The information below will be emailed to you later for future reference, but please take a moment to read through it carefully before completing the following forms.

Guidelines & Requirementspage 1 of 4

Spirit Squad Guidelines

Thank you for your interest in the Ouachita Baptist University Cheerleading and Mascot Program!
We invite you to attend a live tryout on March 7-8 for our 2026-27 squad. This year, tryouts will be held on campus in Bill Vining Arena. All documents (listed below) must be submitted in this application or uploaded to your Admit Portal by 5pm on February 27, 2026.

We must have the following documents fully signed, completed, submitted, scanned, and emailed:

Agreement and Release and Waiver of Liability *
The "least expensive" copy of your transcript (on-campus students)
Proof of personal insurance – a copy of your insurance card/form/policy. Please copy both sides of the card.
Proof of physical in the last year.
Tryout Application*
A reference letter from your high school coach is also required. They will receive an email upon submission of your form.

You will not be permitted to try out if you do not have all the documents listed above completed and signed.

TRYOUT REQUIREMENTS

Schedule for tryouts:

Saturday, March 7 – 2:00 pm-5:00 pm

This open gym will be where we will review material. In addition, we will jump, tumble, and stunt as well. We will stretch together, and groups will be assigned. Please be on time. You will also have an interview with the coaches.

Sunday, March 8– 2:00 pm-? (This depends on the number of people trying out.)

Tryouts will take place. Results will be posted on our Instagram account quickly after tryouts, and a mandatory team meeting will occur then.

Requirements for CHEER tryout:

On Sunday, candidates should wear a solid, white tank or tee shirt (no logo) and purple or black shorts. You will get your number when you arrive, and you will wear that number for your tryout.

Candidates will perform the material emailed to you on Monday, March 3rd. The material will consist of the following:

You will begin with a group cheer, and fight song. Followed by individual chant, jumps, and tumbling.

Individual Skills

Chant (Words will be provided, you make up the motions.)
Toe Touch
Herkie, Hurdler, or Pike
Series of three jumps.
Standing tumbling skill (BHS or Tuck – there is no requirement to tumble to make the squad, but it is still a part of the tryout.)
Tumbling series (A series of two or more tumbling skills – ie. Round off, backhandspring, backtuck)

MASCOT tryout:

Individually performed skit and fight song with cheerleaders.
Skit (This will need to be a 1–2-minute skit with props where you will need to show your creativity and spirit. You will be able to wear the tiger suit for this.)

COMPOSITION OF SQUAD

The Coach reserves the right to determine the number of squads and the composition of each squad based on numerous factors at the sole discretion of the Coach.

ROLE OF THE SPIRIT SQUAD

The primary role of the Spirit Squad is to represent and support the University and the University's Athletic teams, specifically. In this role, the Squad will be at:

Football - all home football games and selected away games, any home post-season games
Basketball - all home men's and women's games, any home post-season games
Other - other select athletic events, all pep rallies, various charity events/appearances, and periodic events

Practices are mandatory and are typically held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm.

TRYOUTS

Tryouts will be held over a weekend and involve a personal interview and a series of athletic evaluations. A panel of judges will help determine who makes the Squad. The interview aims to assess the applicant's poise, attitude, appearance, interpersonal skills, communication skills, work ethic, commitment, character, and general knowledge about Cheer and the University.

Among the athletic skills the judges will consider for Cheer are the following:

Athleticism, generally,
Tumbling ability
Stunting
Motions and Technique
Appearance and poise
Crowd leading ability

Those being considered for Mascot will be evaluated on Crowd leading, an understanding of Mascot duties, dancing ability, spirit and enthusiasm, and utilization of the Mascot suit.

Tryouts are open to all current students enrolled in the University with an overall GPA of at least 2.0. High School Seniors who have been accepted by or whose applications are pending with the University are welcome to try out for the Squad.

Please review the Guidelines. If you need clarification – please ask. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact Kristi Seals at 870-245-5326.

Tryout Applicationpage 2 of 4

Tryout Application

I will try out for:

Cheer

Mascot

I am currently a:

High School Senior

College Freshman

College Sophomore

College Junior

Are you a current student enrolled at Ouachita?

New or Returning Spirit Squad Member?

About You

OBU ID
(please check that your ID is correct, this affects later document uploads)

First Name

Last Name

Birthdate

Email Address

Cell Phone

Mailing Address

Country

Street

City

Region

Postal Code

Medical/Injuries

Current Medical Conditions

Previous Injuries

High School Coach

Cheer/Mascot Coach's First Name

Cheer/Mascot Coach's Last Name

Coach's Email Address
(for the reference form)

Coach's Phone

Academics

Have you applied to Ouachita?

Have you been accepted to Ouachita?

