Flawless hair, flawless makeup, and flawless choreography: when people see perfection, they often overlook the amount of work it took to get there. The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC), known as America’s Sweethearts, represent more than just entertainment; they embody dedication, strength, and a unique spirit that captivates fans across the nation. A new Netflix docuseries titled America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders pulls back the curtain to reveal the sheer mental and physical strength it takes to be inducted into one of America’s most iconic National Football League (NFL) franchises.
Before each Dallas Cowboys home football game, a group of 36 cheerleaders takes the field. Handpicked from hundreds of applicants, the women, some as young as 18, wow the crowd with their unbelievably precise high kicks and split jumps. Throughout the game, they are positioned along the sidelines with the sole purpose of energizing the crowd. Retired DCC Caroline Sundvold states, “Our job, literally, is to make people happy, no matter what we feel like.” This statement perfectly encapsulates the spirit of DCC and the sacrifices these women make for the love of performance.
The journey to becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader is not just about glitz and glamour; it involves extensive training and an unwavering commitment to their craft. Over 60 years ago, then-Dallas Cowboys general manager Texas “Tex” Schramm recognized that professional football had become more than just a sport—it was entertainment. He decided to hire a group of cheerleaders to add to the spectacle, setting the stage for what would become a legendary brand in sports entertainment.
Understanding the Rigorous Selection Process
The audition process for the DCC is a challenging journey that tests the talents and resilience of hopeful candidates. Under the guidance of Director Kelli Finglass and head choreographer Judy Trammell, the auditions evaluate applicants on their talent, aesthetics, and personality. The initial round begins with over 200 online submissions, which are narrowed down to around 70 invitees who perform a personal, costumed solo dance for a panel of judges.
From this pool, only about 45 women are invited to the rigorous 10-week DCC Training Camp. This period consists of intense rehearsals where candidates must learn all of DCC's 50 routines with complete accuracy. The competition is fierce, and only the best will earn a spot on the official roster of 36 cheerleaders.
The Life of a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader
Life as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader extends beyond the football field. Each year, cheerleaders balance their responsibilities with demanding full-time jobs. Many work in diverse fields such as nursing, sales, or fitness, as cheerleading is often considered a part-time job. The average salary for a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader is reported to be around $75,000 per year, comparable to a full-time job in other sectors.
Despite the demanding schedules and physical toll, the women embrace their roles with enthusiasm and pride. As one former cheerleader puts it, “You need to look like a supermodel but perform like an athlete.” This mindset is crucial as they navigate the rigorous rehearsals and performances that define their season.
Behind the Glamour: The True Cost of Perfection
While the cheerleaders may appear flawless on stage, the reality is that maintaining that level of excellence comes at a cost. The infamous split jump, for example, has resulted in injuries for some cheerleaders, requiring surgeries and rehabilitation. Common neck and back issues arise from the physical demands of their routines. “People think what we do is not really that hard,” another cheerleader explains, “but our job is to make it look easy.”
However, despite these challenges, the camaraderie and love for performance create a unique bond among the cheerleaders. They often describe the experience as addictive, filled with joy and passion for their craft. Each performance is a testament to their dedication and a celebration of their hard work.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the DCC
As the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders continue to evolve, they remain a vital part of the football experience. The new docuseries promises to give viewers an intimate look at the audition process and the lives of these remarkable women, highlighting their journey and the challenges they face. It premieres on Netflix on June 20, providing fans with a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader.
The DCC stands as a symbol of the blend between sports and entertainment, proving that behind every flawless performance lies a story of hard work, resilience, and unwavering passion. The love these women have for their roles shines through, making them not just cheerleaders, but icons in their own right.
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