March 7, 2011
Edmonton Eskimos
Kylee’s Blog – Eskimo Cheer Team
Despite the fact that the first home exhibition game is not until late June, the audition process to become an Edmonton Eskimo Cheerleader for the 2011 season has been underway since the end of January. Hopefuls have been preparing for weeks, attending workshops, technique classes, and getting in peak physical shape. It all boils down to this week! As dancers, we will show up tonight with Game Day hair and makeup, and begin by demonstrating our basic technique skills. After that, we will learn a dance similar to what we do on the field that we will need to perform in front of a judging panel and an audience at City Centre Mall on the weekend. The stunt team will have their final audition tonight at the same time, so this evening will really resemble a typical team practice, with stunters and dancers separated by a few feet.
No spot on the team is guaranteed, so as veterans this process can be just as nerve-wracking as hopefuls trying out for the first time. It really is motivational for those of us returning as veterans to perform to our highest capabilities, as we see upwards of 150 hopefuls vying for one of the few coveted spots on the Eskimo Cheer Team. As veterans, we can fully sympathize with rookies, as we realize that this process can seem overwhelming at times, so we are all very approachable and can offer any advice rookies need.
Not only are we required to demonstrate our athletic ability, but we all go through an interview process. Most team members are full-time University students, or working full time, so the judges want to confirm that hopefuls are able to make a full commitment to all team rehearsals, events, summer camp, and games.
I have been anticipating tryouts since Grey Cup finished… and I am nervous but really looking forward to the experience. We invite all Eskimo fans to come cheer on the cheerleaders at our Final Tryout at City Center Mall this Sunday, March 13 at 1:00pm.
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