How to Judge College Cheerleading Tryouts

If you're judging college cheerleading tryouts, you probably have had some experience judging and cheering or dancing in the past. Now you're tasked to help put together an elite squad of talent to represent your college sports team. Follow the steps to learn how to judge college cheerleading tryouts.

Instructions

    • 1

      Trust your experience. You've been in the position of trying out for a squad--remember what that was like and what was required of you. Give the new candidates the same requirements.

    • 2

      Watch the cheerleaders in group dance and cheer to see how they look with each other. Pay attention to those who stand out but also work with the group. You don't need a squad full of singles who can't work together.

    • 3

      Look at the candidates' individual dance and cheer routines. Watch as they freestyle and show a choreographed routine to see that they keep time and learn quickly.

    • 4

      Score highly for jumps and gymnastics. By the time the girls and guys are in college, they should have a strong grasp on flexibility and stunts and have gymnastic ability.

    • 5

      Notice the girls and guys with the best coordination and cheer motions. At the college stage, you need the best of the best, so choose the candidates who are strong on their feet and careful with their poms.

    • 6

      Listen for the cheerleaders with great communication skills. Choose the girls and guys who can lead others, get the crowd involved and project loudly when needed.

    • 7

      Judge by the above criteria but also focus on the overall look, posture and smile of the qualifying squad. The candidates don't have to be beautiful or stick thin, but they should be confident and take pride in staying healthy for their sport.