Former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader (D.C.C.) Caroline Sunvold opens up about the physical toll of cheerleading in a new series that sheds light on the behind-the-scenes reality of America’s sweethearts.
In the series, Sunvold, who is still in her 20s, reveals that she has undergone hip and knee surgery, attributing the injuries to the demanding routines of cheerleading. Despite the challenges, she expresses a deep longing for the team, describing D.C.C. land as a mythical, magical world that is hard to leave once you’re in.
The show also delves into the traditional values promoted by the D.C.C., emphasizing the dancers’ feminine sweetness, helpfulness, and family values. Cheerleading, by nature, is all about celebrating the success of others, a sentiment echoed by D.C.C. director Kelli Finglass.
The series highlights the familial aspect of the D.C.C., with several women sharing that their mothers also cheered for the team decades ago. Altruism and tradition are recurring themes, as are references to Christian faith, with dancers shown engaging in acts of kindness, prayer, and attending church services.
Despite the wholesome image projected by the D.C.C., the series also explores the contradiction of maintaining a bombshell look and performing provocative dance moves while upholding a “sweetheart” persona. This juxtaposition serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle with societal expectations of women and the Madonna-whore dichotomy in popular culture.
As viewers are given a glimpse into the world of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, they are confronted with the complexities of balancing tradition, femininity, and sexuality in the high-pressure world of professional cheerleading.
