Ep 1. Tryout Fears and Tears

The show Cheerleader Nation follows the lives of high school cheerleaders at Paulina High School in Louisiana as they navigate the ups and downs of competitive cheerleading. In season 1 episode 1, titled Tryout Fears and Tears, we are introduced to the team as they prepare for tryouts, a nerve-wracking experience for both returning and new members.

The episode begins with a group of returning cheerleaders discussing their fears and anxieties about the upcoming tryouts. They talk about the pressure they feel to perform well and the fear of being cut from the team. One girl admits she's been practicing every day for weeks, while another says she's already cried twice just thinking about tryouts. Despite their nerves, the girls all agree that being a part of the cheerleading team is worth the stress.

Next, we are introduced to the new girls trying out for the team. They all have different backgrounds, but they share the same dream of becoming high school cheerleaders. We see them practicing their routines, tumbling, and stunts in the gym, all while their nervousness is palpable.

The coaches, Donna and Patrick, have high expectations for the girls, and they are looking for those who can perform difficult stunts and bring energy and enthusiasm to the team. They also have to weigh the importance of having a team with diversity, both in terms of cheerleading experience and personality.

As tryouts get underway, we see the girls performing in front of the judges, including the coaches and some alumni cheerleaders who have come back to help judge. The girls all have moments of greatness, but also moments where they struggle. We see a few girls fall during their tumbling passes, while others shine during their stunts.

After tryouts, the coaches huddle together to decide who will make the team. They discuss each girl's strengths and weaknesses, weighing their skills against the needs of the team. They also have to consider the difficult task of cutting girls who have put in so much time and effort.

The episode ends with the coaches announcing the new team, as the girls gather on the bleachers to hear the results. Some girls cry tears of joy, while others try to hide their disappointment. The coaches remind the girls that making the team is just the beginning, and that there is a lot of hard work ahead of them as they prepare for the upcoming competitions.

Overall, "Tryout Fears and Tears" is a great introduction to Cheerleader Nation, as we get to know the girls and their coaches and see the passion and dedication that goes into competitive cheerleading. It's a highly emotional episode, with plenty of tears and tension, but it also shows the fierce determination of these young athletes and the power of teamwork.