Cheerleading Tryout Day – Hints and Tips
When you’re trying out for cheerleading, it’s important to know how you should look, act, and perform. These tips will prepare you for your cheer audition from the night before until the end of tryouts.
The night before your test, make sure you get enough sleep. Staying up late can break your focus. Make sure you follow a well-rounded diet with plenty of protein, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid dieting to lose weight, as you will quickly become lethargic. On the day of the test it is important to look your best. Wear your hair in a ponytail or held up tightly in a bun. If your hair is too short for this, style it back with a secure elastic headband that won’t fall out during your routine. Remember that hair ties and headbands in your school colors show school spirit!
Also, wear clothing that fits well and is easy to move around. Avoid baggy pants and oversized tops as they move around too much and can obstruct the judges’ view of your movements. Practice shorts and a fitted t-shirt are good options. As mentioned in our previous article, the Soffe shorts are great for tryouts because they come in a variety of colors. If you really want to look good, Chasse makes cute lycra skirts that come with attached shorts, perfect for stunts, jumps, and kicks. Remember to wear lightweight shoes that offer support. Some good basic cheerleading shoes to have in your practice gear arsenal are Nike’s Sideline Cheer, and for those on a budget, the Chasse Rocket is perfect. Also keep in mind that this is not the time to think about having an over-the-top style or heaping on glamour. Stay away from jewelry, glitter, excess makeup, and long nails.
Before the test begins, avoid injury by making sure you warm up well. Even if he feels nervous and stressed, he adopts a positive and self-confident attitude before walking through the door. He remembers that cheerleading is a team sport and says good luck to each girl. Avoid a malicious or competitive attitude. Be enthusiastic and smile, but remember to be real and natural. Everyone easily detects a fake smile and overacting. While you’re testing, make sure you speak in a loud, clear voice and say each word clearly: say every T and R, and don’t say the words. Use lots of vigor and expression – no one wants to listen to a robot! If you are asked to do something you are unsure about, feel free to ask the judges for clarification. If you mess up, keep smiling and acting like nothing happened. By continuing with their routine, often the judges won’t even realize what happened. If a certain move fails, request a new attempt; not all judges will allow it, but it never hurts to ask. Once you’re done, be sure to thank the judges and coach, and then walk away with a smile on your face.
While nothing can guarantee you a spot on the cheer squad aside from the judges and coach, these tips will help. No matter what the outcome is, remember that you did your best and be proud of your efforts!
Stay tuned for our next article on how to make sure you achieve your cheerleading goals by learning how to choose a cheerleading squad and coach that’s perfect for you.