Shining in the Spotlight
Every cheerleader wants to be able to step on the mat and perform the perfect routine. Imagine every stunt hitting solid, not touching down on tumbling and enough energy in the dance to knock the judges’ socks off. But what does it take for you to have that perfect performance? How do you shine in the spotlight?
The simplest and most expected answer is practice. The best individuals and teams on the floor, the ones that give those memorable performances, are the ones that work tirelessly back in their gym or school perfecting, cleaning and tweaking their performance.
More specifically, how you practice is just as important as if you practice. There might not be one single right way to practice, but there are ways of maximizing the effectiveness of a practice; and doing so can certainly lead to a better performance.
Start by focusing on what needs to get done. Set small, individual goals for each practice and stay focused, working hard to reach those goals. The biggest slip up that most cheerleaders make at practice is losing their focus and wasting time. For the few hours a week that practice is scheduled, work hard, listen to your coach and put the effort out. The result will be the performance you’re looking for when you finally take the floor.
Next, be sure to work on eye contact with the judges. Eye contact shows self confidence and confidence in the routine. This can certainly offer a competitive advantage. Practice by focusing on a spot on the wall at your practice facility. If you have extra people around, have them sit in front of the mat and as you work your routine, practice making eye contact with them. It’s not an incredibly hard skill to master, but it is one that is easily overlooked if not specifically repeated at practice.
Finally, spend some time working on your attitude or stage presence. Attitude is usually the missing performance factor. It’s what makes the hair on the back of the judges’ neck stand up and it’s what leaves an impression. Don’t get attitude confused with facials, they’re not the same. Judges do not really want to see facials; they want to see attitude, personality and excitement. Find yours and let it loose as soon as you step foot on the mat.
These are just a couple ways that anyone, on any team, can really make a difference when it comes to stepping on the mat and putting on a performance. Be sure to practice effectively, keep eye contact with the judges and certainly, show a little attitude. It won’t take long before you and your team shines in the spotlight.
Article Written by David Kirschner – President, The Spirit Consultants, LLC