Current GPA

Field of Study

Honors/Activities

Experience

Number of Years Cheer/Mascot Experience

Do you work?

Work as Cheer/Mascot Staff?

For which school/gym?

Tumbling Skills (skills that can be performed without a spot) - CHECK ALL THAT APPLY
*Tumbling Skills are an asset - not a must

Standing Tumbling

None

Back Handspring

Back Tuck

Back Handspring Tuck

Signature

I hereby confirm that the information provided in this form is correct.

Signature of Applicant

Click to Sign...

Date

Because you are under 18 years of age, we'll need a parent's/legal guardian's signature as well as yours.

Please provide a contact for your parent/legal guardian here for us to send your completed forms to sign.

Parent/Guardian First Name

Parent/Guardian Last Name

Parent/Guardian Email

Please complete the application and send all required documents to sealsk@obu.edu by Friday, February 27th.

Liability Waiverpage 3 of 4

Tiger Spirit Squad Agreement and Release and Waiver of Liability

By signing my name below, I hereby express my desire to try out for the 2026-27 Tiger Cheerleading or Tiger Mascot (collectively "Ouachita Baptist University Spirit Squad" or "Spirit Squad"), and I further agree to the terms and conditions in this Agreement and Release and Waiver of Liability ("Agreement").

I covenant and agree that trying out and, if selected, participating as a member of any of the Ouachita Baptist University Spirit Squad is entirely voluntary on my part, and I am under no obligation to do so.

I further covenant and agree that, if selected, my participation on any Spirit Squad is a privilege and not a right, and in exchange for the opportunity to participate, I covenant and agree to abide by all terms, conditions, and other provisions of this Agreement.

If selected to be a member of the Spirit Squad, I acknowledge and agree that I will be a representative of Ouachita Baptist University (the "University"), the men's and women's Athletic Departments, and the Spirit Squad. As such, I covenant and agree as follows:

1. Before trying out, I read and understood the Spirit Squad guidelines and agreed to abide by these Guidelines at all times.

2. By trying out, I confirm that I have been furnished a copy of the Guidelines (which are incorporated by reference into this Agreement), have had ample opportunity to read and ask any questions about the Guidelines, and fully understand the Guidelines.

3. At all times, I agree to the following:

a. Be present and put forth an enthusiastic effort to represent the University positively throughout the 2023-24 academic year, including, but not limited to, all: i. practices and meetings (collectively "Practices"); and ii. games, practices, pep rallies, public appearances, and any other activities of any nature whatsoever on behalf of the University (collectively "Events")

b. Publicly and privately always support all the University's men's and women's sports enthusiastically and positively.

4. I understand that to be eligible to be a member of the Spirit Squad and to participate at any event, I must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and complete an average of 12 hours per semester at the University. I will use my very best efforts to excel in my classes and voluntarily give my permission and consent, as provided for in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, for the Spirit Squad Coordinator and Spirit Squad coaches and/or their representatives to periodically review my personal educational records maintained by the University for purposes of monitoring my eligibility for participation.

5. At all times, I covenant and agree to carry and maintain a personal insurance policy and/or to be covered under a personal insurance which shall be the sole and exclusive insurance coverage in the unfortunate event I am injured or harmed in any way while trying out or participating at any Practice or Event as a member of the Spirit Squad. I further covenant and agree to furnish the University with all requested proof of insurance and valid ID numbers for any applicable insurance, along with a copy of the actual policy or policies (if requested). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, I fully understand, covenant, and agree that I am solely responsible for determining the amounts, policy limits, and types of insurance coverage I deem personally necessary to protect myself in the event of injury or death while participating in Spirit Squad tryouts and/or as a member of the Spirit Squad at any Practice or Event.

6. I understand that membership on the Spirit Squad requires and involves the execution of stunts, tumbling passes, dance elements, and other maneuvers (the "Physical Requirements"), which are physically strenuous and demanding. By completing the tryout process, and if selected, by being a member of the Spirit Squad, I warrant and represent to the University that I can meet the Physical Requirements described to me during Tryouts. I also understand and acknowledge that I will be prepared to enthusiastically perform any or all Physical Requirements at all Practices and Events.

7. I understand that there are no specific weight or height requirements or limitations to try out for the Spirit Squad. However, I acknowledge that I will be given a uniform, and no other uniforms will be ordered for me throughout the season.

8. If selected, I covenant and agree to have a current physical examination at my own expense before participating in any Practice or Event. I agree to provide evidence of such an examination to the Coach before the first practice.

9. I understand and agree that, if selected, the University has the sole and exclusive right in its sole discretion to suspend or remove me from the Spirit Squad for any reason at any time. Nothing in this Agreement creates or grants any property rights or legal rights to be a member of the Spirit Squad, and I understand and agree that membership in the Spirit Squad is merely a privilege.

