Cheerleading tryouts are more than just an evaluation—they’re the official kickoff to the season. At Cheer Athletics, tryouts represent the beginning of a journey where athletes of all levels step into an environment built on discipline, growth, and competitive excellence.

Whether you’re returning to build on last season’s success or walking through our doors for the first time, cheerleading tryouts are your opportunity to be part of something bigger.

What to Expect During Cheerleading Tryouts
Tryouts at Cheer Athletics are designed to give every athlete a fair opportunity to demonstrate their strengths, potential, and dedication. Our teams are built intentionally, ensuring that every athlete is placed where they can succeed and continue to grow.

While each gym follows a slightly different format, most tryouts include:

Jump technique
Tumbling ability
Stunt comprehension (where applicable)
Performance, presence, and overall coachability
It’s not just about what you can do today—it’s about who you can become throughout the season with the right coaching and support.

How to Prepare for a Confident Tryout
Preparation is key, and athletes who walk in ready—physically and mentally—tend to perform at their best. Before tryouts, we recommend:

Conditioning regularly to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance.
Focusing on fundamentals, especially sharp motions, jumps, and core tumbling.
Attending Tryout clinics & open gyms, which are often hosted by your local Cheer Athletics gym.
Bringing a team-first mindset, because effort and attitude are always noticed.
To better understand our program structure and offerings, visit our Programs Overview for more ways to prepare for your tryout.

Understanding the Tier System in All-Star Cheer
Through our alignment with USASF’s tiered programming, cheer st. louis Athletics supports athletes of all levels—from those just starting out to those preparing for elite competitions like The Cheerleading Worlds. During tryouts, we evaluate not only skill and experience, but also tier placement based on goals and competitive readiness.

According to the USASF All Star Tiers, athletes may be placed in one of several key categories:

Novice Tier – For new athletes, focused on fun, fundamentals, and team bonding.
Prep Tier – For athletes building toward full competition, with a focus on performance and skill progression.
Elite Tier – Full competition teams that compete regionally, nationally, and internationally.
Premier Tier – The most competitive level, including teams preparing for events like The Cheerleading Worlds.
This structure allows Cheer Athletics to offer athletes a more personalized experience, ensuring every athlete can grow, succeed, and stay motivated throughout the season.

Find a Cheer Athletics Gym Near You
Cheer Athletics is proud to operate in over 15 cities nationwide—including Plano, Frisco, Fort Worth, Omaha, Charlotte, Denver, Pittsburgh, and more. Each gym maintains the high standards of our national program while customizing their tryout and team placement process to their specific community.

"There’s nothing better than getting in the gym during cheerleading tryouts and watching athletes give it their all. You can feel the energy and see the commitment—it’s what makes the start of the season so special."

— Brad Habermel, Co-Founder and Owner, Cheer Athletics

Tryouts Are Unique at Every Location
Each Cheer Athletics gym structures its tryouts to fit the needs of its teams, athletes, and local schedule. From session dates and required skills to prep opportunities and clinics, details will vary by location.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit our Tryouts Page. You’ll be able to explore your nearest gym, view specific tryout requirements, and contact staff with any questions.

You Belong Here
Cheerleading tryouts are where your season begins—but more than that, they’re where your potential is recognized. At Cheer Athletics, you’ll find elite training, lifelong friendships, and a community that pushes you to be your best.

The 2025–2026 season is shaping up to be one of our strongest yet. Whether your goals are personal growth, new skills, or national titles, there’s a team—and a place—for you here.Visit cheerathletics.com/tryouts to take the next step. The floor is yours. Let’s get started.