Preparing Yourself Before Tryouts:
? Eat healthy and be sure to get plenty of rest the week before.
? Get in shape. If you aren’t already on a workout plan, be sure to start one at least a month prior to tryouts. You’ll need strength, endurance, and flexibility to be a successful cheerleader or dancer.
? Be sure to find out the time span of tryouts. Is it two weeks or two days? Also, find out if there are any special events that you should attend or at least be aware of (i.e. a stunt, tumbling, or dance technique class, mock tryouts, etc.).
? Talk to past or present team members. They can be an excellent source of information about the style of cheer or dance the coach is looking for. Most people would be flattered that you’re asking for their help.
? Take a blank tape or CD to record the tryout music.
? Every time you practice, even while you’re just learning, do all the moves full out and sharp. This will help it become natural.
? Have confidence in yourself - at clinic and on the day of tryouts. A simple smile and a great attitude can show a great deal to the judges.
The Day Of:
? Dress to impress! If you feel good about the way you look, it’ll be easier for you to concentrate on what you need to do. Make sure your attire is appropriate - some teams require a specific outfit, so be sure to check that out. It’s always a good idea to wear your school or team colors.
? Your hair should be neat and pulled away from your face.
? Don’t lose your professionalism, especially for those trying out for a college team, by stopping to fix your hair, scratch an itch, or smile at a friend in the audience. And never wear jewelry (unless you’re instructed to) or chew gum.
Know your technical stuff. Again, make sure you’ve done your research on what the judges/coaches are looking for so your style can match.
? If you make a mistake, don’t panic and stop what you’re doing. Show your leadership abilities by handling mistakes graciously and with confidence. Pick up where you left off, and take slow, deep breaths to keep yourself calm and relaxed.
? Smile! Be peppy and energetic. Always show enthusiasm.
? Always keep your head up, and never look down. Make eye contact with the judges.
tryout Checklist
? Don’t stress out! Even if this is going to be your first tryout experience, all you can do is your best.
? Stay healthy!
? Have you done your homework on the squad you’re trying out for? Do they mainly concentrate on competition, cheering at games, etc.?
? Can you devote a significant amount of time to this squad? What are your other obligations (school, athletic, extracurricular, etc.)? Cheerleading is a huge commitment, and coaches want people on their team who are dedicated and willing to put in the time.
? Know what skills are required of you at tryouts (i.e. standing/running tumbling, stunts, etc.). Talk to the coach before or during the clinic and find out the main things he or she will be looking for.
? What are you required to wear during tryouts? Ask someone who has been on the squad before. What does the coach or what do the judges prefer you to wear?
? Does the squad have an open gym for tumbling and/or stunting? If so, have you been going? If not, are you taking tumbling or stunting private lessons? Look for a gym that has cheerleading tumbling classes, not just regular gymnastics.
? Are your parents supportive of you trying out? Along with emotional support, there will be the occasional expense while on the team including coaching, uniform, camp, and competition fees. Be prepared to participate in fundraising events, collect sponsors, or pay a little out of your pocket if they aren’t willing to help. Most teams are really good about working with budgets though.
? Practice/master your skills before tryouts. Don’t injure yourself trying to learn a new skill the week before tryouts. Find something you can do really well, like a stunt or tumbling pass, and perfect that.
? If you have to perform a dance routine, try to get a copy of the music so you can practice at home.
? Be prepared to give your all at clinic, the coaches are always watching!
The Big Day:
? Do you have all the necessary forms filled out/signed? Make sure you remember to bring them with you!
? Know your material!
? Already have what you are going to wear picked out so you aren’t freaking out five minutes before you’re supposed to leave.
? Relax! If you’ve prepared yourself, that’s all you can do.
? Remember: If you mess up, pick it back up and keep going. Coaches like to see that you can handle the
You need to know the dance, cheer, and any other thing they teach you... When u do a toetouch learn how to do it, keep your head up, and be tight. When cheering and Danceing be extremely tight and smile!!! You need to be loud also... Depending on your skills you need to try to tumble.... Most importantly look like your having fun!!!
- I have cheered competition 8 years and highschool 2
This is What you need to be on a cheer team
1. You HAVE to KNOW you are better then everyone else.
2. Look down on EVERYONE that is not your friend.
3. Flirt with all good looking boys.
4. Suck up to all authority figures pretending to be a PERFECT little angel when you are not.
5. Put down everyone that you do not consider pretty in front of everyone else (except authority figures).
6. Back stab your friends to get to the top.
7. The most important ALWAYS make fun for the fat girl.
practice really hard. i practice 2 hours a day . at tryoutsi didnt stop practicing and i got in.
also when u jump point your toes, and in both dance and jump parts do facials.
