Are Your Rookies Ready?

You’ve been here before. The lights, the crowd, and the floor – although it’s special, the experience is nothing new to you. Reflect on your competition firsts: the first time you witnessed the intensity of the practice room, held hands behind stage and peered out into the audience. Now, think about your rookies. They’ve set out on this new and exciting journey. And it’s your responsibility as a veteran to introduce them to the beautiful world of competitive dance. Take notes to ensure that your rookies are ready for the spotlight.

Extra Practice
Step up and fulfill your duty as a veteran. If you notice the first-years are struggling or have questions, volunteer to stay after practice to work with them. Sometimes it’s difficult to voice your concerns as a rookie, so put yourself in their shoes and offer encouragement and guidance.

Packing List
Encourage the newbies to pack far in advance. Also, make things easier on everyone by tagging your bags.

Hair & Makeup
Practice doing hair, makeup and full costume the week of competition. If there’s time in the schedule, get ready together in the morning. Everyone will look uniform and feel their very best for the big debut!

Q&A
The week of competition, host a final Q&A. This can be in a relaxed setting, maybe even a competition kickoff celebration! Have each rookie write down a question, comment or concern. Read them aloud and share advice. Watch videos from previous years and reiterate the team’s goals for the season.

Parent Update
Maintain a parent group text or distribute informational letters. Rookies have questions and their parents have a lot of questions. Since the team is more than likely traveling to compete, it’s important to keep everyone informed and safe.

Carpool
Unlike local performances, competition season involves a great deal of long-distance traveling. Traffic and parking are things that often get overlooked, but are unavoidable – especially at national events. To prevent team members starting the weekend on a stressful note, plan a carpool! And if you’re traveling via bus, relay directions and info to team parents.

Team Social
It’s easy to get lost in a sea of dancers at the venue. Make sure you keep tabs on every team member at all times. If it’s a large venue, distribute maps or agree to stay together. Give the rookies precise details on when and where to meet, so the team stays on schedule. And after-hours, include everyone in social gatherings.

So, take care of your rookies and encourage them throughout the season. Prepare them for all of the factors at play, so they arrive with one goal in mind – victory.