Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to turn in for tryouts?
On the first day of tryouts, you MUST bring:
a copy of your recent report card or power school printout uploaded to Google Classroom (if you are out of district, please email to coach)
2 teacher recommendation forms filled out by CORE teachers (one for incoming 6th graders) click here
your questionnaire click here
cheerleader info sheet click here
and your parent permission slip (page 6 of tryout packet, hard copy).
*You will not be allowed to participate in tryouts if you do not bring this information.*
What is the time commitment of cheer?
Becoming a part of the DMS cheer team is a huge responsibility. We cannot stress enough how much time goes into being on this team. The cheer season begins in the spring and runs until late March. Cheerleaders are expected to be at all practices, games, competitions, and events. In order for our team to be successful, all team members must be able to depend on one another. Our schedule can be found under the “calendar” tab.
Can I come to just some of the tryout clinics?
It's best to come to all of our clinics leading up to the formal tryout on Thursday. We learn material each day during the week; we don't go back and reteach. If you miss material, you will need to catch on or work with another student during practice time or outside of the clinic. Attendance is very important and also part of the tryout score.
If an athlete makes the squad are they guaranteed a spot throughout their middle school years?
No, tryouts are held every year and everyone has to re tryout. No one's spot is guaranteed.
How long is the DMS cheer season?
The cheer season begins as soon as the roster is posted. Members are required to attend practices May through mid March. There will be a break for June and most of July. If you decide this isn't for you after the roster is posted, you will not be allowed to try out again in later seasons. Please also keep in mind you have taken a spot that another student could have had. We don't add to the team if someone quits.
I missed the 2022-2023 tryouts. Will there be another tryout date?
Unfortunately, no. We cannot offer late tryouts.
Is previous cheer experience required to try-out?
No, there is no cheer experience required. Dance and gymnastics classes are a great way to work on flexibility, rhythm, and back handsprings
Is the ability to tumble required?
No, tumbling is not required but looked upon as an asset. Most of the cheerleaders on the squad have chosen to take private tumbling lessons to learn, maintain or improve skills. If you are interested in tumbling classes, we recommend The Flip Mobile, Coach Lain, or Nor Cal Elite. These businesses are geared towards the cheerleading style of gymnastics.
We strive for everyone to have at least a front and/or back walkover by the time practice starts. We do expect all team members to work on tumbling skills throughout the season.
How many people will make the team?
We do not have a set number. Each year is different, but it all depends on the amount of people attending tryouts and their skill level.
I am involved in other sports at DMS. Can I still participate in cheerleading?
Yes, our practices are held from 6-8PM during the school year. Most school teams practice right after school. Although you may participate in other activities, cheerleading MUST be your #1 priority. If you are involved in other sports or activities, you need to let us know.
When are tryouts?
A tryout meeting will be held Wednesday, April 13 in the Dartmouth library.
Tryouts will be held April 25-28. During tryouts, candidates are required to attend a 3-day clinic and a one-day formal tryout.
Who is eligible and what are the requirements for tryouts?
Tryout opportunities are available to all incoming 6th, 7th, and 8th graders who will be attending Dartmouth Middle School for the 2022-2023 school year. Students must maintain a GPA of 2.0 or above with no F's to qualify to try-out and remain on the team.
Do I need to do anything prior to tryouts?
A completed tryout packet along with a Power School print out and 2 teacher recommendation forms (1 for current 5th graders) are due by the first day of tryouts. Tryout packets will be available in our Google Classroom. No printouts will be made. We encourage all those trying out to get in shape, take dance/tumbling classes, and stretch.
How do I get added to the Google Classroom?
Fill out the interest form on the homepage.
Can parents stay and watch clinics, tryouts, and practices?
No, the clinics, tryouts, and practices are for the cheerleaders and coaches only.
When are competitions?
We will compete in 3 regional competitions from November-January. Competition's are held on Saturday's. Nationals will take place at the Anaheim Convention Center during February break. This is a 4 day event. Every competition is MANDATORY.
What are the expenses for participation?
A specific breakdown can be found in our tryout packet. Expenses are paid through requested family donations, sponsorships, and fundraisers. We always have a fundraiser going on to help off set costs.
Are there opportunities for fundraising?
Yes, there are many opportunities for fundraising. Both athletes and their parents will be responsible for fundraising involvement. We typically have a fundraiser or two every month.
What kind of support is needed from parents?
Parents play an important role in supporting their student and the Dartmouth Middle cheer team. Parents are responsible for their child’s transportation to and from events/practice and participate in fundraising.