success both in sports and in life.

Growth

Spark personal growth and self-discovery. Athletes learn resilience, perseverance, and the importance of embracing challenges.

Everything You Need to Know Before Hitting the Field

  • Our programs are open to youth athletes ages 5–12 who are passionate about football or cheer. Whether you're new to the game or have experience, there's a place for everyone on our team! For 2025 we will field teams for 12U, 10U, 8U, and 6U.

  • Tryouts are typically held in the spring and summer at local fields. Specific dates, times, and locations are posted in our website's Game and Upcoming Events section, so be sure to follow us and check regularly!

  • For football: bring cleats, athletic wear, and plenty of water.

    For cheer: wear athletic gear, supportive shoes, and bring water.

    We also recommend labeling all personal items!

  • Each player is responsible for providing their own, Helmet (Black Matte), Shoulder Pads, Cleats, Mouth Pieces, Practice Jersey, and Practice Pants. The team will provide Game Jerseys and Pants for all players. Reach out if you need assistance locating or sizing equipment.

  • Not at all! We welcome all skill levels, especially to our skills clinics and tryouts. Our coaches focus on building skills, confidence, and teamwork, so whether it’s your first time or you’ve been playing for years, you’ll fit right in.

  • Registration is quick and easy! Visit our website, click on the event you’re interested in, and fill out the registration form. Make sure to sign up early—spots fill fast! Also note that we do not require you to attend all tryout sessions, however, we recommend that you come to as many as possible, especially if you are new to the organization.

  • During the season, players and cheerleaders typically practice 2–3 times per week, with games or events on weekends. We also offer optional clinics and team-building events to help athletes grow on and off the field. While we encourage our athletes to play multiple sports throughout the year, we do expect that once we start in-season practices, players will have a primary focus on football. We do not allow athletes to participate in other sporting events before games while in season. Football is a taxing sport that requires mental and physical preparation from all of our athletes!

  • The East Cooper War Hawks is a tryout-based team that participates in a highly competitive league. We want to make sure that our teams are competitive and our athletes are safe, therefore, our highly experienced coaches work as a team to select the best athletes for our limited rosters. If your child does not make one of our teams this year, we will provide information on an appropriate league to support that individual’s current skill and experience level. Also, it is important to note that if your athlete does make the team, we do not guarantee playing time for any individual. Playing time is earned in the pre-season and in-season practices and is based on skill, experience, and team needs. The War Hawks utilize limited roster sizes to ensure that if you make the team, you contribute to the team, but we believe that game participation is earned, not given!