Latest news with #DallasCowboysCheerleaders
Time of India
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Faith Ward's bold ponytail challenges Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders' iconic style—and fans are split over the new look
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Faith Ward's ponytail has ignited a debate (Image via IG) As the Dallas Cowboys ramp up for the 2025 NFL season, it's not just stars like Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs commanding attention. Rookie cheerleader Faith Ward has sparked a surprising wave of controversy—thanks to her high ponytail. Fans divided as tradition meets individuality on the DCC sidelines Faith Ward, a history-making recruit from New Zealand, became the first woman from her country to make the iconic Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) roster. But it's her choice of hairstyle—not just her dance moves—that's setting social media ablaze. During training camp, Ward ditched the DCC's signature flowing curls in favor of a slicked-back ponytail—a move that instantly triggered both admiration and criticism online. Clips of Ward performing in uniform with her ponytail quickly went viral on TikTok and Instagram. While some viewers loved the sleek look, others were baffled by the break in tradition. 'The pony is iconic but how is she allowed to have it like that?' one commenter asked. Critics expressed concern that loosening long-standing beauty standards could disrupt the polished, uniform image the DCC is famous for. In a candid interview with ABC Perth on July 21, Ward addressed the uproar. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Filipinos should claim this large benefit! Read More Undo She acknowledged the expected DCC look—'fluffy, voluminous, luscious, long locks'—but shared that her ponytail 'broke that stereotype.' The ponytail wasn't Faith Ward's idea—and it might not be permanent Interestingly, Ward revealed the hairstyle was suggested during a rehearsal by DCC director Kelli Finglass while running through the high-energy 'Thunderstruck' routine. Finglass reportedly approved of the look, even comparing it to pop icon Ariana Grande. Still, Ward says the style might not be here to stay. 'We still have to keep an open mind to the possibility that I could be going back to hair out,' she added. A new era of flexibility for America's Sweethearts? Faith Ward isn't alone in pushing the boundaries. Netflix's America's Sweethearts featured other DCC members like Ava Lahey opting for functional tweaks to their glam in the name of comfort and performance. Whether her ponytail sticks or not, Ward is already rewriting the playbook—bringing fresh energy and global flair to one of the NFL's most iconic squads. Also Read: Courtney Johnson reflects on how Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders rejection fueled her media career FAQs 1. Why is Faith Ward's ponytail making headlines with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders? Her slicked-back ponytail breaks from the DCC's traditional voluminous hairstyle, sparking debate over individuality versus uniformity. 2. Did Faith Ward choose the ponytail herself? No, the idea came from DCC director Kelli Finglass during a rehearsal, and it received positive feedback. 3. Will the ponytail become a permanent look for DCC? Faith Ward says it's uncertain, noting they're keeping 'an open mind' about returning to the traditional style. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
NZ Herald
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- NZ Herald
First Kiwi to make Dallas Cowboys cheerleading team responds to ponytail backlash
'For decades now the DCC girls are known for their appearance, and a large percentage of that is hairography,' she said. Others defended the look. 'Judy wore pigtails in the 80s and Tami Barber, one of the most famous DCCs, also wore pigtails. Super proud of our Aussie girl Faith and love the ponytails,' one said. Another echoed: 'Tami Barber had pigtails in the 70s or whatever. So, I'm all for an updo.' Speaking to the DCC newcomer joked about the 'controversy' surrounding her ponytail. 'I actually came into training camp with my hair out, like everyone else, thinking that was what the expectation was going to be,' she said. 'But in my headshot my hair is tied up and that was what I was shown as. Every day in training camp Kelli and Judy [DCC director and choreographer, respectively] are sat with the rookies' headshots and doing their voice notes.' She said during the six-week-long training camp, after performing the iconic Thunderstruck routine twice, she looked in the mirror and was stunned by her appearance. 'I am a bit of a head sweater, I'm not going to lie. No one else was looking like me. I was giving drowned rat. I was like, 'Why do I look like this and everyone else looks airbrushed?',' she said. 'And Kelli looked at me, and said she really loved my hair in my headshot. She asked how I got it that way and I explained it was tied up with extensions in.' It had been mentioned previously about the dancer having her hair up while performing – something Ward didn't realise was an option – and so on a water break she decided to give it a crack. It was immediately met with approval, on the condition that it 'danced well'. 'I wanted to dance with my hair up just as much, because I knew I didn't suit dancing with my hair out. My whole life, I've been a slick girl. I am a technical dancer. We never have our hair out,' she said. 