Inside the Rigorous Standards of Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) maintain a storied reputation in NFL cheerleading, with strict guidelines shaping the journey of hopeful dancers. Aspiring members must navigate a series of expectations to join this elite squad.
Since the debut of CMT's Making the Team in 2006, under the leadership of Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammell, the DCC has captured widespread attention. Following the conclusion of the reality series in 2021, Netflix introduced America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, which showcased the latest roster during the 2023-2024 season.
This docuseries featured Victoria Kalina, a fourth-year veteran who previously faced disappointment during her audition for Making the Team. “I feel like my experience with CMT [brought up] PTSD [of] being called into the office so many times,” Victoria shared in an exclusive interview. “We didn’t really know exactly what route they were gonna take and what the storyline was gonna be.”
Victoria ultimately secured her place on the team in 2019, returning after a brief hiatus for mental health treatment. On America’s Sweethearts, she openly discussed the pressures of adhering to the DCC's high standards year after year.
Kelli Finglass stands firm on the rules governing DCC dancers, stating, “I don’t make excuses for our standards. It is a highly visible organization with very elite dancers.” The DCC uniform is custom-tailored, emphasizing the importance of appearance.
Prospective dancers must be at least 18 years old by the time auditions commence. During each round, candidates perform in provided uniforms before a panel of judges, including Finglass and Trammell. Judges assess technique, showmanship, energy, and overall presence.
Successful candidates face a demanding rehearsal schedule, with a minimum of two sessions each week once the season starts. “All rehearsals are scheduled in the evenings; extra weekend rehearsals for Show Group and Rookies,” the DCC website states. Those unable to commit to this schedule are advised against auditioning.
Audition processes have evolved but retain core elements. Jenni Croft, a four-time veteran, recalled her experience: “You could take a class…but there was no prepping for auditions. When we got there, there were 1,500 women standing in line.” Candidates learn choreography and undergo interviews, including a written exam covering Dallas Cowboys history and current events.
Appearance regulations are stringent. Dancers must wear well-fitted dancewear and adhere to specific hair and makeup guidelines. Kelli even organizes makeover days to align recruits’ looks with her vision for the team.
Makeup recommendations emphasize natural beauty, advising against overly dramatic styles. “Choose mostly mattes for eye shadows…avoid false eyelashes that are very solid or very long,” the guidelines suggest. Spray tans should match skin tones without orange hues to maintain uniformity.
Hair must be styled to enhance facial features without obscuring them. The DCC website directs trainees to local salons for professional guidance.
Tattoos are permitted but must be concealed during performances and rehearsals. “Our policy is that even the smallest of tattoos may not be visible in uniform,” states the DCC website.
Continuity is key; making the team one year does not guarantee future spots. At season's end, dancers submit their uniforms and indicate their intentions for the next year. Victoria expressed her concerns about re-auditioning: “As a fifth-year going into auditions, I felt like my place on the team was threatened.”
Returning veterans do not receive new uniforms each year, creating pressure to maintain their size. “Once you’re fitted for that uniform, that size is the size that you get,” Victoria explained.
A notable rule prohibits DCC members from dating Cowboys players, a policy enforced by Kelli and Judy during auditions. However, NFL players do not face similar restrictions.
Dancers are also bound by confidentiality regarding their whereabouts during the season. KayDianna MacKenzie highlighted this in America’s Sweethearts, noting that contracts prevent sharing information that could compromise safety.
While not formally stated, there exists an unspoken understanding regarding pregnancy during the NFL season. Reece Weaver remarked on this topic: “That’s just an unspoken thing that we don’t really talk about.” Yet, DCC leadership remains open to mothers who meet other requirements.
“Fun fact, there was a DCC [who] did have a daughter,” Reece noted, praising her determination and success against stereotypes associated with cheerleading.
