You love the Baltimore Ravens? You were a cheerleader in high school or college and loved every minute of it? You see the cheerleaders at the games and think about how great it would be to be watching every home game right from the field and leading thousands of screaming fans in the excitement and exuberance at M and T Bank Stadium? Plus get paid for it? It sounds like you might have the makings of a Baltimore Raven Cheerleader. The job is demanding and takes up a lot of time with bi-weekly practices, personal appearances, and of course, the games. But you know you would be thrilled to do it. So go on and get started and get ready to audition and join the team.

There are a few basic requirements for becoming a Baltimore Raven Cheerleader.

• The minimum age is 18. There is no maximum age limit
• There is no height or weight requirements, only that you are in good shape
• A high school diploma or GED is required
• You must have a part-time or full-time job, be attending college or have a family.
• You must live in the Baltimore area or relocate in order to cheer for the Ravens.
• You must be able to run 2 to 3 miles
• You must be able to devote a lot of time, not only on game days, but for approximately 20 personal appearances, as well.
• Practice sessions are held every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:30pm to 9:30pm beginning in April until January.http://www.baltimoreravens.com/People/Cheer/FAQ.aspx

Ok, so you have all the basics requirements. Here's a few tips to give you an advantage. Things really get going in February with auditions in early March, so you want to start preparing yourself prior to that. Watch videos of the Raven's Cheerleaders to acquaint yourself to their dance and tumbling routines. If you intention is to be on the dance team, take a few hip-hop or jazz dancing classes. If your going for the stunt team, a refresher in gymnastics or tumbling is recommended or a stunt class. They usually have two prep sessions in February. You can get the dates and information online. Although they aren't mandatory, it is strongly suggested that you attend. This will give you a real feel for what they are looking for. They prefer that you send in your application and photos prior to the audition. For the application, Click Here, then click on "Baltimore Ravens Cheerleader and Playmaker Application." and print out the form. Fill out the application in full, and follow all of the directions carefully. Two 5x7 non-returnable photos must be enclosed with the application and a resume. Don't forget the check to cover the processing fee. You'll find the amount on the application. (The 2010 rate was $30.00 if you preregistered by mail, or $40.00 cash on the day of the auditions).

Plan on being at the audition most of the day. Recommendations for women's clothing are a sports bra or crop top (bare midriff), shorts or short bikers, or trunks, comfortable dance sneakers, panty hose or tights are optional. Men auditioning for the stunt team should wear a white shirt and black trunks, be clean shaven, with a good haircut. Ladies should be in full makeup with hair down, (no ponytails). They suggest that you bring water or a drink and a snack, a towel, and make up. Have a few choreographed 8 counts ready just in case.http://www.baltimoreravens.com/People/Cheer/Tryouts_Fact_Sheet.aspx -- application

So it's audition day and you're ready. You preregistered, you have your driver's license or photo ID with you, you know how to get to the location. All of the particulars will be listed on you fact sheet. Registration is in the morning on a Saturday and lasts approximately 1 1/2 hours, allowing for time for walk-ins to get registered. The first order of business will be a material training session also lasting about 1 1/2 hours to learn a routine. Then the tryouts begin. The first cut will be on Saturday, those making the cut will be invited back on Sunday. You will be performing in front of judges on those dates. They will be looking for enthusiasm, talent, poise, dancing, jumping, and stunt skills (for the stunt team). They'll be looking for showmanship and a definite presence. If you make the cut on Sunday, then you'll get to step 3 of the audition, the interview. From there, you'll get physicals, and if all goes well, you'll be invited to the fifth round, two practice sessions. If you're selected for the team, you will receive a set monetary amount per game, and an hourly payment for appearances. The uniforms will be provided by the Ravens.http://www.baltimoreravens.com/People/Cheer/FAQ.aspx