College cheerleading as a sport has become as competitive as it is physically demanding.  It requires a high level of commitment to the sport, the team and the coach.  I’ve noticed in my years at the college level, that most athletes aren’t sure how to prepare and are surprised at the expectations coaches have for them.  For some, the transition is easy, but for most it is physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging.

Here are a few key differences that of a high school cheerleader and a college cheerleader:

1. Tryouts – A typical high school tryout usually includes performing a learned dance and cheer in front of judges along with some basic stunting.  Some schools are more competitive than others, so do your homework on what the expectations are.  In college, it’s less about performance and more about athletic skills.  College tryouts are a time to showcase your basic cheer skills, tumbling, and stunting.  Everyone you are competing with will be good, and the entire atmosphere is more intense.  We, as college coaches, ask the question, if we had to cheer a game tomorrow, could you be on the sideline with us?
2. Camps – In high school, learning cheers, chants, and dances along with basic stunting was one of the main goals of camp.  Most high school coaches will tell you they like the bonding experience their team gets from a resident camp.  The college atmosphere is much more laid back and easy going in this setting.  The focus of college cheer camp is to prepare for games in a game planning class, as well as learn new stunts, pyramids, and baskets.  Camp is fun while developing on these aspects of becoming a more well rounded squad.
3. Practice – High school practices are focused on school spirit and the upcoming football or basketball game that week.  Most colleges offer students priority registration so that they can hold down the practice and game schedule accordingly.  Depending on the level and competitive nature of your school will determine the practice days and intensity of practices.  Many colleges will hold practices on weekends, or even holidays.  As a general rule, be prepared for a much more intense practice schedule, along with mandatory workouts that include strength and conditioning.
4. Games – This is probably the most significant difference between high school and college cheerleading.  College football games have a completely different atmosphere than high school games.  The crowd is larger and more spirited.  They expect cheerleaders to “lead” them in chants, cheers, and fight songs as they encourage their team and school.  Also, traveling with the team is an entirely new experience, as the distances are much greater and may require a multiple day commitment for an away game.

The transition between high school and college can be hard enough; combined with a new squad and new surroundings, it can take time to get used to.  However, if you are passionate about cheering, stay positive, and work hard – in school and cheering – you’ll have a smooth transition to the college cheer world!

There are many opportunities for athletes to learn about cheering on the next level.  American Cheerleader each spring puts together a Who’s Who of college cheerleading.  Plus, you can check out cheercombine.com or contact the coach of the prospective school you are interested in attending.  Be sure to learn as much as you can about that specific program, prior to contacting them.