5 tips for tryout success!

Nationals: The calm before the storm...

The final Cheer National events are about to take place, routines are going out on the floor for one last hurrah and sentimentality for teams that are soon to change is high. It can only mean we're about to wind down for the Summer, right? WRONG! Tryouts are among us and if there's one thing that can reduce even the most stone cold of us coaches to pits of anxiety, it's tryouts.

That's for us to worry about though. This blog is about how YOU can nail your tryout by showcasing your talents in a way that demonstrates you are the right fit for the programme and team you are assigned to. So, let's jump right in!

One: Showcase what you can actually do!

There isn't a bigger red flag at tryouts than an athlete turning around to you and asking for a spot. It's an assessment! You wouldn't ask your Math teacher for help with an algebraic equation in an exam, or your English teacher what Lady Macbeth meant by 'unsexe me here' during a 40 mark question, would you? WOULD YOU? The same principal works here. Coaches want to see you at your very best, where you are most confident and most comfortable. Not where you're stressing yourself out because you're not sure if you can perform your tuck today. Keep it simple. Coaches have a knack for noticing where your true potential lies.

Also, and I tread carefully here, TRY NOT TO LET YOUR PARENTS GET IN YOUR HEAD. Us coaches know they only want whats best for you, which is lovely! However, it can also add pressure that causes you to underperform because you don't want to let them down. Trust me on this, focus on yourself and ignore outside noise. This is where you will find your optimum performance.

Two: Demonstrate that you are coachable.

Coaches aren't interested in athletes who come with ego- regardless of if you're a new athlete, or not. You may have a full twist, or a perfect kick double basket, it doesn't matter if the risk is that you're going to unsettle the vibes within the team. Coaches are looking for someone who can be part of a team, can lift others, and who is prepared to succeed and fail with their teammates.

Individuals are in the wrong sport, team players only!

Three: Trust the coaches judgement.

Spoiler... coaches aren't out to get you. There is no vendetta and no one is trying to hold you back. More than likely, you're not willing to see the truth of a situation. If you're put on a level 1 team, it's because they think this is where you will be able to perform at your best and with confidence. NOT by spending the season having anxiety attacks because you're worried about the 1/2 up extension you have to perform in your routine.

If you're thinking that the coach is trying to punish your for whatever reason try 'reverse thinking', where you think about something from somebody else's perspective.

For example, why would a coach or programme director intentionally sabotage their own programme by holding you back? Can you see how crazy that sounds? No coach in their right might is going to intentionally harm their own team's chance for success. Cheerleading is a number's game after all and we're all chasing number 1.

Another way to think about it is, sure you might make a level 2 team but what are you going to do? Stand behind the stunts because you can't contribute? Or could you excel at being a main player on a level 1 team? A year is a long time to stand around not doing very much...

Four: Don't obsess with the age group on your team.

This one seems to have become more of a thing in recent years. I don't want to give it too much time because, honestly, it's ridiculous. Here's the facts: moving from a junior one team to a senior 1 team is not a promotion, it's a sideways step.

If you're going to do anything, chase the next level by levelling up your personal skills.

Five: Have fun!

Coaches want to see you in your element, that cheerleading is your passion and that you're clearly having fun. No one is looking for their next Moaning Myrtle.

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So there you have it. 5 tips to will ensure that your tryouts is successful and that you're ready for the season ahead. Thank you for reading and I'll see you next time!