“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

  Not one minute into our conversation, before Julie and I quickly realized how much we had in common and why we were likely partnered together. I was immediately drawn to her before the interview had even begun based on her email address that stated she worked for PepsiCo/Gatorade and a quick google search showed she had been there 14 years. I always admire a hardworking woman who finds a way to live out her dream professionally and personally, and Julie fit this description perfectly. I could not

I had the privilege of interviewing Makenzi Swicegood Dauwe, who served as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader from 2005-2009. After her time cheering, she danced professionally in Los Angeles, California for three and a half years. She is originally from Plano, Texas, and now resides in Dallas, Texas with her husband, 3-year-old son, and 2-year-old daughter. She is currently pursuing a certification to teach and train group fitness classes at Equinox. In the meantime, she is homeschooling her children, and her husband owns a home building business. Before her

Louisiana native, Gina Parker cheered for the Cowboys from 1997-1999. A small town girl, she knew trying out for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader and making it, would be a long shot. Little did she know, her big time dream would become a reality. Gina enjoyed two memorable seasons as a DCC under the leadership of Director Kelly Finglass and choreographer Judy Trammell. Earning $50 a game and nothing for practices, Gina and her teammates cheered for the love of the Cowboys and not much else! She was

Jenni Croft Badolato was a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader for three outstanding seasons, 2002-2005. Prior to making the team, she danced for Wichita State University and auditioned for DCC right after graduation. She was inspired by her college dance team director to audition at the end of her time with Wichita State, and followed her to Dallas. Jenni grew up dancing competitively since the age of three. While speaking, I learned that we were at some of the same competitions growing up and that she is now best