Tokyo native, Tomoko Mita Johnston, made her first trip to Dallas, Texas as a teenager alongside her dance team, to compete for a national title. She recalls coming in 6th place at the competition, and wanting to one day win a national title. Little did she know then, that she would one day perform as one of America’s Sweethearts! Tomoko moved to the USA to attend Oklahoma State University and then transferred to complete her studies at Steven F.Austin State University. She was a member of both

Cynde Lewis was a member of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders for only 2 years, and had more incredible experiences as a DCC than one can even dream! Originally from Richardson, TX, Cynde first heard about the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders audition while listening to the Wolf Radio, a Dallas country music station, which advertised the upcoming search to its listeners in the DFW area. While she knew nothing about football at the time, Cynde had an extensive background in cheerleading, having participated in the sport from 6th grade

Dara McFarlane Sayrie is a professional dancer, choreographer, and co-owner of Fierce Factory Dance & Talent. She was born and raised in Friendswood, Texas, and currently resides in Houston, Texas. Dara’s passion for dance and performance grew throughout her childhood, as she has competed locally and nationally in drill team and dance. After graduating high school, she became one of the world-renowned Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Dara wore the iconic 15 stars and boots from 2007-2009. She had the opportunity to travel on USO tours to Iraq and Afghanistan

I had the honor of speaking with Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader alumna, Alona Wood Moore, and we connected in so many special ways. Alona was an accomplished cheerleader, and enjoyed her years on the team from 1986-1990. She was honest and open about her time as a DCC. She spoke about the importance of gratitude and her appreciation for such a wonderful organization. Today, she lives in Texas and works in real estate, in addition to being a mom to two children. Alona hadn’t always dreamed of being a

Michelle Druga Fraser was born and raised in Dallas, TX, and cheered two seasons for the Dallas Cowboys. In a phone interview with her, she shared details of her time on the team, and explained that she had two very different experiences during those years. She was eighteen years old as a rookie in 1986, and became a veteran, years later in 1994. Michelle’s journey through auditions and her time on the team is a unique one. Michelle was encouraged to audition by a former DCC who was

True Texas girl, Laurie Harris, was born and raised in Dallas. As a young girl she was involved in tumbling and gymnastics, and learned her work ethic and dedication as a competitive gymnast on both the regional and national level. She spent two years as a cheerleader for the Dallas Tornados professional soccer team honing her cheerleading skills. Her senior year at Highland Park High School in 1968, Laurie “ran for cheerleader” and was selected for the squad. She swore it was because she was a great

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