Willow Wood Junior High Cheer Tryouts 2015 Clinic: May 12th, 13th, 14th Large Gym 3:30 – 4:45 PM Attire: T-shirt Shorts White supportive tennis shoes Hair pulled back in pony tail
Tryouts: Friday, May 15th Large Gym 3:30 Attire: White t-shirt Black shorts White supportive tennis shoes Hair pulled back in pony tail
No WWJH or competitive cheer clothing nor cheer logos are allowed on any article of clothing or shoes.
Prerequisites: No failing grades for the first semester average No failing grades at UIL grade check o 5th 6 weeks for JH, 3rd 9 weeks for Int. Conduct: o No assignment to Tomball Alternative Education Center o No ISS or OSS assignments o Discipline may not add up to more than 3 hours of detention in a year o Intermediate – no “U’s” and no more than one “N” Students who have been dismissed from previous year’s squad are not eligible for tryouts.
Application Information: Applicants will need to turn in the following to the WWJH front desk no later than 3:00 PM, Friday, May 8th: Completed application Medical physical signed by a physician Copy of 5th six weeks report card (WWJH) Copy of 3rd nine weeks report card (Int.) Last page of Constitution signed by both parent and student
Judging Criteria: Jumps (height, flexibility, technique) Motion technique (sharpness, arm levels) Communication (projection, voice, enthusiasm, crowd appeal) Dance (rhythm, timing, memory) Tumbling
General Information: Applicants must attend the clinic in its entirety. Any absences will result in exclusion from the tryouts.
Clinics and tryouts are closed. Only judges, sponsors, and administrators can be present at tryouts. At the conclusion of tryouts all participants will be asked to leave campus.
Results of the tryout will be posted by 9PM on May 15th on the glass doors at the front of the school.
Applicants who make the squad and their parents will need to attend a mandatory meeting on May 20 in the library. This is a general information meeting regarding practices and camp, and we will have uniform fittings at that time. Incoming 8th graders will meet at 5 p.m., and incoming 7th graders will meet at 5:30.
Cheerleaders who make the squad are expected to maintain a passing grade in every course taken during the school year and a high moral status. Every squad member is required to abide by the rules of the school, the constitution, and the request of the coach. o If a cheerleader has failed a course: At the intermediate level: If a cheerleader has failed any of his or her classes for the last nine weeks of school, they will be expected to come to camp. They are expected to participate at practices, but they will not be allowed to participate during athletic events until they regain eligibility after the first six weeks of school. At the junior high level: If a cheerleader fails a course for the last semester, he or she will be expected to attend camp. He or she will continue to participate in practices, but they will not be allowed to participate during athletic events until they regain eligibility after the first six weeks of school.
All cheerleaders MUST give a copy of their last report card to their coach by the time they go to summer camp.
Cheerleaders must commit to attending summer camp, practices, meetings, and games.
SUMMER CAMP DATES: AUGUST 3RD – AUGUST 6TH . Attendance for all 3 days of summer camp are absolutely mandatory!
Willow Wood Jr. High Cheerleader Tryout Application Applicant’s Name: _________________________ Current Grade: ____ School Currently Attending: ________________________ I, _________________________(applicant name), have read all rules and regulations that govern the cheerleaders. As a representative of my school, I understand and agree to abide by them if selected as a cheerleader for the school year. _______________________________ Student Signature
_________________ Date
My child, __________________________, has my permission to be a cheerleader at Willow Wood Jr. High. I understand that he/she must abide by the rules and regulations set forth by the advisor and the administration of WWJH and be present for all practices and games. I understand that any violation of the rules may lead to temporary or permanent suspension from the squad. I understand that all forms must be returned to WWJH by May 8th or my child will not be allowed to tryout. I understand that my child must attend all tryout sessions in their entirety in order to be considered for a position on the squad. I understand that judging will be done by qualified judges from outside Tomball ISD. These judges will evaluate my child, and we agree to abide by the decision of the judges. I understand that the estimated cost of being a WWJH cheerleader will be $500-700. This amount will cover uniforms and camp costs. Other charges for various activities may occur during the school year. I understand that the very nature of cheerleading and gymnastics carry a risk of physical injury. No matter how careful the participant and coaches are, how many spotters are used, or what landing surface is used, all risks cannot be eliminated. The risk of injury may include minor injuries, but I also understand that catastrophic injuries may also occur. I understand these risks and will not hold Willow Wood Junior High or any of its personnel responsible in the case of an accident of injury at any time. I give my permission for my child to receive medical attention in the event that I cannot be present or reached for any reason. _______________________________ Parent or Guardian Signature Home Phone #:_______________________
_________________ Date Work/Cell phone #: _________________
Email address: ___________________________________________________________ Emergency Name Contact: _______________________ Phone #: __________________
WILLOW WOOD JHS CHEER CONSTITUTION
ARTICLE I:
PURPOSE AND EXPECTATIONS
SECTION I: PURPOSE The primary purpose of this organization is: To promote and uphold school spirit throughout the year To encourage good sportsmanship among the student body To improve relations between schools during all athletic events To emphasize physical fitness To build character To encourage student responsibility and independence in following rules Section II: A. B. C. D. E. F.