10. I understand that the University is a member of the Great American Conference (the "Conference") and that both the Conference and the University have adopted the American Association of Collegiate Cheerleaders Association College Safety Rules (the "AACCA College Safety Rules"). A copy of these AACCA College Safety Rules may be found at http://www.cheerrules.org/aacca-college. I have read, fully understand, and agree to follow these AACCA College Safety Rules if I am selected as a member of the Spirit Squad.

11. I understand and agree that the performance of any cheerleading and/or Spirit Squad acts, including, but not limited to any stunts, tumbling passes, dance routines, and other athletic maneuvers, carries inherent and obvious levels of risk and may result in physical injury (including, but not limited to, torn muscles, broken bones, neurological damage and paralysis) and/or death to me. Despite such inherent and obvious risks, I voluntarily desire to engage in such activities in tryouts and, if selected, as a member of the Spirit Squad. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, in consideration for the opportunity to tryout and, if selected, to be a member of the Spirit Squad, I hereby covenant and agree (for myself, my heirs, assigns and personal representatives) to absolutely, unconditionally, and forever waive, release, indemnify, and hold harmless Ouachita Baptist University, the Spirit Squad Coordinator and coaches, all the University trustees, officials, representatives, employees and volunteers in their official and individual capacities from and against any and all claims, causes of action, expenses, or costs of any nature whatsoever arising from or relating to any physical and/or mental injury(ies), including, but not limited to, paralysis or death, which may occur in connection with my voluntary participation in tryouts to become a member of the Spirit Squad and, if selected, in connection with my participation as a member of the Spirit Squad. I acknowledge and agree that I am not required to try out and, if selected, to be a member of the Spirit Squad, and that I desire to do so voluntarily and by my own free will. BY SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT, I FULLY UNDERSTAND, COVENANT AND AGREE THAT I AM VOLUNTARILY ENGAGING IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITES WHICH ARE INHERENTLY AND OBVIOUSLY RISKY AND THAT I AM WAIVING AND RELINQUISHING ALL LEGAL RIGHTS AGAINST THE UNIVERSITY AND ITS OFFICIALS FOR ANY HARM I MAY SUFFER.

12. This Agreement and Release and Waiver of Liability is governed by the laws of the State of Arkansas without regard to its choice of law principles and there are no other agreements, whether oral or written, between me and the University concerning the Spirit Squad.

I WARRANT AND REPRESENT THAT I AM AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER. IF NOT, I UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT MY PARENTS AND/OR LEGAL GUARDIAN SHALL BE REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT. I UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT THIS IS A LEGAL DOCUMENT WHICH AFFECTS MY LEGAL RIGHTS.

Student/Cheerleader/Mascot

Printed Name

Signature

Click to Sign...

Date

Guidelines Acknowledgementpage 4 of 4

Tigers Ouachita Baptist University Spirit Squad Guidelines

INTRODUCTION:

These Guidelines are designed to inform those who are considering trying out for the Squad (generally, but not necessarily comprised of Cheer and at least one Mascot) and their parents about the policies and expectations for members of the Squad. If you have any questions, please contact the Coach before tryouts. Please sign in the space provided below indicating that you have read, understand, and agree to abide by these Guidelines. Spirit Squad members are expected to pursue excellence in everything they do. That means academically, personal conduct, athletically, and otherwise.

PHILOSOPHY AND PURPOSE:

The primary purpose of the Ouachita Baptist University Spirit Squad (the "Squad") is the support of intercollegiate athletics at Ouachita Baptist University and the University itself. The support is directed into two significant areas, as follows:

Cheerleading Squads: We will lead the cheers to raise the level of fan support for intercollegiate athletics; lead in positive local support for the team; project that support and solicit that support from Tiger fans and participate in the athletic activity known as cheerleading by performing partner stunts, motions, pyramids, and gymnastics. We will strive to perfect this athletic activity for entertainment purposes during pre-game, time-outs, halftimes, and other appropriate times and for competitive purposes.

Mascots: We assist the cheerleaders in leading school spirit and incorporate skits and props during pre-game, halftimes, and other appropriate times.

The cheerleaders and mascots serve as public relations ambassadors of intercollegiate athletics and Ouachita Baptist University. They are required to uphold, reflect, and project the goals and ideals of the University, be present at university activities, functions, programs, charitable and public causes, and promote intercollegiate athletics and Ouachita Baptist University.

In addition to the general policies described above, the following are more specific policies concerning the Squad.

