GCHS Cheer Tryouts Set

Members of the GCHS varsity squad and Coach Sara Tucci celebrate winning the spirit award at a recent cheerleading competition.

Tryouts for the Garden City High School varsity and junior varsity cheerleading squads will be held from March 19 -22 at the high school. Anyone in grades 8 through 11 interested in cheering is welcome to try out.

According to Varsity Coach Sara Tucci, participants will learn a dance routine, a cheer, three cheer jumps, and how to stunt during the sessions. Participants should already have the ability to do a front roll, also known as a tumblesalt. Any other gymnastic capabilities, such as a back handspring, are an added plus, though Coach Tucci emphasizes that no experience is necessary.

"Today's cheerleading requires cardiovascular stamina, strength and flexibility," explains Coach Tucci. "You burn up a lot of energy practicing and performing competitive routines, so it helps if you're in good aerobic shape. Whether you are a base, whose job is to lift other cheerleaders and to support pyramids, or a flyer, who has to balance atop the bases, you'll need to be able to lift yourself and others into the air-that's where strength comes in. And flexibility helps with all the dance moves and jumps our routines incorporate."

The junior varsity squad performing their competition routine.

GCHS cheerleaders have a long and active season. Cheerleader camp typically takes place in July or August, followed by cheering at football games in the fall and basketball games in the winter. The GCHS cheerleaders also participate in several competitions throughout the year.

"Anyone interested in being a cheerleader should be prepared to work hard," said Coach Tucci. "But the payoff is an increased sense of accomplishment and pride, not to mention the strong friendships the girls form with each other."

More details about the tryouts will be distributed at the middle school and high school in a few weeks. For anyone with further questions, please contact Coach Tucci at tuc4886@aol.com.