'And my face shape doesn't suit it, from what I've found personally.' Kelli then expressed her enthusiasm for the look, with Ward putting everything into the next run through the routine to prove it danced well. 'You look like you're having a lot more fun,' was the feedback she was given. Another was: 'You're going to be our little Ariana Grande.' Faith Ward's ponytail sparked online debate because of the team's strict hair regulations. Photo / @flexi_faith via Instagram Ward said things could change between now and when the team takes to the field in September, but it was looking likely that she would be sporting a ponytail when they do. To the reaction online about the look, she said people needed to 'chill out' after she discovered people were zooming in on the baby hairs on the nape of her neck. This was the first year that Ward, who has been a competitive dancer her whole life, auditioned for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. She was introduced to it by a friend she competed against while dancing. A recruiter for the DCC then reached out to Ward on Instagram, encouraging her to apply. Growing up, she learnt everything from lyrical to jazz, contemporary and acrobatics – but never knew what she wanted to do with it. Then, she discovered All Star cheerleading – which involves a lot of flying and flipping through the air over pompoms. She knew there weren't many jobs in the sport, so she decided to keep up dancing as well. Ward didn't even say a proper goodbye to family and friends when she flew to Texas to audition for DCC, thinking that she would likely be home soon, given she'd never done power pom or college cheer. She knew she had the talent to eventually make the team but didn't believe she'd nail it on her first try. 'I am honestly feeling overwhelmed and still not comprehending the fact it is actually real. It feels like a dream,' she said. She said she was honoured to be the first person born in New Zealand, and the third Australian, to be part of the team. Before the announcement, Ward spent six weeks in training camp, where the potential cheerleaders learn the routine while being scrutinised to make sure they have everything it takes to be a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. Ward said it was probably one of the hardest experiences any athlete could go through. 'I've never been pushed in ways that I have in training camp. I am grateful for that,' she said.
Time of India
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Courtney Johnson reflects on how Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders rejection fueled her media career
Courtney Johnson's DCC rejection, though initially disappointing, became a catalyst for her thriving media career (Image via IG) For most aspiring dancers, not making the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) squad would feel like a crushing setback. But for Courtney Johnson, it turned out to be a career-defining opportunity. Over a decade later, the former DCC hopeful is reflecting on how rejection from one of the most iconic NFL cheer squads helped shape her successful journey as a content creator and media professional. Courtney Johnson turned rejection into redirection In a recent video posted to her Instagram and TikTok platforms, Johnson—now with nearly half a million followers—spoke candidly about her experience auditioning for the DCC. She was featured on Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team, the long-running reality series on CMT that ran until 2021. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ColorsTV (@colorstv) "My most insane lore is that I was on America's Sweethearts, before it was called America's Sweethearts,' she joked, referring to the Netflix docuseries that reignited fan interest in the DCC legacy. Though she didn't make the final team, she described the process as deeply rewarding. 'Even though I didn't make the team, it was like the biggest dream I had since I was a little girl. I made it all the way to the top 36, met amazing people.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Find your most suitable hearing aid Amplifon Book Now Undo She added, 'It kind of felt like The Amazing Race where you're all in it together as a team.' Learning from mentors—and building a media empire Johnson spoke highly of longtime DCC director Kelli Finglass and choreographer Judy Trammell, calling them 'incredible mentors.' She credits the reality TV experience with helping her become confident in front of the camera and learning storytelling and media techniques: "It really helped my career. I learned how to be in front of the camera. I learned how to do storytelling and talk and media." Today, Johnson leverages those skills to empower others with job tips and career insights through her growing social media presence. What started as a failed audition has now become the foundation of a flourishing career—proof that rejection, when met with optimism and grit, can sometimes be the biggest break of all. Also Read: Netflix fan-favorite Jenna Waller makes the cut as Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders announces 2025 rookie cheerleaders FAQs 1. Did Courtney Johnson make the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders team? No, Courtney Johnson was cut after reaching the top 36 during auditions over a decade ago. 2. How did getting cut from the DCC impact Courtney Johnson's career? Courtney Johnson says it helped launch her media career by teaching her camera skills, storytelling, and confidence. 3. What does Courtney Johnson do now? Courtney Johnson's a successful content creator with nearly half a million followers, sharing career advice and life experiences on social media. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Forbes
