Frequently asked questions

What is the time commitment of cheer?

• Becoming a part of the NKMS cheer team is a huge responsibility.  We cannot stress enough how much time goes into being on this team. The fall cheer season begins Monday, August 3rd  and runs through Friday October 30th . Cheerleaders are expected to be at practices, games, and events.  Summer practices are everyday Monday through Friday from 6:30 to 8, unless otherwise noted by the coach.  Once school starts practices are Tuesdays and Thursdays after school until 4:50.  Games are on Tuesday with a start time of 5:00.

• We do not practice everyday once school starts.  This will allow athletes to use their time off to attend other club meetings, take classes to elevate their cheer skills, and most importantly stay on top of their school work.

• In the event that the coach thinks an additional practice is needed, I will let the athletes and parents know at least one week in advance.

Can I come to just some of the tryout days?

• It's best to come to all of our days leading up to the formal tryout on Thursday. We learn new material each day during the clinic.

• None of the material that we use for tryouts is previously known.  All chants and cheers are brand new to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity when trying out; we don't have a lot of time to go back and reteach. If you miss material, you will need to catch up outside of the clinic.  

If an athlete makes the squad are they guaranteed a spot throughout their middle school years?

• No, tryouts are held every year and everyone has to re-tryout. No one's spot is guaranteed.

I missed the fall tryouts or I didn't make the team. Will there be another tryout date?

• Yes, we will have another tryout for our winter team. ​

• Winter season tryouts are in November

• And remember, everyone must try out again for the winter season.  There are no guaranteed spots.

Is previous cheer experience required to try-out?

• No, there is no cheer experience required. 

 Is the ability to tumble required?

• No, tumbling is not required and will not be a part of our scoring rubric for middle school cheer. Most of the cheerleaders on the squad have chosen to take private tumbling lessons to learn, maintain or improve skills. 

  • Please note that tumbling is part of the tryout requirements for the high school cheerleading program, particularly those athletes that want to participate  on the competitive cheerleading team.  Therefore tumbling classes for those interested in competitive cheer are highly encouraged.

How many people will make the team?

• We do not have a set number. Each year is different, but it all depends on the amount of people attending tryouts and their skill level.

I am involved in other activities. Can I still participate in cheerleading?

• Yes, and you are encouraged to.  However, you must be available to come to all games unless there is an emergency.  Additionally, in order to be on the sideline and participate in halftime you must know the material.  Failure to know the routine could lead to you sitting out of a game or halftime until you are caught up.

• I do ask, if you are involved in other sports or activities, just to let us know.

Who is eligible and what are the requirements for tryouts?

• Tryout opportunities are available to all incoming 6th, 7th, and 8th graders who will be attending New Kent Middle School for the 2026-2027 school year. 

• On the day of tryouts, you will showcase your skills in a group of no more than four candidates.  You will be given a number and expected to perform the following

• All the chants/cheers from the google site

• The new chants/cheers you are taught during clinics

• The quarter time dances and a halftime dance that you are taught during clinics

Can parents stay and watch clinics, tryouts, and practices?

• No, the clinics, tryouts, and practices are for the athletes and coaching staff only.

• The NKHS Junior Varsity and Varsity cheerleaders will join us at clinics and practices to help the athletes learn material and to help with other cheer skills.

What are the expenses for participation? 

• A county athletic fee which in the past has been $50.

• $15 for​ NKMS cheer tank

• $40 for NKMS cheer sweatshirt

What is the coach’s contact information if I have additional questions? 

• The NKMS cheer coach is Tamika Clayborne Hathaway.

• Contact information is thathaway@nkcps.k12.va.us.