Their moves may look effortless when you watch them perform, but it takes more than a pretty face and some fancy dance steps to become an Atlanta Falcons cheerleader. Working as an NFL cheerleader for the Atlanta Falcons takes spirit, dedication and a whole lot of hard work. For those who dream of dancing on the sidelines, however, it's not only a chance to help energize the crowd for the team, but it's also an opportunity to build lifelong friendships and give back to the community.
Who are the Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders?
Women who become Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders come from a variety of different backgrounds. They are students, attorneys and nurses. They are accountants, educators, entrepreneurs, engineers and mothers. They are considered "wow women," meaning they are not only beautiful and talented, but also highly driven and civic-minded with great energy.
Atlanta Falcons cheerleader requirements
Must be at least 18 years of age by June 2, 2016.
Must be a high school graduate or have a GED by June 2, 2016.
Must have a part-time or full-time job or be a college student (Mother is considered a full-time job!).
Submit an application from the Atlanta Falcons website along with a non-refundable application fee, non-returnable photo and a resume (optional).
Atlanta Falcon cheerleader auditions
Each spring, auditions are held to select cheerleaders for the upcoming football season. Chato Hendrix, cheerleader coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons, stated that competition is steep with about 300 women competing for 36 spots. Even the previous year's cheerleaders must re-audition to keep their spot.
She advised that women who are interested in becoming cheerleaders take part in the prep classes that are offered prior to the auditions. These classes provide an overview of the program, a brief Q&A session and teach dance combinations similar to those performed during the game.
The auditions are held in two stages: preliminary auditions and final auditions. There are generally two cuts made during the preliminary auditions with those who remain advancing to the final auditions. During the final auditions, candidates also have a 15-minute interview and attend a dance/fitness bootcamp. Final cuts are made from this remaining group and the upcoming season's cheerleaders are selected and announced. Rehearsals typically begin in June and consist of practices that are a minimum of twice a week for about three hours a day. This schedule will continue throughout the summer until August when the Atlanta Falcons play their first preseason game.
You're in! Now what?
Once you are an Atlanta Falcons cheerleader, you will find that it's not just about performing at the Atlanta Falcons football games. Hendrix said that the women also serve as ambassadors in the community and will attend over 300 charity and corporate events annually. As a cheerleader, they attend all preseason, regular and post season home games. They also travel to exhibition games and – should the team prevail – the Super Bowl.
Salary and job security
Working as an Atlanta Falcons cheerleader is considered a part-time job. Most women cheer for about an average of three years. Since the cheerleaders are also compensated when they are booked for the various appearances that they make (in addition to their game day performances), their salaries will vary.
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