Expert: Tessa Denen - 7/29/2009

Question
Hi! :) Well, i've done cheer for about two years for Pop Warner and i've gotten back into tumbling at this place called Pinnacle. Ii haven't even gotten my back hand-spring yet. Iim entering this year as a freshman, and freshman year you are required to take Pep Squad before being in cheer or dance. You start cheer or dance your Sophomore year. So I'm asking ahead of time so that I can know what to work on to make Varsity when I try-out for Cheer.

My motions are really tight, but my jumps are about 3 feet off the ground.

So, exactly what do you have to do to make Varsity Cheer?

Answer
This is a tough question to answer as requirements vary greatly from one school to another.  Sharp and tight motions are a HUGE advantage.  Coaches really notice that and it makes you stand out.  Make sure you have good motion placement as well... that's just as big.  As far as jumps go, those just take practice.  Watch your school's varsity squad to learn their approach and practice that until you have the technique down very well.  To make your jumps better, I suggest stretching EVERY DAY!!!  Some people think that isn't necessary, but you will be amazed at the difference in your flexibility after just a short time.  And obviously, the more flexible you are, the higher your legs will extend on your jumps.  You might want to look into your school's tumbling requirements as well.  

When it comes to high school try-outs, coaches don't just look for girls who are already perfect.  They look for girls with a ton of potential, girls who work hard and have great attitudes, girls who help others around them and girls who will come back the next day knowing the material perfectly proving that they went home and practiced.  All of those things show that you really want to be a member of the squad and that you have what it takes to be a varsity cheerleader.  That's not to say that coming in prepared isn't important, it most definitely is, but these are just other ways to get a jump on the girls that are also fighting for your spot.  

Three huge things that will help you:  try your best, ALWAYS have a good attitude, and ALWAYS SMILE!:)

Best of luck to you!!!!