The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are among the most iconic cheerleading squads in the world. From their high-energy performances to their prominent role in pop culture, Cowboys cheerleaders have become synonymous with glamour, athleticism, and professionalism. But what does it take to become one of these cheerleaders, and what does life look like off the field? This guide dives into their annual salary, fame, responsibilities, and everything in between.
How Much Do Cowboys Cheerleaders Make?
The salary of a Cowboys cheerleader has been a topic of debate and intrigue over the years. While the squad’s visibility and prestige are unmatched, their pay structure has often been criticized.
- Base Pay:
Cowboys cheerleaders earn approximately $20 per hour for rehearsals and public appearances. For game days, they receive a flat rate of about $600 per game. Over a regular NFL season (including preseason, home games, and potential playoffs), this adds up to around $15,000 to $20,000 annually. - Bonuses and Extra Opportunities:
Cheerleaders can supplement their income through paid appearances at events, brand endorsements, and calendars. For instance, the DCC releases an annual swimsuit calendar, and participating in promotional tours or appearances for the Cowboys organization can significantly boost their earnings. - Comparison to NFL Players:
While $20 per hour or $600 per game may seem low, cheerleaders’ compensation is a fraction of what players or even team staff earn. However, the visibility and opportunities that come with being a Cowboys cheerleader often outweigh the initial paycheck.
Do Cowboys Cheerleaders Have Side Jobs?
For many Cowboys cheerleaders, the income from cheering is not their primary source of livelihood. Most hold full-time or part-time jobs alongside their cheerleading commitments.
- Career Paths: Many cheerleaders are professionals in fields like education, marketing, nursing, or business. Their cheerleading schedule, while demanding, is designed to accommodate other career pursuits.
- Influencer Roles: Some cheerleaders leverage their visibility to build personal brands on social media. From fitness training to fashion partnerships, many use their platform to supplement their income and pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
What Do Cheerleaders Do Beyond the Sidelines?
The life of a Cowboys cheerleader extends far beyond game-day performances. They are ambassadors for the Cowboys brand and are often involved in various promotional and charitable activities.
- Community Outreach:
Cheerleaders regularly participate in charity events, hospital visits, and community service programs, representing the Cowboys’ commitment to giving back. - Marketing and Promotions:
Cheerleaders appear in advertisements, attend sponsorship events, and even travel internationally as part of goodwill tours to support U.S. military troops. - Rehearsals and Training:
Maintaining their high standards requires rigorous rehearsals. The squad practices multiple times a week to perfect routines and prepare for performances.
Who Are the Most Famous Cowboys Cheerleaders?
Over the decades, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have become a launching pad for many individuals who later found fame in diverse fields. Here are a few notable alumni and their achievements:
- Melissa Rycroft: Known for her warm personality and dance skills, Melissa gained national fame after her time with the DCC by appearing on The Bachelor and Dancing with the Stars. Her journey from the sidelines to reality TV stardom made her an inspiration for cheerleaders aiming to break into mainstream entertainment.
- Kelli Finglass: A former cheerleader who became the squad’s director, Kelli Finglass is the driving force behind the DCC’s modern success. Through her work on the reality TV series Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team, she’s become a household name, showcasing the rigorous process of becoming a DCC member while highlighting the team’s global brand.
- Tina Kalina: A beloved DCC veteran who transitioned into a leadership role within the organization, Tina played a pivotal role in shaping the team’s professional image and mentoring new members.
- Judy Trammell: Though less known in popular media, Judy served as a choreographer for the DCC and became instrumental in designing their iconic routines. Her work has cemented the team’s reputation for technical precision and engaging performances.
These women, among many others, exemplify how the Cowboys Cheerleaders’ legacy transcends the field, proving their contributions to sports and entertainment are lasting.
Have Any Cowboys Cheerleaders Married Someone Famous?
While many Cowboys cheerleaders maintain privacy about their personal lives, a few have gained attention for their relationships with high-profile individuals:
- Athlete Connections: Given the cheerleaders’ proximity to professional athletes, it’s not uncommon for rumors about relationships to surface. Although these stories rarely make headlines, some former cheerleaders have gone on to marry athletes in the NFL or other sports leagues.
