Are cheerleading tryouts coming up and you are still undecided if you want to try out?  It is a big decision for anyone male or female to take the step to tackle tryouts.  This decision is one of the more important ones you have to decide.  It should be thought through and discussed thoroughly with your parent or guardian.  It can be time-consuming and it could hurt your grades and prevent you for doing many outside activities.  There is also a financial consideration to think about.  There will be expenses for lessons, competitions, supplies, and uniforms.  You may be expected to pay for any cheerleading camps your team takes part in.

If after thinking through all of that and you still want to be a cheerleader, here are a few more things to think about.  Are you willing to give it your all?  It takes 100 percent participation; it takes work, and dedication.  If you are not willing to give your all to the sport, don’t try out because you will be wasting you and the squad’s time.  Next, what are your reasons for wanting to be a cheerleader?  Do you love the sport; enjoy the competition and the physical challenges?  Being a cheerleader is demanding and is more than just standing in front of a crowd and leading a cheer.  And last, do you know and understand that you will be looked on as a role model?  Your peers will watch you and your actions will be copied.  Can you take useful criticism?  Can you follow directions, rules, and regulations?  These are important questions to ask yourself.  Make sure you want to be a cheerleader for the right reasons.

You have made the decision with the help of your parents and you know you still want to be a cheerleader.  Now is the time to prepare for tryouts.  Talk to the cheerleading coach or teacher.  Find out if there are special requirements, fill out any applications that are needed and know when the deadlines are for turning in your paperwork.

You can get advice and information by talking to the ones who are already cheerleaders.  Do not be afraid to ask questions they will be happy to share their experiences with you.

Enroll in a tumbling or gymnastic class and get physically fit if you are not already.  Start a good workout program or increase the time spent in your present workout routine.  A cheerleader needs stamina, strength, and flexibility.  Cheerleading takes knowledge of gymnastics, tumbling, and dance.  Ask questions, never be afraid to admit you don’t know an answer or tell your adviser you do not understand. 

Practice, practice and practice some more.  Be sure your routine is perfected before you go to tryouts.  Practice your motions and cheers, and remember to practice using facial expressions.  Ask someone to videotape you while you are practicing and view it to see any weakness in your routine.  Practice in front of a mirror or in front of other people.  Cheerleading tryouts is not a time to be shy!

Finally, the big day is here.  Want a few more tips before you go to tryouts?

Get the proper rest the night before the tryouts

Keep your confidence level high and believe in yourself

Keep your hair out of your face

Leave the jewelry and gum at home

Take it easy on your makeup and wear your school colors

If you are nervous, take deep calming breaths and remember the time you have put into practicing

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water

Always smile

Use your best facial expressions and show your enthusiasm

Keep your head up and make eye contact with the judges

Use a clear strong voice when you say the cheers, do not rush

Land with your feet together

If you make a mistake, go on with the routine

Have fun and let the judges see that you are having fun

Good luck on your big day of cheerleading tryouts!

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