Curious about the salary of Cowboys cheerleaders? Find out how much they make in a year and discover the perks of this exciting profession.
Have you ever been curious about the yearly earnings of NFL cheerleaders, particularly those from the Dallas Cowboys squad known for their impressive dance routines and positive attitudes?
They often attract attention from both spectators and cameras.
Whether you’re an aspiring cheerleader hoping to join a well-known team or just interested in the financial aspects of the NFL, this article will provide insight into the compensation and salaries of Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders.
How Much Do Cowboys Cheerleaders Make A Year?
The Dallas Cowboys have a long history of success in the NFL, winning five Super Bowls and eight conference championships.
It’s reasonable to assume that all team personnel, including the cheerleaders known as the “American Sweethearts,” are compensated well.
Cowboy cheerleaders earn significantly more than their peers in the industry, with hourly rates ranging from $15 to $20 and match pay around $500.
Based on rough calculations, this adds up to an annual income of approximately $75,000, which is respectable.
If we look at their earnings per season, with 14 games in a season, the cheerleaders will earn around $7,000.
How Professional and Junior Cheerleaders Get Paid?
It has been reported that the salary of $75,000 per year is only given to senior cheerleaders.
However, junior team members make much less, earning around $12 per hour or approximately $400 per match.
The salary used to be even lower, near minimum wage at $8 per hour, but the Dallas Cowboys changed their cheerleading squad’s pay after a lawsuit was filed against them.
Professional cheerleaders may receive additional benefits such as travel expenses, medical insurance, gym memberships, and discounts on apparel.
In contrast, rookie cheerleaders are typically unpaid volunteers, although they may receive small monetary honorariums or occasional scholarship opportunities.
Former Cheerleaders File Lawsuits Against the Cowboys
Earlier, we mentioned that junior cheerleaders do not receive high pay, which has been the case in the past.
Cheerleaders often earned just minimum wage, only $8 an hour. They were also pressured to arrive early for the game and spend hours rehearsing without overtime pay.
In fact, at one point, cheerleaders were paid less than the Cowboys’ mascot, who receives $25 an hour.
This unfair treatment led cheerleaders to file lawsuits against the Cowboys for “wage theft.” Many cases have been successful in bringing about significant pay changes.
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders vs. Average NLF Cheerleaders about Salary
What is the salary difference between Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and the average NFL cheerleader? here are the details.
Many cheerleaders know that working for high-profile teams like the Dallas Cowboys can lead to more significant opportunities than working for less well-known groups.
The NFL Cowboys Cheerleaders offer a competitive salary range of $15 per hour up to $30-40 per bar.
In contrast, the average NFL cheerleader usually earns a flat hourly rate of around $10, close to the minimum wage.
Additionally, while NFL cheerleaders do not receive overtime pay, the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders receive overtime for entire seasons and performance bonuses for appearances in playoffs or the Super Bowl.
Here are the NFL cheerleaders who earn the most money:
| Teams | Hourly Salary | Per Game Fees | Annual Salary |
| Dallas Cowboy | $15-20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Arizona Cardinals | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Atlanta Falcons | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Baltimore Ravens | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Buffalo Jills | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Carolina Topcats | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Chicago Honey Bears | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Cincinnati Ben-Gals | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Denver Broncos | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Detroit Lions | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Green Bay Packers | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Houston Texans | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Indianapolis Colts | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Jacksonville ROAR | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Kansas City Chiefs | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Las Vegas Raiderettes | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Los Angeles Rams | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Miami Dolphins | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Minnesota Vikings | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| New England Patriots | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Philadelphia Eagles | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Seahawks Dancers | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Tennessee Titans | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
| Washington Redskins | $15 – $20 | $500 | $75,000 |
Details Regarding The Salary of NFL Cheerleaders
Despite their appearance, being an NFL cheerleader is not a well-paid job. Here are several facts, some fun and some not, about the salaries of NFL cheerleaders.
1. NFL Cheerleaders EarnLess Than NFL Waterboys
Waterboys serve as part of the training staff for NFL teams.
Their primary responsibility is to provide water to football players working hard during games or practices. They also distribute towels and clean up used ones.
This job may seem more straightforward than cheerleading, which involves complex and sometimes dangerous routines.
However, it’s worth noting that waterboys are paid significantly more than even the lowest-level cheerleaders.
Junior cheerleaders can expect to earn around $20,000 per year, while waterboys can make up to $53,000.
The pay disparity between the two roles has led to numerous lawsuits filed by cheerleaders against the league and their respective teams.
Cheerleaders are often considered the lowest-paid professionals in pro sports.
2. NFL Cheerleaders Earn Less than NFL Matchday Mascots
Did you know that even the NFL mascots make more money than the cheerleaders?
Both mascots and cheerleaders are responsible for energizing the fans and supporting their home team. Sometimes, you might see them working together during practice sessions.
However, on average, NFL cheerleaders earn around $20,000 annually, while the average salary for NFL mascots can go up to $25,000 annually.
3. What is the reason for the low earnings of NFL cheerleaders?
Cheerleaders often receive low pay despite the demanding nature of their work and required skill level.
This is primarily because they are typically classified as independent contractors rather than full-time team employees and are often considered part-time or seasonal workers.
Because of this classification, teams are not legally required to pay cheerleaders by state or federal minimum wage laws or obligated to provide benefits such as healthcare or retirement plans.
Additionally, cheerleading is often viewed as a secondary aspect of the game and is not given the same level of importance or recognition as other parts of the football experience.
This has led teams to pay cheerleaders as little as possible for many years.
However, many lawsuits have been filed in recent years to challenge this mindset, resulting in increased pay for cheerleaders.
As a result, they are now receiving the compensation they deserve for their hard work and dedication.
Requirements and Qualifications for Becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader
To join the team, you must first pass a preliminary round.
In addition to submitting your application, you must send in two videos: a 20-second introduction video and a 60-second freestyle dance video.
You can attend an Audition Prep Class if your videos meet the requirements.
This class will provide you with all the necessary information on the audition process.
You will also receive training from former cheerleaders, who will teach you the techniques and skills needed to complete the audition.
Paying close attention to the instructors and mastering the skills taught in the class will significantly increase your chances of passing the audition.
1. Weight & Height
It is important to note that the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders do not have a specific height or weight requirement. Their guidelines only suggest that applicants should have a good physique for dancing.
During the preliminary stage, applicants will be evaluated based on specific criteria, including body fat percentage and weight.
However, there is no need to fret about this as long as you maintain a healthy and fit lifestyle. Passing should not be a problem.
It is recommended that applicants have a similar height and weight to the average dancer, which falls between 5’2 to 5’8 feet and weighs between 85 to 130 pounds.
But if you do not meet these standards, do not worry. You can still apply, and who knows, you might get lucky.
2. Age requirement
Regarding age, the minimum requirement to apply is being over 18 years old.
3. Having charisma
Possessing charisma as a cheerleader is crucial since you represent the team. A charming personality and a positive attitude play a significant role.
When you audition for the role, the judges will evaluate both your performance and your personality. Therefore, it is essential to hone your social skills while preparing for the audition.
4. Understanding the NFL and Football
To become a cheerleader for the NFL, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of football. Even the Dallas Cowboys expect their cheerleaders to know the game’s rules.
Before being accepted onto the squad, you’ll be given a written test that assesses your knowledge of NFL conduct and football-related trivia.
If you’re not already a fan, you must study the game’s history diligently to pass the exam. However, the test should be easy if you’re already a fan!
FAQs
1. Are the Cowboys Cheerleaders Famous?
Yes. The cheerleading team of the Dallas Cowboys is known as the “American Sweethearts” and is considered one of the world’s most renowned cheerleading teams.
They have appeared in many movies and TV shows, and their performances have been viewed in various countries across the globe.
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders were the first professional NFL team to introduce a full-body dance corp, distinguishing them from other groups.
They demonstrate exceptional athleticism, style, teamwork, and sophistication in their performances, making them a crowd favorite.
2. Is a Dallas Cowboy cheerleader a full-time job?
Based on their guidelines, cheerleaders for the Dallas Cowboys are not considered full-time team employees. Instead, they mostly hold part-time or seasonal positions.
3. How old is the oldest Cowboy cheerleader?
It has been noted that the oldest dancer to have performed with the Cowboys’ cheerleading squad was 37 years old. Although women in their 50s have tried out for the team, none have been selected thus far.
4. How long is the longest on the Dallas Cowboy cheerleader?
It is very challenging for cheerleaders to remain in the profession for an extended period due to the demanding work schedule, extended hours, and low compensation.
Many view it as a temporary job while pursuing a college degree before seeking employment that offers better compensation for their efforts.
Unfortunately, this is an everyday reality in the industry. Nonetheless, some cheerleaders are dedicated to their team and the job, and they remain loyal for several years before retiring.
5. Who is the richest Dallas Cowboy cheerleader?
The richest Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader is Kelsi Reich, who was a member of the team from 2009 to 2013.
Reich has accumulated an impressive net worth, estimated at around $2 million.
In addition to her time on the squad, Reich has gained fame through her modeling career and appearances in several music videos.
She also served as a guest judge on “America’s Next Top Model.”
6. What is the highest salary for a cheerleader in the NFL?
The highest salary for a cheerleader in the NFL varies depending on the team and the city they are located in.
While some cheerleaders make minimum wage or only a tiny stipend, others can make up to $150 per game or more.
However, it’s important to note that cheerleading is not typically a full-time job, and most cheerleaders have other sources of income or are students.
Conclusion
In summary, Cowboys Cheerleaders typically earn around $150 per game, but they also have the opportunity to make more money from photo shoots, TV shows, campaigns, and other special events.
