2010 Cheer Packet

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PUYALLUP HIGH SCHOOL
2010-2011 CHEERLEADER TRYOUTS
Take this packet and sign up in the PHS main office. Discuss this packet with your
parents. Read together the cheerleading by-laws and review the obligations of being a
cheerleader. If you feel that cheerleading is right for you, make sure to have all
paperwork in this packet filled out and turned into the PHS main office (mailbox:
th
Parsons/Cheer) by 2:30 on Friday, April 9 . A checklist is provided on this page to help
track what you have completed. I recommend following the order in which it is written;
you may turn items in individually or all at once to mailbox marked Parsons/Cheer in the
PHS main office. Please remember: NO LATE APPLICATIONS WILL BE
ACCEPTED; TURN IN PAPERWORK ON TIME AND COMPLETED!

If you have questions, please contact Ashley Parsons, PHS head cheer coach, at one of
the following:

ashleyaparsons@comcast.net
(206) 697-2877

CHECKLIST
o Scheduled interview (sign up at end of meeting, or in PHS main office)
o Current physical
o Athletic clearance card (through Mr. Wetteraur, PHS athletic director)
o 6 teacher evaluations
o Application
o Copy of 09-10 attendance record (obtained through attendance office)
o Copy of current unofficial transcripts (obtained through student services)
o Signed Form of the PHS Cheerleading By-Laws Agreement
o Signed Form of the Stunting Agreement
Dear Candidate:

I am excited about your interest in becoming a PHS cheerleader. This packet should contain all the
information you need during the tryout process. The cheer staff will be made up of 8-20 students total.
Students from all grade levels may try out for the PHS cheer squad, including incoming sophomores. All
students must have a valid PHS clearance card. To qualify to try out for the varsity cheer squad, you must
meet the Puyallup School District eligibility requirements as stated in the Student Athletic Handbook,
including:

- Athletic clearance card through Mr. Wetteraur, PHS Athletics/Activities Director
- Current physical on file (needed for clearance card)
- No school fines (needed for clearance card)
- Live within PHS attendance area

Because cheerleaders are expected to be “exceptional” students, these additional requirements are
mandatory and will be considered for selection:

- Written application and interview with coach(es)
- Minimum 2.0 cumulative g.p.a. with NO failing grades
- Attendance record (ten or more absences for the previous year would be considered excessive,
with the exception of medical issues- to be discussed with cheer coach.)
- Confidential teacher evaluations from six current classes- teachers must turn in evaluations,
students MAY NOT!
- Athleticism, attitude, spirit, etc. as judged by an experienced panel
- Attend the following meetings and practice, and meet all deadlines:

March 24 (Wed) Mandatory informational meeting 5:00 PM PHS gym
April 9 (Fri) All paperwork due, Parsons/Cheer box by 2:30!
April 15 (Thur) Cheer clinic 6:00- 8:00 PM PHS gym
April 21 (Wed) Interviews beginning at 2:20 PM
April 22 (Thur) Interviews beginning at 2:20 PM
April 23 (Fri) Interviews beginning at 2:20PM
April 26 (Mon) Tryouts begin 5:30-8:00 PM PHS gym
April 27 (Tue) Tryouts 5:30-8:00 PM PHS gym
April 28 (Wed) Tryouts 5:30-8:00 PM PHS gym
April 29 (Thur) Tryouts 5:30-8:00 PM PHS gym
April 30 (Fri) Tryouts 5:30-8:30 PM PHS gym
May 1 (Sat) Tryouts- team selection Starts at 8:00 AM PHS gym
May 19 (Wed) Practice/Uniform Fitting 2:45 – 5:00 PM PHS gym
July 8-11 NCA Cheer Camp WWU
August 2-6 Mini Cheer Camp Fundraiser at Puyallup Rec Center
The skills learned at tryouts will be:

