Being a varsity cheerleader is more than just being the envy of the school. Varsity cheerleaders must be athletes, with the commitment to attend practices, events and competitions. If you've been selected to become a varsity cheerleader, your coaching staff and the school administration will expect you to be a good example, lead younger squads, participate in school events, and above all, cheer.
Attending Practices
Once you've been admitted to the varsity cheerleading squad, you'll be introduced to a rigorous schedule of practice. Some cheerleading squads cheer only at school events and others compete in their own right, but both types of squads need frequent practices. Practices will cover technique, tumbling, gymnastics, dance, cheer and stunting. As a member of the squad, it's your responsibility to arrange your schedule so you're able to attend practices. If not, you may be out of sync with the rest of the squad and find yourself cut from the team.
Cheer at Events
When your school has a sporting event, pep rally or other event, varsity cheerleaders will be expected to take part. It's a cheerleader's responsibility to ensure that other students and spectators are kept engaged and entertained. By engaging spectators to cheer and yell, the members of the school team feel more confident in their abilities. For pep rallies and other school events, varsity cheerleaders represent unity and enthusiasm, setting the tone for the event for the rest of the students.
Homecoming Participation
Varsity cheerleaders are often asked to play a big role in the school's homecoming events. Homecoming events often include dances, rallies and games, and varsity cheerleaders are front and center. Cheerleaders may be asked to help run some events, decorate for dances, organize competitions for homecoming court and be present for homecoming games and events as well.
Leadership Roles
Varsity cheerleaders put the "lead" in cheerleading. Junior cheerleading squads look up to the members of the varsity squad in terms of behavior, confidence and dedication. It's a varsity cheerleader's duties to be a leader in the school for student involvement and enthusiasm, with everything from a Friday pep rally to student elections and sporting events. An effective varsity cheerleader inspires other students to take part in whatever ways they can.
References
- Varsity.com: Leading Your Team
- "Cheerleader!: An American Icon"; Natalie Guice Adams et al.; 2003
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