Cheerleading/Trying out College

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Expert: - 8/10/2011


Question
Hi, I'm trying out for college cheer in Texas. I have up to a layout  in tumbling and my jumps are great and high but since I'm 5 foot I'm pretty sure they'll have me be a flyer. I've been a base my whole cheer life (so 6-7 years now). I wouldn't mind it but how do I practice and stretch for the basic stunts. I've practiced my arabesque, scorpion and liberty but what about bow an arrow and heel stretch etc? do you think I would have a shot on the making the squad?
Thanks

Answer
First off, great work on the scorpion, arabesque, and lib. You should also work on a scale, but if you have a scorpion you should be okay with a scale. Look it up online for some pictures if how I describe it doesn't help.

If standing on the right foot (reverse if on left):
1. Grab leg (anywhere between ankle and knee) with your left hand. You hand should NOT be on the outside of your left leg. Your thumb should be closer to your ankle than your knee.
2. Pull your leg straight while not moving your left leg. Your hips should turn so they are towards the front and you have a scale!

Now for bow and arrows and heel stretches, I like to just kick my leg up all the time. The more you try to kick it up to a heel stretch or something like that you'll get closer every time. Also, if you sit in a straddle and stretch to each side it should help those same muscles get more flexible. It takes some time to get these stunts, but if you work at it each day you should get them fairly quickly.

Based on what you've told me you do have a chance at making the squad. Obviously I can't say for sure since I've never seen you or the other girls cheer, but you have some advanced tumbling and quite a few years of experience.

Good luck!

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Chris

Expertise

I can answer questions on partner stunts, dismounts, basket tosses, choreography, pyramids, jumps, motions, chants, and formations. I can answer questions on tryouts, coaching, general cheerleading, etc. I cannot answer questions on co-ed stunts/pyramids or tumbling. Aside from these areas I can usually answer, or direct you to an answer, on any other topic.

Experience

I've been cheerleading for 10 years. My teams consistently competed at the national level, placing many times. I've coached for the past 5 years, and the team I coached most recently became National Champions. I've cheered at the Pop Warner, High School, and All-Star levels. I coach alongside my mother and sister who have coached at the all-star level as well. I've been watching cheerleading since I was 4, and I can create routines, give advice, and help teach kids how to deal with competitions. I have a knack for coaching and giving advice. I'm always the coach designated to give the pep talks to the kids before competitions.

Education/Credentials
I have been living with cheerleading coaches for 10+ years which teaches more than anyone can imagine. I was captain of my Varsity High School squad which came with the responsibility of picking music, writing a cheer, creating and teaching the routine, and making the formations. I have also coached nationally ranked teams for 5 years.

Awards and Honors
Two-time All-State Cheerleader nominee All-State Class M Cheerleader Varsity Cheer Captain

Past/Present Clients
The 32 young girls I just helped coach to a national championship! :) It wasn't easy, but they'll all say the work was worth it in the end.

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