Ali Valdez |Staff Writer

With tryouts just around the corner, nerves are high amongst the girls hoping to make the cut to be a Johnson cheerleader for the 2012-2013 school year.

“They’re sneaking up on us quicker than we thought,” junior Kristen Hunt said.

Cheerleading offers opportunities for self improvement, even though it is mainly a team sport.

“You have to rely on your teammates, but also be independent at the same time,” junior Kirin Deol said.

Tryouts can be overwhelming, but one must always look towards the finish line.

“At your hardest times, it’s important to keep pushing. Tryout week can be really stressful and chaotic, but if you keep your head up, you will succeed,” senior Destiny Castillo said.

Tryouts not only take mental preparation, but also physical readiness.

“If you have a standing tuck, you are eligible for varsity,” senior Audrey Duvall said.

Cheerleading is not all about the glory, but also the guts.

“You have to come in with a positive attitude and realize that it’s not all about wearing the uniform,” senior Jaselyn Aguilar said.

Though tryouts are overwhelming and exhausting, but with a strong support system it is possible.

“It’s nerve wrecking, but if you have enough support from the people around you, you should be able to make it through,” sophomore Kristen Hunt said.