Kristen from the New Orleans Saints

By Marisa Sung
Asiance Magazine

This is Kristen’s first season with the New Orleans Saintsations. She currently attends Louisiana State University and is pursuing a degree in Nursing. She plans on becoming a labor and delivery nurse. Tried and true loyalists to the City of New Orleans and their beloved New Orleans Saints, the New Orleans Saints Cheerleaders have served as volunteers to thousands of charities, ambassadors throughout the world for the City of New Orleans and the State of Louisiana, talented and athletic performers and dedicated football fans. Regardless of the score at the end of the game or the plays made, the New Orleans Saints Cheerleaders have stood on the sideline as a symbol of the strength and dedication of New Orleans. Unlike the other Cheerleading Teams of the NFL, many former members lost all their photos in the aftermath of Katrina.

ASIANCE: What inspired you to become an NFL Cheerleader?

10 years ago, I participated in the New Orleans Saints- Junior Saintsations’ Dance Team Camp. Being a part of this program inspired me to one day earn a coveted spot on the team. Anyone who knows me, knows I set my goals early and big!

ASIANCE: What background do you have that contributed to your success as a professional cheerleader?

I have trained as a dancer for 15 years, and have been modeling both runway and print for the past three years. I know these experiences combined, have assisted in my success.

MORE IMPORTANTLY – My passion for the city of New Orleans has contributed to my success. I am a resident of New Orleans, and have experienced “the good” and “the bad” with our city. Being a Saintsation has brought my passion to a whole new and different level; I believe in embracing who you are and where you are from!

ASIANCE: Did you receive any resistance from your family as this profession is not a typical choice for a traditional Asian family member?

No resistance, just support! I am very fortunate to have family here in the states and in the Philippines who support and share in my dreams, talents, and vision. Unfortunately, part of my family lives in the Philippines, and they are not able to come to the states, so I share my NFL Saintsation experience with them via Facebook; they think I’m a movie star!

ASIANCE: When did you realize you wanted to be a New Orleans Saintsations Cheerleader?

Dancing in the New Orleans Superdome as a Junior Saintsation. It gave me a glimpse of what it would feel like to actually be a Saintsation.

ASIANCE: Who is your favorite current Saints player?

Drew Brees. He led the Saints to our first Superbowl win in Franchise History, has a New York Times best seller, and still remains humble and real.

ASIANCE: What is the first thing you notice in a man?

His smile and his eyes.

ASIANCE: What qualities do you look for in a boyfriend?

Someone who is very supportive, as this is an important value in my family. Then……outgoing, adventurous, intelligent, kind, and confident.

ASIANCE: Did you ever have a nickname given to you by a boyfriend?

HMMM.. At least none that I knew of.

ASIANCE: Do you have a celebrity crush on someone who is in the public eye that you would like to date? We want a feel for your type!

Yes! Ever since The Notebook came out a few years ago, I have had the biggest crush on Ryan Gosling; I am a hopeless romantic .

ASIANCE: What was the worst pickup line you have ever heard?

“Are your feet hurting? Cause you’ve been running through my mind all day.”

ASIANCE: Name three words that describe you.

Involved, Determined, and Nerdy!

ASIANCE: What is your favorite activity to do in New Orleans?

New Orleans is famous for its diverse food and cooking styles. There is something for everyone here. Eating is definitely my favorite activity; “Good eating, good cooking, good living/loving” Chef Paul Prudhomme!

ASIANCE: What is your best feature?

My legs.

ASIANCE: What is the most adventurous thing you have done?

Flying to Times Square in New York City to Film the Madden 11 commercial with Drew Brees and three other Saintsations, all in less than 24 hours.

ASIANCE: What is the best part about being a Saintsations Cheerleader?

The amazing opportunities it offers. Besides having the best seat in the house on game day, I get to be completely involved in the community. I have traveled across the state of Louisiana, and even to NYC, representing the Saints and the NFL.

ASIANCE: Do you think that Asian/Asian American Women are finally making strides on the professional cheerleading squads?

Absolutely. I think being Asian-American gives you a little something extra, but we’re just like any other woman trying out, except we don’t have the typical “Cheerleader” look that has been stereotyped for generations. “Bottom Line”- The NFL wants that cheerleader(s), regardless of ethnicity, with a presence who on and off the field, reaches and connects with fans/community.

ASIANCE: What is the greatest accomplishment in your life thus far?

Being where I am today. As mentioned earlier, I am proud that I followed through with my dream and goal of becoming a Saintsation. I feel today, young people lose sight of their dreams and focus way too early. I am realistic to know I can’t change everyone, but I hope to at least make an impact in lives.

ASIANCE: Can you tell us about a crazy fan/stalker incident?

At our Halloween game, while meeting fans in Champion Square, someone dressed up as Jason from Friday the 13th, unexpectedly came up to me with a fake chainsaw and pretended to slice me up.
ASIANCE: Where do you hope your NFL Cheerleading experience will lead you to?

The sky is the limit! Our time as a NFL cheerleaders are limited and I am fortunate to have a Director that is aware of that. She believes in the importance of becoming the best women possible before we leave our NFL cheerleading careers, so we make strides afterwards. My future goal- Miss USA/Miss Universe!

ASIANCE: You all look so gorgeous on the field. How do you manage to look so perfectly coiffed throughout the routines and in all types of weather?

Luckily, I have the honor of cheering in the Superdome. Whether it is hot, cold, rain, or shine down in New Orleans, it does not matter. We always have perfect conditions for Saints Football….and perfect hair!

ASIANCE: Do you have any “beauty secrets” that you can share with our readers?

When you are having fun, and are your “true” self, that is when you are most beautiful.

ASIANCE: What advice do you have for young girls aspiring to become NFL Cheerleaders?

Dream it, feel it, think it, do it! Always believe in yourself and never give up, because all dreams are right in the palm of your hand- NOW GRAB IT!