Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team Guide and Tips
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, historically recognized as America’s Sweethearts, maintain a global cultural footprint spanning more than six decades of elite athletic performance, according to organizational materials. Operating out of AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, the organization combines rigorous dance technique with pop culture longevity, highlighted by multi-season documentary projects and international military outreach.
Six Decades of Athletic and Cultural Legacy
Established in the 1960s, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders perform for audiences exceeding 90,000 fans at every home game in AT&T Stadium, as detailed by official organizational materials. Their synchronized routines and distinctive blue-and-white uniforms have transcended sports entertainment, securing a permanent place in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. Beyond stadium turf, the squad has completed 87 USO Tours to entertain American military personnel and their families worldwide.
Television and Streaming Milestones
The franchise expanded its media reach significantly through television and streaming platforms. According to production documentation, the organization completed 16 seasons as CMT’s highest-rated and longest-running series, alongside two made-for-television movies including Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team, which originally featured instructional choreography from figures like Nick Florez.
More recently, the Netflix docuseries America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders achieved critical acclaim across three seasons. The production earned a 2025 Emmy nomination and won the 2025 Critics Choice Documentary Award for Best Sports Documentary.
High-Profile Departures and Roster Evolution
The intense physical and emotional demands of the squad often lead veterans to reevaluate their tenure after several years. According to interviews published by Netflix Tudum, dancer Reece announced her retirement from the team following her third season—coinciding with the debut run of the Netflix series. Reece noted that navigating injuries and external opportunities during the off-season solidified her decision to step away.
“The scary part is I don’t know where I’m landing, and so it’s just about going into the unknown,” Reece told Netflix Tudum regarding her departure. After discussing her future with senior director Kelli Finglass and head choreographer Judy Trammell, she opted not to re-audition, choosing instead to return to her roots in musical theater and jazz performance.
Community Impact and Charitable Engagement
Beyond entertainment and media production, the organization maintains a year-round commitment to philanthropic initiatives. Official organizational reporting emphasizes that squad members make frequent community appearances supporting charitable causes across Texas and nationwide.
As the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders continue to balance a demanding NFL schedule with global media projects, the standard for professional sports entertainment remains tied to the rigorous training regimens established at AT&T Stadium.