cheerleader mental health Archives

By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 12, 2024

Cheerleading at the professional level, especially for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC), is a dream for many dancers and athletes across the globe. The Netflix docuseries “America’s Sweethearts” and the long-running CMT reality show “Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team” provide an in-depth look into the lives of these cheerleaders.

The Dream of Dancing for “America’s Team”

For many dancers, becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader is seen as the pinnacle of their dance careers. This dream is often fueled from a young age, with families investing significant time and money into dance training. The competition is fierce, with hundreds of hopefuls vying for just 36 spots each season, making the acceptance rate comparable to that of Ivy League schools. The allure of being part of an iconic squad, performing at NFL games, and representing a globally recognized brand drives many to endure grueling audition processes and intense training regimens.

The Harsh Realities Behind the Glamour

Despite the prestige, the path to becoming a DCC is fraught with challenges. The cheerleaders often juggle demanding day jobs with their rigorous training schedules. The compensation, though improved after a lawsuit in 2018, remains modest compared to the wealth of the organization they represent. Cheerleaders earn approximately $500 per game and $15 to $20 per hour for practices, which, while better than in previous years, is still not commensurate with their contributions

The docuseries highlights the immense physical and mental pressures these women face. Cheerleaders like Victoria Kalina and others have spoken about the toll that maintaining the DCC’s stringent appearance standards can take, often leading to severe issues such as eating disorders (Vanity Fair). The pressure to remain slim and fit into the iconic DCC uniform, which they must return at the end of each season, exacerbates these struggles. This pressure is compounded by the public scrutiny they face, both from the team’s management and the broader audience.

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The Passion That Keeps Them Going

Despite these challenges, many cheerleaders continue to pursue this dream out of sheer passion for dance and performance. The love for the art form and the desire to be part of something bigger than themselves often outweigh the financial and personal sacrifices. The DCC’s rigorous standards and the high-stakes environment push these dancers to their limits, but for many, the experience is worth every struggle (New York Times).

Victoria Kalina’s journey, as depicted in the docuseries, exemplifies this passion and dedication. Despite facing rejection and battling personal demons, she remained committed to her goal, ultimately deciding to pivot her dreams towards becoming a Rockette. Her story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these cheerleaders, who often must navigate the fine line between personal aspirations and professional demands (Vanity Fair).

A Call for Better Support and Compensation

While the passion of these cheerleaders is undeniable, there is a growing call for better support and compensation. The organization has made some strides, such as providing sponsorships that cover expenses like haircuts and spray tans. However, these perks do not fully address the financial and emotional challenges faced by the cheerleaders. Advocates argue for a more comprehensive approach that includes fairer pay, better mental health support, and respectful treatment from the organization

dallas cowboys cheerleading compensation

The journey of a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader is one of passion, sacrifice, and resilience. The allure of performing on a grand stage and being part of a storied legacy drives many to pursue this challenging path. However, the realities highlighted by documentaries and docuseries call for a reevaluation of how these talented individuals are compensated and supported. As the cheerleading world continues to evolve, it is crucial to ensure that these athletes receive the respect, recognition, and compensation they deserve.