Indeed, contest season is already here. Several companies have already had competitions. For those teams who still have contests ahead of them, I have found some great web articles for your reference.
Joyce Pennington, owner of American Dance/Drill Team School has written several articles which appear on the company's website. She gives tips on how to be most prepared for contest and advice on how to beat the scoresheet. Pennington has also written an article specifically for soloists.
DanceArt.com has a wonderful section devoted to columns by professional dancers. One column that I found especially applicable to contest season is one by Gavin Freeman and is titled What does it mean to fail?. I'm going to insert some of my own advice here--it is SO important to remember that while you must do your best at contest, YOUR best is not always going to be what the judges like or for what the judges are looking in a routine. Contest is a chance to grow as a dancer. The trophies and ribbons are pretty to look at, but competitions are most successful when you get something out of them that doesn't collect dust--an experience or a lesson. Something I am always telling my friends: You are not a failure until you refuse to fight.
One of my favorite personal websites dedicated to drill teams is Christy's Drill Team Page. Christy does an excellent job providing information on a wide variety of drill team-related topic, and she also has a page where she gives her contest tips.
DanceArt.com also features a message board section that has a board devoted to contests. Drop by the board and meet some people, or maybe you'll be able to find answers to some of your questions... or find more tips on how to make this contest a great one.
Best of luck to you, but remember that it's not about luck. It's about believing in yourself.
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