Every cheerleading program has its own unique traditions and requirements. Some schools mandate specific tumbling skills, essays, or teacher recommendations. Most programs include "clinic days" where candidates learn and practice the material required for the final evaluation.
Pro-tip: Be sure to research the specific standards for the program you hope to join! Here is the breakdown of what to expect for our upcoming KCHS Cheer tryouts.
Preparation is Key
We post the tryout material one week prior to the start date. This includes the cheer, dance, jumps, kickline, and interview questions. We expect all candidates to have this material learned before arriving for Day 1 of clinics.
Interview Video Submission: Your interview video is due before midnight on Day 1 of clinics. Please submit your video via the following platforms:
Current KCHS Students: Submit via Microsoft Teams.
Incoming Freshmen & Transfer Students: Submit via Google Classroom.
If you’ve been following our previous posts, you’re already ahead of the game! Each topic we’ve covered prepares you for a core component of the evaluation:
Cheer Motions
Jumps & Stretching
The Cheer
The Dance
In addition to reviewing the pre-posted material, you will learn stunt basics during clinics. Remember: Stunting should only be practiced under the direct supervision of a cheer coach.
Round 1: Days 1–3
When you arrive on Day 1, come ready to work!
The Look:
Wear athletic shoes and flexible athletic clothing.
Hair: Secured up and out of your face (no loose tendrils).
Safety: No jewelry (rings, bracelets, earrings, necklaces) and no long nails.
Essentials: Bring plenty of water and a light snack.
Clinics begin with a whole-group dynamic warm-up. We will then split into groups to rotate through the following stations:
Stunts
Dance
Cheer
Jumps
Kickline
After Day 3, we will make first-round cuts. Candidates will receive an individual message via the Band app to let them know if they are moving on to Round 2.
Round 2: Days 4–5
Round 2 continues with station rotations. During these two days, coaches will specifically evaluate and score the stunt portion of tryouts.
You will be assigned a group to work with and given time to practice before being evaluated. Please note that while you are performing in a group, stunting is scored on an individual basis. Coaches are looking at your specific technique, strength, and individual contribution to the stunt, rather than the group as a whole.
Final Tryouts: Day 6
You will be assigned a specific group and time for your final evaluation. Once your tryout is complete, you are free to head home!
Arrival & Requirements:
Check-in: Arrive early to check in and receive your tryout number.
Attire: Plain black t-shirt (no spaghetti straps), black athletic shorts or leggings, and athletic shoes.
Safety & Presentation: Hair up, no jewelry, and no long nails.
Warm-up: You will be responsible for warming up and reviewing on your own outside of the cheer room until your group is called.
The Performance:
Groups of three will be called in at a time. Take a deep breath, walk in with a smile, and show us your confidence! You will perform your jumps individually, followed by a group performance of the cheer, dance, and kickline.
Coach’s Note: We know this is nerve-wracking, but try to have FUN! If you make a mistake, don’t be discouraged, just jump right back in. We aren't looking for perfection; we’re looking for spirit and resilience. We’ve all been in your shoes before!
The Results
Once your group is finished, please exit the building. Take a moment to be proud of the hard work you’ve put in! The new team will be announced that evening by 7:00 PM.
Best of luck!
