Strict Rules and History of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

The DCC’s rulebook has been an integral part of their legacy since the squad’s inception. Initially introduced by choreographer Texie Waterman in 1972, the rules emphasized an “all-American, sexy girl” persona, with a focus on appearance, discipline, and commitment. As the years progressed, under the direction of Suzanne Mitchell (1976-1989), the list of rules grew, with Mitchell adding more requirements, many of which focused on appearance, behavior, and public conduct.

One of the most significant and enduring aspects of the cheerleaders’ rules is their rigorous fitness regimen. In the early years, this included intense conditioning and strict diet regimes. Cheerleaders were expected to attend multiple rehearsals each week and had limited social freedom; they were forbidden from attending parties or wearing jewelry while in uniform. Their travel was restricted to playoffs and Super Bowl games, which highlighted the exclusive nature of the team’s events.

By the 1990s, the DCC’s rulebook had grown to hundreds of pages, with exceedingly specific guidelines. This included everything from table manners to the expectation that cheerleaders not talk about boyfriends in front of fans. The rules were so strict that they became part of the cultural fabric of the cheerleading team, with some of them even being aired on podcasts and television programs like America’s Girls and the reality series Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team.

Rules Before Even Making the Team

Before aspiring cheerleaders even set foot on the field for tryouts, they were required to meet several prerequisites. Candidates must be at least 18 years old by the time of preliminary auditions, but there is no upper age limit. Although audition prep classes are not mandatory, they are highly recommended and are taught by current or former cheerleaders. These classes help hopefuls get ready for the intense auditions.

Aspiring DCC members must submit a headshot, full-length photo, a 20-second introduction video, and a dance video. Judges evaluate candidates on a variety of factors, including dance technique, energy, poise, personality, and their physical appearance. Additionally, flexibility is a must, as all cheerleaders must be able to perform the splits by the time the season begins. A written test also assesses their knowledge of the Cowboys and football in general.

Auditioning for the DCC has often been described as a high-stakes process, with one New York Times reporter in 1978 comparing the auditions to a Broadway casting call. Aspiring cheerleaders needed to dance well and possess a certain amount of “bubbly charm” for public appearances and television features, and those who made the cut were expected to give a total commitment to the role.

Rehearsals, Appearances, and Strict Schedules

Once a cheerleader makes the team, the commitment only intensifies. According to the DCC website, rehearsal schedules are mandatory, with practices scheduled before the NFL season begins. This is followed by regular rehearsals during the season, with additional practices for elite groups like the Show Group, which consists of just 12 cheerleaders. One rule that stands out in the DCC’s guidelines is the expectation that candidates must attend all rehearsals, or else they should not consider trying out. “Total commitment is required!!!” the website boldly states.

The rulebook for the cheerleaders remains strict about attendance, and the DCC has long had policies about showing up at rehearsals ready to go — hair and makeup done, and no exceptions allowed. Cheerleaders were also expected to avoid wearing wedding rings on game day, adding a level of personal sacrifice for the public image.

Physical Appearance: Maintaining a Specific Image

The physical appearance of the cheerleaders is one of the most highly regulated aspects of their rules. Throughout the years, cheerleaders have been required to maintain a certain body shape. In the past, there were even weight mandates, although the DCC’s current policy states that there are no weight requirements. However, they expect cheerleaders to appear “well-proportioned in dancewear.” This regulation has been a source of controversy in the past, with former cheerleaders revealing that weigh-ins were frequent, and the DCC management was known for pointing out areas for improvement in their bodies through photos.

In recent years, the strictness around body weight has been softened, but the general expectation remains that cheerleaders must maintain an athletic, toned appearance. As seen in the Netflix documentary series America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, the modern-day cheerleaders still face pressures related to their appearance. The issue of body image continues to be a sensitive topic, but the team’s leadership insists that it’s all about maintaining the high standards set by the DCC.

Cheerleaders are also required to wear their hair down during performances and practices, a requirement that emphasizes glamour and beauty. Their hairstyles must be current and never hide their faces. Additionally, makeup must be neutral and natural, with no bright red lips or overly dark spray tans allowed.

Uniforms and Personal Gear

Another important rule involves the uniforms. While basic uniforms and rehearsal gear are provided by the DCC, the cheerleaders are required to return their uniforms after the season ends. This rule was introduced in the 1980s following a scandal involving a cheerleader posing in a branded T-shirt for Playboy. Strict protocols were then put in place to ensure the uniforms did not fall into the wrong hands. The DCC also provides no uniform replacements once a cheerleader is fitted for a custom-tailored uniform, and any changes to the fit must be approved.

As for hosiery, cheerleaders must supply their own, with the website specifying that the hosiery must be sheer and skin-toned, ensuring that it blends seamlessly with the uniform.

Other Rules: Fraternization and Clean Image

The rules extend beyond physical appearance and behavior. Historically, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders were not allowed to fraternize with players, coaches, or staff, and this rule has become a defining feature of their image. Dating players was strictly prohibited, and the separation between cheerleaders and players was reinforced to maintain an aura of exclusivity. While it’s unclear how strictly this rule is enforced today, it remains a part of the team’s history.

Cheerleaders are also not allowed to be seen with alcohol in public, nor can they chew gum during appearances. The DCC emphasized a “clean” image, which included avoiding public displays of affection or any behaviors deemed inappropriate. While the rule about tattoos has evolved, any visible ink must be covered while in uniform or during rehearsals.

Compensation and Pay

Despite the strict rules and the level of commitment required, the pay for Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders has historically been low. In 1977, they were paid just $15 per home game, a rate that barely covered expenses. Today, cheerleaders reportedly make around $12 an hour and $400 on game days, though the pay is still far from what many would consider a full-time salary.

While the compensation remains modest, the prestige of being a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader continues to be a highly coveted role. The discipline, standards, and strict rules are all part of what makes the squad so iconic, and for many women, it remains a dream to be part of one of the most recognized cheerleading teams in the world.