Learn a Cheer

What is the difference between a chant and a cheer? A chant is a short, repetitive cheer used on the sidelines (see previous post about learning a chant).  A cheer is longer and is often used during halftime performances or even time outs.  Cheers can tell a story or focus on getting the crowd to yell back with them.  

Here is a sample cheer from UCA tryout material used in 2014.  

(Yell to start cheer) Score Mustangs Score

1, 2 this cheer’s for you

KC fans, yell Go Big Blue (The crowd is then suppose to reply back with you: Go Big Blue)

3, 4 let’s cheer some more

KC fans, yell Score Mustangs Score (The crowd is suppose to reply back with you: Score Mustangs Score)

(Now you repeat the same lines you want the crowd to yell back with you)

Go Big Blue, Score Mustangs Score

(crowd should yell with you) Go Big Blue, Score Mustangs Score

Remember to work on those sharp motions when executing a cheer.  Tight motions make the cheer clean and easy to follow.  Use your loud voice and break your words up so that your crowd can clearly understand you.  One thing many people make the mistake of doing when they yell a cheer is singing.  We don’t want to sing the cheer, but instead break up the syllables to help enunciate the words. Make sure to end the word on its last sound and not draw it out.  For example, the above cheer has many instances when someone might accidentally “sing” it.

Incorrect:

One, twoooo, this cheer’s for yooouuu,

Correct:

One, two, this cheer’s for you.  

The best way to think about it is to use a breath for each syllable.  Place your hands on your upper abdomen while you practice yelling the cheer.  You should feel your muscles contracting with each syllable to help push out the air and project your voice.

Once you’ve learned the cheer, practice it in front of a mirror or record yourself to see what areas you need to improve on.  Look for sharp, clean motions. Listen for a loud, clear voice. And of course, make sure to have a smile on your face.