USA TRYOUT MANUAL by USA Camps

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Table of Contents I.

Squad Selection The Tryout Process …………………………………………...……………1 Selection by Student Body Vote Selection By Qualified Judges Selection By Cheer/Song Coach Combination Open Squad Notification of Tryouts……………………………..…………...………….2 Announcements Posted Announcements Morning Announcements Orientation Meeting………………………….……..……………..……….3 Tryout Process Time Commitment Finances & Costs Constitution/Code of Conduct General Program Goals Selecting Judges……..….………….……..…………….…………….…….4 Judging Panel Fees/Payment Professional Judges Confirmation Conflict of Interest Clinic Material..………………….…………..……..….………………..….5 Clinic Schedule Clinicians Tryout Preparation Running the Tryout…….……….……...…..………….…….…….……….6 Open or Closed Tryouts Tabulating Scores Scoring Guidelines……………..…….…..…………….…….…….……….7 Teacher Evaluations Grade Point Average Score Sheets Sample Scoresheets & Forms..………..………….…….………...…….8-18 Sample Contracts/Constitutions…..…………..……….……….……….19

II.

Camp Selection……………….……………………….…………...…23

III.

Uniform Selection …...……………………..…..…………..……….24

IV.

Hydration Tips…………….……………………..………...…..…….25

The Tryout Process There are many different options for selecting the spirit squad or dance team for your school. Each has it’s advantages and disadvantages. As a coach or advisor, you and your administration must decide which of the options (or combinations of the options works best for your individual school. Regardless of the method that is chosen, the administration’s prior approval of the process will be very important.

SELECTION BY STUDENT BODY VOTE This process, where the student body alone selects the squad, was the method of choice until the mid to late nineteen eighties. While this method was criticized for making the tryout a “popularity contest”, it did the students a feeling of involvement in selecting the group that would lead them and perform for them at the games. With the increasing athleticism of spiritleading and dance teams, the need for safety moved programs toward using a selection process that involved professional judges and athletic criteria.

As a coach or advisor, you and your administration must decide which of the options works best for your school.

SELECTION BY QUALIFIED JUDGES The level of acrobatics and athleticism in spiritleading and dance forced schools nationwide to adopt a more safety conscious approach to selecting squad members. By using qualified judges, a student is selected to a squad based on less subjective qualifications. Qualified judges can be a professional instructors or local college cheerleaders, dancers or coaches. This is by far the most widely used method of squad selection used today. SELECTION BY THE COACH In rare cases, squads are selected by the coach. If conditions exist in your community and with your school administration, this can be a satisfactory selection process. However, many coaches feel that more problems would be created than solved by using this method. There is something to be said for being able to “defer” to a panel of non-biased judges.

COMBINATION Another option is to use a combination of these methods to fit your school’s needs. Example: Judges could select a pool of 20 qualified cheerleaders at a tryout. From this pool, students would select the 12 or 16 cheerleaders to represent and lead them.

OPEN SQUAD A recent trend by school administrations, especially at the middle and junior high level, is to allow anyone who wants to participate be on the squad. While at first glance this seems like a reasonable thing to do, there are some very serious safety concerns, as well as other considerations that a school must weigh before making this decision. It must be understood that not everyone will be qualified to participate in the technical aspects of spiritleading and dance. In addition, when the student to teacher ratio increases, so does the chance for injury due to lack of proper supervision. If the school is able to adequately support the supervisor and their decisions on safe practices, this method for selecting squads can increase student involvement in the school’s spirit and dance programs.

The Tryout Process

Notification of Tryouts After working with the administration on the method of selection for your squads, the next step is to let the potential students know how to get involved. The key to ending up with a good squad is to start with good candidates. ANNOUNCEMENTS Each announcement should contain the following information: • What - Spirit or Dance Tryouts! • Who - is eligible to tryout for which squad? Who - do they contact (you) if they have questions? • When - is the pre-tryout meeting? Is it mandatory? When - are the tryouts? Include each date if it is more than a one-day process. • Where - will the meetings and tryouts take place? • How - do they apply for the position? • Why - would someone get involved in all of this? POSTED ANNOUNCEMENTS Several announcements (signs, flyers, posters) should be posted throughout the school in relevant areas (do not post in freshman hall if they are not eligible). MORNING ANNOUNCEMENTS A brief announcement should be included in the morning or homeroom announcements if possible. This announcement should mainly cover the date, time and location of the first meeting and your name for further information.

A MANDATORY MEETING WILL BE HELD FOR ALL INTERESTED SOPHOMORES Wednesday March 20 3:00 pm Room 210

Sample Poster

Contact Ms. Roberts in Room 210 if you have any questions.

Notification of Tryouts

Orientation Meeting In an effort to avoid future problems, it is important for the advisor to clearly communicate the responsibilities and demands of being a member of the squad. One of the best ways to accomplish this is to conduct an orientation meeting before the tryout process begins. Invite all interested students and their parents to the meeting- you may even consider making this a mandatory part of the tryout process. Inviting the parents will ensure that they know the time and financial commitment their child will be making if selected for the squad. If you choose not to invite parents, you should, at the very least, provide candidates with informative handouts that can be taken home for parents to review. Be up front and honest with information that pertains to being on the squad. This will help prevent unnecessary problems during the year.

A worksheet that explains the approximate costs up front will start your relationship with the parents on the right foot.

