In order to supplement the varsity competition squad, which has dwindled to 12 members, the cheer team will hold open tryouts for three available positions, Nov. 10.

After losing senior Tylar Pattie to a debilitating case of mononucleosis and sophomore Morgan Childs to a shoulder injury, head coach Robin Whitford decided to add members to the team in order to compete as a “medium” squad.

“We’ve had several injuries and illness, so we are having open tryouts to fill out the squad; we can take up to three girls,” cheer advisor Natalie Douty said. “In order to let them on the team, we’re going to make sure they can compete on the same level. We’re definitely going to have extra practices.”

The tryouts, which will begin with a clinic Nov. 9 to teach candidates the routine, will give past and aspiring cheerleaders a chance to join the team.

“I’m trying out because I love cheering and I love competition season,” junior Mary Reynolds, who has cheered the past two years, said. “I wanted to be on the team in the first place, but it didn’t work out, so I’m really glad I got a second chance.”

For more information about cheer, e-mail Whitford or read the Nov. 4 article, Captain leads with ‘cheery’ attitude.