As with all major decisions in your life, the decision to try out for Cheerleader, should be given a lot of thought. Cheerleading can be very time consuming, so your other activities and school grades need to be taken into account.
There is also a financial aspect to Cheerleading. There maybe times you and your family will have to incur expenses for lessons, camps, competitions or even supplies. Discuss your decision with your parents. Make sure you have their support and backing.
So, you still want to be a Cheerleader? Well, before you make that final commitment to try out, ask yourself these questions:
· Are you willing to give it 100%? Cheerleading is work and takes time as well as dedication. If you not willing to give it your all, you'll not only be doing yourself an injustice, but the whole squad.
· Why do you want to be a Cheerleader? Do you have a love of the sport? Relish the competition and challenges? Like being a part of a team? Cheering is a lot more than wearing short skirts and hollering in front of a crowd. Make sure your heart is in the right place and you want it for the right reasons.
· Are you willing to accept that fact that you will be a role model and looked upon as such by your peers? Can you follow rules and regulations? Can you take directions? How do you deal with constructive criticism?
If after reading all this, you're still determined to try out and willing to make the sacrifices necessary, then let’s get you ready for try outs.
The decision has been made, now the work begins. Here are some tips to prepare you for the big day:
· Talk to the Cheerleading coach/advisor. Find out what the requirements will be. Get any paperwork you'll need to fill out and know your deadlines.
· Talk to present Cheerleaders or previous Cheerleaders. They can be an excellent source for information and advice. You can also share your experiences and help others.
· Get in shape. If you're not already on a good workout program, start one. You'll need strength, stamina, and flexibility to make a good Cheerleader. Check our Cheerleading Health and Fitness subject for workout programs, nutrition, and Cheerleading exercises.
· Enroll in some gymnastics, tumbling, and dance classes, if at all possible. Cheerleading involves all of these to some extent.
· Learn more. Ask questions, read books, watch videos, use the Internet. Never be afraid to say "I don't know" or "I don't understand", and "Can you show me?".
· Practice and practice perfectly. The only way to improve your ability is through lots of practice. Practice your motions, your cheers, your jumps and don't forget to practice your facial expressions. Use a video camera to tape yourself, then watch it to catch any mistakes. Practice in front of a mirror or in front of other people. Strive to make your techniques perfect. Mentally visualize yourself executing everything perfectly.
You've made the decision to be a Cheerleader. You've practiced and you've gotten in shape. You're mentally and physically prepared. The day of tryouts is here, now what?
· Get plenty of sleep the night before.
· Be confident. If you've practiced and worked hard up to this point, then you should be ready. Believe in yourself.
· Keep your hair away from your face.
· Don't wear jewelry. Don't chew gum.
· Don't wear a lot of makeup.
· Wear your school colors.
· Take slow, deep breaths to calm and relax yourself.
· Drink plenty of water.
· Have a good attitude. Help others. Don't play around with your friends or talk too much.
· Smile. Smile. Smile.
· Be peppy and energetic. Show your enthusiasm.
· Use facial expressions.
· Look up. Never look down or at the floor. Make eye contact with the judges.
· Make your motions sharp and snappy.
· Don't sing your cheers. Use a loud, clear voice. Be careful not to rush them. Take your time.
· Point your toes.
· Land with your feet together.
· If you make a mistake, go on. Don't stop and stress over it. Use the opportunity to show you can recover from a mistake.
· Have fun and let it show.
Enjoy it!
Xoxo, Gossip Caah :*