TRYOUT PROCESS Introduce and preview the tryout requirements and process. Give specific information regarding clinics, forms to be turned in, dates, time and location of tryouts and the number that will be selected for each squad. TIME COMMITMENT Make candidates aware of the length of the season, practice schedules and the time involved in preparing for competition (if this applies). You may wish to hand out a preliminary calendar of events that includes estimates of practice time, summer camp dates and game commitments. With so many demands on a student’s time, the answers to questions about how much commitment is necessary to participate on a spirit squad will allow individuals to decide whether that is an activity that is feasible for them. FINANCES AND COSTS Be sure to think about the “hidden costs” involved in spiritleading. Uniforms, summer camps, competition, coaching fees, etc. all add up quickly. Keep costs to a minimum, but be honest with parents and participants about the financial obligation involved. Fundraising opportunities should also be discussed here. CONSTITUTION/CODE OF CONDUCT Discuss and review all rules and regulations governing the spirit squad. Make sure everyone knows the expected behavior of a member of the spirit squad and what the consequences will be if expectations are not met. Be sure to include academic requirements. PARENT INFORMATION/AGREEMENT FORM Distribute an “Agreement Form” (see sample on page 16) that has all of the above commitments and requirements clearly stated. Require that this form be returned, signed by both the student and the parent, prior to the tryout. A worksheet that explains the approximate costs up front will start your relationship with the parents on the right foot. GENERAL PROGRAM GOALS What are the main goals of the program? What are the risks associated with participation? Is there an overall safety program in place? All potential squad members need to be aware of the goals of the program. These should be expressed throughout the year, so that safety awareness is shared by all.

Orientation Meeting

Selecting Judges Protect yourself from any accusations of bias by letting “outside” people judge and total the scores. These two areas are where most improprieties are charged. Using judges who are closely related to the participants (senior squad members, alumni, etc.) or those who have no technical knowledge of spiritleading or dance (other team coaches, faculty, athletes, etc.) may jeopardize the validity, neutrality and credibility of the results. Also, advisors and coaches should avoid judging to eliminate any appearance of favoritism. All judges should be approved by school administration prior to the tryout process.

USA will be glad to provide professional judges for your tryout. Call (800) 886886-4USA (ext. 2010).

JUDGING PANEL Your panel should include three to four judges. Qualified people include • Professional judges • Local college spiritleaders or dancers • Active advisors in your area or league • Dance teachers from your school or community • Former standout spiritleaders or dancers (out of school more than two years)

FEES/PAYMENT In most cases, judges should receive some compensation for the service they provide. How much compensation depends on the amount of time they spend at your tryouts and their qualifications. On the average, most tryouts take about two hours to complete. If you have a large number of candidates, or if you are running tryouts for more than one squad, the tryout may take significantly longer. A reasonable fee for judges is $20.00 per hour, with reimbursement for gas if there is extensive travel involved. Find out from your accountant if social security numbers or any other type of personal information is necessary in order to process checks. It is preferable to give judges a check at the tryout, rather than mailing it afterward. PROFESSIONAL JUDGES Dependent upon your school’s location, USA will be glad to provide professional judges for your tryouts. Call 1-800-886-4USA (x2010) for rates and further information. CONFIRMATION Confirm your judges by phone and later by letter. Plan ahead. Demand is great for judges during peak months. When confirming, include the tryout location, date and time expected to arrive and approximate length of the tryout. If you are available by mobile phone, pager or a phone in the tryout facility, leave judges that number in case of any emergencies the day of the tryout. If you choose to use USA judges, the confirmation process is handled by the USA main office staff (x2010). CONFLICT OF INTEREST To maintain the credibility and integrity of your tryout process, avoid using judges who have worked directly and/or extensively with any of the candidates. Obviously there is no way to completely avoid general contact with candidates, but you should avoid using judges who may have a long-term acquaintance with a candidate.

Selecting Judges

Clinic Material Be sure that the skills you require of your squad are reflected in all of your material taught at clinics. Is learning fast important? Is the ability to choreograph important? Do you want crowdleaders, performers or both? These questions, along with many others, are the things you should ask yourself. Many squads include a game situation to which the participants must respond and lead the crowd in a cheer. USA recommends that you teach three short game-action cheers/sidelines (1 offense, 1 defense and 1 general). This is a good test of the candidate’s crowd leadership skills and shows how she/he will perform in a game situation. In addition, you should teach a required routine/cheer to be performed by all participants. Make sure all basic skills are incorporated into the routine. Watch the length — it does not need to be long. Some squads also require the candidates to make up an original routine/cheer. If squad members will never need to choreograph for themselves, this is not necessary.

If you are teaching a dance routine and a cheer, you should teach the dance first since this is usually the hardest to perfect.

If you are teaching a dance routine and a cheer, you should teach the dance first, since this is usually the hardest to perfect. RECOMMENDED MATERIAL USA recommends the following material for each program. Of course, this may vary depending on the caliber of your candidates and emphasis of your squad.

Cheerleaders • • • •

Game-Action Cheers/Sidelines Performance Cheer (include jump) Funky Cheer Dance (6-8 eight 8 counts of cheer type moves to music) Stunts and/or Gymnastics (optional- may be performed during entrance)

Songleaders/Pom • Game-Action/Sideline Cheers • Song/Pom Routine (includes kicks, turns, leaps) • Original Routine (optional)

Dance/Drill Team • Dance Routine (includes kicks, turns, leaps) • Original Routine (optional)

Mascots • Game Situation Improvisation • Musical Improvisation • Original Routine/Skit

Pep Flags/Short Flags • Game-Action/Sideline Cheers • Pep Flag Routine (include single and double flag tricks and twirls)

Clinic Material

Running the Tryout Make sure to set an agenda for the day of the tryout. Start early and gather supplies. Meet judges, explain the tryout process to them and distribute score sheets. Be sure to have pencils, chairs, a table, a calculator, numbers for the participants, safety pins and score sheets ready. First aid should also be ready for any emergencies that may arise. Start by introducing the judges to the candidates, and give their background and credentials. Have your clinician's demonstrate the tryout material for the judges. This will give the judges an idea of what the material should look like before seeing any of the candidates perform. Bring in the candidates a few at a time. USA recommends having participant’s tryout in small groups of two or three. This takes a bit of the pressure off and makes it easier for the judges to evaluate performances efficiently and fairly. OPEN OR CLOSED TRYOUTS Many schools keep their tryouts closed to friends and family. This helps to ensure that the participants are not intimidated or embarrassed and keeps the process running quickly. This also protects judges from being influenced by crowd response toward a candidate.

