Competitions have become a big part of Cheerleading. A competition squad can invest hundreds of hours, tons of effort and lots of hard-earned money in competing. So, whether your next competition is local or national, across town or across the county, here are some tips to make it go off without a hitch.
Before You Leave
- Have each squad member prepare a checklist of what they need to bring. Be sure they check off their list before you head out.
- Prepare a checklist for what the whole squad will need. It's a good idea to assign members to be responsible for seeing that each item is packed. Again, take the time to check off each item before you leave.
- Plan for emergencies. Check your medical releases for current information such as phone numbers, allergies, etc. Discuss your emergency injury procedure with the whole squad. If you don't have emergency injury procedure, now is the perfect time to institute one.
- Check your first aid kit and be sure to bring it. Replace any old items and add any new ones you might need.
- Ask a parent or non squad member to take pictures or preferably video the competition.
- Assign someone to keep up with the competition by taking notes. They can write down the scores, comment on the competition and make general observations. This might prove valuable for future competitions.
When You Get There
- Stay calm and focused. Competitions can be fun, exciting and stressful. Don't let your emotions get the best of you.
- Look over the facilities so everyone knows where everything is.
- Check the schedule and be sure all squad members know where they are suppose to be and when.
- Be polite and remember your behavior reflects not only on you but on the whole squad.
- Be supportive of the other squads members and other squads.
- Make mental notes or even jot down things you think might help your squad next time.
- Think positive.
- Remember no one likes a poor loser or a boastful winner.
- Ask questions, if you have any and don't forget the educational aspect of competitions.
- Have fun.
When You Get Back
- Have a squad meeting and critique your performance. Go over your strong points and discuss your weaknesses. Talk about what worked and what didn't.
- View any videos or pictures that were taken. Learn from them.
- Read any notes and discuss comments that were written down or remembered.
- Make sure all criticism is constructive and doesn't hurt any one persons feelings. Remember you're a team and you're only as good as your weakest member. Your goal should be to improve as a squad and not to alienate people or make them feel bad.
- Once you've rehashed the last competition and learned from it, put it behind you and move on to your next one.
Cheerleading competitions can be a lot of work, but they are also a lot of fun. You'll be making memories that will last you a lifetime. So, if your squad comes away from a competition having given it a 100%, then you are all truly winners!
Don't miss this inspirational poem, The Champion Within, by Tami Romeis.
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