EXPECTATIONS Cheerleaders are responsible for behaving above and beyond the normal school rule The cheerleading program has an extremely high set of standards To be a member of the cheerleading team is not a right but a privilege for the dedicated student Cheerleaders should not receive excessive demerits or any discipline referrals at any time Parents and cheerleaders are to recognize cheerleading rules at all times All teachers at WWJH will be give lists of members and will be asked to contact the coach if problems arise so that the consequences may be administered G. Cheerleaders should strive to work towards independence, positive attitude, dedication, and role modeling at all times H. Laziness and bad attitudes will not be tolerated at any time by members I. Cheerleaders are considered role models in and out of school. Therefore, appropriate behavior is expected on & off school grounds. ARTICLE II:
TRYOUT QUALIFICATIONS
SECTION I: GRADE REQUIREMENTS To be eligible to tryout for WWJH Cheerleader a candidate must: A. Not have been academically ineligible during the last six weeks for the current academic year and no failures for the first semester. B. Meet all extra-curricular eligibility rules as stated in the WWJH Student/Parent Handbook and the Texas Educational Code. SECTION II: CONDUCT RESPONSIBILITIES To be eligible to tryout for WWJH Cheerleader, a candidate must: Have no failures for the first semester. Have no failures for the fourth six weeks at the junior high level or third nine weeks at the intermediate level. Have not been placed in Tomball Alternative Educational Center, nor been suspended or expelled from school during the current school year. No ISS/OSS placements. Have not been removed from any cheerleading team because of demerits, grades, or conduct or quit for any reason other than illness or disability. SECTION III: TRYOUT CANDIDATES In addition to grade and conduct requirements, candidates for WWJH Cheerleader must meet the following additional criteria: A. Meet enrollment requirements: A candidate must have been enrolled in Tomball Independent School District prior to the tryout sign up deadline. B. Proof of physical fitness:
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Each candidate must present a physician’s medical history and physical examination form as well as a physical waiver form signed by a parent/guardian prior to participation in clinic and tryout. Any current cheerleader trying out for a team who is physically injured at the time of tryouts, with medical documentation, should consult with a coach and the designated administrator. C. Proper financial support: Each candidate/parent must understand that cheerleading is a year-round expense. An estimated expense list will be given at the beginning of the year but does not reflect exact costs. Approximate costs are $700900/year. D. Parental consent: Each candidate must turn in a parent permission form. E. Fulfill cheerleading obligation first: While students are encouraged to be well rounded and to participate in other activities, a cheerleader must fulfill cheerleading requirements before fulfilling other organizational requirements. If any other activity should come into conflict with any cheerleading activity or practice, the sponsor(s) and/or administrator will determine the activity that takes precedence. ARTICLE III:
TRYOUT PROCESS
Section I: JUDGES A minimum of two professional judges who are not employees of TISD and who are not familiar with any of the candidates will screen all candidates on their cheerleading skills including but not limited to motions, jumps, tumbling, spirit, dance, and coed stunting for males. All females will perform an identical tryout cheer and dance. All males will perform the male counterpart to the same cheer, but they may substitute coed stunting specified by the coach for the dance. All candidates may individually enhance their routine with tumbling skills approved during the cheer clinic. The tryout material will be taught en masse to candidates at the tryout clinic. Tryout scores will be calculated by an official tabulator. Section II: SCORING Judges scores will count 100%. Section III: “BREAK-POINT” SYSTEM EXPLANATION The size of each squad will be determined through the use of a “break-point” system. At the completion of the tryouts, the “natural break” in scoring will be mutually agreed upon by the campus administrator and squad sponsor. This will be the official “break point” for determining the final squad size. ARTICLE IV:
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
A. A cheerleader must abide by the constitution immediately upon election to a WWJH Cheerleading team. B. Any cheerleader who resigns from a WWJH cheerleading team during the school year (exception being illness or disability) or is dismissed for academic or disciplinary reasons will not receive WWJH Cheerleader honors or awards, nor will he/she be allowed to attend the banquet. Additionally, any cheerleader who resigns or is removed from the team will not be allowed to tryout the following year.
