Fresno State’s cheerleaders are part of the Fresno State Spirit Program, along with the dance team and TimeOut the mascot. They perform at home football games at Bulldog Stadium, at volleyball and basketball at the Save Mart Center, and at select away football and postseason basketball events. Fresno State Athletics joined the Pac-12 on July 1, 2026. The 2026 auditions were held in May; as of September 29, 2026, Fresno State hadn’t posted dates for the next cycle. Details below are from the official Fresno State Cheer page and the 2026-27 Season Audition Packet.
2026 Audition Weekend
The 2026 auditions ran May 8–10 in the North Gym, off Barstow Avenue:
- Friday: open clinic to learn the material (check-in 4:30 p.m.).
- Saturday: auditions, closed to the public (check-in 8 a.m.).
- Sunday: interviews and final callbacks, closed to the public (check-in 8 a.m.). Wear business casual.
You’re expected to know two pieces before you arrive, both posted online: the “Bang Bang” sideline dance and the “Go Dogs Go” cheer.
What to Bring (in This Order)
- A current 4×6 headshot in cheer or dance uniform or athletic gear.
- The $50 audition registration fee, in cash only and non-refundable.
- Incoming freshmen and transfers: a copy of your acceptance letter.
- The CSU waiver form.
- The Fresno State Health History & Physical Form (4 pages).
- Returning students: a copy of your Fresno State student ID, front and back.
- A copy of your insurance card, front and back.
Cheer Requirements
- Full-time status (12 units) for the fall and spring semesters.
- A commitment to a rigorous schedule and the competition team.
- A physical fitness test.
- Jumps: a toe touch and a triple variety jump.
- Tumbling (required): a standing back handspring or standing back tuck, and a running pass that includes a back handspring leading into your hardest skill.
- Stunts (required):
- Bases: an extension, an extended single-leg stunt and a dismount.
- Tops: an extension, a liberty, and a stretch with a full down.
Audition Attire
- Women: a black fitted sports bra and black fitted shorts, and cheer shoes. Wear your hair half up and curled with a white bow, and full makeup.
- Men: a black fitted shirt and black shorts, and cheer or athletic shoes. Groom your hair neatly and be clean shaven.
- Everyone: no jewelry, and cover any tattoos.
Video Auditions
A video option exists, but Fresno State says it’s “not recommended” and that there’s “a definite advantage to trying out in person.” For 2026, videos were due by May 7, sent through Google Drive to the program director, following the order set out in the packet.
The Commitment
Fresno State is direct about the workload. Members balance:
- Practices three to five days a week.
- Game coverage two to three times a week.
- Community and campus appearances once a week.
That’s on top of classes. The program asks that academics come first and the Spirit Program second, “even over a job.”
Contacts
- Holly Durham — Spirit Program Director (hollydurham@csufresno.edu).
- Jacob Mastro — Athletics Advisor, (559) 278-1048.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are Fresno State cheer auditions? The 2026 auditions ran May 8–10. Check the Fresno State Cheer page for the next cycle’s dates.
How much does it cost? For 2026, $50, cash only.
Can I audition by video? Yes, but Fresno State recommends auditioning in person.
What conference is Fresno State in? The Pac-12, since July 1, 2026.
Related Resources
- Oregon State University Cheerleading Tryout Guide
- Boise State University Cheerleading Tryout Guide
- College Cheerleading Tryout Guides Directory
Sources: Fresno State Athletics, Fresno State Cheer and the 2026-27 Season Audition Packet. Last checked September 29, 2026.
