Weekly Tips by MCHIC
Week Five Tip: When picking your team, attitude is everything! One girl can make a HUGE difference! Think about how much time you will spend dealing with drama instead of coaching if you keep her because she is good even though her attitude isn't.
Week Four Tip: Coach to the score sheets! Even if you think the Judges are wrong, look at what they score you low on and try to improve those areas. You are getting an "objective" view of your cheer from someone who has no emotional attachment to your team. Listen to the Judges and your scores should go up!
Week Three Tip: Have a plan for practice and stick to it! Divide up your practice time so that you do not overload your team working on one round. "Changing gears" can keep the team focused and allow a far more productive practice!
Week Two Tip: Instead of always penalizing your team when they do things wrong ("thats terrible, do it again" "Go run a lap", etc.) try rewards for those that are doing a great job. Get treats before practice and have mini-competitions - best voices, best pointed toes in skills, etc. You'll be surprised how hard your girls work when candy/food is on the line :-)
Week One Tip: Have your team practice formation changes with their eyes closed (do NOT do jumps, stunts, or skills with eyes closed!!!). After they change formations have them open their eyes and see if they are in the correct formation. They will learn to change formations without looking around and it will make them appear much more confident!
