By D. W .G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
A Glimpse into the Rigorous World of DCC
"America’s Sweethearts," a new Netflix series that delves into the lives of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC), has rapidly climbed the platform’s charts since its release last month. This documentary style show offers an unprecedented look at the grueling recruitment and coaching processes that these cheerleaders undergo, shedding light on the immense pressure they face to achieve perfection.
Among the aspiring cheerleaders is 24 year old Ariana McClure, a medical sales representative who moved to Dallas to pursue her dream of joining the DCC. This is her second attempt, having been cut from training camp the previous year. The path to becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader is anything but easy. Dancers must endure a rigorous audition process and an intense training camp before they can perform on the football field. Every detail, from hair and makeup to staying in peak physical condition, is scrutinized. The cheerleaders are expected to maintain a specific size to fit into the iconic uniform of tiny shorts, crop tops, and cowboy boots, making the competition fierce and relentless.
While this is not the first show to explore the lives of these cheerleaders, it is the first to do so on such a global scale, thanks to Netflix. The series has revealed to many viewers the stark demands placed on the cheerleaders, who often balance full time jobs alongside their DCC commitments. Despite the demanding schedule, the pay is relatively low. Charlotte Jones, an executive of the Dallas Cowboys, acknowledges this but emphasizes that the cheerleaders are driven by passion rather than financial reward. Ariana, while recognizing slight improvements in pay, still believes that the compensation does not reflect the effort and dedication required for the role.
Mental Health and Resilience Amidst High Expectations
The series also addresses the mental health challenges faced by the cheerleaders. Victoria Kalina, a veteran who has since left the team, openly discusses her battles with depression and eating disorders during her time with the DCC. Ariana McClure praises Victoria's courage in speaking out, highlighting the common mental struggles shared among the team members.
To cope with the intense pressure, Ariana started journaling and seeking therapy. She advocates for the availability of sports therapists for NFL cheerleaders, noting that having professionals who understand the specific stresses of dance and athletic performance would be beneficial. The DCC organization claims to provide access to confidential support resources, mirroring the support available to their football players.
The show has garnered praise for its portrayal of the cheerleaders' resilience and strength in the face of exacting expectations. Critics have noted the disturbing aspects of the series, such as the physical toll on the cheerleaders' bodies, low wages, and objectification. However, the determination and dedication of the women are universally admired.
For Ariana, the journey ended when she was cut from training camp on the final day, a moment she learned about through the show itself. The reason given was the limited number of spots, but a deeper look into the show revealed comments about her height, which she was unaware of during the process. Despite the lack of official height restrictions, Ariana feels that clear guidelines would have influenced her decision to re audition.
Despite this setback, Ariana's dedication has not been in vain. She is now set to begin a new season as a cheerleader for the Miami Dolphins, where she finds a more positive and supportive environment. The Dolphins' new director, a former member of the Cowboys' organization, brings elements of the DCC’s structure to Miami while fostering a healthier atmosphere.
"America’s Sweethearts" not only showcases the glitzy surface of cheerleading but also uncovers the harsh realities and emotional challenges faced by the women in this demanding field. Through their stories, the series calls for a reevaluation of the support and compensation provided to these dedicated athletes, potentially sparking changes that will benefit future generations of cheerleaders.