For Girls:
1. Motions (including but not limited to):
a. High V
b. Low V
c. T
d. Half T
e. Touchdown
f. Low Touchdown
g. Punch’s
h. Right L
i. Left L
j. Diagonals
k. Buckets
l. Candlesticks
m. Daggers
n. Right K
o. Left K
p. Arrows
2. Jumps:
a. Tuck
b. Star
c. Front Hurdlers
d. Side Hurdlers
e. Tabletop
f. Toe-Touch
g. Double Toe-Touch
h. Pike
i. Double 9
3. Dance – The Fight Song Dance will be taught and used for the following year.
4. Cheers/Chants – 2 sideline chants and 1 cheer
5. Stunts (including but not limited to):
a. Thigh Stand
b. Elevator
c. Dismounts: Bump Down and Cradle

For Boys:
1. Motions:
a. High V
b. Low V
c. T
d. Touch Down
e. Punches
f. Arrows
2. Jumps: Toe Touch and Pike
3. Cheers: Words
4. Stunts:
a. Toss Chair
b. Walk Hands
c. Dismounts: Off the Front and Cradle
Puyallup High School
2010-2011 Cheerleading By-Laws
Before engaging in a list of rules and regulations, it is important to consider some of the principles
upon which cheerleading is based. First and foremost, cheerleaders are joined together to
promote school spirit and good sportsmanship. They must conduct themselves in an exemplary
manner. Their actions as individuals reflect upon the entire school, as well as the cheer squad,
both positively and negatively. They are very much in the public eye and are important leaders at
Puyallup High School.

Article I. Role of PHS cheerleaders

Cheerleaders at Puyallup High School have various responsibilities. These responsibilities can be described
as: 1) student leaders/role models promoting school spirit, 2) crowd participation leaders, 3) a performing
group when participating in pep assemblies, with the band, at the fair, etc.

Article II. Description of cheerleading squad

The PHS varsity cheerleading squad for the 2010-2011 school year will consist of one team of 8-20
members (male and/or female). Cheerleaders will help plan and execute activities designed to include
spectators in support of Puyallup athletic teams. Emphasis will be placed on short cheers/chants that will
make it easy for all to become involved. Cheerleaders will help plan and participate in athletic events,
assemblies, competitions and parades; this means that all scheduled practices are mandatory and missing
any of them will result in removal from such activities.

Article III. Eligibility

Each cheerleader must be a Puyallup High School student in good standing. Applicants must be a current
freshman, sophomore, or junior. All applicants must have health insurance and a current Puyallup School
District physical on file. They must be cleared through the athletic director, John Wetteraur, and present
their clearance card with other due paperwork prior to first tryout.

Cheerleaders must maintain an overall 2.0 g.p.a with no failing grades. It is expected that cheerleaders
maintain positive discipline and excellent attendance records throughout the school year. Grades will be
checked at progress reports, at the end of each quarter, or as requested by the coach. Attendance and
discipline issues will be checked as needed through the school administration. Cheerleaders on suspension
are to attend all meetings, practices, and assigned games, but may not wear their uniform or participate in
scheduled events. Failure to follow these directives will result in longer periods of suspension or removal
from the team.

Article IV. Tryout process

Every candidate must complete the application process by the designated deadline outlined on the event
calendar and return the following items to the cheer coach. This includes: 1) cheerleader application form,
2) all required teacher evaluations, 3) a clearance card, 4) signed parent consent forms, and 5) attendance
and transcript printouts. Failure to do so will eliminate an applicant from being considered.
The selection process is done in four parts:
Step 1: Candidates complete and submit all application requirements. Completed applications will be
reviewed by the coach(es). Each applicant must meet minimum requirements stated in Article IV. If
an applicant does not meet all requirements, they will be notified by the coach and not be allowed to
turn out.
Step 2: Candidates will have a private interview with the coach(es).
Step 3: Candidates will turn out five days prior to final cuts. Applicants will be evaluated during this time
on their ability in the following areas:
- Attendance and punctuality
- Attitude, enthusiasm, and spirit
- Ability to work well with others

Step 4: Final cuts will consist of candidates performing both individually and in small groups of four in
front of a panel of judges. They will perform the PHS fight song, with words and motions, and they
will perform cheers, chants, demonstrate jumps and stunts. Judges will rate each applicant in the
following areas:
- Dance technique
- Voice projection
- Cheer motions
- Jumps
- Potential
- Stunting ability/potential
- Confidence, coordination, appearance, etc.

