2014 Cincinnati Bengals Cheerleaders Rookies Sarah H. & Sara C.
Photo credits to Steve France
By Howard Koplowitz
International Business Times
Jeanette Dousdebes Rubio, the wife of Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, was a Miami Dolphins cheerleader, but she isn’t so rah-rah on campaigning. Dousdebes Rubio, who describes herself as shy and dedicated to her four children with Marco, will have to grow more at ease with making political appearances, now that her husband is expected to get into the 2016 presidential race on Monday.
After meeting as teenagers at the West Miami Recreation Center, where Jeanette caught Marco’s eye while playing volleyball, the couple wed in 1998. While Dousdebes Rubio was involved in her husband’s 2010 Senate campaign, she played a behind-the-scenes role, shying away from media attention.
With Marco in Washington, Jeanette, the daughter of Colombian immigrants, takes care of their four children in their modest Miami home while working part time at the family foundation of Miami billionaire Norman Braman, according to the Washington Post.
“I’m not pushing myself out there. I need to be with [the] kids just to give them that balance,” she told Politico in 2012, her most extensive interview to date. “If he’s out there, I feel like I have to be here for them, to give them that reality.”
In the interview, Jeanette Rubio said she disdains the mudslinging of political campaigns. “You meet a lot of different people and you hear their stories. The part that’s difficult, I think, in campaigning is the part where you have to deal with the negativity that comes,” she said. “It puts a lot of strain on the family.”
But she also hinted at an increased role in Marco’s political life. “In the future, if I have to do it, of course I’ll do it,” she said. “But in general, I am shy.”
Her first date with Marco was to the movies to see “Robin Hood.” She told Politico that her future husband talked to her during the Kevin Costner flick, “which I thought was a little annoying,” but she was able to overlook his rudeness. The date had a lasting effect on Marco, as he wrote in his recently released memoir, “An American Son.” “The movie’s theme song was by Bryan Adams. To this day, whenever I hear the song, I remember the night I started to fall in love with Jeanette Dousdebes,” he said.
By Miriam Ludlow
SeattlePI.com
I am a major NBA follower. I appreciate the players on the court, coaches on the sidelines, the fans, and the cheerleaders!
Even though most of the cheerleading performances last a couple of minutes or so, there is a lot behind each one of those. To give OSN’s readers an inside look, I sat down with BlazerDancer Lisa.
Lisa has been with the Portland Trail Blazers for four years. A dancer and gymnast since the age of four, Lisa has an extensive resume as a cheerleader, dancer and instructor. Born and raised in Portland, Lisa has been a Blazers fan all of her life. Having been exposed to the team’s dynamics through her older sister being a former BlazerDancer is no accident.
After hard work and preparation, not only did Lisa join the team when the time was right, she also got to experience dancing side by side with her sister for two years. To tell us about this journey, Lisa in her own words describes it all from day one in an audition to game night.
OSN: Where does one start to become a BlazerDancer?
Lisa: You have to audition.
OSN: What is an audition like?
Lisa: It’s intense. It’s usually in July. It’s a three-day event. The first day usually falls on a Saturday. You go and dance all day. From there the judges make their cuts. The second day the veterans join you and you get to learn three dances. On the final day the Blazers rent out the Newark Performing arts where friends and family join in to support you. Hundreds try out. They have you dance in groups of three and you also do a free style solo that you choreograph. After those they narrow it down to 35 for the finals and the final reveal takes place two days later.
OSN: How do you find out if you made the cut?
Lisa: We all meet at the Moda Center as a big event. You know you made it if your picture comes up on the screen. It’s a very emotional moment for all of us. We all cheer in support to those that made it.
OSN: Ok, your picture is up on the screen, you’ve made it. What happens next?
Lisa: It’s a major commitment for anyone selected. It’s a busy and fast pace job. We practice twice a week for three to four hours. In addition to practices if there is a game we attend and perform that night as well.
OSN: That does sound like a major commitment. Who are these women taking such a commitment on?
Lisa: We come from all backgrounds. We have dental school students, dance teachers anyone that loves to cheer and dance. Most work full time but some are still attending school. They have families, friends, etc.
OSN: What drives someone to become a BlazerDancer?
Lisa: Most of us have a busy and fast pace lifestyle and we enjoy being a BlazerDancer because is a way for us to break away from everyday stuff and get to do something that we enjoy that happens to be completely different than what we do in our every day life.
OSN: What do you do in your daily life?
Lisa: I am in the health insurance industry. It’s a stressful field! For me it’s nice to leave work and be part of the game when we arrive.
OSN: Do you guys dance at all games?
Lisa: Only the home games. But we do a lot of promotional activities on game night. They are very fun. Specially the ones that are for a good cause. Is nice to do something that is community oriented. We work with a lot of charities and support them in their efforts. We have raffles, take pictures, pass out posters, etc.
OSN: What is the time expectancy of a BlazerDancer? Is there an age limit?
