Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Backs the Pack

By Jeff Alexander
WBAY
February 2, 2011

They became famous for their routines on the sidelines of Dallas Cowboys games, but over the years the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have become a worldwide brand — and an institution.

For Ally Traylor, it was a childhood dream that came true and then some.

“Entertaining and performing and USO tours, it’s an incredible opportunity to be part of something so big,” she said, “and I think not until you get to wear this uniform do you ever in a million years imagine you’re going to be part of the Super Bowl or you’re going to be standing in front of 100,000 fans on a football field. It is larger than life.”

The job this week is autographs and pictures with fans at the NFL Experience.

The cheerleaders are very much like celebrities.

“It’s a huge honor to be one of America’s sweethearts. We cheer for America’s team, we’re known around the world, internationally known. It’s just an amazing experience. We’re very blessed to be here,” cheerleader Kelsi Reich said.

Not just anyone can try out to become a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader. One requirement is that the cheerleader must either hold a full-time job or be a full-time student.

“It keeps us busy, keeps us young, keeps us definitely in shape,” Traylor said.

While they won’t be on the sidelines this Sunday, they say they will be watching — and at least one is pulling for the green and gold.

“I love the Packers,” cheerleader Carey Depasquale said. “Aaron Rodgers is so cool. He’s done a lot with their team, and I’m very proud of him this year.”