Your organization up to this point is critical! All paperwork must be completed. Application Parent Release Form Teacher Recommendations

Some advisors prefer to run an open tryout since the squad will have to perform in front of a crowd during the year. This also allows participants to have family and friends there to give support and it helps to prevent charges of “hiding” anything during tryout process. Having a school administrator present at tryouts also helps in this area. If you choose to have open tryouts, make sure to keep a tight control on your crowd. You may want to charge a small admission fee to help ensure a supportive crowd. This can also act as an early fund-raiser or a way to pay judges fees. Student body attendance at an open tryout should never be mandatory (as in a pep-rally situation). All things considered, it is generally better to have a closed tryout. TABULATING SCORES After each group has finished, the score sheets should go to the tabulator. She/he should record the judge’s scores and add them to other scores (teacher evaluations, G.P.A., clinic scores, etc.) if appropriate. This should be done while the next group is being evaluated. To avoid charges of impropriety, the advisor should not handle any score sheets, add scores or discuss the scores with judges before announcing the new squad. If possible, try to get an administrator, possibly the principal or vice principal, to assist with the score keeping and tabulation. Once all candidates are finished, the judges should be dismissed. Scores should be ranked immediately and the new team should be posted or announced as soon as possible. Before dismissing candidates, or before announcing the squads, take time to thank all candidates and stress the importance of good sportsmanship. Also, make yourself available to speak with candidates a couple of days after tryouts to discuss their scores and give them feedback on their performance.

Running the Tryout

Scoring Guidelines A simple scoring system will allow judges to focus on selecting the most qualified candidates and will make tabulation much easier. Make sure tat the judges understand your score sheet and how you want it to be used. TEACHER EVALUATIONS Teacher evaluations are a positive way to include academics and leadership skills in the tryout process and may also bring potential problems to your attention. Most advisors average the teacher evaluations and then factor them into a participantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s final score. Be sure to check district and school policies governing the use of teacher evaluations for squad candidates. GRADE POINT AVERAGE (G.P.A.) If used as part of the scoring process, the applicantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall G.P.A. should be multiplied by 2.5 to count as 10% out of a possible score of 100 points. If you wish to weigh this more heavily, then adjust the number you multiply by accordingly. Many schools have a minimum G.P.A. requirement that must be met before allowing an individual to tryout.

Make sure that the judges understand your scoresheet and how you want it to be used.

SCORE SHEETS No candidate should ever see any score or points other than their own. Some advisors choose to show the applicants their comments so they may improve. Remember that comments from score sheets are only valuable if the judges are qualified and trained in giving constructive criticism.

Scoring Guidelines

Sample Scoresheets & Forms The following section contains several sample score sheets from which you may choose. Look them over carefully to see which best reflects your program, then make any necessary changes and have them reviewed by your administration. •

SCORESHEET #1 (No Original Routine Required) If your school uses a choreographer and/ or relies upon clinics/camp to provide material, you do not need the candidates to make up anything original for the tryout.

•

SCORESHEET #2 and #3 (Original Routine Required) If choreography from squad members is expected, then requiring the candidates to make up an original cheer/dance routine will help to see what type of a contribution a candidate may make.

•

SCORESHEET #4 (Mascots) Mascots should tryout individually, in the mascot costume if possible. Be prepared with a few game situations, props and short music selections to use during the improvisation section.

•

JUDGE’S MASTER SCORE SHEET Be sure to provide each judge with a master score sheet. This should be used to help them keep track of their scores and remain consistent.

•

TABULATOR MASTER SCORE SHEET This sheet should be used by the tabulator to help average the judge’s scores. Have someone double check the mathematics to make sure no mistakes are made.

The following section also contains several forms that you can use to help run a smooth tryout. Again, look them over carefully to see which best reflects your program, then make necessary changes and have them reviewed by your administration.

•

TRYOUT CHECKLIST A checklist and timeline to help you keep track and prepare for your tryouts.

•

APPLICATION/TRYOUT AGREEMENT FORM Student and parental consent/agreement form that includes students grades, classes and teachers from first semester.

•

PARENT INFORMATION FORM Student and parent information form listing important dates and estimated costs. Use your best estimate from previous years, taking into consideration any changes, new uniforms, accessories, etc. Consult some of your parents from the current squad to get an accurate idea of those costs.

•

TEACHER RECOMMENDATION FORMS Teacher’s evaluation form that will be considered in the candidate’s tryout score. Students should distribute the forms. However, to ensure confidentiality, have the teachers return the forms directly to you.

•

CONTRACTS/CONSTITUTIONS See sample provided.

