Tryout Tips

Tryout Tips



Every year there are thousands of girls who go through the agonizing experience of tryouts. Everyone is nervous and waits to find out if they have made the squad. Here are some tips for tryouts to help you feel better about yourself and your performance.

1. You can't win if you don't try......So go for it!

2. Try private lessons with a qualified instructor, they may produce faster results.

3. Eyes project your attitude to the judges. Look at the judges, but be sure to send the right message.

4. When selecting tryout clothing choose a color that flatters you.

5. Wear white socks. Colored socks make the ankle appear detached from the leg. While white socks will help maintain a clean line.

6. Paying attention to small details will get you those extra points.

7. Hide bowlegs by keeping one knee bent in front of the other.

8. Exaggerate each move. Make it BIG!!

9. Don't bend or flex wrist.

10. Emphazise “key” words in each cheer. This will prevent you from sounding boring and monotone.

11. DO NOT attempt a tumbling pass unless you feel absolutely comfortable with it. An unpracticed pass may result in serious injury.

Here are two sample judging cards (one for cheer, and one for pom).


CHEER

- Judges grade on a scale from 1-5 (5 being the highest)

Entrance- gymnastics, spirit, jumps, smile

Appearance- poise, dress, grooming, neatness

Spirit/ Enthusiasm- crowd appeal, eye contact, smile

Motion Technique- hand, arm, leg coordination

Voice and Projection- loudness, force, clarity

Jumps- height, form, pointed toes

Overall- timing, execution


POM

- Judges grade on a scale from 1-5 (5 being the highest).

Carraige/ Showmanship- poise, smile, enthusiasm

Appearance- grooming, neatness, hair pulled back

Confidence- eye contact, good memory

Technique on Fundementals- pointed toes, execution of routine

Leaps/ Kicks- strength of movement, height, technique

Overall Execution- overall impression, overall effect



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