Lisa: There isn’t an age limit, however as with any sport and athletic activity there is the risk of injuries that can make a dancer retire early. It’s a very demanding job on the body.
OSN: I imagine so. Do dancers get monetary compensation?
Lisa: Yes we do. It’s a commitment and the team takes care of us. But this really isn’t about the money. We all truly enjoy what we do. The compensation of course is good and a bonus. Getting it is important especially because you are getting paid to do something you love.
OSN: You’ve been a BlazerDancer for four years. What does the future hold for you?
Lisa: My family is local and I will probably be in Portland for a while. I do want to see other places but for now I will continue being a BlazerDancer for as long as I can, but I have to admit it is starting to catch up.
OSN: What do you mean? How so?
Lisa: I used to dance every day of the week for hours and hours. I now dance 2-3 hours and it’s not the same as it was years ago. My technique has improved with time, but is no longer the same.
OSN: Sounds like a major physical and time commitment.
Lisa: Yes it is. It’s a bigger commitment than what people think. Is tough because you have to train really hard as with any other sport. It takes a lot of practice to get better. Time management is key. You need to be organized and prepared. One thing I wasn’t used to was interviews. But I’ve gained the experience and enjoy being part of it all. It’s fun!
OSN: What are the rewards of being a BlazerDancer?
Lisa: That you get to be part of the game. We all have different backgrounds but at game night we all share the same passion, to be able to see our team win.
OSN: What is a game night like for a BlazerDancer?
Lisa: We perform twice during the game. It’s an amazing experience to be able to connect with people who are fans and with those who work with the organization as well. We get to greet those attending and also interact with the Blazers’ operations guest services and security team.
OSN: What drives a BlazerDancer?
Lisa: I think a big part is that you can be a different person. For example: I’m an introvert. Not a super outgoing person. But when I’m on the court dancing I’m someone else. I put it all out there and become a different person. But it really is part of my identity.
OSN: Do you fear not dancing anymore?
Lisa: I don’t fear it. But it would be weird to stop.
OSN: Having been a Blazer’s dancer is a major accomplishment. With that said. What is next for you and other dancers like yourself?
Lisa: To continue dancing. Get better. Now that I am older I am more comfortable with myself. It’s important to know your body. You know how it moves and as you get older you improve in technique. There are many things we learn not only to perform but that can be applied to other areas of your life as well.
OSN: Where do you see yourself in the future?
Lisa: Coaching or teaching. One day I would like to make the transition from athlete to business owner. One of the great things of being a BlazerDancer is that you learn a lot of choreography and you learn it fast. Is not always easy because everyone’s brain is different but I am so used to dancing and learning in a fast pace that I am thankful I have acquired that skill.
OSN: What would you tell all those young athletes/dancers who would like to become a NBA Dancer?
Lisa: To work hard, have discipline and to prepare yourself. There are great ways to learn and get better. And if you can’t make it to look at other options. There are great teams to be part of like the Portland Thunder. The Winterhawks etc.
Personally I found Lisa’s insight to be one of the most amazing learning experiences when it comes to sports.
There is no doubt that NBA cheerleaders/dancers (and in other sports as well) are often seen as just a pretty face. It is my hope that after having read this, our readers will be able to see that these are amazing athletes who have been working for this from a very early age.
The commitment and dedication from each one of them is an example for all of us who have a dream and want to follow it. Persistence, hard work, discipline and commitment are all keys to becoming part of the grand NBA dancing teams.
Lisa recommends that anyone interested on becoming one should check out their local public announcement sources for information.
Auditions are open to anyone over 18 and as per their website their requirements are as follow:
BlazerDancers must attend all practices, games, training camps and mandatory Portland Trail Blazers events. BlazerDancer duties include community service events, appearances and photo shoots.
Must be able to attend practices every Thursday and Sunday evening (beginning in mid-August; times TBD). Additional practices may be added throughout the season.
Must have reliable transportation to practices, games, appearances, etc.
Must meet and maintain personal appearance, fitness level, and dancing skill requirements throughout the season.
Must abide by the other Terms and Conditions included with application materials.
If you are a NBA follower, especially a Blazers one, don’t forget to cheer along with Lisa on the next game night!
Philadelphia Soulmate at the Home Opener on Sunday
The new squad at the Soul Home Opener on Sunday.
By Natalie Ornell
The Patriot Ledger
Rebeka St. Fort, 26, of Milton works at a private hedge fund in the Back Bay, is pursuing her M.B.A. at Boston College, and has just landed a spot on the New England Patriots cheerleading squad.
Three hundred women recently auditioned for 28 spots. The finalists made it to a New England Patriots cheerleading boot camp.
“A lot of people tend to think we are just cheerleaders and that’s what we do with our lives. It’s the biggest misconception with such an impressive group of résumés,” she said. St. Fort said her varsity dance training at Fontbonne Academy in Milton where she was a competitive cheerleader in high school combined with her training at Cheer Dynamics in Marshfield helped her land the spot. “It’s a dream come true,” she said. St. Fort said the audition process was long and challenging. There was a full day of learning choreography, floor combinations, a dance segment round, a swimsuit round, and interview questions with a panel of ten judges, she said.