C. All absences from cheerleading practice are unexcused except for the following: a. Personal illness or accident – cheerleader must contact coach regarding his/her absence prior to practice via phone, email, or written note. It is the cheerleader’s responsibility to ensure that the coach has been contacted. b. Death in the family – provide note from parent c. School sponsored field trips/activities in which the cheerleader will be absent from a practice can be excused by the coach. A note or documentation from the supervising teacher/sponsor is required. These activities are excused at the discretion of the coach with at least two weeks advance notice.
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d. Pre-approved tutoring by coach with a note from teacher authorizing you were attending after school tutoring. D. If a cheerleader cannot participate in practices or performances due to an injury, he or she will need to have a doctor’s note excusing the student from participating. A doctor’s release will be needed to return to practice. A cheerleader will not be able to perform if he or she has missed the practice prior to the performance due to an injury. E. All WWJH Cheerleaders should have a competent understanding of sports rules. F. The season will begin at Summer Camp and conclude after the last basketball game in the Spring Semester. ARTICLE V:
CAPTAINS/CO-CAPTAINS
SECTION I: SELECTION A. Coaches will select the captain based on appropriate criteria. All decisions are final. B. Receiving the title of captain is a privilege and not a right. Inadequate performance of captain’s duties or any other sub-standard behavior may result in the loss of the captain’s position. These decisions are made by the coaches only and are final. SECTION II: DUTIES A. A cheerleader shall serve as captain or co-captain for an athletic season. There will be a captain and cocaptain for the football season and another for the basketball season. B. The captains and co-captains must be able to call cheers, prepare routines, and work as an interim between the coach and the squad. C. Other duties will be assigned by the coach as needed. ARTICLE VI:
GROOMING AND APPEARANCE
A. NO JEWELRY OF ANY KIND is allowed at any practice or performance. B. Gum chewing is not allowed at practices, games, or while in uniform. C. Fingernails must not extend beyond the fingertips at any practice or performance. This includes fake nails. Colored nail polish is not allowed while in uniform. D. Uniform must be clean and neatly pressed at all times. Shoes must be clean and polished at all times. E. Uniform must be worn completely at all times, no unzipped/buttoned tops or skirts or untied shoes. F. A cheerleader may not remove any part of his/her uniform in public. G. Cheerleaders must be dressed alike whenever they are representing the school at games, special events, etc. Cheerleaders are not allowed in uniform unless a sponsor is present. H. Females must wear sports bras under the uniform top, but if they are visible at the back of the neck area, they must match the color of the uniform area. Females must wear bloomers under practice shorts. Regular bra straps showing will result in one demerit per occurrence. J. Females will wear natural looking makeup for games and performances at coach’s discretion. K. All hairstyles must be neat and secured away from the face with a bow while in cheer uniform or shirts. Hair should not need attention during any performances. The style will be determined by the sponsors prior to all events. L. If a part of the uniform is lost during the year, the cheerleader is responsible for replacing that part of the uniform. M. Only approved practice uniforms may be worn to practice. Do not add to the uniform or wear other clothing other than what’s been approved.
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ARTICLE VII: PRACTICES – SUMMER, CAMP, YEAR-ROUND A. Summer camp and camp practices are mandatory for all cheerleaders. No exceptions. The coach will select the camp and dates. B. Cheerleaders are expected to follow rules at summer camp. Any infractions will result in demerits for the offending cheerleader. The rules include, but are not limited to: a. All cell phones must be turned in to the coaches by lights out. b. No gatherings of any kind may occur without the permission of a coach. c. No changing of room assignments. d. All camp wear must be worn on the correct day with the correct accessories. e. Cheerleaders are expected to adhere to school and constitution rules while at camp. Any infractions will result in disciplinary action. C. Any fines accumulated during camp for the loss of keys, for trash, etc. will be the responsibility of individuals in the room – not the school or the coach.
