How To Audition For A Pro Cheer Team If You Are An Introvert By Nature
Courtesy of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
Professional cheerleading involves crowds and a lot of human interaction. From auditions to game days and after-work practices, it's nearly impossible to have quiet time and recharge.
Having been in the cheerleading industry for several years, I rarely came across the topic on introversion in cheerleading. Introversion and cheerleading are two very opposite things. You can't always find an introverted cheerleader because the profession itself is all about getting fans pumped up for an athletic event.
But this does not mean that all introverts stay at home and work from home. You'll be surprised to know that some the world's most successful people are actually introverts.
Mark Zuckerberg.
J.K. Rowling.
Christina Aguilera.
Dr. Seuss.
Emma Watson.
Warren Buffett.
Abraham Lincoln.
And more.
These individuals have learned to thrive in an extroverted world. Perhaps you've mistaken some of them for social butterflies.
If you happen to be socially reserved but dream to be a professional cheerleader, this article will teach you how to FOCUS, eliminate mental clutter despite the competition, and bring out your best self for the upcoming tryouts.
Be well-prepared.
Yesterday, I listened to Susan Cain's podcast episode entitled The Long Runway. In the episode, Cain mentioned that introverts need a "longer runway," which implies that they have to build up more momentum before they can go full blast. And when they do, there's no stopping them.
What does this mean for you as an aspiring pro cheerleader?
You know that being on stage can be a really overwhelming experience. You want to be noticed for your strengths and truly stand out. This means that you should devote more time to get yourself well-prepared.
Exercise every day to look fit. You might want to take prep classes to desensitize yourself little by little to larger crowds and start building friendships so you can feel safer and assured. Practice your dance moves in front of the mirror. Picture yourself dancing during the tryouts but pay attention to your performance - not the performance of others.
If you need more resources for your workouts, you may be interested in joining an online fitness class while you're enjoying solitary time at home.
Be in tune with your own needs while enjoying others' company.
Pro cheerleading tryouts can last an entire day.
You don't have to force yourself to engage in conversations if you feel you're starting to get distracted with all the noise. Simply offering people a friendly smile can help. Engaging in small talk is something you're not comfortable with so you can just show politeness by saying "Hi."
It's important to let yourself recharge so you don't look tired in front of the judges. Care for your own introvert! Take introvert breaks when needed if it's not yet your turn. Bring your earphones with you. Listen to calm music or meditation sessions on your phone so you can gather your thoughts.
Come to the tryouts EARLY.
A useful survival tip for you as an introvert is to come to the venue earlier than the expected time. Check your squad's audition schedule.
Coming to the tryouts very early can help you "own the place" while other candidates haven't arrived yet. Have a look and feel of the venue. This will prevent you from feeling nervous. Not all introverts panic when they suddenly encounter crowds. But if you're the extreme type, you know you need to protect yourself from enormous pressure.
Team up with or make friends with a fellow introvert.
Introverts need people who can understand and accept them for who they really are.
As an introvert, spending time with someone whom you can relate to and has similar interests as yours can boost your happiness.
If you have a friend who also happens to be an introvert, you can invite her to join the pro cheerleading tryouts if that's something she's interested in. At the audition venue, try to spot an applicant who also appears reserved. Make some eye contact and smile before you can strike a conversation. Once you find someone who makes you feel at ease, both of you can share audition tips and support each other.
Courtesy of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
Understand that there will be change.
Professional cheerleading is a huge time commitment. Knowing this allows you to buckle up for changes. You may not like the idea of change especially if it involves adjusting with people but at least you can prepare yourself - if you truly desire to be part of a great cheerleading squad.
It's never easy living in a society that expects you to be adventurous, outgoing, and talkative. You may appear boring and shy on the outside but you have a rich imagination inside your head that can take you places. Never allow outward noise to suck the life out of you.
If professional cheerleading is your beat, make the necessary adjustments to succeed while preserving your identity. Have some downtime too so you don't get stressed. Create online connections with like-minded people so you can express yourself.
Build up confidence that helps you share your views without the fear of being judged.
Hopefully, today's strategies have helped!
Over To You...
Can you picture yourself performing as a professional cheerleader?
If you would love to join the pro cheer tryouts 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.
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