Pre Tryout Meeting

One of the most common errors made by coaches and candidates is a lack of communication. Everyone has a different mental picture when they think of cheerleading. By making candidates aware of the responsibilities and demands of the cheerleading squad before tryouts, you will help prevent unnecessary problems during the year.

One of the best ways to accomplish this is to meet with potential candidates before the tryout process begins. You may choose to ask parents to attend, but at the least, you should have informative handouts that the candidates can take home to show their parents. There are several issues that should be covered at your pre-tryout meeting which will help candidates make an informed decision as to whether or not try out for the squad.

Tryout Procedures
What is the format of tryouts? What forms (application, teacher recommendations, etc.) need to be turned in to try out for the squad? How many will be selected?

Potential Time Involved
How long if the season? How many days per week does the team practice? How many hours per practice? Will extra time be necessary for gymnastics training? Does the team participate in competition, and how does that affect the time involved? When is summer camp?

The answers to these questions may help someone determine if they can devote enough time to this activity. This will save you both problems later.

Approximate Monetary Costs/Fundraising Efforts
How much do uniforms cost? How much will be needed for summer training? How much will be needed for competitions? When will the money be due? Is any of this offset by the school? What can we expect in the way of fundraising efforts?

A worksheet that explains the approximate costs up front will start your relationship with the parents on the right foot. No one likes to have hidden costs sprung on them after they are committed to your program.

Constitution/Code of Conduct
What are the responsibilities of the members of the cheerleading squad? What are the consequences of breaking the rules? Is there a minimum GPA?, etc.

General Program Goals
What are the main goals of the program? What are the risks associated with participation in cheerleading? Is there an overall safety program in place? Does the team participate in a conditioning program? Are progressive teaching steps used? Is there an emergency plan 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 squad members.