- Celebrity Circles: The cheerleaders often attend exclusive events and galas, which puts them in contact with celebrities, business leaders, and public figures. While no official records track these relationships, their social circles naturally overlap with those of high-profile individuals.
Despite the occasional speculation, most cheerleaders prefer to keep their romantic lives out of the spotlight, focusing instead on their careers and community involvement.
How Long Do Cheerleaders Stay With the Team?
The typical tenure for a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader averages two to three years, though this varies based on personal and professional circumstances.
- Motivations for Staying: Cheerleaders often describe their time with the DCC as a dream job. The camaraderie, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, and chance to represent an iconic organization make it a rewarding experience. Those who stay longer often take on mentorship roles or participate in leadership programs within the organization.
- Reasons for Leaving: Many cheerleaders transition out of the role to focus on their long-term career goals, family life, or higher education. The demanding schedule, while exciting, can be challenging to balance with other priorities.
- Post-DCC Careers: Former cheerleaders frequently go on to have successful careers in entertainment, business, or philanthropy. Some leverage their experiences to build personal brands, while others use their platform to pursue opportunities in fitness, fashion, or community service.
Overall, while the time spent as a Cowboys cheerleader may be relatively short, the skills, experiences, and relationships they develop often leave a lasting impact on their lives.
Are Cowboys Cheerleaders Hired on Looks Alone?
While appearance is part of the criteria, being a Cowboys cheerleader requires much more than good looks.
- Athleticism: Cheerleaders must pass rigorous fitness and dance tests to make the team.
- Public Speaking: As ambassadors for the organization, they need strong communication skills.
- Professionalism: The role demands a high level of maturity and responsibility.
Are They The Best Performing Team at AT&T Stadium?
Let’s face it—there have been seasons when the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders were arguably the best-performing squad at AT&T Stadium. While the Cowboys’ on-field performance has had its ups and downs over the years, the cheerleaders have maintained a standard of excellence and professionalism that rarely falters.
- Consistency is Key: The Cowboys Cheerleaders show up every week with flawless routines, unwavering enthusiasm, and picture-perfect smiles, regardless of whether the team is winning or losing. Rain or shine, playoffs or not, they deliver 100% effort—a feat the team itself hasn’t always matched.
- Fan Favorites: Even during the Cowboys’ less-than-stellar seasons, the cheerleaders remain a bright spot. Fans flock to the sidelines to catch their iconic halftime performances, and their routines often trend on social media long after the game ends.
- America’s Sweethearts: While the Cowboys pride themselves on being “America’s Team,” the cheerleaders could be called “America’s Sweethearts.” Their reputation and global recognition have, at times, eclipsed the team’s playoff struggles, ensuring that the Dallas Cowboys brand remains in the spotlight.
- A Tough Act to Follow: With rigorous training, unparalleled synchronization, and a commitment to excellence, the cheerleaders set a standard that the team might envy. Even when the scoreboard doesn’t favor the Cowboys, the cheerleaders give fans something to cheer for.
While it’s all in good fun, this lighthearted comparison underscores the sheer dedication and talent of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. After all, no matter what the team does on the field, these women remain a symbol of perfection, energy, and entertainment for fans around the world.
What Is the Background of Most Cheerleaders?
DCC members come from diverse backgrounds but share common traits:
- Dance Experience: Most have extensive training in dance or cheerleading, often starting in high school or college.
- Education: Many cheerleaders are college graduates or current students.
- Community Engagement: A passion for representing the Dallas Cowboys and engaging with the community is essential.
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are more than just a sideline attraction—they are a symbol of dedication, professionalism, and athleticism. From their responsibilities off the field to the financial realities of their role, being a Cowboys cheerleader is both demanding and rewarding. As one of the most iconic cheer squads in sports history, the DCC continues to inspire fans and aspiring cheerleaders worldwide.
