Cheerleading Camp – How to Choose the Best Camp for your Cheer Team

If your team is considering attending a cheerleading camp, you are probably aware of the many options out there. Which camp should you choose? Take a look at your team. What level are they at? What are their strengths and weaknesses? Where could they use improvement? What are your goals for your team? What are you hoping to get out of the cheer camp experience? Once you have answered these basic questions, it is time to start searching for possible cheer camps. Here is a guide to help you in selecting the best cheerleading camp for your team.

Cheerleading Camp Types:
Resident camps – Attending these cheerleading camps involves staying at the camp location day and night for an extended period.

Commuter camps – These cheer camps will require participants to travel to the camp on a daily basis for the length of the camp dates.

Day camps – Day camps are held for one day only.

Clinics – These cheerleading camps usually involve the instructors coming to the location of the team.

Cheerleading Camps for Cheer Squad types:
All-stars – The most demanding type, all-star cheerleading camps focus on more advanced skills and will be more intense than the other camps.

Scholastic – These cheer camps are going to focus on the skills used for cheerleading in schools and colleges.

Recreation – Teams that cheer for recreation, or are looking for a more relaxed and fun camp should consider this type.

Co-ed – Not all cheerleading camps offer programs for co-ed teams so this is very important to consider when choosing where to go if you have a co-ed team.

Factors to Consider:

Curriculum – Take a close look at what each camp offers and whether it meets the needs of your cheerleading team. Consider yourteam’s skill levels, what the camp emphasizes, and how your team will benefit from each. Does your cheer team need to further their jumping or stunting skills? Are you just in need of fresh ideas for routines and cheers? Does yoursquad need more emphasis on team building?

Location or Travel – Some cheer camps may be close by and some will be further away. Consider the location, especially for commuter camps, as this can be an obstacle for some team members.

Cost – Expensive is not necessarily better so do research and consider only those camps that are truly affordable for your cheer team. Plan ahead of time and do some fundraisers to help with costs as well.

Dates – Cheerleading camp dates will vary, as the length of camp does too. Look for a camp that is held at a time that is feasible for your team.

Cheerleading Coaches – Choosing Your Team at Tryouts

It is time for cheerleading tryouts and you will soon be choosing the new cheerleaders for your team. You want only the best since you want your team to shine. You have great plans for your cheer team this year and you need to find the cheerleaders that will be able to work together to achieve those goals. You know that you are looking for girls that will fit in with the style of your team. But what exactly is it that you should be watching for at cheerleading tryouts?

Appearance
The cheerleaders that you choose will portray an image that reflects greatly on your team.
Watch for cheerleaders who have a neat and clean appearance with minimal makeup and properly fitting clothing. Look for cheerleaders who are in shape. Does the cheerleader portray the image you want to put forth?

Voice
One of the most important tools that a cheerleader possesses is her voice. Listen for cheerleaders who know how to yell in a loud, solid voice without screeching or singing. Does the cheerleader enunciate well?

Enthusiasm
Does the cheerleader have a lot of enthusiasm? A cheerleader’s voice should reflect the spirit of the team.
Does she smile? A cheerleader should smile regardless of how nervous, or frustrated she is.
The cheerleader should look like she is having fun out there.

Attitude & Personality
Attitude is probably the most important thing to watch for. A cheerleader with a poor attitude will never be a committed team player and will not reflect the spirit of your team. Look for a cheerleader that is outgoing, confident and friendly. Someone who does not give up easily and continues on with her head held high, even after making mistakes, will be a major asset to your team.

Willing to Try New Things
All the cheerleaders on your team will have to be open to trying new things, whether it is new dance moves or more advanced stunts. Watch for cheerleaders who are not afraid and will be willing to put forth the effort into trying something that they have never seen or done before, even if they may not succeed at it right away. A cheerleader that can do only a few stunts but tries hard to learn the new ones is more valuable than the cheerleader who can do many stunts but is unwilling to improve them or learn more.

Leadership
Watch for cheerleaders who are not afraid to take control of a situation and are willing to initiate things, not just be a follower.

Team Work
Team work is extremely important as you need your team to work well together. Watch how the cheerleader interacts with others. Does she help another cheerleader out who was having trouble or does she stand aside and mock the teammate? Does the cheerleader speak of “I” or “we”? Does she interact with the other teammates or wish the other girls good luck?

Versatility
A cheerleader who is versatile and can perform many functions within the team is quite valuable. Can the cheerleader be a base or a flier, or is she capable of doing either?