Sample Scoresheets & Forms

Scoresheet S1

(No Original Routine Required)

Judges Signature: _____________________________________________________________ Squad: __________________________________ Candidate: _________________________ ( + ) Indicates superior performance

( @ ) Indicates average performance

CATEGORY

( ) Indicates improvement

POINTS POSSIBLE

SCORE

APPEARANCE

Clothing

Posture

Grooming/Neatness

Poise

CHEER TECHNIQUE

Arm Angles

Crowd Leadership 30

Strength of Motions

Jumps/Kicks

Voice Projection

Gymnastics/Stunts

DANCE TECHNIQUE

Arm Placement

Head Movements 30

Timing/Rhythm

Footwork

Hands/Pom Control

Kicks/Turns/Leaps

SHOWMANSHIP

Smile

Audience Appeal 30

Spirit/Enthusiasm

Recoveries

Confidence

Eye Contact/Facials TOTAL SCORE:

Scoresheets

Scoresheet S2

(Original Routine Required - Cheer)

Judges Signature: _____________________________________________________________ Squad: __________________________________ Candidate: _________________________ ( + ) Indicates superior performance

( @ ) Indicates average performance

CATEGORY

( ) Indicates improvement

POINTS POSSIBLE

SCORE

APPEARANCE

Clothing

Posture

Grooming/Neatness

Poise

GENERAL TECHNIQUE

Arm Angle/Placement

Timing/Rhythm 30

Strength of Motions

Jumps/Kicks/Leaps

Voice Projection

Gymnastics/Stunts/Turns

ORIGINAL ROUTINE

Creativity

Variety 30

Difficulty

Originality

Words/Music Creativity

Use of Specialties

SHOWMANSHIP

Smile

Audience Appeal 30

Spirit/Enthusiasm

Recoveries

Confidence

Eye Contact/Facials TOTAL SCORE:

Sample Scoresheets

Scoresheet S3

(Original Routine Required - Song/Dance)

Judges Signature: _____________________________________________________________ Squad: __________________________________ Candidate: _________________________ ( + ) Indicates superior performance

( @ ) Indicates average performance

CATEGORY

( ) Indicates improvement

POINTS POSSIBLE

SCORE

APPEARANCE

Clothing

Posture

Grooming/Neatness

Poise

GENERAL TECHNIQUE

Arm Angle/Placement

Strength of Motions 30

Timing/Rhythm

Footwork

Hands/Pom Control

Kicks/Turns/Leaps

ORIGINAL ROUTINE

Creativity

Variety 30

Difficulty

Originality

Use of Music

Use of Specialties

SHOWMANSHIP

Smile

Audience Appeal 30

Spirit/Enthusiasm

Recoveries

Confidence

Eye Contact/Facials TOTAL SCORE:

Sample Scoresheets

Scoresheet S4

(Original Routine/Skit Required - Mascot)

Judges Signature: _____________________________________________________________ Squad: __________________________________ Candidate: _________________________ ( + ) Indicates superior performance

( @ ) Indicates average performance

CATEGORY

( ) Indicates improvement

POINTS POSSIBLE

SCORE

APPEARANCE

Clothing

Posture

Grooming/Neatness

Poise

GENERAL TECHNIQUE

Arm Angle/Placement

Crowd Leadership 30

Strength of Motions

Exaggeration

Timing/Rhythm

Improvisation Skills

ORIGINAL ROUTINE/SKIT

Creativity

Beginning/Ending 30

Difficulty

Theme Development

Use of Props

Musical Interpretation

SHOWMANSHIP

Animation

Audience Appeal 30

Spirit/Enthusiasm

Recoveries

Eye Contact

Confidence/Naturalness TOTAL SCORE:

Sample Scoresheets

Judges Master Scoresheet Number

Score

Judges Master Scoresheet

Comments

Tabulator Master Scoresheet Squad: _________________________________ Tabulator: ________________________ Candidate Number

Judge 1

Judge 2

Judge 3

G.P.A.

Teacher Eval

Coach Score

Total

Rank

Tabulator Master Scoresheet

Tryout Checklist Set orientation, clinic and tryout dates (6 weeks prior) Reserve the facility and fill out the appropriate paperwork (6 weeks prior) Secure judges and clinicians. Check your budget for covering judges/clinicians fees. Have checks drawn in advance (6 weeks prior) Prepare all necessary forms for applicants (5 weeks prior) Publicize orientation meeting, clinics, tryouts (4 weeks prior) Conduct orientation meeting for applicants. Distribute all forms, take sign-ups for those interested in tryouts (4 weeks prior) Set a firm date for paperwork to be done (4 weeks prior) Confirm judges. Send information sheets and directions (4 weeks prior)

Verify all applicantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; information once paperwork is in. It is best to do this before the clinics begin (2 weeks prior) Meet with clinicians to review tryout material (2 weeks prior)

Attend and supervise all clinics. You should be visible and available to answer questions at all times (1 week prior)

Make numbers for candidates (2 days prior) Prepare scoresheets for judges (2 days prior)

Call judges to remind them of the tryout (1 day prior) Confirm use of facility (1 day prior)

Ensure that facility is open and lights are on, set up supplies, meet judges, conduct tryouts (day of tryouts) Post/announce selected squad (as soon as possible)

Sample Forms - Tryout Checklist

Parent Information Please take this home for your parents’ approval. It contains important information for both of you to review if you are considering applying for a position on the spirit squad or dance/drill team. IMPORTANT DATES: It is important for the student to be available on these dates. Permission must be obtained from the advisor/director if the student cannot fulfill this obligation. •

Tryout Clinic(s):

•

Tryouts:

•

First Meeting:

•

Uniform Sizing:

•

Practice Sessions:

•

Summer Camp:

FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS: We will be conducting fundraising events to help offset the following costs, but each team member will be responsible for all costs associated with being a member of the spirit squad or dance/drill team. The costs shown below are approximate •

Uniforms:

•

Accessories:

•

Summer Camp:

•

Competitions:

•

__________:

OTHER CONCERNS: _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ Student Name: ___________________________ Parent Signature: _______________________

