History of Dallas cowboys cheerleaders

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) are one of the most iconic cheerleading squads in the world, with a rich history that has transformed cheerleading into a major element of American sports culture. Established in 1960, the DCC’s rise to fame is intricately tied to the success of the Dallas Cowboys franchise, becoming a symbol of the team’s brand and a cultural phenomenon in the process.

Early Beginnings (1960s):
In the Cowboys’ inaugural season, the team did not have a cheerleading squad. The original Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders were actually called the “Cowboys’ Bluebonnets” and were a group of local women who performed for the team’s first home games. However, their role was relatively minimal, and the concept of cheerleading was still evolving in the NFL. The Bluebonnets were largely informal and did not have the widespread attention or professional appeal they would later acquire.

In 1967, the franchise hired a new head coach, Tom Landry, who recognized the potential of an official cheerleading squad to enhance the game-day experience. That year, the team’s first organized cheerleading squad was formed, consisting of 36 women. However, it wasn’t until 1972 that the cheerleaders gained significant media attention, thanks to a major shift in the direction of their public image.

The Transformation (1970s):
In 1972, the Cowboys hired a new director, Suzanne Mitchell, who revamped the squad and helped elevate the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders to national prominence. Under Mitchell’s leadership, the cheerleaders began to wear the now-famous white boots, blue hot pants, and white uniforms with star motifs. The outfits became an instant hit, contributing to the cheerleaders’ newfound glamour and appeal. This change was partly influenced by the growing trend of glamorous, high-profile cheerleaders in other professional sports.

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders gained international exposure in 1979 with the premiere of the television special “Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders,” which offered a behind-the-scenes look at their auditions and daily routines. This special became immensely popular and helped cement the DCC as cultural icons. The 1970s marked the beginning of the squad’s transformation from a local group to a national symbol of sex appeal, athleticism, and entertainment.

The 1980s and 1990s: Expansion and Global Fame
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders expanded their presence beyond football games, participating in events such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and touring around the world as part of the U.S. military’s morale-boosting efforts. In the 1980s, they also became an integral part of the Cowboys’ brand, and the cheerleaders’ image became synonymous with the team’s identity.

The DCC’s fame reached new heights when the squad began appearing in commercials