Tryouts for additions to the cheerleading squad are tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 7, to find female and male athletes who would like to show their stuff through stunts, cheers, jumps and tumbles during the basketball season.

Volunteer coach Patti Mitch said the Pioneer cheerleaders are ambitious and motivated athletes.

They are part of the athletic department and have to follow rules, such as maintaining a 2.0 GPA and attending practices.

In order to join the squad for the fall, interested students attended a three-day tryout.

Katie Berglin, an undecided sophomore student and member of the squad, said cheers, jumps, the fight song and a dance were studied, practiced and presented for judgment.

Mitch said the splits are a desired skill, and the ability to tumble is considered a bonus.

The development of stunts follows the regulations set by the WIAC and the NCAA. They are intended to prevent injuries and set standard requirements and limits.

“The candidates are judged on their voice, spirit and teamwork,” Mitch said.

Alysha Mayo, a freshman psychology major and a new member of the team, said the squad has a great team drive and works well together. Two cheerleaders structure practices, schedule additional conditioning and plan an extra practice session right before a game.

“We do not have captains per se, we have cheerleaders in charge,” Mitch said. Regular practices are held Mondays and Wednesdays for two-and-a-half hours.

The cheerleaders perform at every home football and basketball game and travel with the teams up to two hours.

They will travel with the football team to UW-Whitewater Nov. 10.

“I believe that cheerleading brings a sense of spirit and enthusiasm [to a game], ” Mitch said. “Cheerleaders help with the overall atmosphere, and athletes and the crowds appreciate the effort and support.”

For anyone interested in trying out for the squad, an informational meeting will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 25, in room B52 of the Williams Fieldhouse.

Mitch said that not everyone will be returning from this season’s football squad, but those who choose to remain will not have to try out again. She also said the coaching staff will be looking to fill open positions and increase the size of the squad as well.

“It is always difficult when you lose members of the team because through all the hard work, challenges and accomplishments, a strong bond does develop, but I have always stressed that their education comes first,” Mitch said.