Tryout FAQs

Of course!! We offer teams for all athletic abilities. Even if you have never cheered before you can still try out and still have an opportunity to make a team. We are interested in athletes who demonstrate a strong work ethic and are coachable. We also work at a gym to gain new skills once a week! 

There are so many things that we consider when putting teams together, we want to make sure we are forming teams who will work hard together throughout the season.  For both teams we want an athlete who is going to represent the school in the best possible way! Meaning, having a positive attitude, being enthusiastic, and confident. 

JV - No specific requirements. We want to see a positive attitude and a strong work ethic.  We are looking for athletes who can listen and apply coaching feedback. Ideally, we would like to see strong motions and jump technique. A single toe touch is the standard jump. Round offs are ideal and back handsprings would be wonderful! 

Varsity -Strong leadership skills.  Strong motion and jump technique. A double jump is standard for a Varsity athlete. A back handspring is the required to make Varsity. A form of a tuck (running or standing) is heavily encouraged. Extended stunting skills are required. 

Time commitment should be extremely important when considering trying out for a team. Our Seasons run from May-February. We practice 4-5 days a week in addition to cheering at games and participating in school events. In the fall we also compete on Saturdays from October through early December for JV. Varsity continues through February if we get a bid for Nationals. 

The best way you can prepare for tryouts is to stay active! Do regular cardio and try to workout regularly. Stretching is also extremely important for everyone, flexibility is not just for top girls! Also, try working your tumbling and jump technique. (Point those toes!)

In order to maintain eligibility throughout the season CHSAA requires that athletes have no more than one F. Athletes with more than one F will not be permitted to cheer games or compete until their grades improve. 

Cheer is a fall and winter sport. Athletes are encouraged to participate in spring sports that do not conflict with the cheer season. 

Unfortunately no, for the comfort of all the participants tryouts are closed to the public. Only prospective athletes and coaches will be allowed to attend tryouts. Practices throughout the season are also closed. There will be specific times when practices are open and family and friends are invited to watch. 

The cost depends on the team that you make. Expenses will be fully outlined at the tryout meeting but the total cost for cheer can range from $1,500 - $3,000. Keep in mind this includes the cost of camp, practice apparel, uniforms, weekly tumbling at Empire, and Nationals for Varsity. Please do not let the financial obligations deter you from trying out for cheer. We have many athletes who pay for their whole Season in full through fundraising.