Making the cheerleading squad is a dream for many individuals, which is why it's important to impress officials at tryouts. You'll be competing against a bevy of other talented dancers, gymnasts and even past cheer-squad members. By ensuring that your technique is sharp, you're enthusiastic, and you stay visible to coaches and other squad members, you'll increase your chances of making the squad and becoming a cheerleader.
Prepare Properly
The preparation for cheer tryouts starts well in advance of the actual day of tryouts. Because cheer tryouts can last several days, it's important that you talk to the coach about the process beforehand. Know the tryout schedule so you can make arrangements to be there each day for the best chances. Know what skills are mandatory for tryouts, which might be anything from certain dance skills to various gymnastics stunts. You might also need to prepare a cheer beforehand to showcase for the coaches, depending on the tryout process.
Stay Sharp
It's tempting to showcase your talent by attempting difficult stunts and skills that other tryout hopefuls might not be able to duplicate. But unless you're sure you can execute the moves perfectly each time during tryouts, it's best to stick to the basics. A cheerleader who can stick precise, basic moves often shows better than a cheerleader who attempts sloppy, but difficult moves. Practice beforehand to ensure that your most basic moves are sharp and perfect so your skills shine through.
Show Enthusiasm
What you lack in skill can often be made up in raw enthusiasm. Remember that the purpose of a cheerleader is to engage the crowd and encourage various teams. By placing a smile on your face and staying positive during the tryout process, you can catch the eye of coaches who are looking for the right personality, as much as the right skill. Participants who complain about the process or who exhibit a lackluster attitude might be passed over for girls who are engaging and enthusiastic.
Be Visible
It's important that you make yourself known to the coaches and the current squad members so they can imagine what you'd be like on the team. By forming relationships with those who make the tryout decisions and staying visible, you'll have a better chance at making the squad. This means coming to all of the events during the tryout process, asking plenty of questions, and getting to know the other participants and squad members. This shows you'll be a responsible and valuable addition to the squad.
References
- Cheerleading Zone; "Cheer Jumps for Tryouts"; John Howard; April 2011
- Varsity.com: Making the Cheer Team
- "Cheer Tryouts: Making the Cut"; Jen Jones; 2005



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