Tryouts for the 2023-24 football cheerleading team are coming up. Below is everything you need to know, and how to be prepared. 

Before tryouts, each cheerleader must complete the tryout form in the athletic office. For eighth graders, forms should be in the main office of your middle school, if not, please reach out to Head Coach Karen Utterback ([email protected]) or Alisyn Parkhurst ([email protected]). Forms must be returned by the end of the school day on May 5. 

Tryouts consist of two required practices and the actual tryout date. Practices will be held on Tuesday, May 9 and Thursday, May 11 in the main gym at West High from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. During these practices, returning cheerleaders will help teach new members the Fight Song dance, a few simple cheers and the different required jumps. 

To be prepared for tryouts, returning cheerleaders recommend coming with a positive attitude and open mind. It is also important to bring water and stay stretched throughout the practices and tryout. Working outside of the practice will improve mobility and help with memorization needed for the cheers and dances. Many returning cheerleaders are available to help with additional questions. 

After tryout practices, tryouts will be held on Saturday, May 13 from 8 a.m. to noon in the main gym. During tryouts, both returning and new members will perform the Fight Song, cheers and jumps for various judges. Numbers assigned to each cheerleader will be posted on the cheer closet door the Monday following tryouts. 

Upon making the team, a mandatory parent meeting will be held Thursday, May 18 at 5 p.m. in the commons. Failure to attend or arrange accommodations with Utterback will result in the loss of your place on the team. 

For further questions, contact Coach Utterback, Parkhurst, Coach Jones ([email protected]) or an administrator.