How to Prepare for Pro NFL & NBA Dance and Cheer Auditions

Preparing for a career as a professional cheerleader or dancer in the NFL or NBA is incredibly exciting! Whether you have been training for years, or you are just getting started, we are here to give you a solid jumping-off point. This job requires dedication, time, and preparation, but with the right resources, you can feel confident and excited stepping into your audition!

How to Best Prepare for Auditions

1. Take Drop-In Pro-Style Classes at a Studio Near You
   Start early and get moving! Taking pro-style classes helps you feel more comfortable when you eventually audition for your team of choice. Especially if this dance style is new to you, this is a great place to start! See what opportunities to jump into class there are local to you. For example, in Minnesota, check out Klass for great Pro-style classes.
2. Research, Research & RESEARCH!
   We cannot emphasize enough the importance of researching the team you want to audition for. Learn everything about the team, including its style, values, and community involvement.
3. Attend Your Pro Team’s Prep Classes & Workshops
   Many teams offer prep classes and workshops to help familiarize you with their style and choreography. These are also great opportunities to meet team members and coaches and will provide invaluable insight into the audition process.
4. Check all Audition Dates & Times
   Carefully check all dates and times for the audition process and get them on your calendar! Make sure you keep those days and times available.
5. Get your Audition Wear Early!
   Customized audition wear is an incredible way to stand out at auditions! However, it can take a few weeks to get your audition wear, especially if it’s made to order. If you are planning to add your own rhinestones, give yourself plenty of time. Also, be sure to factor in potential local alterations and time to practice in the garment so you feel confident and comfortable!
6. Get your Resume and Headshot Ready
   Many teams require a professional headshot and polished resume. This is a great place to highlight dance experience, community involvement, or special skills.
7. Complete your Application
   Take time and care filling out your application. This is the time to show off who you are on and OFF the dance floor. A lot of teams will require a video submission with the initial application. Give yourself ample time to prepare your solo or choreography for the team.
8. Practice your Interview Skills
   Most teams include an interview round. Prepare by practicing with friends or even in front of a mirror!
9. Practice in your Audition Look
   Decide on your hairstyle and makeup ahead of time. Practice dancing in your full glam and audition wear to ensure you feel comfortable and confident! Your audition outfit should reflect the team’s style while showcasing your personality!
10. Make an Audition Day Bag
    It can be a good idea to bring an extra pair of tights and a backup audition outfit, just in case of any last-minute issues like spills, rips, or wardrobe malfunctions. This does not need to be a full second look or anything fancy. It can be something simple you already own, like a spare pair of shorts and a sports bra, or an old audition set you have on hand. While you’ll likely never need it, having a backup is a great way to feel more prepared and can help you stay calm on audition day.
11. Must-Have Products for Audition Day (That We Love!)
    When it comes to feeling polished and confident, a few key items can make all the difference:
    • Tights: We love Diva Hosiery for their fit & quality.
    • Fredgies Front-Wedgie Proof Thong: Perfect if you’re not wearing tights. We
      recommend the V-Waist fit. – Size down – this brand runs large – Order early, as it ships from Australia
    • Our Favorite Portable Steamer: This one from Amazon is compact and reliable. – Best for garments with flowy elements like skirts. – Tight-fitting pieces usually smooth out on the body, so a steamer is not
      necessary.
      • If your costume has rhinestone – go light with the steam on those areas. Steam can loosen heat activated glue so be sure to let your pieces cool and dry before wearing.

Additional Audition Prep Resources:
Prepping for these auditions can be a lot of work and can feel overwhelming. Here are
some great companies that can help support you throughout this process!

• Sideline Prep
• The Prep Talk
• Pro Dance Prep
• NxtLvlPrep

Giving yourself ample time to prepare will allow you to feel cool, calm, and collected heading into your audition. We are so excited for all our rookies and vets auditioning this year. You’ve got this!