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Judging Tips
by Linda Lundy
Head Judge at United
Cheer
Before Stepping on the Competition Floor, Check for...
1. Jewelry - it may be your good luck charm but it is very unsafe. And
please don’t try to hide a belly button piercing beneath a Band-Aid.
It is for your squads safety! We're not goody-2-shoes, we just want your
squad as safe as possible.
2. Speaking of shoes, make sure everyone’s shoes are tied. Not only
can it be a safety issue; but what if your flyer lost her shoe, it will
be difficult for her to master the remaining stunts.
3. Hair bows and ribbons should be tightly secured. We know that an alert
spotter for the competition company will retrieve any item on the floor
that would cause potential harm. But what if he can’t get to it in
time? It would not be his fault if someone was injured.
4. Hair should be securely worn away from the face and off of the shoulder.
It is not a beauty pageant, your squad is involved in an active and strenuous
sport.
5. Uniforms should be properly fastened and on correctly. If you have
a co-ed squad, make sure your guys are not going to be showing undergarments
while tumbling or stunting. You'd be amazed at the number of times a judge
is “Flashed.”
6. Nails have no purpose on a cheer mat but to cause injury. Have your
squad look at the palm of their hand with fingers out stretched; if the
nail can be seen above the finger tips it is too long. Artificial nails
are extremely hazardous and are definitely a no-no.
7. Glitter should be used sparingly and avoid the eyes. Most places prohibit
using spray glitter indoors. Please adhere to the rules. Ignoring this
rule could cause someone to have an asthma attack.
8. Speak positively to the squad. Nothing can rattle a team more than
having the coach a bundle of nerves and threatening to quit if they don’t
hit the routine. We know it’s hard to stay upbeat, but never let
yourself get down before a competition.
9. Educate your parents. Let them know that their negative behavior can
hurt the squad. Always push good sportsmanship.
10. Genuine smiles are a blessing. Everyone should enjoy being there.
One frown could scar a great routine.
Do you have some judging tips you'd like to share with
other coaches?
If so, send
them in and we'll try to use them.
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