Tumbling & Stunts
If your team will be tumbling and/or stunting, have a minimum level in mind that each cheerleader must meet. Should they know how to do a back handspring? If the cheerleader has not mastered this, how willing is she to try to do so. What you are looking for and what each cheerleader needs to know is up to you and the needs of your team.

Commitment
Look for cheerleaders who are knowledgeable. If you cheer for a school or sports team, look for cheerleaders who have a basic knowledge of the game and also perform well academically as grades may be a factor in the cheerleader being allowed to cheer. Also, look for cheerleaders who are going to be committed. Be up front about all commitments of not only practices and games but any competitions, camps, and community or school activities. It is also important to make the cheerleader aware of any financial commitments that may be necessary. Be sure that the cheerleader is able, and willing, to fulfill these commitments.

Taking the time to thoroughly evaluate each person trying out for the cheerleading squad can really determine the success of your team. Try not to rush your tryouts. Hold tryouts over a span of several days for the best results.

Cheerleaders – Should You Try Out For Cheerleading?

Cheerleading tryouts are coming up soon and you are thinking about trying out. Even if you have already selected the team you will be trying out for, you may want do some research before you attend any tryouts. In order to increase your chances at making the team, you will want to be sure that you will be a good fit for the team and that the team is a good fit for you! To do this you will need to know what the team is all about. You know you want to join a new team but what kind of team? What things should you be looking considering when choosing a team to tryout for? Here are some things that you may want to find out.


What is the team’s style?
Look at the team’s previous members. Are they bouncy and enthusiastic? Athletic? Fun and eccentric? Be sure your style meshes with the team style and you will fit in well.

Does the team cheer for sports teams? If so, what sports?
Be sure to have a basic knowledge and enthusiasm of the sports for which the team cheers. However, if the team cheers for a football team and you hate football, consider another squad.

Is the team competitive?
If the team is competitive there will probably be a lot of focus on mastering skills and acquiring new, advanced ones too. You will likely experience demanding practices and expectations will be higher than teams who do not compete. Is this what you are looking for?

Am I expected to be capable of certain dance, tumbling or stunting skills at tryouts?
If so, be sure to practice them well in advance so that you can perform them to the best of your ability.

Does the team participate in many spirit activities, fundraising, community events or volunteering?
These activities can require a lot of time and commitment. Is this something you are willing to commit to? Are you outgoing enough to be comfortable with these activities?

What are the time and financial requirements for the team?
Be aware of the team’s schedule and commitments as well as the financial expectations of the team. Be sure that you are able to meet these requirements ahead of time.


Do some research and talk to the coach before tryouts. Express your interest in the squad and find out if there is anything specific that they are looking for. Not only will you get the information you need but you will have caught the attention of the coach.

Cheerleading - Keeping Busy During the Off Season

The competition season is wrapping up, but as any cheerleader or cheerleading coach knows - there's never really an off season in cheerleading.
We've put together our list of things to do during the off season to help prepare for your next cheer season. Whether you're a coach or a cheerleader, be sure to check out this list!


Coaches:
Develop a yearly plan. The more organized you are now the easier it will be to stay organized for the entire season. The more you can preplan the calmer you will be when the cheer season arrives.

1) Create a Calendar of Events. Outline the entire year of events to help keep yourself and your cheerleaders organized. Key events that should be on your calendar:
Cheerleading Tryouts
Practices
Camps / Clinics
Fundraising Events
Games
Pep Rallies
Homecoming Events
Competitions
Check out the second edition of Coaching Cheerleading Successfully for a complete list of events to have on your calendar!

2) Gather all necessary Paperwork and Forms for the year. Make a categorized list of any paperwork that will be needed for tryouts, camps, competitions and etc… Example forms include:
Letter to Parents
Parental Permission Forms
Medical Forms
Tryout Checklist/Judging Form
Cheerleader Notebooks (include what is expected of each cheerleader, stunt formations, cheers and chants and etc…)
Assistance Coaches Responsibilities Working Schedule Uniform and Equipment checklist/spreadsheet

3) Set Goals. Set goals and expectations for yourself and your cheerleaders.
What do you want your program to accomplish?
What do you want your cheerleaders to represent?
What kind of coach do you want to be?
What do you want to see from your team?
What is your fundraising goal?

4) Prep Your Cheerleading Supplies Order. Just because your squad isn’t established doesn’t mean you can’t determine what you will be ordering once the squad is chosen. Most cheerleading catalogs are mailed between February 15th and March 15th.

Research each catalog and select the cheerleading shoes, cheerleading uniforms and accessories and any props that you will be ordering. Don’t forget to take a look at the Cheerleading Uniform Creator at cheerzone.com to fully design your uniform. You can select your school colors, striping and best of all lettering. You’ll know exactly what your uniform will look like before you order!

