In the past month many students were buzzing about the varsity cheer tryouts. All the girls participating worked in the gym from 3:30-5:30 Monday through Thursday during the week to get ready for the final tryout day.

“Each girl does an individual cheer, an individual dance, toe-touch, jump of choice, tumbling pass, and a group cheer/dance at the audition,” said junior Becca Buterbaugh. “It’s stressful, because it is a lot to learn, but once you get it, it’s all about perfection, plus, you only get one shot on Friday; no pressure!”

Junior Bayley Garringer thought tryout week was taxing as well.

“Cramming so many new dances, cheers, and more into a person’s head and then hoping to retain it for Friday, it’s insane,” stated Garringer.

There were 16 spots available and 24 girls tried out for those positions.

The returner, Buterbaugh, and new varsity cheerleader, Garringer, mentioned that everyone who has ever tried out has an embarrassing story or two to tell about try out day.

“During the individual cheer, last year, my voice cracked and I gradually ran out of air, so I was out there and no one could hear anything I was saying–so awkward,” Buterbaugh said.

“I said ‘go cubs’ four times,” said Garringer.

Although tryout week is full of trials and tribulations, the outcome of being on the squad makes most ecstatic.

“I love cheering on the sidelines, especially for football because it gets super intense, leading the crowd, and cheering on the guys every friday night is really awesome,” Buterbaugh said.

This stressful process is finally  over for the girls and now whether in the stands or on the sidelines they will be cheering on the Searcy High Lions.