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D. Appropriate practice wear will be worn to each practice and will be determined by the coaches. E. Most school practices will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 4:30. F. All absences must be reported to the coach before the start of practice. G. Missed practice before a performance or game at anytime during the summer or year, will result in nonparticipation during performances and/or demerits. All decisions made by the coaches are final. ARTICLE VIII: GAMES – HOME A. Cheerleaders will meet at the designated time and place given by the coach. B. A cheerleader must be in attendance at school for at least half of the school day in order to cheer at the game. C. Each cheerleader may bring water bottles with water and the designated bag, which must contain his/her rain jacket, poms, tape, and other personal items (including purses). If it doesn’t fit into the bag, it doesn’t go to the game. D. There will be no errands run, and restroom breaks will only be allowed at half time. E. Cheerleaders must remain in front of the stands as designated by the coach. F. While performing, there is no socializing with fellow cheerleaders, family, or friends. G. Cheerleaders must be in attendance for the entire event except in the case of an emergency. H. After an event, cheerleaders may leave ONLY with their parent/guardian. Parents/guardians must sign their cheerleader out at all events; this must be done or demerits will be issued. Some events may require the cheerleaders to ride the bus to and from the performance area. I.
All Cheerleaders must be signed out with the coach at the end of a game regardless of whether they are staying for another athletic event after cheering at their game. They must have a change of clothes and may not stay in uniform. Responsibility for the student is complete when the student is signed out. ARTICLE IX:
UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS
A. The coach will designate the purchasing and issuing of the uniforms. The cheerleader will be responsible for any alterations and the cost of these alterations. Alterations may only be made if they are reversible.
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B. Cheerleading uniforms are to be worn only when approved by the coach. C. Cheerleading uniforms, including jackets, are not to be worn by anyone other than the cheerleader. ARTICLE X: SECTION I:
DEMERITS – SOME EXAMPLES
Demerit consequences:
1. 2. 4. 5. 6.
7.
9. 10.
12. 13. 14. 15. 17. 18. 19. 20.
DEMERITS AND MERITS
5 demerits= benched 1 game (must show up for game) 7 demerits= Probation benched 2 games (must show up for game) 10 demerits= DISMISSAL FROM SQUAD
Offense Unexcused game/mandatory event Disrespect towards coach or other teacher/administrator Unexcused absence from practice Unlady-like/ungentleman-like conduct Failure to contact before missing a practice or game (includes technology failure – please keep a record of all correspondence to avoid unnecessary demerits) PDA while in uniform or at cheerleading function (includes kissing of any kind, sitting on laps, groping, etc., can be reported by any employee of TISD. Tardiness to after school activities (includes practice), no exceptions Wrong uniform or designated practice clothes -jewelry (during game or practice) -dirty, not pressed attire -chewing gum/eating in practice or performance -wearing/removal of any part of uniform without permission -hair/makeup not worn correctly (following coaches guidelines) -nails too long (showing past finger tips) or colored polish Not showing spirit during games Failure to pay contest fees, camp fees, materials, uniforms, etc on due date unless pre-approved by the coach Leaving belongings behind after any cheerleading function/practice Detention (after school or Saturday) Disrespect/gossiping towards another student Using cell phones during a game or practice (text, call, other) Receiving a referral from a teacher that does not result in detention Cell phone or other electronic device taken up by teacher
Demerits 5 3 3 1 3
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1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 1 1 2 1
SECTION II: WORKING OFF DEMERITS - All decisions made by the coaches are final. - Demerits can be worked off only by earning merits. One merit will get rid of one demerit. - Demerits/Merits will be updated at practices and on game days. - Cheerleaders must take advantage of merit opportunities when offered. Special opportunities will not be given when a cheerleader is in demerit trouble. SECTION III: A.
B.
