Ravens Hold Auditions For Cheerleading Squad

Tim Williams
CBS Baltimore
March 2, 2013

BALTIMORE (WJZ) — When the Baltimore Ravens take the field this coming season, expect to see a few new faces on the cheerleading squad. The team is auditioning for its 2013 members and it takes more than just a pretty face.

Tim Williams has more.

A $120 million contract may get you the starting quarterback spot but a million dollar smile could land you a starting spot with the 2013 Ravens cheerleaders.

“Doesn’t feel like we had an off season but for good reasons. And all the men and women behind me are trying out to be part of the World Champion Baltimore Ravens cheerleading squad this year,” said event manager Heather Harness.

This weekend, the Baltimore Ravens are hosting auditions for the upcoming season. At the Downtown Athletic Club, approximately 250 male and female hopefuls and returning veterans are trying out.

“You have to audition every year. We get a bye round this first day of tryouts but then everyone is back in the mix,” said veteran cheerleader Sammi Jo.

Men, women and time are all essential. The Ravens have the only co-ed squad in the NFL.

“Between the practice, the games and the volunteer work, it’s almost like another 30 hour a week job,” said veteran squad member James.

So what do these candidates bring to the table?

“What we’re looking for in candidates are men and women who are well-spoken, athletic, talented dancers and acrobats,” Harness said.

There are also tryouts for the organization’s Elite Promotions team. The playmakers squad makes appearances throughout the Baltimore area and while they do not perform on game day, they promote fan interaction and fun at home games.

The final squad debuts during pre-season.