Academics: You must have at the time of tryouts and maintain throughout your membership of the Squad, a minimum GPA of 2.0. Members of the Spirit Squad are expected to manage their time and responsibilities to meet their academic obligations, understanding their commitment to the Squad. Required study session hours in the Academic Success Center may be assigned.
Personal Conduct: Squad members shall always exercise good citizenship and judgment and behave in a way that projects a positive image of themselves, the Squad, the athletic department, and the University. This Personal Conduct requirement extends to a member's social media presence (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, Snapchat etc.). No member shall:
1. engage in any behavior which is loud, boisterous, rude, unrestrained, rough, rowdy, offensive, harsh, or unruly.
2. consume any alcoholic beverage, smoke, or vape while traveling on behalf of the University or in any uniform or apparel representing the University or on social media. If a cheerleader shows signs of intoxication during a cheerleading event, there will be immediate expulsion from the squad and reported to Student Development.
3. post or maintain any inappropriate postings, pictures, or other social networking presence or participation inconsistent with this Personal Conduct requirement.
Absences: All team functions are mandatory. The only absences are for illness, academic necessity, or unsafe weather conditions.
1. Illness or Injury – Any illness or injury shall be reported to the Coach and the athletic training department at the University. If a member is too ill to practice but is not contagious, they must attend and observe practice. Suppose a member is unable to practice or perform due to injury. In that case, such a member may not Practice or perform until cleared for practice or performance by the University athletic training staff or a physician. Attendance is still required. A physician must document absences for illness. Given the nature of Cheer, if a member cannot perform, the Coach may replace the ill or injured member, and there is no guarantee that the sick or injured member will return to their spot upon return.
2. Academic Necessity – This excused absence is limited to an academic event that is only scheduled for a time that conflicts with otherwise scheduled Squad practice, game, or event. Extra time for homework or to study for a test does not qualify as an academic necessity. It is presumed that each member will manage their time appropriately.
3. Unsafe Weather Conditions members will be excused if travel is unsafe. The determination of hazardous weather conditions must be cleared with the Coach in advance and as early as possible.
4. Each member must be on time for each practice, game, event, etc. Therefore, punctuality is required. Being on time means arriving at least fifteen minutes before the scheduled time, so the member has time to warm up and prepare. If a team member is absent for a game, their spot on the squad will not be held for the following year. They will need to tryout again.
Practice/Game Expectations: The following will not be tolerated at any practice, game, or event:
1. checking of cell phones - Cell phones must be silent at all practices, games, and events.
2. jewelry (of any kind, nature, or location)
3. acrylic nails that are more than fingertip length or to a point
4. hair color (other than "natural tones")
5. Uniforms will be kept clean and neat (any damage to a uniform will be repaired at the cost of the member).
6. Hair will be worn as directed by the Coach.
Fundraising: Each Squad member will be required to participate in all fundraising events, from time to time, as presented, including, but certainly not limited to, t-shirt sales, game-day tattoo sales, cheer clinics, cheer camps, alum events, etc. The proceeds from the fundraising will cover various expenses, including, but not limited to, uniforms, practice wear, travel expenses, and competitions.
Travel: When traveling to games and other events, members will be required to travel on university-provided transportation unless arrangements are made in advance of the game/event, with approval of such other arrangements being at the sole discretion of the Coach. Cheerleaders may leave the game with their parents, but not parents
Health, Lifestyle, and Nutrition: The University's Spirit Squad is committed to promoting and fostering healthy lifestyles and eating habits for its members. Conduct that opposes this philosophy and/or poses an unacceptable risk and disregard for participants' health, safety, and welfare violates this policy and will result in appropriate counseling.
Scholarships: The University provides scholarships to Squad members, which are awarded to Squad members at the discretion of the Coach, based on several factors. First-year members are awarded $500 for the Fall semester and $500 for the Spring semester, with more than one year in the program receiving $1,000 for the Fall semester and $1,000 for the Spring semester. These amounts have not yet been voted on yet, and any change to this will be sent out in writing. We occasionally have non-scholarship spots that are offered before the squad is announced.
Captains: The Coach selects one or more captains and, if so, who those captains will be are all decisions within the Coach's discretion.

IMPORTANT: Failure to adhere to the preceding Guidelines will subject the member to discipline, which may include, without limitation, suspension, loss of scholarship, or dismissal from the Squad.

I have read, understand, and agree to abide by the preceding Guidelines.

Printed Name

Signature

Click to Sign...

Date

Cheer & Mascot Tryouts 2026-2027

The information below will be emailed to you later for future reference, but please take a moment to read through it carefully before completing the following forms.

Spirit Squad Guidelines

TRYOUT REQUIREMENTS

Schedule for tryouts:

Requirements for CHEER tryout:

MASCOT tryout:

COMPOSITION OF SQUAD

ROLE OF THE SPIRIT SQUAD

TRYOUTS

Tryout Application

Tiger Spirit Squad Agreement and Release and Waiver of Liability

Tigers Ouachita Baptist University Spirit Squad Guidelines