Tryout Testimonies

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Unless you are a cheerleader, were a cheerleader, or coach cheerleading, you do not understand how much goes into each routine in this sport. Cheerleading has been a major part of my life since I was nine years old. It was the reason I chose to attend Kellenberg Memorial High School, and a stress reliever during tough times. I have been involved in cheerleading in some way for 17 years. In those years, many changes have occurred, many strides have been made, and much difficulty has been incorporated into the sport.
In 2014, the NY Board of Regents determined that Cheerleading would be considered a sport in New York State. This changed all rules and regulations for tryouts, routine requirements, and season limits. As Hicksville's Varsity Cheerleading coach, I had to familiarize myself with these rules in order to stay in compliance. Hicksville's program is not necessarily a notable one. The girls lacked dedication, thus receiving little to no respect in the most recent seasons. I came in with a positive attitude and high expectations for dedication and attendance. In the Fall season, we had a team of 27 girls, twice the number of girls the year before. Many of the girls rose to my expectations and attended all practices, put all their energy into every run through our routine, and came out at Homecoming looking like a brand new team. 
Tryouts are upon us, and many of the girls from the Fall season participate in different Winter season sports. About 16 girls are returning for Winter tryouts, alongside 10 new young ladies. I am looking forward to seeing how the new girls blend with those from the Fall, and hoping that those from the Fall realize that it is important to show me their best skills, because they don't have a free ticket onto the smaller Winter team.

Vocabulary:
cheerleading - a sport where members of the team encourage the crowd to yell in support of their team (usually American football or basketball) - entertaining the crowd.
attend - to go to
determined - have a strong feeling you're going to do something
considered - resulting from careful thought
regulations - official rules
requirements - something that is needed
compliance - doing what is asked or required of you
notable - worth noticing
dedication - strong loyalty
twice - two times - double
participate - to be involved in

Skill: Context Clues
Context Clues Video
Context Clues Worksheet

Comments

  1. Teacher: JackieNovember 27, 2017 at 9:18 AM

    Very interesting description of the sport of cheerleading! I didn't know it was so involved.
    I like the links, but just keep in mind that grade-level vocabulary may be too advanced for your ELLs.

    This is missing a vocab exercise.

    ReplyDelete
  2. UnknownNovember 28, 2017 at 5:13 PM

    I liked this article a lot. It is interesting to now know how much hard work goes into cheerleading and keeping the program the best that it can be for the girls. It is truly an extra-curricular schools should keep for their students to relieve some stress and add enjoyable memories for them! I like the video attached!

    ReplyDelete

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