How to Choose a Cheer/Dance Competition Team

The coach or director of a competitive cheer and dance team has to put together a squad that can do all of the moves and get along. They also make a statement to the judges about the coach. The coach should know what to look for in tryouts and how to get the most of that talent.

Instructions

    • 1

      Evaluate the skill level of each candidate. Each one must eventually perform the moves necessary for the level of competition. It is okay to take a few who fall below the skills at tryouts, but they must show serious potential for improvement. These individuals should probably be selected on a skill probationary status.

    • 2

      The team members must get along, so character has to be a part of the decision process. Each performer must display a willingness to work with the coach and with the other athletes, and must show a positive attitude. A team full of members with attitude problems or jealousy issues will not do well in competitions.

    • 3

      The student's grades and behavior in school must be part of the decision process. This usually indicates a willingness to work and respect authority. They do not have to be straight "A" students, but they should have decent grades.

    • 4

      The last thing to consider is the showmanship ability of the candidate. A performer should conduct herself with enough excitement and confidence to keep a judge's interest. Some competitions are won on attitude and confidence instead of skill level. This is a classic example of "It's not what you do, but how you do it."