An 11-Point Preparation Checklist for 2021 Pro Cheer and Dance Auditions
Every pro cheer team is unique. They have different makeup styles and dancing genres. However, there are a few common things that squad managers or judges require from aspiring pro cheerleaders during the auditions.
These are things you should put into your checklist because without them, you might incur minus points during the audition process. Take a read to discover what they are.
1. Proof of age
All NFL squads require auditionees to be at least 18-years-old by the time they submit their applications. For some NBA squads, 21 is the minimum age. Judges or squad managers often ask for proof of age during the audition process.
It’s best to have your passport, state ID, or driver’s license ready. A university or college ID will also do.
2. Resume with copies of your recent headshot
Some squads require you to have a dancer’s resume plus copies of your recent headshot during the business interview portion. For the squads that don’t, they would also appreciate it if you game them copies during the preliminary rounds.
3. Audition attire
A common audition attire would be a sports bra and dance shorts. Some squads require auditionees to wear two-piece leotards. Depending on the squad’s audition details, you can choose to wear sneakers, rubber shoes, or go barefoot while dancing your practiced routine.
4. A rehearsed solo
Whether the audition is virtual or in-person, judges require all auditionees to showcase a practiced dance routine. Word of advice: Choreograph a dance that’s highly energetic. Expect to be asked to perform an improvisational or freestyle routine as well. Judges will do this to really test your dance skills.
5. The skill of showmanship
Stage presence truly matters for professional cheerleading, that’s why it’s the #1 thing judges look for in auditionees. Showmanship is the skill of entertaining the crowd through an unwavering smile. If you’re shy, you’ll need to work on becoming a bold person.
6. Proof of being a high school graduate
Education is also important in pro cheerleading and you’ll need proof of being a high school graduate to qualify for the auditions. A G.E.D. test result would also be fine.
7. A part-time or full-time job
Pro cheerleading is a part-time career. Most squads would prefer their cheerleaders to be working on other jobs. You also need to provide proof of working for a main career like a company or workplace ID. Being a college student is also fine.
8. Registration money
All if not most pro cheer squad auditions have fees. The cost ranges from $30 to $150. Not to mention that most squads would recommend you join dance and audition prep classes to get the gist of what it means to be a pro cheerleader. If you struggle with finances, read this article.
9. A fit body
There is no height or weight requirement for most NBA and NFL pro cheer teams. However, they want you to look fit. You’ll also need to be strong, energetic, enduring, with high levels of stamina because dances will require high levels of energy.
10. A flexible schedule
All pro cheerleaders who make the team are required to dance at all home games and appear when the squad needs them to be. That’s why you must make sure that your schedule is flexible in a way that you can do all your personal, work, and pro cheer responsibilities without being absent. Missing a single performance could put you at risk of being kicked out.
11. Knowledge of the game and the teams
As a bonus, here’s a secret that other pro cheer prep and squad websites don’t tell you: During the interview process, judges will ask you how well you know Basketball, American Football, how the games are played, and the different teams of each sport.
Please note that there is no significant difference between in-person and virtual auditions. You will still earn more favor from the judges if you show high energy and showmanship behind the screen. So always give it your all!
To know more about NBA and NFL auditionee requirements, be sure to check out your dream team's audition web page.
Do You Picture Yourself As A Professional Cheerleader? Get Expert Advice From Someone Who's Been There.
If you dream of joining a dance team audition but have no idea on how to get started, my book entitled Professional Cheerleading Audition Secrets: How To Become an Arena Cheerleader for NFL®, NBA®, and Other Pro Cheer Teams will guide you every step of the way.
I wrote this book because I WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO DISCOVER the best tips and advice on staying fit and beautiful, adopting the right mindset, maintaining your image, and more... so you can MAKE YOUR DREAM TEAM!
My tips are based on my 20+ years of experience in the professional cheerleading industry.
Grab a copy of my book by clicking the text or image below:
