By Cassidy Blackwell
Natural Selection
(A blog for ethnic women embracing and loving the natural texture of their hair)
Feb 28, 2013
You ever have that experience where you think you know somebody and then they say something that completely blows you away? Well that happened with me and Danetha! For the past year I’ve known Danetha as an accountant who specialized in beauty industry clients, but then I get this email, being all like “Yea, so when I was cheerleading for the Indianapolis Colts I wore my hair straight, but now I’m going natural!”
:::stops the car and pulls over on the side of the highway:::
“When I used to be an NFL cheerleader” is not usually something you hear in casual conversation, right!? Anywho, I got the scoop from Miss Danetha about her hair-story as an NFL Cheerleader and how this next time around she’s going to be rocking her natural hair! Read on for a truly inspirational story!
Cassidy: When you were a cheerleader before, was there a pressure to wear your hair a certain way? What other beauty standards were you expected to uphold?
Danetha: Yes! There weren’t any other natural hair girls in the league (that I knew of) and long, flowy hair was the norm. We had routines with “hairography” and you had to be able to flip your hair in order to look sexy. Our squad was sponsored by one of Indianapolis’ top salons, and the stylists were awesome! But, they didn’t know how to work with ethnic relaxed hair, much less natural hair. At the time, my hair was relaxed and they suggested that I wear a weave. I worked with a stylist to determine my look and we settled on a long, straight weave. I was fine with it because that’s what I considered beautiful and I wanted to fit in with the other girls. As far as other beauty standards…there weren’t really any. I guess, we were all expected to be physically fit, but I think that comes with territory of being a dancer and athlete.
Danetha in 2007, her rookie season with the Colts.
D: My last relaxer was in 2008, but I wore a weave until mid 2009 so I didn’t have to do the big chop 🙂 I cut off my relaxed ends at the end of 2009. I decided to go natural because my hair was falling out. I had HUGE bald spots all over my head and my hair was in bad shape. I went to the best stylists, so I knew that the reason for this was because my hair could not handle a relaxer (I had been relaxing my hair for 16+ years). It was time for a change and time for me to learn how to take care of myself, and not have to depend on a stylist.
C: What has changed and inspired you to rock your natural hair texture for auditions?
D: I really feel that there is power when someone sees their image on the big screen. As a natural girl, who loves to follow celebrities, I crave for a figure that looks like me and has “made it” and considered “beautiful” by the main stream. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but it is reassuring to see your image reflected on TV or in magazines. I hope that I can help push that image in mainstream media. Also, I’m at a point in my life where I’m comfortable with me and I don’t want to conform to anyone’s idea of me. So, take me natural or don’t. Whatever. I did audition last year for the Gold Rush as a natural, but it wasn’t the right timing. I moved to the Bay Area (literally!) a week before auditions and I had wayyy too much going on to focus. I made the finals (from 300 girls to 80) and then I was cut. I think everything happens for reason. Although I was super bummed, I had a chance to explore Bay Area, fall in love with it, and start my company which was another passion of mine. I’ve had a year to find my place in this area and now I feel like I’m ready to represent the 49ers.
Swimsuit
C: What is the audition process like?
D: Haha. I could write a novel on the process 😉 You know, its similar to the Dallas Cowboys series but not that long. Each squad is different. The 49ers Gold Rush complete the process in one week. On the first day, you learn a dance and perform it. There are two cuts that day. If you make it past the first day, you are in the finals. During finals, you have one group practice with the head choreographer. There is an interview day with a panel. You are asked any question you can think of- from who is your favorite player, to what are your career goals to what you like to do for fun. They really want to see that you are able to engage with strangers and relate to the fans. The last day is the final performance. You perform a dance choreographed by their Director or Head Choreographer and a solo piece. This is open to the public. Overall, the process is a lot of fun. But it is SO NERVE WRACKING. There are so many beautiful, talented, intelligent women in the process and you just hope that you stand out.
profile pic3
C: What sorts of styles can we expect from watching your audition journey?
D: As far as hair, I will be rocking a lot of protective styles. I’ll be working out a lot, so it’ll be important to maintain my hair. I’ll also be trying out different products to see which one I should use for audition days. My hair doesn’t hold styles very well and I plan on wearing a twist out while performing. So, expect some product reviews while I try to find the “perfect” product for my hair for the big day. I will also test one or two professional stylists in the Bay Area (Cassidy, if you have any suggestions please let me know) Editors Note: I always do! Hit me up and we’ll talk! to see if they can get my hair ready for auditions. As far as clothes, I will be shopping for my interview outfit (fingers crossed, I make it to finals again) and my audition outfit. Check me out as I shop for the most flattering ‘fits 🙂
2009-08-02 19.48.20 (2)
I don’t know about you, but I am hella excited to watch Danetha as a natural go through the audition process! Let’s all share some words of encouragement in the comments to support our fellow naturalista as she takes this big personal leap! I personally believe that the more authentic one is, the more they are accepted, so I’m proud that Danetha is showing and auditioning with her true texture!
To follow Danetha’s natural hair journey through her audition process, follow her on her social media channels:
Youtube: www.youtube.com/missdanetha
Facebook: www.facebook.com/missdanetha
Twitter: www.twitter.com/missdanetha
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.
By Jordan Graham
Boston Herald
March 3, 2013
Hundreds of high-spirited hopefuls from all over New England converged on Foxboro yesterday to show off their moves for a chance to be a Patriots cheerleader.
The first round of auditions, open to any woman over 18, was a day to remember for many dancers.
“The coaches are amazing and were really positive the entire time,” said Sarah Levi of New Hampshire.
Even though she was cut, Levi said she would try out again next year.
“I’ve been cheering my whole life, and it’s always been something I’ve wanted to do,” she said.
Up to 65 dancers will be asked back for the final auditions March 16.
Click here to check out the Foxboro Sun Chronicle’s photo essay from this year’s open call audition for the New England Patriots Cheerleaders!
The Oakland Raiders are searching for enthusiastic and talented candidates for their renowned public relations and entertainment team – The Raiderettes. Auditions and an audition prep class to become a member of Football’s Fabulous Females are set for April. CNBC.com recently tabbed the Raiderettes as ‘The NFL’s Best Cheerleading Squad.”
The prep class to prepare candidates for the upcoming Raiderette auditions will be offered in Oakland at Bishop O’Dowd High School on Saturday, March 23 from 9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. with check-in beginning at 8:00 a.m. The cost for the class is $40.00 if pre-registered by March 21, 2013 or $50.00 for walk-in registration (cash only).
Fitness boot camp classes are also being offered at Core Dynamics Fitness in San Leandro on March 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28 and April 2. The advance fee to register is $20.00 per class and the deadline is March 6, 2013. Walk-ins are welcome ($30/class, cash only), but space is limited.
Preliminary auditions will be held on Sunday, April 7, 2013 at the Hilton – Oakland Airport. Check-in will begin at 8:00 a.m., with interviews immediately following.
There is no dance audition during preliminaries. Recommended attire includes daytime dresses, skirts or shorts, with appropriate hairstyle and makeup. Finalists will be announced at the end of the event. Auditions and rehearsals are closed to the general public.
Eligible candidates must be at least 18 years old by the date of the preliminary audition, available to attend all home games, rehearsals on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9:30 p.m., rehearsals Saturday mornings from 7:30-10:30 a.m., special public relations, charity and performance events, and a full-day Saturday mini-camp (date and time TBA). Eligible candidates must be able to provide authorized documents to work within the United States. Candidates may not cheer for both the Raiders and another professional or college team.
Pre-registration is strongly advised for participation in the audition process. The advance fee to register is $25.00 and the deadline is April 1 2013. Walk-ins are welcome on April 7, 2013 and the fee is $40.00 (cash only).
For more information and to download the full Raiderette application packet, please visit www.raiders.com/raiderettes/auditions.html.
Jaime Backstage
(Photo courtesy of Jamie Clark)
New Orleans VooDoo
Feb. 10, 2013
NEW ORLEANS – Super Bowl XLVII was not just a historic event for the city of New Orleans, but it was also a dream come true for one of the New Orleans VooDoo Dolls, Jaime.
Jaime, a 22-year old Harvey native, was chosen to be a backup dancer for Beyonce’s halftime performance. Growing up so close to the city, Jaime said it was an amazing and unforgettable experience.
“It was truly a dream come true,” said Jaime. “In fact, I had even stated in my interview with the Dolls that dancing with Beyonce would be my dream.”
Jaime found out about the audition through a text message from a friend.
“I had to send in an audition tape of a piece from Single Ladies and then do freestyle form of dance,” Jaime said.
From the audition tape, Jaime was then picked to be an alternate dancer. To her surprise, the first rehearsal turned into an audition. Jaime would later land the spot.
Jaime with Frank Gaston Jr.
(Photo courtesy of Jamie Clark)
When asked her most memorable moment of her experience Jaime said, “Besides Beyonce running to us taking pictures after her performance, it really was just standing in the tunnel looking at all the people from all over knowing this was Super Bowl and what this meant.”
Jaime explained that she gained a lot of knowledge from Beyonce’s Creative Director, Frank Gaston, who opened her eyes to a broader understanding of dance. She said it helped her gain confidence, and Jaime knows she can share this valuable advice with her fellow Dolls.
“Now that I’m back with the Dolls and can get gigs, I would love to share the experience with the Dolls and get them involved.” Jaime explained. “Even though I was honored to be a part of this event, I missed my Dolls through the process.”
The Ravens may have won the Lombardi trophy, but Jaime won an unforgettable once in a lifetime experience.
“Anything is possible,” Jaime said.
Hey! I found this cool photo of Jaime and all of the dancers with Frank. There’s Jaime in the bottom right corner! ~ sasha
The Rockets have, at long last, updated their dance team pages. Click here to meet the 2012 Power Dancers!
Top: Kelsey, Scarlett, Miriam, Danielle, and Jermani
Middle: Alyssa, Laura, Rachel , and Alysse
Bottom: Kayci, Ebony, Paige, Dani, and Erica
By Jim Mesko
TheSuburbanite.com
February 10, 2013
For Becky Ciocca, it’s a dream come true.
The Green graduate and nursing student at the University of Akron tried out for and made the Cavaliers Girls Dance Team, which performs at all Cavaliers home games during time outs and half time. They also take part in various Cavaliers events and mingle with the crowd before games. The team is made up of 17 girls.
“I love it,” Becky said. “It is just great that it is considered a profession. It is awesome to be dancing for my job. What is really the best thing about it is to be dancing in front of everyone at the arena. It is really cool with all that experience at the NBA level.”
Getting on the dance team is the culmination of a lot of dedication and hard work. She started dancing after her father, Jim, suggested doing that instead of gymnastics.
“It was really getting expensive with costumes, traveling to shows, and entry fees, so we decided that getting involved with the theater would not be as expensive and time consuming,” Jim said. “Boy, were we wrong on that one.”
Becky was one of the regulars at the old Theatre 8:15. She performed in more than three dozen shows.
“Becky was one of the hardest workers I ever had,” said Diane Mehok, who directed and choreographed her in many performances. “She never complained, and if she missed a practice, Becky made it up on her own time. She took great pride in what she did. It didn’t matter if she was in the front, middle or back, she always did her best and gave a topnotch performance.”
Becky also helped others during rehearsal, and it was not uncommon for her to be seen helping younger cast members with their lines and dance routines.
While in high school, Becky made the dance team and also performed in various Green theater productions.
“She made coaching fun and easy,” said her coach, Wendy Shocklee. “She was always willing to try new things and came prepared to practice. Becky was one of those girls that I knew would be able to dance after high school. She had the whole package — beautiful technique, unbelievable stage presence and a positive attitude.”
After graduation, she went to the University of Akron on a nursing scholarship, but dancing was never far away from her thoughts. She made the Akron U Dance Team, then tried out for and made the Cleveland Gladiators Dance Team.
“One day my boyfriend suggested that I try out for the Cavaliers dance team, and I decided to give it a try, not thinking I would really have a chance,” Becky said. “I made the first cuts and then went through two weeks of auditions, practices and public appearances to see how we reacted with people and vice versa.”
After the last series of tryouts, Becky made the final cut.
“I wanted so badly to make it at that moment,” she said. “When I found out I had made it, I cried tears of joy. Making it was more exciting than I ever imagined. I really didn’t think I would be so exhilarated!
What is it like to be a Cavaliers Girl?
“You have to either have a job or be in school. I would say about half the girls are in school,” Becky said. “We don’t have weigh-ins, we are just expected to look and be healthy. We normally get to the arena three to four hours before a game. We practice our routines, make last-minute changes and get dressed. We have two main outfits, plus two more we can use. About an hour before the game starts, we go down to the main level and greet people and sign autographs. About the only downside is the long drive from here up to Cleveland.”
Her family is very supportive of her position on the Cavaliers.
Becky with her Dad, Jim
Her parents go to many of the games to watch her.
“I am really proud of her,” said Becky’s mother, Ann, also a Green graduate. “She has gone so far from Green to Akron U, to the Gladiators and now the Cavaliers. I don’t know how she balances her studies with all this. But she manages. Sometimes she comes home, but I don’t get a chance to see her. I just see little piles of stuff she has left behind that I jokingly call ‘Becky sightings’.”
Jim shares his wife’s pride.
“I think her ability to perform in front of a large crowd of people has helped Becky develop into a young woman who interacts well with others,” he said. “To see the excitement on her face is so gratifying to me. Dancing is her love. And she interacts especially well with younger children. I think being a Cavaliers Girl is the culmination of her dreams.”
Perhaps, but Becky isn’t through performing yet.
“I would like to work on a cruise ship,” she said. “Or go to Los Angeles or New York and work in some bigger shows there.”
Terra at Dallaswear is looking for some fresh faces to model her creations. If you’re interested (and have the look and the bod) send her an email. Note: this isn’t a contest. It is an open invitation to submit your photos.
