NFL Cheerleaders: Behind the Scenes, Part Two

So you say you want a closer look at the NFL Cheerleaders. I think I can take you there—at least behind the scenes of the New Orleans Saintsations. Being an active member of the Saintsations Alumni group, I should be able to get a little lagniappe (a little something extra).

Last year we finally had another reunion. We were being honored during the Saints versus Raiders game. Any of my sideline sisters who wanted to take part were invited to be on the field again. How could I say no? You bet I'm in!

Wait, what do we have to wear?

Ok great, the Alumni uniform is black pants and a white shirt that will be provided gameday. I can handle that.

Rumblings this offseason suggest that the Alumni will not just be presented this year, they will perform!
Now in true cheerleader form...OMG, no more ice cream for me!

Once again, how can I pass this up?

Time to start two-a-days while the boys are in camp.

Our Team

Not every girl can be a cheerleader.

Job description: abide by the "glass is half full" at a young age, and never forget to smile.

I am sure this skill came in handy during the 2005 Katrina season. Notice, I did not say the post Katrina season.

On August 26th, these ladies took the field for their second game of their season. On August 30th, there was no field!

This group of ladies epitomize the saying, "be positive."

Most of the members lost homes that they grew up in. Now they have lost their stadium, but they keep smiling.
Week after week these ladies helped the displaced masses follow their Saints. Four different home fields in one season and still no Super bowl. How does that happen?

One thing I do know, it was not for lack of commitment from these ladies!

Practice Time

Not every cheerleader can be an NFL Cheerleader.

Now you've made the squad. What comes next?

The season starts as soon as the squad is named. Expect practice twice a week for 2-3 hours each time. These will increase as the season approaches.

The dance routines will seem second nature by the time the game arrives. However, the cameras all around you will take alot of getting used to.
For those who make the squad, here's what you can expect.

The Sacrifices

Sometimes being a member of the squad will require sacrifices.

Your summer will be cut short due to photo shoots and a retreat.

You will have to use vacation time when your team is playing out of the country.

Lucky for me, when I took my trip to Tokyo in 1993, I was between jobs. According to my passport, I was there on a work visa. So technically I was on a work vacation! Now that was a great summer!

Cameras, Celebrites, and Early Sundays

Sundays in front of the television watching multiple games are a thing of the past. No more pregame shows for you.

You will be at the Superdome no later then 8:30am. Why so early?

The cheerleaders take the field 40 minutes before the game goes live. This means 11:20am the Saintsations step on the field.
Add in pregame practice and time to get ready, 8:00am may be a better call.

Once again, be careful you never know when someone will want to take a picture with you. Those cameras come out of nowhere.

Here Come The Saints

It's almost that time all you football fans. The countdown is on with less than a month before the first preseason game.

For the NFL Cheerleader it's not just preseason, its SHOWTIME!

I hope you enjoyed yet another glimpse into the world of an NFL Cheerleader.

Still more to come...Now who wants to be an NFL photographer?