I have never been on a Cheer Team before. Do have have to know how to stunt to make the squad?

Our program prides itself on the ability to teach appropriate skills progressions safely, including stunting. It is not necessary that you know how to stunt before tryouts (as it is not part of the judging criteria for selection), however you must be willing to participate in both partner and group stunts as well as pyramids throughout the season. All members are taught proper technique and practice strict safety rules in order to help prevent injuries. You must stay in good physical condition, working on both muscle strength and flexibility throughout the year to develop and maintain good stunting technique.

Do I have to know how to tumble to make the squad?

Tumbling is not a mandatory requirement, however, it is part of the overall judging criteria. Mira Costa Cheer provides several opportunities for our athletes to work on their tumbling skills, no matter their current skill level.

What are the grade requirements to cheer?

You must maintain a 2.0 GPA or above. You may not have any "F"s or "U"s on your report card or progress reports. Cheer at Mira Costa is a graded class for PE credit. Grades for Cheer are determined by a Point System based on your participation.

How much does it cost to be a cheerleader at Mira Costa?

Although we host many fundraisers throughout the year, cheerleading can be an expensive athletic activity. Costs include uniforms, camps, transportation, and competitions. FYI... The school offers financial assistance for those who qualify- but you must pay for costs upfront and then be reimbursed by the District.

How much time does cheerleading take up?

Cheerleading is very time consuming. Practices during the school year are generally Monday-Friday 2:00-4:30pm. In addition, all games, performances, competitions, fundraisers, and community events are mandatory.

When does the season start and end? Can I participate on another team or activity?

MCHS JV and Varsity Cheer are the only sports on campus with a 13 month season! We begin our season with Spring Training in May immediately following tryouts, continue through Summer Practices, into the school year cheering for our sports teams until May of the following year. Both JV and Varsity Cheer squads cheer for Football and Girls' Volleyball during the Fall, Boys' and Girls' Basketball and Cheer Competitions in the Winter, wrapping up with Boys' Volleyball and Cheer Competitions during the Spring. In addition, we support al sports during CIF playoffs. Fundraiser and Community events take place throughout the year. We are a very busy program. If a cheerleader wishes to participate on another sports team or activity, participation cannot negatively impact their responsibilities to Mira Costa Cheer. Their commitment to our program must come first.

I just got a new belly ring. Do I really have to take it out?

Sorry, yes you do. No jewelry of any kind is allowed at practices, games, performances, events, or while wearing any part of the official cheer uniform. You must remove all jewelry. Taping over piercings is not an option.

I had a physical last year. Do I need to get another one for Cheer?

You do not need to have a physical in order to tryout, however each member of the selected squad is required by law and district policy to have an annual physical on file with the Athletic Department in order to participate in any sport at Mira Costa.

Is there practice over the summer? Can I go on vacation with my family?

Summer practices and camps are mandatory. This is when you will learn the bulk of the game and performance material for the year. Please check "Important Dates" section for specific practices dates. We understand that families look forward to planning vacations during the summer. Also includes in the "Important Dates" section are the Team Summer Vacation dates. Please try to scheduled your trips during these times.

If I have a question that was not answered in the Tryout Packet, who do I contact?

Please email Coach Jamilah "Jay" Watson at jwatson@bcagym.com or call us at (310) 791-5435.