How to Be a College Football Cheerleader

Find out when the cheerleading tryouts will be. Most college cheerleading tryouts start in the spring prior to the upcoming school and football season. Check websites for the college you are interested in and contact the cheerleading program director by phoning or visiting the school. You might consider starting this process two years in advance to really get a jump on an easier tryout process.

Ask what the qualifications are for those wanting to go through the college cheerleader tryout. Most colleges will furnish a list of cheerleading jumps and movements that will be required during the tryout. Some of these movements may be pikes, herkies, toe touches and hurdle jumps. There may be gymnastic movements required as well, such as flip-flops, standing back flips and round-offs. Don't forget your dance skills as you'll need to have range of dance skills from hip hop to modern jazz.

Arrange your schedule so you can attend a cheerleading camp offered at the college you want to be a cheerleader for. Some colleges require that all "hopefuls" attend a workshop at their facility or as a part of the actual tryout process. If you're still in high school, you'll have to make arrangements with your high school counselors and family to attend this workshop.

Practice everything you're told will be a part of the tryout. If you are weak in some areas, hire a cheerleading training coach to prepare you for the upcoming tryout. You'll need to have your jumps and gymnastic moves mastered by tryout time. In addition, you'll have to practice and learn the cheers, chants and songs of the college. Most of these have specific routines that are time-honored traditions at this college. Learn the words, learn the dance steps, learn the movement--and learn them all well.

Make it a point to practice in front of a mirror. Check your form as you go through the cheers and movements. Videotape yourself or ask for a peer's advice on your technique. Make a connection with a current cheerleader at the college for some "one on one" pointers as to what to expect in the tryout process and in developing your "look" and style for the tryout. Find out if the "squad" will be looking for a certain number of new cheerleaders, if they will be "bases" or "flyers," or if they are looking for cheerleaders with a strong dance background.

Attend every required practice and tryout and don't forget to be on time. Directors do not like tardiness. Have all your required tryout gear, shoes and clothing. Have your hair styled or pulled back according to the required guidelines. This is really not an area to show off your individual style.

Be a dependable member of the cheerleading squad once you've made it. Plan on attending required summer cheer camps and competitions to gear up for the upcoming football season. Continue to keep up your grades, attend practices, attend all football games and make arrangements to attend all required out of town games. Keep your social life in check as it can get you benched or removed from the squad in a flash.

Have fun, because being a college football cheerleader is a thrilling experience, one you will remember the rest of your life!