What Will the Judges Look for at a Pro Cheer Audition?
It's preparation time for all aspiring NFL and NBA pro cheerleaders and dancers! Are you excited to go pro? I hope you are, because today, we're going to talk about an important aspect of the auditions. And that is the judging criteria.
When you make the decision to tryout for next year's auditions, you need to know what the judges are looking for - aka the judging criteria. That way, you can present yourself on the big day FULLY PREPARED and CONFIDENT!
Right now, I want you to ask yourself, "Do I have what it takes to become a [team name] pro cheerleader/dancer?"
Always keep this in mind: Preparation is key!
Judges Look for the Complete Package
If this is your first time to audition for a pro cheer/dance team, you may be surprised to learn that you need to have the whole package. Not only should you look great, but also think great, talk great, and act great. Let's dive into the judging criteria below.
Looks/Appearance
As a potential professional cheerleader, let me tell you that your looks matter a lot. You need to be well-groomed and well-polished. Pay attention to your hair, skin, and makeup. Aside from achieving the ideal look, invest in fitness and proper nutrition. Follow a workout routine that includes strength training. Cut the processed junk out of your diet.
Dance ability
You may have danced since you were younger, but know that dance training is important for any professional cheerleader. Even if you happen to be a great technical dancer, still, additional lessons and more practice will boost your dancing. Also, dance training enables you to memorize dance choreography taught during the auditions. (Tip: Join a pro cheer/dance prep class or workshop! These classes may teach audition choreography which you'll greatly benefit from.)
Willingness to learn
A candidate's willingness to learn is one of the most important qualities that the judges pay attention to. You may not know something completely, but you should be able to show that desire to acquire new knowledge and skills.
Confidence
Confidence takes you to greater heights. If you don't believe in yourself, who will? It has to start with you. Whether you walk on stage, dance, or speak, you should exude confidence and fun energy. Pro cheerleading auditions can be scary, I know! But can I also tell you that you can fake it until you become it? Start with your posture. Think empowering thoughts. Surround yourself with positive energy.
Punctuality
It doesn't matter if you're auditioning for a semi-pro or pro team. You need to treat it like a job interview. You may not realize this, but the judges are keen on punctuality. Be 15 minutes early. Check your requirements and things to bring to the auditions the day before.
Be 100% Into the Process
Focus on what you have to do to make the team. To get to where you need to be, start early. Don't read this blog post and think that you're going to begin tomorrow. I encourage you to have a pro cheer audition notebook or calendar so you can set deadlines and keep track of your goals!
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