Philadelphia Eagles announce 2015 cheerleading squad

By Tim Hawk
South Jersey Times
April 28, 2015

PHILADELPHIA — Sixty finalists stood backstage at the Kimmel Center, inside the Perelman Theater, many holding hands with their eyes closed while others appeared to say a prayer, as the 38 names of the 2015 Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleading squad were announced.

[[Photo Gallery]]
[[More photos at PhiladelphiaEagles.com]]

The final audition show, which lasted more than two hours in front of a loud and vocal sold-out crowd, featured competitions in physical fitness, beauty and dance, and lastly an on-stage interview.

“Best crop of girls since I have been here,” said choreographer Suzy Zucker, as the women prepared for the physical fitness portion of the show. Zucker has been the choreographer for the Eagles cheerleading squad for the past 10 years.

In a warm and crowded dressing room, Amanda Grace practiced her dance moves with other hopefuls minutes before the start of the audition. “I get more nervous every year,” said the 4-year veteran cheerleader.

The physical fitness and dance portion of the event moved quickly as the women prepared for the last category, the on-stage interview, which is considered to be the most nerve wracking.

Veteran cheerleader Pilar Martin paced in the hallway, preparing herself for the interview, as a group of women walked swiftly past her to change after dancing on stage.

As the Q&A session came to an end, the newest Eagles acquisitions — Seyi Ajirotutu and Ryan Mathews — were introduced while the judges made their final decision.

One by one, the cheerleaders walked on stage as their names were called, waving to the crowd and breathing a sigh of relief.

Tim Hawk may be reached at thawk@southjerseymedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @photogthawk. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.