Sample Forms - Parent Information

Tryout Application My child, _______________________________ has my permission to be a cheerleader at Central High School. I understand that he/she must abide by the rules and regulations set forth by the advisor and the principal of Central High School and be present for all practices and games. I have read the rules and regulations and understand that the violation of any of the rules may lead to temporary or permanent suspension from the squad. I understand and give permission for my daughter/son to ride with the advisor and/or other parents when necessary. I understand that all forms attached must be completed by March 1st or my child will not be allowed to audition. I understand that my child must attend all practices (unless excused by the advisor) and tryout sessions or my child will not be considered for a cheerleading position. I understand that my daughter/son will be evaluated by qualified judges and we agree to abide by the decision of the judges. I understand all costs involved as stated in the rules. I understand by the very nature of the activity, cheerleading and gymnastics carry a risk of physical injury. No matter how careful the participant and coach are, how many spotters are used, or what landing surface is used, the risk cannot be eliminated. The risk of injury includes minor injuries such as muscle pulls, dislocation and broken bones. the risk also includes catastrophic injuries such as permanent paralysis or even death from landing or falls on the back, neck or head. I understand these risks and will not hold Central High School or any of its personnel responsible in the case of accident or injury at any time. _________________________ ___/___/___ Parent or Guardian Date

________________________ Parent or Guardian

___/___/____ Date

I am interested in being a cheerleader at Central High School. I understand the risks stated above. If selected, I promise to abide by the rules and regulations set forth by the advisor and the principal of Central High School. I promise to cooperate and follow the instructions of the cheerleading coach. Student Signature: ________________________________

Date: ___/___/___

Home Address: __________________________________________________________ School now attending: _________________________ Grade next year: ___________ Please complete the following section. You will need your grades, classes, and teachers from first semester, as well as the signature of your guidance counselor to insure that these are correct. Teacher names below will be asked to complete a teacher evaluation on the applicant that will be added to the tryout scores. Subject 1. ______________________________ 2. ______________________________ 3. ______________________________ 4. ______________________________ 5. ______________________________

Grade _____ _____ _____ _____ _____

Teacher ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________

Extracurricular activities ___________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________ Signature of Guidance Counselor

Sample Forms - Tryout Application

Teacher Recommendation Studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Name__________________________

Trying out for:_____________________

A teacher recommendation for each spirit squad or dance/drill applicant gives an indication of his/her academic standing, motivation, leadership skills, and attitude. Your input will be averaged with the tryout candidateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other instructors and considered in his/her overall tryout score.

Please rate this student in the following areas on a 1-5 scale: (5) Superior (4) Above Average (3) Average (2) Needs Improvement (1) Poor Attendance and Punctuality Responsibility and Dependability Leadership Attitude toward Fellow Students Attitude toward Authority OVERALL RATING

Comments:

________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

Teacher Signature: Class Subject: _________________________________Projected Grade: ________________ Please return completed form to

by: ________________

Thank you for your help and cooperation. If you have any questions, please contact me at _______________.

Sample Forms - Teacher Recommendation

Sample Contracts SODA SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADING CONSTITUTION I. PURPOSE The purpose of the cheerleading organization is to develop leadership, Promote unity within the school and to generate school spirit and enthusiasm. 1. The cheerleaders shall promote and uphold school spirit. 2. They shall develop a sense of good sportsmanship among the students. 3. They shall promote unification of the crowdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s involvement during athletic events. 4. They shall strive to build better relationships between schools. 5. They shall strive to uphold the highest personal, as well as cheerleading standards. II. MEMBERSHIP Membership will be open to any Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, and Senior who meets the eligibility requirements. 1. The cheerleader organization will consist of the following squads: Four Mat Maids (any combination of Frosh, Soph, Jr., or Sr.) Four Junior Varsity (2 Freshmen, 2 Sophomores) Six Varsity (Juniors and Seniors)

III. ELIGIBILITY 1. Cheerleaders must maintain a 2.5 in all classes, and a 2.5 cumulative grade point average throughout the year. IHSAA guidelines state that each cheerleader must be enrolled in 4 classes. IV. TRYOUT PROCEDURE AND CRITERIA 1. The Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Mat Maids will be elected in May for the following school year. The individual must specify desired squad in advance of tryouts. 2. Four pre-training sessions will be held before tryouts. 3. During these sessions exact tryouts procedures will be explained and taught in detail. All sessions must be attended. Only doctor excused absences will be accepted. All sessions are closed to parents, public, and students body. 4. Each perspective cheerleader will perform and be judged on the following: A. Individual Cheer B. Group Cheer C. Group Dance D. Game action cheer with jumps E. Skills (smiles, spirit, enthusiasm, appearance) 5. The candidates will tryout in front of the students body and a panel of three to five judges. No gymnastics will be allowed in front of the judging panel. 6. Seventy percent of score will come from judges and thirty percent from the students body.

Sample Forms - Contracts/Constitutions

7. During their tenure as a cheerleader, an individual may not be involved in any more than two major time consuming activities (i.e. Cheerleading/Pop Choir or Cheerleading/job). V. HEAD CHEERLEADER 1. The head cheerleader will be chosen by popular vote of all squads. The head cheerleader will be the representative for the entire cheerleading team on the Student Council. He/she will also work closely with the J.V. and Mat Maid head cheerleaders in preparing for upcoming athletic events and other responsibilities and assignments and in promoting unity among team members. 2. Each Squad will have a head cheerleader elected by popular vote of each respective squad. 3. Duties of the head cheerleaders within their squads: A. To call practices; notifying all members and approve with advisor B. To make final decisions as to what cheers are to be done at games, as well as what uniforms the squad will wear C. To make sure al rules and regulations are upheld and to report any conduct complaints, uncooperative behavior or squad problems to the advisor. D. To work closely with advisor in planning activities E. To act as host/hostess for home games in welcoming visiting cheerleaders F. The head cheerleaders will work under the direction and approval of the advisor in all squad activities VI. PRACTICE SESSIONS 1. All practices are required. Summer training camp is required by all chosen cheerleaders. 2. The advisor or head cheerleader may call practices. 3. A minimum of one practice will be held each week. 4. The cheerleaders shall set up summer practices on a regular basis. 5. If a cheerleader is to be tardy to a practice, the advisor or head cheerleader of the assigned squad must be notified to the practice. 6. If a cheerleader is absent from a scheduled practice before an event without prior excuse, that cheerleader shall lose the right to dress in uniform and will not cheer at that event. VII. GAMES 1. Varsity cheerleaders shall cheer at all pep assemblies and all varsity games, both home and away. 2. Junior Varsity cheerleaders will cheer at all JV games both at home and away and assist the varsity squad at pep assemblies and games when needed. 3. In the case of boys/girls game held simultaneously, a 3 Varsity and 2 JV split will be made A. A rotation basis of home and traveling squads will be scheduled at the beginning of each season. Care will be taken to schedule home and away events as evenly as possible. B. At each event, cheerleaders will be supervised by the advisor, coach or designated chaperone.

