pixiedustaholic
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Nov 29, 2008
- Messages
- 632
Warning- Long
When I was in HS, cheerleading tryouts were completely a popularity contest b/c students voted for the candidates. That's why I was relieved to hear that things had changed now that it was tome for my DD to try out.
First, they had to attend an informational meeting with a parent to see exactly what is expected from the cheerleaders and to explain the try out process so they would know up front what they are committing to. Next, all their teachers are sent recommendation forms to find out more about them, etc. Next, they are encouraged to attend conditioning practices so the coaches can observe thier flexibilty, stamina, attitude, etc. Finally, there are 4 afterschool sessions for try outs where they learn thier dance and cheer routines. On the final day, they perform these routines for the coaches and a couple of "judges". Then they pick the teams and we return the following day and pick up an envelope that contains the results that isn't supposed to be opened until we leave the school property...to avoid the ones who are crushed by not making it enduring the squeals of delight of the ones who do, I suppose.
At the original meeting, we were told that the girls would be assigned numbers that they would wear throughout tryouts. I was glad b/c that helps remove potential bias. Instead, they were given nametags with thier first and last names on them! I feel that this wasn't impartial and feel that some of the girls had an unfair advantage b/c of thier names(or thier parents name should I say.) Example: Head football coaches daughter, etc. Plus the "judges" were from local gyms that have been teaching some of these girls for years and of course could be biased. I'm frustrated and you can guess by now that my DD wasn't chosen although she is well qualified. I can't help wondering just how much "politics" are involved in making the team. I'm afraid to voice my concerns about the process for fear of damaging her chances next year. Then again, if I don't , the process may not change. I feel they should bring in judges that are completely impartial...maybe from a local university.
I know life is full of disappointments and DD will be even more determined next year... but I wonder if she'll really have a chance since DH and I are not big booster club donors or a member of the faculty at any of the local schools, or popular local business owners? Do you think I should say anything or let the chips fall where they may next year?
When I was in HS, cheerleading tryouts were completely a popularity contest b/c students voted for the candidates. That's why I was relieved to hear that things had changed now that it was tome for my DD to try out.
First, they had to attend an informational meeting with a parent to see exactly what is expected from the cheerleaders and to explain the try out process so they would know up front what they are committing to. Next, all their teachers are sent recommendation forms to find out more about them, etc. Next, they are encouraged to attend conditioning practices so the coaches can observe thier flexibilty, stamina, attitude, etc. Finally, there are 4 afterschool sessions for try outs where they learn thier dance and cheer routines. On the final day, they perform these routines for the coaches and a couple of "judges". Then they pick the teams and we return the following day and pick up an envelope that contains the results that isn't supposed to be opened until we leave the school property...to avoid the ones who are crushed by not making it enduring the squeals of delight of the ones who do, I suppose.
At the original meeting, we were told that the girls would be assigned numbers that they would wear throughout tryouts. I was glad b/c that helps remove potential bias. Instead, they were given nametags with thier first and last names on them! I feel that this wasn't impartial and feel that some of the girls had an unfair advantage b/c of thier names(or thier parents name should I say.) Example: Head football coaches daughter, etc. Plus the "judges" were from local gyms that have been teaching some of these girls for years and of course could be biased. I'm frustrated and you can guess by now that my DD wasn't chosen although she is well qualified. I can't help wondering just how much "politics" are involved in making the team. I'm afraid to voice my concerns about the process for fear of damaging her chances next year. Then again, if I don't , the process may not change. I feel they should bring in judges that are completely impartial...maybe from a local university.
I know life is full of disappointments and DD will be even more determined next year... but I wonder if she'll really have a chance since DH and I are not big booster club donors or a member of the faculty at any of the local schools, or popular local business owners? Do you think I should say anything or let the chips fall where they may next year?