Oh, tryout season! That time of year where every athlete seems to be
gaining new skills, parents are wracked with stress hoping their child makes
her dream team for the upcoming season, and coaches are trying to combine kids
to build winning teams. Here are some thoughts to help parents with the
process.
1. TRUST YOUR COACHES: Just as you would not tell your doctor how to
treat your ailment or your teacher how to educate your child, you need to allow
your coaches to COACH YOUR CHILD. Their goal is to WIN! They want the most qualified athletes to make
up each team & despite your disbelief this may mean that your child may not
be placed on the team of their choice.
It could be due to limited availability, age restriction or your coach may
simply feel that your athlete needs more experience or another year on another
team to focus on their skills.
2. As a parent you will always over estimate the talent, abilities,
& contribution of your child. THIS IS NOT A BAD THING!!! Every child needs
their own cheerleader to help them believe in themselves, support and encourage
their aspirations & love them. It’s important, however, to point out that
throwing skills IS NOT ENOUGH to make the team of their choice. A backhand spring with bent arms and legs
WILL NOT HELP A TEAM AND DOES NOT NECESSARILY MAKE YOUR ATHLETE LEVEL 2!!!
Quality is ALWAYS better and score sheets have evolved to reflect a standard of
excellence.
3. Remember that building a functioning team is not just about your
kid. Coaches try to balance the interests
of ALL athletes. Sometimes your cheerleader may have the qualifications of
being on a certain team but is "better suited elsewhere". You may not
understand why... But this goes back to #1 --trust your coaches.
4. Allow your athlete to progress at their own pace. Cheerleading is
not like school. You don't have to change teams or levels every year. It's okay
to stay where you are and it doesn't mean you are not improving. There are so
many skills within a level and so much room for you to grow. Embrace the
opportunity to fully max out at each level and take pride in the quality of
your skills.
5. It is the start of a new season & an opportunity for a fresh
start. Encourage your cheerleader, support your coaches, set realistic goals,
look at each situation as a learning opportunity & emphasize the importance
of proper skill development and training. If you do all of this… the 2014-2015
season is sure to be a memorable one.
