Trying Out for Cheerleading: What Coaches Look For
At cheerleading tryouts, coaches look for effort, coachability and a safe, solid base of skills, not just the flashiest tricks. Most tryouts test jumps, motions, tumbling or stunting where it applies, and dance or cheer material, along with attitude and how well you take direction. Requirements differ by team and level, so always confirm the details with your coach.
What coaches usually evaluate
- Jumps: height, form and clean landings.
- Motions: sharp, controlled arm positions held in time.
- Tumbling and stunting: only skills you can perform safely, at a level the program allows.
- Dance and cheer: learning a short routine quickly and performing it with energy.
- Voice and expression: clear, confident projection and facial energy.
- Attitude: listening, supporting teammates and handling feedback well.
If a term is new to you, our cheerleading glossary explains common words in plain English, and our cheerleading FAQ answers common questions.
How to prepare
- Get fit. Build strength and flexibility in the weeks before.
- Practice the basics. Work on jumps, motions and any tryout material the coach shares.
- Know the rules. School programs follow state rules, so ask about eligibility and required forms. See NFHS for high school rules and USASF for all-star cheer.
- Sleep and hydrate. Arrive rested, fed and ready to move.
What to wear
Choose fitted athletic clothes that let you move freely, supportive athletic shoes, hair tied back and no jewelry. Many programs also ask new members to buy matching practice wear after they make the team, so ask the coach what is required. Teams that want matching gear can see our custom cheer practice wear.
On the day
Arrive early, listen carefully, give every skill your full effort, smile and support the athletes around you. A confident attitude and a willingness to learn often matter as much as the skills themselves.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to know how to tumble to try out?
Not always. Requirements depend on the team and level, so ask the coach, and be honest about the skills you can do safely.
What should I wear to cheer tryouts?
Wear fitted, comfortable athletic clothes you can move freely in, athletic shoes, and hair tied back, and avoid jewelry.
How long do tryouts usually last?
It varies. Some programs hold a single session and others run a clinic over several days, so check the schedule the coach gives you.
How can I prepare in the weeks before tryouts?
Build strength and flexibility, practice your jumps and motions, learn the tryout material if it is shared, and get enough rest and water.
One Response