Sample Forms - Contracts/Constitutions

1. Mat Maids will cheer at all wrestling events and will participate in pep assemblies and cheer at other events upon request be the advisor and head cheerleader. Mat Maids may also be called upon to cheer at other athletic events when needed. 2. Each cheerleader must be present at school Â˝ of the day of the event in order to cheer at the event. VIII. TOURNAMENTS Varsity cheerleaders will be the only cheer squad that will cheer at state tournaments. If other members of other squads wish to attend. They will be required to pay all of their expenses. Mat Maids will cheer at the state wrestling tournament. IX. TRANSPORTATION 1. The school will provide transportation. 2. All cheerleaders will be required to ride to and from games in the school approved transportation. A. For an exception to be made, each cheerleader asking for the exception must have a permission slip and a phone call by the parent before the activity. Cheerleaders will only by released to parents, not friends or boy/girlfriends. 3. If the school is unable to provide transportation, parents may be asked to provide transportation (this request should be made known and made as fas in advance as possible).

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

X. UNIFORMS The school will own all uniforms. A rental fee will be charged when uniforms are issued. Each cheerleader will be responsible for the care of the uniform. Uniforms must be kept clean, neat, and complete. The uniform is to be worn only in conjunction with school events. New uniforms may be acquired each year if funds are available. Cheerleaders will but their own shoes, socks, briefs, summer uniforms, and any other miscellaneous items. Lost or damaged uniforms must be paid for by the cheerleader involved. XI. CONDUCT Each cheerleader should be present at least 15 minutes before any event begins. Cheerleaders are expected to be present at all times, participating fully in cheerleading activities throughout the event; no gum chewing, hair combing, or excessive visiting. Be friendly, courteous and enthusiastic whether the team is winning or losing. Cooperate with elected officers, squad members, game officials, Principal, and advisor at all times. Lend full support to all cheerleading activities and projects. No use of foul, crude or abusive language or obscene gestures. Dress modestly for all practices and activities. (Shirts must be worn at all times â&#x20AC;&#x201C; no sports bras or revealing tops or short shorts). Consistent violations of any of the above may result in the loss of membership: Violation of the following WILL result in loss of membership: A. possession or use of illegal drugs (improper prescription drugs), alco holic beverages, and tobacco of any form B. Suspension from school for violations of school discipline policy C. Immoral conduct: excessive public display of affection

Sample Forms - Contracts/Constitutions

10. 11.

12.

2. 3.

Cheerleaders shall conduct themselves properly at all times, both in and out of school. A cheerleader must maintain a 2.5 grade point average while s/he is a member of the squad. In the event that the cheerleaderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s average falls below a 2.5, s/he will be on academic probation for the following three weeks. At the end of the three weeks, the average must be raised to a 2.5 or s/he will be dropped from the organization. Each cheerleader must be enrolled in and earning 4 credits per trimester. The advisor and the principal will decide loss of membership. XII. MISCELLANEOUS Cheerleaders will be involved in fund raising projects. Money earned will be used for uniforms, camps, etc., as approved by the cheerleader advisor and principal. Monies earned will go into the school cheerleading fund. Cheerleaders should have some form of insurance in case of emergency. A medical exam will be required by all cheerleaders who are serving on the squad for the first time, or who have not had a physical exam to participate in other high school sports activities. A copy of the completed form must be on file with the cheerleadersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; advisor. A cheerleader may participate in one other event with the exclusion of basketball and drill team. These include cross country, volleyball, and track. If a cheerleader chooses to participate in an athletic event, s/he is still required to attend all cheer practices and to be involved in all projects with the cheer team.

SIGN UP FOR PRESPECTIVE CHEERLEADERS I have read the Cheerleading Constitution and understand the responsibilities and privileges of being a Soda Springs High School Cheerleader. I will abide by these rules and regulations to the best of my ability. I will cooperate fully with the advisor and all persons and organizations concerned to promote spirit and good sportsmanship. At all times, whether at school or away from school, I will conduct myself in a manner that best represents the students and faculty at Soda Springs High School. I also realize that I will be expected to attend cheer camp, practices, and other activities.

Signature_____________________________________________

Grade:________________

I will be trying out for the ___________________________________________________squad.

