Every year once spring rolls around young girls everywhere prepare for their school’s cheerleading tryouts where the participants must present themselves in front of a panel of judges to present their skills and personalities. As a high school and middle school judge, I can tell you exactly what qualities we look for. If your daughter plans on trying out for her school’s cheerleading team, here are a few tips to get her through her tryout.
Presentation:
A good first impression is very important, so she should look the part. The participant should dress in appropriate athletic attire that fits. Nothing too loose or too tight. She should look fresh and cheerleader ready. That means hair up and out of their face with a bow or ribbon. If the participant wants to wear makeup for her tryout, be sure that it is not too heavy or distracting. Presentation is key, so she should not only look the part, but act the part as well.
Energy:
A cheerleader should always rock a smile on their face no matter what. They should be LOUD and full of spirit. It may feel awkward at first but always remember that the sillier she feels, the better she’ll look. It’s all about confidence. They should stand out and grab the judges attention. Don’t hold back. Be loud and proud. It is very important that the participant never gives up matter what. Mistakes happen and IT’S OK! Just because a girl may mess up during their tryout, that does not mean she won’t make the squad. The participant will receive a much higher score for continuing their prepared routine rather than completely stopping after a mistake is made.
Skills:
If your child can tumble, they should DO IT! Just be sure that the tumbling pass is clean and sticks. Don’t risk doing a harder skill that they might not land. This goes for their jumps as well. She should focus on her technique. That means straight arms and legs, pointed toes, and chests up.
When she performs her cheer routine and dance for the judges, she really need to focus on her motion placement and synchronization. The participant needs to be sure that she can hit every motion sharp and together. She shouldn’t be timid or hesitant. Confidence is key for everything.
Talent is very important for a tryout, but so is personality and dedication. The participant shouldn’t be afraid to smile, laugh and to have fun. A good cheerleader should make the judges smile and want to cheer along!
GOOD LUCK!