Don’t forget about cheer camp. You can select the cheerleading camp outfits also. Choose the t-shirts and shorts that each cheerleader will need for summer camps.

If you can complete your selections before your squad is chosen you’ll be one step ahead in ordering. We all know that productions times for uniforms can range from 4-10 weeks for custom cheerleading merchandise. Getting your order in early will guarantee it before your season starts. And don’t forget to watch for early bird specials. Most Cheerleading Catalogs will offer discounts to coaches who get their team orders in early! Be sure you’re on the email list to receive the special offers.


Cheerleaders:
Your not just a cheerleader part of the year – you’re a cheerleader the entire year. During the off season you should be thinking about the upcoming season.

1) Stay Involved. Mentor youth recreation leagues or work with your coach and other team members to host a cheerleading camp.

2) Stay Fit. Keep in shape while you’re not cheering. Work on your strength and flexibility.
Stretch while doing homework.
Do push-ups, sit-ups and squats daily.
Run, jog, or walk whenever you can.
Take a tumbling class.
Attend open gyms as often as possible.
Practice your jumps – Practice! Practice! Practice!
Check out the fitness section of our blog for some great workout ideas!

3) Set Goals. Keep a notebook with a list of your goals and progress so you can see for yourself that you truly are making progress. Give yourself something to work toward for the upcoming season.

4) Keep In Touch. Keep in touch with your teammates and coaches. It’s important to keep that bond even in the off season. Work with your teammates and coaches to create your list of goals and expectations. Together you can keep each other motivated.

Cheerleaders: How To Be A Good Role Model

As a cheerleader, you are a representative of your squad as well as your school and community. You are looked upon by many people and even emulated by some. It is important that you are a good leader. Leadership is not just about being a team captain but rather it is a set of qualities that one has that set a good example to others. You and your team members must closely monitor your actions as they reflect not only on yourselves as individuals and the team but also on your school. It is important to always strive to be your best and be a great role model. Here is a list of the most important traits of a role model and how to attain them.



Be a team player
To be a good team player you have to put the needs of the team ahead of your own. Be supportive of your team members and do everything you can to encourage their success over your own.

Be dependable
Being dependable is an extremely important quality. When you say you will do something, do it. Be punctual. People will be relying on you and it is important to follow through on all your commitments.

Have an optimistic attitude
Always keep a positive attitude even when times are tough. Smiles are catchy and sometimes that is all it one needs to brighten someone else’s day. Always hope for the best but be gracious if disappointment comes your way.

Persistence
Persistence is important for success. No matter what you do, there will be obstacles. Do not let roadblocks stop you. Stay focused and never give up.

Have courage
Be confident in who you are and in your abilities. You worked hard to get where you are and faced many challenges. Have the courage to brave any challenges because you know that you will give it your best. Believe in yourself and your team.

Be generous
Be generous with your time and your talents. Spend time doing things for others in your community. Volunteer with local organizations. Your efforts will not only be rewarded personally but will be appreciated by those around you.

Be respectful
Mind your manners and practice proper etiquette. Treat everyone you encounter with respect. Set an example of how to be kind to others and how to handle yourself with grace.

Remember, as a cheerleader you are in the public eye. It is important to represent your school and community to the best of your ability.

Fall Season Checklist for Cheerleaders and Coach

There is something about this time of year that can excite almost anyone. Fall is the beginning of a new year…a time when you can start over..start fresh. With this fresh start comes a brand new football season for every high school across the country.

If you’re a cheerleader or cheer coach this time of year is more important than for most. You’re preparing for your teams homecoming, hoping to have a great season, and leave a lasting impression that will be imprinted in
the memories of all who are involved with games. Make sure you're prepared for the season with the checklist below:

1) Uniforms: It’s not too late to buy In-Stock Uniforms for this season. Check out the 2009 CheerZone Catalog and click the page links that go to our online store.

2) Shoes: Put your best foot forward wearing your favorite cheer brand. We carry Nike, Nfinity, Adidas, Kaepa, Asic, Power, and much more.

3) Warm-Ups: Our custom and in-stock cheerleading warm-ups are a great way to keep warm this fall season. Warm-ups can be purchased to match uniforms to unify your team look. Lettering and Embroidery are also
great ways bring function and style together.

4) Bodywear: If you put your bodywear to the test during last years football and basketball seasons, stock up on some new gear to complete your look for the new year. Remember bodywear is a great way to add color to an In-Stock Uniform, so be creative.