Coach(es) will review the recommendations of the judges and scores throughout the week. Final cuts will be
posted following tryouts Saturday May 1st.

Article V. Regulations and Guidelines

Practice Schedule
1. Newly selected cheerleaders and the coach(es) will establish a practice schedule for the remainder of
the current school year, summer, and the 2010-2011 school year.
2. During the school year, practice for cheerleaders will be two to five times a week, before or after
school.
3. Having a job is discouraged. Cheer will not be arranged around work schedules.
4. Participating in Running Start full time is discouraged. Cheer will not be arranged around Running
Start schedules.
5. If a cheerleader will not be present for a practice/meeting, it is required that their parent/guardian give
prior notice (written or a phone call) to the coach. Failure to do so will result in discipline measures
from the coach, which may include suspension from events. Continual absences may result in
removal from the team.

Uniforms and Appearance
1. Uniforms should be presentable and clean at all times.
2. Cheerleaders are to wear complete and assigned uniform as scheduled. If a cheerleader comes to a
contest without all the correct parts of the entire uniform, they will be benched for that game.
3. Neatness in appearance is expected; discretion should be used in hairstyle and make-up. Jewelry,
metal hair accessories, and anything else considered a hazard will not be worn with the uniform.
Any hair accessories worn will be the same for the entire squad and decided on ahead of time. Nails
must be kept short with a natural color polish, if any, and hair must be off the shoulders and out of
the face.
4. Cheerleaders are not to lend any part of their uniform out at any time. No one wears any part of a
cheer uniform except cheerleaders themselves.
5. Lost articles of clothing, shoes, poms, etc. must be replaced in order to continue as part of the team.
6. Body jewelry is not allowed to be worn at practice or games.

Absences and Tardies

Cheerleading is a huge time commitment and it is a year long sport. With the selection of the team in the
spring, practices follow soon after and into the summer with the addition of summer camp. The
Cheerleaders are expected to be present at all Varsity Football Games, and all home Boys and Girls
Basketball Games. Being late or missing practices affect the individual, they need to find time outside of
practice to learn missed material, as well as it affect the progression of their stunt group. Because each
cheerleader plays a vital role in the overall success of the team it is imperative that each member be on time
and participates for the entire scheduled practice. When one team member is missing is affects the entire
squad, both through each stunt group as well as for routines, cheers, and pyramids.

The following applies for each season.

Tardies: Only 2 tardies will be excused. The first unexcused tardy will result in that athlete running the
number of laps for each minute they are late. The second tardy will result in the entire team funning the
number of laps for each tardy cheerleader for the total number of minutes late. The third tardy will result in
the team (minus the offending cheerleader) running the number of laps for each cheerleader that is late for
the total number of minutes they are late. After a cheerleader has accumulated 3 tardies they will be
suspended for the next following game.

Absences: Only 1 absence will be excused. The first unexcused absence will result in sitting out for the next
following game. The second absence will result in sitting out for the next 2 following games. The third
absence they will be removed from the team for the remainder of the current season.

Probation/Suspension/Dismissal from Squad

Probation is a period where a cheerleader may not perform at given events with the squad, but is permitted
to practice with the team. Suspension is a period where a cheerleader may not practice, perform, or be
involved with any cheer related activity until whatever stipulations decided have been completed by that
cheerleader. Dismissal is any cheerleader being removed from their position on the squad, excluding them
from the remainder of that season’s activities, and possibly prohibiting them from trying out again.
1. Failure to maintain grade requirements will result in probation. Grade checks will be done through
the following:
Mid quarter progress reports
Quarter report cards
Semester report cards
At the coach’s discretion
2. Cheerleaders must follow the Athletic Handbook concerning drugs and alcohol. Cheerleaders caught
breaking any of these rules will face punishment. After any offense, action taken will be at the
discretion of the Coach and Administrators.
3. Any member of the cheer squad may be placed on suspension two times in any given school year.
Any further suspension will result in the removal of that individual from the team.

