Melbourne High

2026 Cheer Tryouts by Chloe Strong

Under the bright lights of the gym, anticipation filled the air as students gathered for varsity cheerleading tryouts. Incoming seniors Baleigh Rohmann and Marina Gast stepped onto the mat determined to earn their place on next year’s squad. After months of preparation, both athletes showcased advanced tumbling passes, sharp motions and confident stunts in front of judges and returning team leaders. The tryouts, held after school last Thursday, tested endurance, technique and teamwork as candidates performed chants, jumps and full routines.

Rohmann said she trained consistently in the weeks leading up to the evaluation. “I wanted to walk in feeling prepared,” Rohmann said. “I practiced my tumbling every day and worked on cleaning my motions.” She explained that balancing schoolwork with preparation required discipline. “There were days when I felt exhausted,” Rohmann said. “But I reminded myself how much making varsity meant to me.” Rohmann added that performing in front of peers pushed her to stay focused. “Once the music started, I blocked everything out and gave it my all,” Rohmann said.

Gast also emphasized the importance of preparation and mindset throughout the process. “I focused on staying positive, even when I messed up during practice,” Gast said. She described the tryout environment as both supportive and competitive. “Everyone wanted a spot, but we still cheered each other on,” Gast said. Gast noted that trust played a major role during stunts. “We had to rely on each other completely,” Gast said. Both Rohmann and Gast demonstrated leadership and resilience during the evaluation, leaving judges with strong impressions as they awaited final team selections.