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Power Of Asking: Women In Sports Rewrite The Rules
Teresa Resch (President, Tempo Basketball), Jess Smith (President, Golden State Valkyries), Amber ... More Cox (COO & GM, Indiana Fever), Clare Hamill (Interim President, WNBA Portland), and Colie Edison (Chief Growth Officer, WNBA) joined the FQ Lounge during WNBA All-Star. Sometimes, the only thing standing between you and a breakthrough is a single, daring question: 'Can we talk about this?' The worst-case scenario? You hear 'no.' The best-case scenario? You change everything. Just ask the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. After more than 60 years of being the heartbeat of game day, the cheerleaders finally had enough. In June 2025, shortly after Season 2 of the Netflix docuseries America's Sweethearts premiered, they secured a 400% pay increase. Not by chance, but by choice. Their signature 'Thunderstruck' routine had already become a cultural moment. This time, they sparked a movement. Change didn't happen by natural osmosis. It took intention. It took courage. It took a squad willing to speak up and stand together. Leaders like Jada Mott and Megan McElaney were among the first to say what many had been thinking. They asked for more, knowing the risks. And as Megan shared in the series: 'Our efforts were heard, and they wanted to give us a raise. And we ended up getting a 400% increase, which is, like, life-changing.' This wasn't just about money. It was about worth. About recognition. About respect. And this momentum isn't just on the sidelines. It's igniting across every arena, court, and field. In tennis, Billie Jean King was a courageous first. In 1973, she demanded equal prize money at the U.S. Open and made history. That was more than 50 years ago. While Grand Slams now offer equal pay, inequities still persist across the broader tour in media coverage, sponsorships, and week-to-week compensation. In the WNBA, the energy is electric. Athletes like Caitlin Clark, A'ja Wilson, and Sabrina Ionescu are packing stadiums, trending online, and selling out merchandise. At the WNBA All-Star Game this weekend, the message couldn't have been clearer: the world isn't just watching. Women are leading. As the Togethxr campaign declared: Everyone Watches Women's Sports. What began as a rallying cry has become a movement. Women in sports are no longer waiting for a seat at the table. They're building a new one. They're not trying to meet outdated standards. They are setting the new standard. This is what modern progress looks like: Because the right time to raise your voice isn't when someone else gives you permission. The right time is when you decide it is. So what's the lesson? If you don't ask, you'll never know. If you do? You might just spark a thunderclap, serve an ace, or slam dunk a moment of change.
ABC News
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- ABC News
Perth dancer Faith Ward makes world-famous Dallas Cowboys cheerleading squad after 'cutthroat and brutal' selection process
Perth dancer Faith Ward says she is "super excited and grateful" after making the world-famous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders squad. Born in New Zealand and raised in Western Australia, the 22-year-old is the first New Zealander and the third Australian to make the prestigious team for the NFL franchise. She competed against thousands of cheerleaders for one of just six rookie spots on the 36-member cheerleading squad this NFL season. "I thought, this is my time to reach for my dreams," she told ABC News Breakfast. The US cheerleaders have attracted huge global fame in recent years through wildly popular Netflix docuseries America's Sweethearts. The two seasons of the TV series tracked the gruelling selection and training processes for the official cheer squad of the world's biggest sports franchise. Ward tried out for the team after a recruiter messaged her on Instagram. "I was like, 'This is a fake account, this is a drill, there's no way this is happening'," she said. "And [the recruiter] was like, 'No, we're looking for international candidates'." The gruelling audition process sees veterans compete each year against rookie candidates to retain their spot. "I think those athletes are hands-down some of the most hard-working people I've ever seen," Ward said. While the Wellington-born dancer acknowledged it was a "cutthroat" and "brutal" process, she said the team's director Kelli Finglass and choreographer Judy Trammell had "warm hearts". "They're really just wanting to see the best potential of you," she said. "It's a hard industry to make it in and everyone wants to do it, so you've just got to push through." Ward said just qualifying for the finals was more than she had ever dreamed of, adding she "couldn't believe it" when she discovered she'd made the team. "I was waiting for someone to wake me up from my dream," she said. Now the final team has been selected, preparations begin for the NFL regular season, which kicks off in September. This includes meticulous practice of DCC's most famous dance to AC/DC's Thunderstruck, which they will perform in front of 90,000 eager fans at AT&T Stadium, the Cowboys' home ground. "It is going to be so iconic and so surreal to be representing Australia and New Zealand," Ward said. "It's going to make it feel like all those late nights of dance practice and training and hours I've put into my profession has paid off."
