Cheerleading tips and help?

HELP!! Tips for tryouts/ cheerleading?

• I'm in 8th grade and i am going to tryout for cheer and I DO NOT KNOW WHAT I HAVE TO DO. I know how to do a high kick, bridge, herkie, toe- touch, and all the motions. I am going to try out for flyer. I am 4'8 and weigh 82 lbs. i am learning to do a back hand spring but i cannot support myself with my hands to push my body back. My hands are too weak and in my school, if u have tumbling, that is an advantage and I REALLY WANT TO GET INTO CHEERLEADING.. Any tips or advice for me?? Tryouts are in May/June.

• Answer:

  Well, I am a Sophomore in high school, and I have been a cheerleader for going on 9 years now. Now one thing you need to find out is wether or wether not the squad you are trying out for (I assume Jr. High) is a competition or sideline squad. Some squads (like mine) do both. Competition squads put routines together and compete, and sidleline cheers at games and pep rallies and such. Once you know that, I'll help you with your tryout material. You should have a clinic with other girl or boys trying out the week of tryouts. If not, get with some friends or girls that have been on squads before and know how the tryout process goes. Ask them to help you perfect your skills. As for a backhandspring, they should not be mandatory. You sound as though your very close, but please dont try anything unless you have a professional spotting you. Become a member at a cheer or gymnastics gym, if you are not already, and take some classes. They will help you. Don't act like the fact you dont have a back handspring is hurting your chances. Smile and have a good time at tryouts. Judges,/ coaches are on the look out for positive, spirited people for their squad. For the high kick, point your toes and keep your leg straight. Go to youtube to find tips on the bridge. You may find it under "standing backbend". Ask someone if you will need to kick over or not. As for herkie and totouch, they are jumps. Make sure you youtube those as well. Keep your toes pointed and chest up. As for motions keep them tight and smile and spirit. You should be fine. Good luck! and email me if you need anything!!