Sample Forms - Contracts/Constitutions

Camp Selection

It is best to set your camp date and location before or immediately following tryouts. This will give families and squad members time to plan their summer activities accordingly. Coming up with a date that satisfies everyone may be a difficult task. SELECTING YOUR CAMP 1. Contact USA to find out dates and locations of the camps in your area. 2. Inform parents of the dates and give them a deadline to respond to if there are any conflicts. 3. Once the choice is confirmed, you can call the USA office to reserve your space. Notify your parents that a deposit will be required to hold space. The deposit is due two weeks after your tryout date (if reservation is made before May 25th, otherwise the due date is one week from the day the reservation is submitted). Keep good records for each squad member and give receipts for their parent’s records. 4. You will receive a confirmation packet from USA in the mail. Make sure to check all forms for accuracy and get the medical release forms to the parents for their signatures. 5. The remaining balance is due no later than three weeks prior to the camp start date. Ask your parents to have the balance and all necessary forms in four weeks before camp. 6. Make arrangements for travel well in advance of the camp date. Check with your administration to make sure you are properly covered with school insurance policies. In most cases, certain procedures must be followed to have proper coverage. ALTERNATIVES If dates and locations do not work out, there is an option - the USA Private Camp. This program brings the instructional staff to your school. While it sounds like a great idea, there are some things to consider. 1. First, you must provide an indoor facility. Check with your school to reserve the gym. 2. Let parents work out lunch arrangements (sack lunches, pot-luck, pizza etc.) 3. Call USA to obtain information or to reserve a date for your private camp. Be prepared to give a few choices of dates to accommodate staff schedules. 4. Have local hotel information ready. Private camp fees include the costs of all of the staff’s meals, travel and housing. 5. Prepare an emergency plan to deal with the possibility of an injury during the camp. USA will help provide you with the paperwork when you register. Another thing to consider with private camps is that the squad will not get the same “unity and teambuilding” atmosphere of a residential (overnight) camp. If you would like more than just your squad at a local camp, contact area schools to arrange a commuter camp. For any questions regarding your spiritleading and dance training, or to receive a free camp video and brochure, contact USA at: (800) 886-4USA or go to: www.usacamps.com

Camp Selection

Uniform Selection STEP ONE—THE PRE-SIZING MEETING Select a date and time for a “pre-sizing” meeting with your squad (usually done immediately following the tryout). At this meeting you will determine the following; 1.

Confirm a date for the sizing appointment in which all squad members can be present. This is very important. One member missing from sizing appointment can delay an order for weeks! If you select your date early, you can notify your candidates to keep this date clear in case they make the squad. Review the status of your uniform program. a. What do you need to order? Do you need new uniforms or fill-ins? b. If handing down or selling uniforms, have the squad bring uniforms and conduct the exchange at this pre-sizing meeting. Once the exchange is completed, you will know what items need to be ordered for the following year. c. What do you need in the way of accessory items such as shoes, poms, briefs, bodysuits, warm-ups, jackets, campwear. d. What is your budget? Do you need to raise funds for the uniforms or is money allocated by the school? e. Determine when you need your uniforms. Have you set your appointment early enough to hit a deadline date of a specific game or pep rally? f. If choosing new uniforms and/or campwear, have the squad members review your Varsity catalog and select designs. Have the squad members vote on the design so that the decision is made by the time of the actual sizing.

Five Steps to a Successful Sizing 1. The prepre-sizing meeting 2. Making the appointment 3. The sizing appointment 4. FollowFollow-up 5. Enjoy!!!

STEP TWO—MAKING THE APPOINTMENT Contact your local Varsity Representative to schedule your sizing appointment. You can find your local rep by calling Varsity Spirit Fashions at 1-800-533-8022. STEP THREE—THE SIZING APPOINTMENT At the sizing appointment, have the following information ready for your Varsity Service Representative. 1. Method of Payment-How are you going to pay for the order? Your options are purchase order, Visa, cash or a letter of authorization. 2. Re-Orders-Have a sample of the garment for the Varsity rep to review and ensure that the garment is detailed correctly for the current year’s order. Reps will need to have a photocopy of any letter on the garment to get a perfect match. 3. All squad members must be present. If someone is absent, give hers/his measurements to the representative. The uniform ordered without the Varsity rep physically measuring will not be size guaranteed. Schedule the uniform/accessory sizing in a large area with the following characteristics: 1. Room to display sizing samples. Your Varsity rep will bring many samples to ensure that you get the best fit possible in uniforms, shoes and accessories. 2. Table: Your Varsity rep has a laptop computer for easy ordering. Please provide an area to set up a computer and a printer. 3. First Floor: Due to the many samples your Varsity rep brings, it helps to schedule your sizing on the firsfloor of your school. STEP FOUR--FOLLOW-UP After the sizing, the Varsity rep will give you a copy of your order that details the style, quantity and sizes of the garments ordered. Varsity will send you an acknowledgment with the anticipated ship date of your merchandise. Remember, you are not billed for an item until all products are shipped on the order with the exception of credit cards. STEP FIVE—ENJOY!! Enjoy your new Varsity garments. Please let Varsity know how they can continue to serve you better.

Uniform Selection

Hydration Tips HYDRATION TIPS FOR COACHES: Keeping Your Team Properly Hydrated During Try-Outs, Practices and Competitions Most spiritleaders and dancers understand the importance of practicing hard prior to trying out for the squad. However, many may not be aware that dehydration can have a real negative affect on how they feel and perform whether it’s during an afternoon practice or during the official tryout competition. As a coach or advisor, it’s your job to ensure that the squad is able to feel and perform at their best. When you talk with all potential candidates about the importance of hydration, please photocopy and share the back of this page with them. Facts about Dehydration: • Dehydration could affect how a performer feels and performs during tryouts and practices, and may increase the risk of injury. • Losing even a small amount of body fluid (i.e. 1% body weight) can impair performance and make a performance “feel” harder. • By the time a performer becomes thirsty, (s)he is already dehydrated.