Feel free to reply with any questions or tips you might have for this season. Stay true to the Sport!

Cheerz!

Cheerleading Competition - On The Go! Checklist for Competitions

Bag sales are up so that must mean cheerleaders are gearing up for competition travels! So what better time for us to break down competition must haves for cheerleaders and coaches alike.

Coach Checklist:

Cell Phone – Always have a cell phone on you! Keep your contact list updated with team members' phone numbers as well as a secondary number in case of an emergency. Keep this information updated every year by having team members fill out an information form at the beginning of each season. There are some great sample forms available in Coaching Cheerleading Successfully.

First Aid Kit – Make sure that everything you may need is in your first aid kit. Replace any old items and add any new ones.

Music – Make sure you have the music on hand for the routine. You may even want to bring along additional tunes to keep your team motivated. One of my all time favorites is Champ Cheer & Dance 2!

Paperwork – Make sure you have copies of necessary paperwork needed to compete.

Medical Forms – Check that each girl has submitted their medical form so they are eligible to compete.

Notepad – Competitions are a great place to take notes on how your team can improve as well as what they are excelling in so keep your notepad and pen with you at all times. There is always much to gain from documenting new strategies seen throughout the competition season.

Video Camera – It’s always a great idea to use a video camera at all competitions. Ask a parent to video tape the competitions for you so you and the entire squad can learn from them.

Cheerleader Checklist:

Cheerleading Uniform – Make sure you have your complete uniform ready for competition!

Shell

Skirt

Cheerleading Briefs

Cheer Socks

Hair Bows

Cheerleading Poms – If your coach doesn’t hold onto the entire team’s poms, make sure you have yours packed and ready to go.

Shoes – Competition shoes should always be clean and white.

Our pick for the best competition shoe is the Nfinity Evolution.

It’s super light weight yet still provides amazing control.

Make-up – Even if make-up is applied before you leave for the competition,

odds are you’ll need a touch up.

Snacks – It’s important to stayed fueled on the big day. Be sure to bring some healthy snacks because you could be at the competition venue all day.

Water Bottle – Another important factor is to always stay hydrated so always keep your water bottle with you.

Camera – Team websites are more popular than ever so,

keep a camera handy capture and share memories from your competition travels.

Bag – Keep all of your gear together in a duffle bag. Our pick for the best cheerleading bag is the Ultimate Cheerleading Duffle Bag. With separate compartments for all of your gear this bag is sure to keep you organized.

Finally always remember your Confidence and a Smile!

How to Get Noticed at Cheerleading Tryouts

You’ve been preparing for Cheerleading Tryouts daily. You’ve taken some tumbling classes at the local gym. You’ve stretched every night and have done all you can to perfect your jumps, by now your last name should be Herkie. Your motions are crisp and strong. Each time your mother walks by the bathroom she sees you make a variety of “facial expressions” in the mirror and the dog seems to be howling your cheers along with you. Physically and vocally you are ready for cheerleading tryouts – but so are 30 other girls. What can you do to leave a lasting impression on the judges?

Bring whatever you need to feel prepared and relaxed to tryouts. Bring your water bottle, a snack, your good luck charm. Bring anything that will help calm your nerves the day of tryouts.

Bring your confidence – stand tall, make eye contact with the judges. They’re more likely to remember the confident girl that gave them a genuine smile, over the wallflower.

Don’t stop smiling. A smile speaks a thousand words. Not to mention when you smile you naturally feel better – so why not smile the whole way through.

Dress the part – make sure your t-shirt says cheerleading. Wear your gym or school colors, cheerleading shoes, and absolutely no jewelry!

Hair pulled back with a big bow. You want the judges to see and remember your face. Pull your hair back and wear a bow in the team’s colors for extra attitude.

Subtle make up. Clean fresh make up is always great. Be sure to bring your lip gloss. If you nervous your mouth may get dry. A little lip gloss will go a long way!

Add a bit of school spirit – add a small fake tattoo of the school mascot to your face.

When you take the floor “Hit the crowd”. Approach the floor chanting “Go Team!, Let’s go! We’re #1!”. This will help wake up the judges and prepare them to watch you.

Don’t let a mistake bring you down. Keep going and pull through – this is after all what will be expected during a competition or game.

Be positive and have fun. The judges can tell if you’re having fun. Encourage others to show that you’re a team player. The judges are always watching you – even if it’s not your turn to try out.

Thank the judges after you tryout.

Remember most of all Have FUN! If you make the squad – CONGRATS! If you don’t make the squad – keep practicing – there’s always next year!