Buffalo Junior High

Cheerleading Tryout Requirements

BJH squad member selections are conducted by impartial judges who observe the candidates during a series of skill demonstrations in one session. Students must be physically present at tryouts to be eligible for selection.

Tryout Format:

The tryout process is organized and facilitated by the cheer coaches. In addition to the judges, the cheer coaches will also be present in the gym during tryouts.

• Cheer tryouts are closed to all spectators.

• A minimum of two qualified judges will be used for tryouts.

• Judges will not be relatives or private coaches of candidates.

• At least one campus administrator must be present to observe the entire duration of the selection process.

• During the tryouts, each judge will assign points based on the candidate's demonstration of cheerleader skills.

• The scoring template is available to all candidates.

• Candidate order will be determined before tryouts during our “mock tryout” date.

• During the judging and tabulation of scores, students are referred to by number only.

• Candidates and/or any person acting as a representative on their behalf are prohibited from communicating or contacting any judges before, during, or after the tryout process.

Material

Tryout materials will be released through the Parent Square app. Cheer candidates are required to perform a group chant and dance. After the group performances, we will proceed to individual cheers and jumps. Each cheerleader must demonstrate a toe touch, a herkie, and a jump of their choice.

Every candidate should wear solid black shorts, solid white tops with white shoes, and white socks. Nothing should be written on the top. Footwear should be comfortable – cheer shoes are highly suggested. Hair should be pulled out of the student’s face and a bow can be worn (any color). No jewelry will be allowed.

Size of Squad and Special Positions:

• Size of Squad – 12, up to 16. Depending on natural break.

• Alternates - Alternates are not named. If a vacancy in a cheerleading squad occurs two or more weeks before the first day of school, the vacancy may be filled by naming the student with the next highest composite score. At the time a vacancy is filled, uniforms and accessories will be ordered at the parents’ expense. The tryout results are maintained in an administrator’s office for use if this circumstance arises.

Captain(s) – Candidates for junior high cheer squad captain must be in 8th grade and must have been a cheerleader the previous year. Candidates will interview with judges. Please get with Mrs. Rayborn following the meeting for a captain application packet.
Manager: One manager will be chosen from our alternate list. The manager will assist our mascot with skits and dressing changes.

COSTS

• The estimated cost is approximately $1,292 for uniforms, camp, camp wear, etc. Every effort has been made to keep these costs to a minimum.

• A deposit of $250 is due on March 24th. The remaining balance of $1,042 is due May 22nd. Money order or cashier's check only. Please turn payments in to Mrs. Rosales or Mrs. Davis at the Upper Junior High.

Manager cost – $215.90. This includes gear needed to match the squad such as polo uniform, shoes, backpack, etc. $100 deposit due March 24th. The remaining balance is due May 22nd.

Important Dates

March 5th: Paperwork and music due

March 6th: Open gym, High School Aux 4:30-6:00 PM

- Tryout order will be drawn

March 7th: Mock Tryouts, High School Aux 4:30-7:30 PM

- Mascots will “mock tryout” first. Be prepared to pick your child up earlier than 7:30 PM. Music allowed, no props

March 8th: 8:00 AM (Please report to the gym prior to 8 AM)

- Mascot candidates will try out first

- Please bring all props

Mascot Tryout Requirements

Tryout Format:

The tryout process is organized and facilitated by the cheer coaches. In addition to the judges, the cheer coaches will also be present in the gym during tryouts.

• Cheer tryouts are closed to all spectators.

• A minimum of two qualified judges will be used for tryouts.

• Judges will not be relatives or private coaches of candidates.

• At least one campus administrator must be present to observe the entire duration of the selection process.

• During the tryouts, each judge will assign points based on the candidate's demonstration of cheerleader skills.

• The scoring template is available to all candidates.

• Candidate order will be determined prior to tryouts during our “mock tryout” date.

• During the judging and tabulation of scores, students are referred to by number only.

• Candidates and/or any person acting as a representative on their behalf are prohibited from having any form of communication or personal contact with any judges before, during, or after the tryout process.

COSTS

∙ The total balance is $930.60. A deposit of $250 is due on March 24th. The remaining balance of $380.60 is due May 22nd. Money order or cashier's check only. Please turn payments in to Mrs. Rosales or Mrs. Davis at the Upper Junior High.

MASCOT TRYOUT REQUIREMENTS

Candidates must perform an original 2-minute pep rally skit while wearing the mascot uniform. We encourage the use of music and props.
If you use music, you must email the music to Coach Rayborn by Wednesday, March 5th
Please no water, confetti, or any other material that takes time to clean up. The music is up to you, if it is school-appropriate.
A T-shirt and shorts must be worn under the mascot uniform.

IMPORTANT DATES/TIMES

March 5th: Paperwork and music due

March 6th: Open gym, High School Aux 4:30-6:00 PM