For more information on hydration, visit the Gatorade Sports Science Institute website at www.gssiweb.com, www.propelwater.co m or www.gatorade.com

Tips to Incorporate Hydration During Practices and Throughout the Day: • Walk the Talk. Make hydration part of YOUR lifestyle by always having a bottle of healthy fluids on hand during tryouts and practices. • Think of Fluids as Essential Equipment for Your Squad. Make sure each participant has his/her own sports bottle filled with cold fluids before practice and tryouts begin. Suggest freezing a bottle of fluids the night before so it remains cold throughout the entire next day. • Schedule Hydration Breaks. It’s important to encourage active participants to take a time-out during practice to drink. Make it a goal to drink at set increments throughout your practices (i.e., every 15 minutes). • Gauge the Amount of Fluid Consumed by “Gulps”. One “gulp” equals about 1 ounce. What to Drink During Practices and Performances: • Water: While water is a good thirst quencher, the lack of taste and flavor of plain water makes it challenging for exercisers to drink enough to stay properly hydrated. Research shows that people tend to replenish only about half of the fluids they lose during a workout when they drink plain water. • Fitness Waters: For those that prefer to drink plain water during exercise, a fitness water – such as Propel Fitness Water – may be a better alternative. Fitness waters are lightly flavored alternatives to help cheerleaders drink more and stay better hydrated when active. Research shows that people will drink more of a lightly flavored beverage than plain water and will therefore stay better hydrated before, during and after practices, and competitions. Look for a fitness water that is low in calories, such as Propel, with only 10 calories per eight ounces. • Sports Drinks: For active people who need to re-hydrate and refuel for performance, a functional sports drink is the optimal choice. Sports drinks contain electrolytes that replace what is lost through sweat, and also contain carbohydrates that fuel working muscles and fight fatigue. , Recommended Drinking Guidelines: BEFORE: Drink 17-20 oz. approximately one hour before activity. DURING: Drink to match your fluid loss. A good rule of thumb is approx. 5-8 oz. about every 15 minutes during activity for young, active females and approx. 7-10 oz during activity for young, active males. AFTER: Drink at least 20 oz. of fluid per pound of weight loss within two hours after activity.7 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Fallowfield, JL et al. J Sports Sci 14:497-502, 1996. Greenleaf, J.D. Med Sci Sports Exerc 24:645-656, 1992. Passe, D., Sports Drinks - Basic Science & Practical aspects, Maughan, R.S. & Murray, R (Eds.) New York: CRC Press, 2001 Chapter 3 Passe, D.H., Horn, M., Murray, R. Appetite (2000) 34: 219-229 Below, P.R. et al. Med Sci Sports Exerc, 27:200-210, 1995. Utter A. et al. Int J Sports Nutr, 7:274-285, 1997. Volume recommendations based on the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) Position Statement: Fluid Replacement for Athletes, Casa, D et al. J Athl. Train. 34:212:2000. To measure your fluid loss, weight yourself before and after exercise. If you’ve lost a pound or more right after exercise, that’s a fluid loss, and it means you need to hydrate.

Hydration Tips For Coaches

Hydration Tips HYDRATION TIPS FOR SPIRITLEADERS & DANCERS: Better Hydration = Better Performance We’ve all experience it at some point when active - - fatigue sets in, your mouth feels dry and your legs feel like lead. These are all common signs of dehydration. While most spiritleaders and dancers understand the importance of practicing hard prior to trying out for the squad, did you know: • Dehydration could affect how you feel and perform during tryouts and practices, and may increase the risk of injury. • Losing even a small amount of body fluid (i.e. 1% body weight) can impair performance and make your performance “feel” harder. • By the time you become thirsty, you are already dehydrated.

For more information on hydration, visit the Gatorade Sports Science Institute website at www.gssiweb.com, www.propelwater.co m or www.gatorade.com

Tips to Help You Stay Hydrated During Practices and Throughout the Day: • Think of Fluids as Essential Equipment for Your Performance. Always pack a bottle of fluids to bring to your practices and competitions just as you would bring your uniform or sweat towel. • Incorporate Fluid Breaks Into Your Routine. It’s important to drink on schedule and not just when you feel thirsty. Make it a goal to drink at set increments throughout your practices (i.e., every 15 minutes). • Gauge the Amount of Fluid you Consumed by “Gulps”. One “gulp” usually equals about one ounce. • Drink a Beverage that has Flavor. Research shows that people will drink more of a lightly flavored beverage than plain water. • What you Drink Today will Help Prepare You for Tomorrow’s Performance. Make hydration part of your lifestyle by drinking first thing in the morning and last thing at night. What to Drink During Practices and Performances: • Water: While water is a good thirst quencher, the lack of taste and flavor of plain water makes it challenging for active people to drink enough to stay properly hydrated. Research shows that people tend to replenish only about half of the fluids they lose during a workout when they drink plain water. • Fitness Waters: For those that prefer to drink plain water during exercise, a fitness water – such as Propel Fitness Water – may be a better alternative. Fitness waters are lightly flavored alternatives to help you drink more and stay better hydrated when active. Research shows that people will drink more of a lightly flavored beverage than plain water and will therefore stay better hydrated before, during and after practices, and competitions.3 Look for a fitness water that is low in calories, such as Propel, with only 10 calories per eight ounces. • Sports Drinks: For active people who need to rehydrate and refuel for performance, a functional sports drink is the optimal choice. Sports drinks contain electrolytes that replace what is lost through sweat, and also contain carbohydrates that fuel working muscles and fight fatigue. , Recommended Drinking Guidelines BEFORE: Drink 17-20 oz. approximately one hour before activity. DURING: Drink to match your fluid loss. A good rule of thumb is approx. 5-8 oz. about every 15 minutes during activity for young, active females and approx. 7-10 oz during activity for young, active males. AFTER: Drink at least 20 oz. of fluid per pound of weight loss within two hours after activity.7

For more information on hydration, visit the Gatorade Sports Science Institute website at www.gssiweb.com, www.propelwater.com or www.gatorade.com 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Hydration Tips For Spiritleaders & Dancers

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Spirit & Dance Drill Tryout Manual unitedspirit spiritassociation spirit The USA acknowledges the contributions of the following: Soda Springs High School Bishop High School Simi Valley High School The USA Staff

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