Nothing
can ever replace the instruction from a professional dance/drill team
instructor. Spring is the time of year that you select your team and look
into planning their training for football season and a full year of
performances. Many times your officers will be outstanding leaders and
clever choreographers but, bare in mind that their lack of experience and
expertise cannot match that of an experienced professional.
Each team has their own individual needs and many
times those needs may vary from year to year. When you are preparing for
your summer training program, take the following into consideration:
NEW
TEAM-- Make
sure that your new team has a good solid knowledge of basic dance/drill team
skills, terminology and technique. First year members might need
additional practice time to 'catch up' with the skill level of the returning
members. Complete this pre-training before going to summer camp and never
attempt for them to learn a routine without any of the basics taught to
them.
PRIVATE
INSTRUCTION-- A
young, inexperienced team might strongly consider hiring a professional camp
company to send an instructor to your school for a private camp and take the
time needed for the basics and bring material properly suited to your team's
personal style and ability level. Bare in mind that all instructors are
not necessarily professionals and a 'bargain' may not be the best gamble for
your team. Seek help from a reputable camp company and you will receive
the benefit of the choreography style of many choreographers and not just
one.
CAMP--
An established squad needs the exposure
of observing other teams and being challenged by good, professional
routines. Select a camp that will be the most educational and beneficial
for your team. Style, instructional staff, administrative staff,
reputation and facilities all play an important role in your selection of camp
companies.
SUMMER
PRACTICE-- Treat
rehearsals as "business" and much more can be accomplished in less
time. Meet with your officers after camp and before summer practice to
decide on the routines to be taught for football season. Each routine
should be analyzed, adapted and ready to be taught before practice time
comes. During your week or two of summer "boot camp", have a
schedule and stick to it. Review each routine for pep rallies, football
and basketball that was learned at camp. This will lighten your load after
school begins, especially since many school districts regulate weekly rehearsal
time.
CREATIVE
RESOURCES--
Never limit your sources for new and creative material. Watch television,
movies, musicals and share these ideas with your officers or
choreographer. You do not have to be a dancer to have a creative
imagination. Redundancy is boring so be careful that your routines do not
start looking alike. Utilize the various one day clinics in the winter
offered by professional camp companies that can stimulate new looks and steps to
routines. Throughout the year call in a special instructor to give a
stretch class, aerobics, jazz workshop, tap workshop, etc. Never limit yourself
to only a single input. The sky is the limit! This variety will add new
dimensions to your team that will be motivating and show dramatic improvements.
In conclusion, good planning and strong professional
training can only formulate a successful season of performances for your
team. Take the time to plan ahead now for a successful future. |