Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to be able to tumble to make a team?
A: To make varsity Competitive Cheer all athletes must be exceptional in three out of the four areas; stunts, jumps, tumbling, AND motions/voice/dance. You are expected to have a minimum of a standing and running back handspring with a spot on the varsity level, but if an athlete exceeds the expectations in stunting, they may be placed on the varsity competition team without tumbling based on the needs of the team.
There are currently no minimum tumbling skills required to make JV competitive cheer, however, it is expected that an athlete improves each season in order to be placed on the competition team.
Fall/Game Day cheer does not have tumbling difficulty requirements.
**All current and prospective cheerleaders are expected to try to learn tumbling skills
Q: I'm a 7th or 8th grader. What team do I try out for?
A: Fall- Modified
Winter- JV (APP testing required). Varsity by invitation only.
Q: Do I have to attend tumbling?
A: Yes. Tumbling is a mandatory practice that is paid by the team fund during the season.
During the off season tumbling is an open practice and $6 to attend. Transportation is not provided during the off season.
Q: What does it mean if I'm on the sideline team?
A: Sideline cheerleaders show potential but aren't quite ready to compete yet. This could be because of past performance, not improving since last season, academics, or any other reason determined by the coach. You attend all practices and cheer at games but do not compete at competitions. If a teammate has to leave the team for any reason, or you show improvement and commitment, the coach may offer you a spot on the competitive team.
Sideline cheerleaders will have a schedule different from Competition cheerleaders and are required to attend competitions in full uniform. Not attending a competition will remove you from the team.
If you make the competition team you are also required to be a sideline cheerleader.
Q: I have no cheerleading, gymnastics, or dance experience, will I make a team?
A: Do not let your lack of experience or background in cheer keep you from trying out. We are looking to build a strong team with all ranges of experience, especially on the Modified/JV team. You might surprise yourself at tryouts and have more skill than you think! Also keep in mind that your commitment and dedication will take you further than any skills! Often, coaches see more potential in prospective athletes than they do themselves! Fall cheer is a great time for athletes without tumbling experience to start, as tumbling is not as important on the score sheet.
Q: Do I have to do both seasons? (Fall and winter)
A: No, however, beginning Fall 2022 varsity will have the opportunity to advance to states in the Game Day (fall) division AND the Competitive (winter) season. Participating in both seasons helps you become a well rounded cheerleader! If you choose to cheer in college you will need to show skill in both sides of cheer.
Q: I am an upperclassmen with no cheer experience, can I try out?
A: ANY Eden student in grades 7-12 is allowed to try out and everybody is held to the same standards and expectations. 11th graders can be placed on sideline or JV if we feel that they show potential but are not yet ready to compete at the varsity level.
Keep in mind that both Game Day and Competitive Cheer are SPORTS. Varsity athletes are held to the same standard as they would be for any other varsity sport.