4. There are many ways that an individual can refuse to be responsible. These rules are guidelines, but
they do not cover everything. When attitude and/or behavior is judged by the coach to warrant
action, action will be taken.

Transportation

Cheerleaders will travel to and from away games/events on school provided transportation or with
designated driver/supervisor. Failure to ride provided transportation to and from events shall be considered
misconduct and may result in suspension from the squad. If a cheerleader misses scheduled transportation to
an event, this is considered an unexcused absence. They are ineligible to cheer unless prior approval and
arrangements are made in advance.

ArticleVI. Estimated Costs

Cheerleaders will be responsible for the cost of their uniform and camp. Each year the coach and squad will
decide on what fundraising activities they will participate in to help reduce expenses. All cheerleaders are
expected to participate in fundraisers. Parents are also asked to attend parent meetings and assist with
fundraisers, when available. Fundraisers will take place during the summer and throughout the school year
as needed, however, there are some up front costs which do not allow for fundraising. Camp, camp clothing,
and football uniform must be paid in full the day after the uniform fitting.

Approximate costs:
Girls: Boys:
Camp 290.00 Camp 290.00
Camp clothes 150.00 Camp Clothes 100.00
Shoes 70.00 Shoes 70.00
Uniform 300.00 Uniform 150.00
Poms 40.00 Warm-ups 75.00
Warm-ups 140.00 Sweats (optional) 60.00
Sweats 60.00 Bag (optional) 40.00
Bag 40.00 Assembly T-shirt 10.00
Assembly Tshirt 10.00 Approximate total: $795.00
Approximate total: $1,100.00

Article VII. Varsity Letter
To earn a Varsity letter, cheerleaders must complete the school year as part of the team and be in good
standing as per PHS Athletic/Cheer code. The cheer coach(es) will maintain a tracking system and monitor
individual status.

Discipline and the Athletic/Cheer Code

In addition to the above by-laws, cheerleaders must comply with the Puyallup School District’s Athletic
code. Each cheerleader is required to follow the WIAA Spirit Rules. Cheerleaders violating any of the rules
and regulations as stated in the by-laws or the district athletic code will be subject to probation, suspension,
or dismissal as determined by the cheer coach, athletic director, or administrator.
PHS CHEERLEADER TRYOUT TEACHER EVALUATION
TEACHERS, PLEASE NOTE: This is a confidential evaluation. DO NOT return
this form to your student!
Student Name _______________________________ School _____________________

Teacher Name _______________________________ Period ____ Subject __________

Please give an evaluation of this PHS cheerleader candidate. The character of these individuals is extremely
important and your input is required in order for this candidate to try out. Each student must have teacher
evaluation forms completed by 5 CURRENT teachers. The total point tally for each individual will be
considered in selections and will be viewed by the coach(es) only. Jr. High teachers: please courier this
evaluation to Ashley Parsons at PHS. PHS teachers: please return to Parsons/Cheer mailbox in PHS
main office.

Please circle the number most appropriate. 1 = poor 3 = average 5 = excellent

Attitude/Image 0 1 2 3 4 5

Attendance/Punctuality 0 1 2 3 4 5

Effort/Cooperation 0 1 2 3 4 5

Dependability 0 1 2 3 4 5

Leadership 0 1 2 3 4 5

__________ Yes, I recommend this candidate!
__________ No, I do not recommend this candidate!

Additional Comments:

Teacher Signature ____________________________________ Date ________________
Thank you for your input!
Ashley Parsons, PHS Head Cheer Coach
AGREEMENT

To be eligible for cheerleading tryouts, this form needs to be completed with signatures
from both the cheerleader candidate and a parent/guardian.

To be completed by the cheerleader candidate:
I have read and carefully considered the PHS Cheer By-Laws, Grade Requirements,
Attendance Policy, Financial Obligations, and the PHS Athletic/ Cheer Code. I agree to
abide by these guidelines/regulations as long as I participate in the PHS Cheer program.