The Patriots cheerleader position is part time during the evenings so St. Fort will continue her job and her studies. “Many women on the team have full time jobs or are in grad school,” she said. As for getting to know the New England Patriots players, she said there’s a “zero fraternization policy.” “It’s a very professional organization. Keep it that way,” she said. “We don’t talk with the players. You can’t have relationships with the players,” she said, adding, “I do love the Patriots.” St. Fort’s favorite Patriots player is the retired Rodney Harrison.
“I’ve never experienced the scale of Gillette Stadium. It’s going to be an interesting experience. 70,000 fans, lights, and cameras,” she said.
St. Fort said the season opener is on Sept. 10 when she’ll make her debut.
She said cheerleaders can be on the team for a maximum of four seasons but they have to re-audition every year for the compensated position.
The team is made up of 11 rookies and 17 veteran cheerleaders. They rehearse twice a week and perform at all Patriots home games. Cheerleaders will travel to Punta Cana in June to shoot their swimsuit calendar.
Danielle poses at MetLife Stadium during a break in the Flight Crew Auditions on Saturday
Congratulations to the 84 amazing dancers who made it thru the first round cut at NY Jets Flight Crew Auditions today!
They’ll be back at it again tomorrow at the Flight Crew Semi-Finals at MetLife Stadium.
A Pair of USA Sevens Sweethearts
By Jayme Lamm
CultureMap.com
Massive sighs of relief could be heard from 35 of the hardest working, hair-flipping and hip thrusting gals in Houston when the new Texans cheerleaders were revealed inside the Methodist Training Center practice bubble this week. For the first time in Texans cheerleader history, all the returning vets made the 50-women finals, which included a week of practices, swimsuit rounds, interviews by the coach and other Texans staff and online daily voting by crazed fans.
Everything fell into place Tuesday night when Texans cheerleader coach Alto Gary announced the 35 girls who will beautifully make up the new team, which include 12 rookies anxious to rock those coveted red boots.
“You worked so hard and I’m so thankful for your hard work. I wish I had 50 spots, but I don’t have the budget for it. If your name isn’t called, we can be friends and I hope to see you next year,” the coach started before calling the first name. As each name was called, the women walked the red carpet to hug Gary, letting out a huge sigh of relief.
“We have a lot of Sarah’s . . . Sarah M” coach called out saying “she’s come a long, long way and I’m so proud of her.” Gary noted that Sarah M. was part of the training group last season and expressed her sincere appreciation for all her hard work over the course of the year.
(Note, the team also has Sarah C. and Sarah F. The Texans do not release cheerleaders’ last names.)
One of the most excited red carpet walks has to go to returning vet Allison who literally sprinted to hug her coach, which was impressive in those knee-high red boots with a heel.
My personal highlight of the night was when Gary called for Jessica. Not a soul moved. Everyone looked at the beautiful blonde who was standing towards the left of the semicircle, but she had no idea it was her. “Yes, YOU,” Gary said before Jessica finally made her way onto the carpet. (Thank goodness we avoided that awkward Bachelor moment when the wrong girl steps up for the rose.)
Krystal literally jumped all the way down the red carpet after hearing her name.
After all 35 names were called, Gary thanked everyone yet again for their dedication and hard work. “You never know what can happen. Ladies, I will see you next year, stay in shape, and keep dancing!” the coach said. “Seriously, you never know what could happen — you could get a call in December. Thank you and I’ll see you next year.”
It’s no secret the 50 finalists put in a lot of hard work, but Gary and her staff definitely logged some long nights too.
Cheerleader Heartbreak
Sadly a few Texans cheerleader vets did not make the team this year and the heartache was clear on everyone’s faces, including Gary’s.
Cheerleader vet Rachel said that on a scale of 1 to 10 in nervousness she was an 11.5 heading into the evening.
“I just really want my spot back. Last season I came in here and just had a blast because I had nothing to lose because I wasn’t on the team and coming in here this year I had everything to lose. This is everything to me,” she said.
As for the rookie she’s most excited about, Rachel said that goes to Kelly. “She was an Ice Angel — that’s what I was before this and that’s how I met her, so when she came down she asked if she could live with me, so we live together — I’m so excited she made it!”
There’s a new set of twins on the sidelines — Jordan and Randi who are identical twins from Crockett with the thickest and sweetest southern accents you’ll ever hear. This was the duo’s first time trying out.
“We were overwhelmed — can’t believe it,” the twins said in unison. As for what they’re most looking forward to, Jordan summed it up quite nicely.
“The experience and making friendships and dancing on the field in front of thousands of people,” she said.
Although the sisters have never done anything quite like this, they’ve danced for 13 years and even taught dance for five years. The pair plans to commute in for every game and practice in their shared Jeep Patriot — all the way from Huntsville.
That’s cheerleader dedication.
