While not all previous members will be returning to the team, cheerleading tryouts are set to take place Friday in the gym after a two-day clinic spanning the days of May 11 and May 12. Aside from bringing specific forms to the event, such as a birth certificate copy, recent report card copy, physical form and parental consent form, applicants should arrive clad in school colors along with school spirit .

“For newbies, I’d say just have fun and smile a bunch because it’s important to look like you’re having fun and not concentrating on the choreography,” said Junior Tess Peterson, a five-year member of the cheer team. “It’s OK if you struggle learning the cheers or dances at first because you’ll have time to practice since it’s a multi-day tryout. Don’t be afraid to talk to any of the older girls because we love meeting the newbies. we were all newbies once too.”

Although Peterson will not be returning to the team next year, she is departing with fond memories of her time spent with her teammates.

“It is so much fun to be around the team because we are a big family, even outside of cheer practice and games,” Peterson said. “It’s great to be part of such a dedicated team, including our amazing coach, that works so hard to reach their goals. I love being part of a team that’s supportive of each other and prioritizes being good at skills as much as crowd appeal, like being loud and interacting with the crowd through fun cheers.”

Another believer in the numerous benefits that result from cheerleading, Junior Briana Sandoval, a cheer member of four years, plans on remaining a part of the team for the coming year, as cheer has taught her several life skills.

“It teaches individuals the importance of commitment and teaches them to become more responsible,” Sandoval said. “Cheer has also helped me become stronger and allowed me to be a part of something that I can appreciate. Being a cheerleader also improves confidence skills, and I have learned a variety of new stunting techniques that I enjoy working on.”

Aside from learning what it means to be committed and responsible, Sandoval said she appreciates the personal friendships that cheer has effectively fostered.

“People should try out because it gives the individuals the opportunity to have close-knit friendships throughout their high school experiences,” Sandoval said. “Cheerleading has taught me the aspects of what it means to be a part of a team.”

By Elizabeth Marrin