___________________________________ ___________________
Student Signature Date

To be completed by parent/guardian:
I have read and agree to help my child abide by the PHS Cheer By-Laws, Grade
Requirements, Attendance Policy, Financial Obligations, and the PHS Athletic/Cheer
Code. I hereby give my son/daughter permission to participate in the cheer program at
PHS for the 2010-2011 school year.

___________________________________ ____________________
Parent/Guardian Signature Date

Phone you can be reached at: ____________________________
PHS Cheer
2009-2010 Application
Name: _______________________________
Phone #: ________________________________
Email: __________________________________
School: ________________________________ Please attach a color head shot of
Emergency Contact: _______________________ yourself here.
________________________________________
Age: ________ Grade: _____________________

Prior Cheer Experience: ____________________
________________________________________
________________________________________
________________________________________
________________________________________

Stunting Experience: Base __ Flyer ___Backspot ___

What stunts have you performed?
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________

What does being a cheerleader mean to you?
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________

Why are you trying out for PHS Cheer?
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________

What do you have to offer the team?
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
Are you currently employed? If yes, how will you manage to not let it interfere with cheer?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
Please explain your expected class load and extra activities for next year: ______________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
Are you going on vacation during the summer? What are the dates? __________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
In your opinion, what makes a good leader? _____________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
What ideas do you have to increase crowd involvement and school spirit at PHS?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
What, if any, is your biggest concern about trying out for cheer? ______________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________

What is your current class schedule?

Period Class Teacher Room #
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________

By signing below, you agree that you are willing to fulfill the responsibilities of
being a Puyallup High School Cheerleader.

Student Signature________________________________ Date __________

Parent Signature _________________________________ Date _________

Application Page 2
STUNTING AGREEMENT
INHERENT RISKS OF CHEERLEADING
Cheerleading is a sport and with any sport there is risk of injury. Cheerleading is an
anaerobic/aerobic activity that includes jumping, stunting, motions, and tumbling. All
physicals must be on file in the school before the student can participate in the sport,
practices or games. Coaches should be informed of any injury or chronic conditions.
Although the probability of injury is minimized if you practice correctly, there is always
the possibility of one occurring. Injuries that can occur in cheerleading include but are not
limited to the following: blisters, muscle strains, ligament sprains, joint and muscle
soreness, abrasions, contusions, stress fractures, broken bones, spinal cord injuries
involving paralysis and even death. However, if you take certain precautions, the possibility
of such injuries may be largely decreased. Be sure to abide by the following:
1. Never stunt or tumble unless a coach is present.
2. Always practice in the presence of a qualified coach.
3. Always warm-up appropriately before cheering (practice and games) by jogging and
stretching.
4. Do not attempt a stunt that you do not know how to perform safely and that has not
been cleared by the coach.
5. Always use attentive spotters when stunting.
6. Always use mats or a grassy area when stunting during practice.
7. Always cheer in an area free from obstructions.
8. Do not stunt on uneven ground, wet surfaces, and concrete. Do not stunt in cold or
rainy weather.
9. Never talk, laugh, or mess around when performing a stunt or learning a stunt.
10. Report injuries to the coach as soon as they occur.
11. Follow all trainer and doctor recommendations.
12. Lift weights to increase strength and guard against injuries.
13. Always wear shoes and clothing appropriate for cheerleading.
14. Never wear jewelry of any kind or chew gum when cheering; including
practices and games.
15. Always have your hair pulled back from your face.
16. Eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated and get plenty of rest.
17. Always ask for assistance or advice at any time.
18. Do not stunt or tumble when game is in process.
19. Never show off.
20. Take all activities seriously.
21. Do not participate in cheerleading if you are sick.

I have read the preceding warning. I thoroughly appreciate and understand the assumption
of risks inherent in cheerleading participation. I acknowledge that I am physically fit and
voluntarily participating in the activity of cheerleading.
DATE______________________________

PARENT____________________________ CHEERLEADER_____________________