I grew up in New Mexico, raised by a family who loves the Dallas Cowboys. Since the age of five, I have always wanted to become a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader. I was a little girl with big dreams and didn’t have any examples of women to look up to who had achieved their “big” goals. I spent four years dancing for the University of New Mexico, where I was introduced to Jacqueline Grice, the Spirit Coordinator. Jacqueline turned our spirit program into a collegiate team. She held us

A native of McAllen, Texas, Sydney cheered for the Cowboys from 2008 to 2015. As a teenager, she caught the eye of former DCC, Shelly Roper-McCaslin, at a dance competition after a solo performance, and was encouraged to audition for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Sydney says she was initially in disbelief, but decided to go for it, and was able to advance directly to the semi-final audition round. At only eighteen years old, she moved to Dallas to audition, and remembers learning several routines via video in addition

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders organization prides itself on the traditions that can withstand the test of time. Our iconic uniform, our distinctive style of dance, and a uniquely bonded group of sisters that will lift each other up through every stage of life. During my conversation with Rashel, I realized how much things change, but how some things remain the same over a span of 30 years. From the moment her white boots hit the field, she knew this was going to be the experience of a lifetime.

Karen McCaghren was a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader for two fantastic seasons. Karen auditioned right out of high school at the age of 18 for her first season in 1985. She got married during her rookie season and was pregnant at the time to audition for her second year. Karen stepped back, but only three months after having her first son, she re-auditioned and returned for her second season in 1987. During Karen's second season, she had the opportunity to travel on ships in the Indian Ocean and

“Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders” – what comes to mind when you hear that phrase? Most likely it’s something along the lines of blue stars, white fringe vests, sparkling smiles and “America’s Sweethearts.” This iconic team has been in and out of the media for decades, recognized for their flawless performances, eloquent way of speaking and community service involvement. But what’s behind the curtain? What others may not directly see is the sisterhood formed that lasts a lifetime and the life lessons learned along the way. I recently had the

Kimberly is originally from West Texas, a town called Big Spring. She decided to try out for DCC after attending a rehearsal with her mom at Texas Stadium. Kimberly’s little brother and Judy’s son went to school together and she invited them to come and watch. After speaking to Judy and getting advice from her longtime dance instructor, DCC’s original choreographer, Texie Waterman, she decided to try out. She felt so lucky to be chosen her first year to try out! It was such a blessing and

When I saw I had been matched with Olivia, I could not have been more excited for the opportunity to chat with her. I can even remember my veteran teammates telling me how much I would like her Technique Tuesday class three years ago, and how much her journey would inspire me as a rookie DCC. I had looked up to her exquisite technique, powerful performance quality, and her ability to continue to challenge herself as a performer, but upon talking to her, I learned her greatest

Justine grew up in Plano, Texas and always dreamed of dancing professionally. Justine danced her entire life at KJ Dance studio, and thought she would move out to New York City or LA to pursue dance as a career. However, throughout high school, Justine was encouraged to audition for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. As she approached graduation, Justine re-routed her dream of dancing professionally. Instead of moving out to the coasts, she decided to stay in Dallas to audition for DCC. Justine hoped to audition at the

I had the privilege and honor of speaking to 5-year veteran, Pro Bowl Cheerleader, Veteran of the Year, and perfect DCC ambassador, Melissa Valdez, also known as Mija, sometimes Pocahontas! I am blown away by all of Mija’s accomplishments as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader. Her aspirations to be a cheerleader, along with achieving her dream have shaped her life since she was born. I am so inspired by her story and could not be happier to be paired up with such a legendary DCC. Mija’s dream to be

Growing up around the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, I would always hear about the memories you will forever cherish, and the bonds of friendships that will stay in your life for many years after your time on the team. No one will understand the connection that the cheerleaders have. Six decades of cheerleaders, less than 800 women, sharing a gold band that they proudly wear on their pinkies. Here I am, a rookie DCC, getting to connect with an alumnus from the organization, Nicol Corbin Bush, and talking