Competition The WPI Cheerleading team plans on entering a competition on January 29, 2011 in Norwalk, CT.  Tryouts will be on Sunday, October 24th and Monday, October 25th. Practices for the competition team will be on Sundays at noon. Please contact Kirsten Murphy if you would like to tryout, but cannot make these dates. A Few tips for Tryouts Before tryouts: Don't stress out!  Even if this is going to be your first tryout experience, all you can do is your best. Stay healthy!  Chech out the Sports Nutrition and Lifestyle sections on Varsity.com! Know your concentration.  Are you more interested in competitions, cheering at games, etc.? Can you devote a significant amount of time to this squad?  What are your other obligations (school, athletic, extracurricular, etc.)?  Cheerleading is a huge commitment, and we need people on the team who are dedicated and willing to put in the time. Wear comfortable clothing.  Cotton shorts are usually best with a well-fitting T-shirt and comfortable, lightweight sneakers.  Baggy clothing can be hazardous when stunting. Expert tumbling and stunting are not requirements, but if you have previous experience in either let the coach know.  If you are interested in exploring private lessons, look for a gym that has cheerleading tumbling classes, not just the regular gymnastics. Are your parents supportive of you trying out?  Along with emotional support, there will be the occasional expense while on the team including camp, competition fees, and other apparel.  Be prepared to participate in fundraising events, collect sponsors, or pay out of your pocket if you choose not to help. Practice/master your basic skills as much as possible before tryouts.  Don't injure yourself trying to learn a new skill the week before tryouts.  Find something you can do really well, like jumps, a stunt, or a tumbling pass, and perfect that. If you have to preform a dance routine, a copy of the music will be available, either to download or a hard-copy, so you can practice at home. Be prepared to give your all at clinic, the coach is always watching! The Big Day: Do you have all the necessary forms filled out/signed?  Make sure you remember to bring them with you! Know your material! Already have what you are going to wear picked out so you aren't panicking five minutes before you're supposed to leave. Relax!  If you've prepared yourself, that's all you can do. And remember: If you mess up, pick it back up and keep going.  Coaches like to see that you can handle the pressure. Good Luck!