Reflections of a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader: Amanda Howard's Journey and Advocacy
Amanda Howard, a former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, reflected on her time with the squad and shared her journey on Instagram. She auditioned in 2021, made it to Training Camp, and eventually made the team in 2022. Her first year was challenging as she was a rotating rookie, but she was named Rookie of the Year. In her second year, she found stability and joy, and in her third year, she focused on intention and self-acceptance.
Howard's time on the squad was documented in Netflix's America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. In season 2, she and other cheerleaders advocated for higher pay, leading to a 400 percent increase in pay for the squad. Despite her success and recognition, Howard decided not to return for a fourth year on the squad, shocking fans and Kelli Finglass, the director of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
Jada Mclean, another veteran cheerleader, discussed the squad's efforts to secure higher pay and the positive impact it will have on the cheerleaders' financial well-being. The cheerleaders' advocacy led to significant changes in their pay structure, alleviating financial stress for the team members. Both Howard and Mclean are not returning to the squad next year, but they are proud of the progress made during their time with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
Fans can watch seasons 1 and 2 of America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders on Netflix to see the behind-the-scenes journey of the iconic cheerleading squad.