MERITS Merits can be earned by going “above and beyond”. Coaches will give certain merits to be earned each 6 weeks. The list of merits earned will be given out at the beginning of the six weeks. These will be the only merits earned during that particular six weeks. Merits – : (Examples of merits assigned by coaches) All A’s on report card (per six weeks)
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A’s and B’s 1 CHEERLEADER MUST BRING REPORT CARD TO COACHES Assisting coach, captain, or teachers (assigned by coach) 1 Writing a leadership paper (assigned by coach) up to 5 pages one merit will be given for each page written by hand. 1 Creating a leadership lesson for the squad 1 Displaying positive decision making 1 Being caught going above and beyond 1 Selected as Student of the 6 weeks 2 Creating non-pep rally posters (no more than 1/week) 1 Community Service (pre-approved through the sponsor from a predetermined list) 1/hour max. of 5 ARTICLE XII: SECTION I: A.
PROBATION AND REMOVAL FROM THE TEAM
ELIGIBILITY TO PERFORM Any cheerleader having any combination of 10 demerits will be dismissed from the team immediately, no exceptions.
B.
Cheerleaders on probation (2 Weeks) for any reason except academic ineligibility, will not be allowed to perform, but will be required to dress in uniform and attend all performances. In addition, cheerleaders on this type of probation will be required to attend and participate in all practices. Probation can be given at the discretion of the coach.
C.
Once a Cheerleader is placed on probation, a meeting will be held with the cheerleader and her parents to discuss the status of the cheerleader.
D.
Any cheerleader accumulating a large number of demerits may be put on probation at the coaches’ discretion and may be required to do extra assignments during their probationary period.
E.
Any cheerleader not maintaining passing grades will automatically become academically ineligible and put on probation for 3 weeks or 6 weeks. During this probation, the cheerleader will not be allowed to wear any cheerleading uniform to any school function or to school, will not be able to attend any event or game as a cheerleader, but will be required to attend and participate in all practices.
SECTION II: REASONS FOR PROBATION A cheerleader will be put on probation for: a. receiving any accumulation of a large amount of permanent demerits (ex. 7 or more), regardless of the date they were assigned b. not meeting TISD eligibility guidelines for grades c. cheating d. conduct unbecoming of a cheerleader as determined by the coach e. any other reason as determined by the coach SECTION III: A.
REMOVAL FROM THE TEAM A cheerleader will be immediately removed from the team for any of the following infractions: a. Any accumulation of 10 demerits b. Placement in TAEC or AEP c. ISS/OSS placements. d. Expulsion, suspension from school e. Violation of TISD Drug/Alcohol Policy as outlined in the student handbook f. Failure to meet eligibility requirements for 2 six weeks grading periods g. Failure for the first entire semester in any class h. Fighting on campus i. Hazing on or off campus
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j.
Conduct unbecoming of a WWJH cheerleader in or out of school as determined by the coach and/or administration k. Serious or persistent misbehavior ARTICLE XIII: PARENTAL CONCERNS A.
If a parent is in question of a rule or procedure, it is the parent’s responsibility to refer to the constitutional rules before conferencing with the coach.
B.
Parents are welcome to discuss rules and procedures with the coach after making an appointment with the coach, but should expect all decisions to be consistent with the constitution.
C.
In order to receive maximum cooperation and consideration, parents are encouraged to follow the chain of command with concerns by urging their cheerleader to come to the coach first with concerns.
D.
The chain of command is as follows: a. Conference between member only and coach at member’s request b. Conference/phone call between parent and coach or cheerleading administrator c. Conference with parent, member, coach, and cheerleading administrator ARTICLE XIV: BANQUET ATTENDANCE
Members may not attend the banquet if: a. they have been dismissed from the team at any point during the year b. they are currently on probation c. they have an outstanding balance with the cheerleading program ARTICLE XV: MODIFICATION TO THE CONSTITUTION A.
Recommendations to this constitution will be reviewed each year and revisions made as necessary. The revised document will be submitted to the principal for final approval.
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CHEERLEADER CONTRACT
I, school, classmates, and coaches, to:
, if selected as a WWJH Cheerleader, do contract with my
- Follow ALL of the rules of the coaches and of the constitution. I realize that by not following these rules, I will lose privileges and may be removed from the team. - My parent(s)/guardian(s) and I have also read and understand the constitution completely and agree to abide by its rules and regulations.
Applicant’s Signature
Date
Parent(s)’/Guardian(s)’ Signatures
Date
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