University of Kentucky Cheerleading Tryout Guide
The University of Kentucky cheerleading program is one of the most storied and successful programs in college cheerleading history. Located in Lexington, Kentucky, UK competes at the NCAA Division I level in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The Wildcats have won multiple national championships and are consistently ranked among the top programs in the country. Making the UK cheer team is a significant achievement that requires exceptional athletic ability, strong technique, and the confidence to perform in front of 60,000+ fans at Kroger Field and 20,000+ fans at Rupp Arena.
About the UK Cheer Program
The University of Kentucky cheerleading program has a long tradition of excellence. The team supports UK football, basketball, and volleyball programs while also competing at the UCA College National Championships in Orlando, Florida. UK is a coed program, meaning males and females stunt together. The program values strong fundamentals, elite tumbling skills, powerful stunting, and the kind of crowd-leading spirit that has made Kentucky fans some of the most passionate in college sports. The coaching staff looks for athletes who combine technical skill with the personality and confidence to lead one of the largest fan bases in the SEC.
Official Tryout Information
Tryout requirements can change year to year, so always confirm deadlines, materials, and eligibility on the official university pages before making travel plans or submitting applications.
Tryout Requirements
- Enrollment: Must be a currently enrolled UK student or an admitted incoming student with a confirmed student ID number
- GPA: Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA required; higher GPA preferred for academic standing
- Physical examination: Must pass a physical examination before participating in tryouts or team activities
- Health insurance: Proof of current health insurance coverage is required
- Experience: Previous cheerleading experience at the high school or all-star level is strongly recommended; gymnastics background is a plus
- Application: Complete the tryout application form before the registration deadline
Skills Evaluated at Tryouts
The UK coaching staff evaluates a comprehensive range of skills during tryouts. Here is what they look for in each area:
Tumbling
- Minimum requirement: Standing back handspring
- Preferred: Standing tuck, running tumbling through layout or full
- Evaluation: Technique, height, power, and consistency matter more than just having the skill
Stunting
- Females: Flyer body positions (liberty, heel stretch, scorpion, bow and arrow) – see our flyer guide for technique tips
- Males: Coed stunting strength and technique – ability to toss and catch flyers safely
- All: Ability to hit solid body positions, maintain stability, and execute clean cradles
Jumps
- Toe touch, herkie, and pike evaluated for height, technique, rotation, and landing
- Pointed toes and proper hip rotation are essential – see our jump height guide
Motions and Spirit
- Sharp, precise motion technique with proper placement
- Strong voice projection and the ability to lead a crowd
- Game-day energy and authentic enthusiasm
Preparation Tips for UK Tryouts
- Master the UK fight song: Learn “On, On, U of K” before tryouts. Coaches want to see that you can lead the crowd with the school song from day one.
- Work on coed stunting: UK is a coed program. Females should practice body positions and flexibility for flying. Males should build upper body strength for basing.
- Build your tumbling: A standing tuck gives you a competitive edge over other candidates. If you do not have one yet, start working toward it with our standing tuck progression guide.
- Condition hard: UK tryouts are physically demanding. You will be tumbling, stunting, and jumping for hours. Build your stamina with our home conditioning workouts and strength training guide.
- Be loud and confident: UK values spirit and crowd leadership as much as athletic skill. Practice calling cheers at full volume and projecting your voice from your diaphragm.
- Practice in front of people: Tryouts are performed in front of judges. Practice your skills with people watching to get comfortable being evaluated.
What to Expect on Tryout Day
On tryout day, arrive at least 30 minutes early with all required paperwork, a water bottle, and proper athletic attire. The typical process includes:
- Registration and check-in: Submit your paperwork and receive your tryout number
- Group warm-up: Led by coaching staff – this is your first chance to show energy and enthusiasm
- Individual skill evaluation: Tumbling passes, jump sequences, and stunt evaluations
- Material learning session: Learn the UK fight song, sideline cheers, and band dances
- Group performance evaluation: Perform learned material in small groups
- Interview: Brief interview with coaching staff about your experience and goals
After Tryouts
Results are typically posted within 24-48 hours. If you make the team, there will be a mandatory team meeting to discuss practice schedules, team expectations, uniform fittings, and next steps. Summer practices and conditioning usually begin shortly after team selection. If you do not make the team, do not be discouraged. Ask the coaches for specific feedback on what to improve. Many athletes who do not make the team their first tryout come back stronger the following year and earn a spot.
More University Tryout Guides
Check out our other university tryout guides: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, LSU. Also see our comprehensive tryout tips guide and tryout preparation overview.
