CheerJudgingForm

Try-outs - A Coach's Opinion
Pam Headridge, Oak Harbor High School WA

I believe, in cheerleading, that the coach should pick her own squad based on the categories listed below. A coach is the one who oversees the program and has to work with the newly selected cheerleaders; therefore, she should be the one to choose the squad. She knows what is needed and can spend the 3 or 4 day process evaluating these potential cheerleaders. A panel of outside judges is only there scoring for the few hours that the students perform and I feel cannot get a fair evaluation of each candidate.

The students learn a chant or cheer, a short dance, jumps, and basic stunt. As a coach, I evaluate them during every practice. On the final day, I have the students perform the material that they have learned in groups of 3. Because cheerleaders must be in front of the student body during games and assemblies, they need to be judged in the same type of surrounding. The final day tryouts are open to the public. (Most of the time it is usually friends & family).

Finally remember to judge them on their potential. As any other sport, it take time and teamwork to develop a great squad. Cheerleading is a combination of technical skills and teamwork. You, as the coach, need to put together what you think is the best combination.

I have all candidates and their parents sign a form that explains the requirements, commitments, & financial obligations. Also on all forms I have clause that says "All candidates must abide by coach's decision. "