In the cheerleading community, Kelli Finglass has long been well-known, especially as the director of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC). Finglass’s journey has captured the attention of a new generation of fans with her recent appearance in the Netflix series “AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Season 1.” This is a detailed look at her career, challenges faced, and successes attained.
Early Life and Start with the DCC
Born Kelli McGonagill on December 30, 1964, in Lindale, Texas, Finglass grew up with a passion for dance and performance. Her journey with the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders got underway in 1984, when she joined the squad as a cheerleader. Finglass quickly stood out for her talent, work ethic, and leadership qualities. She cheered for the DCC for five years, from 1984 to 1989, becoming a standout performer and a favorite among fans.
Transition to Leadership
Finglass moved from cheerleading to an administrative position within the company after retiring. She became the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders’ director in 1991 and has served in that capacity admirably ever since. In his capacity as director, Finglass oversaw the squad’s general appearance, training, and audition procedures. Her foresight and guidance turned the DCC into a well-known, international brand that is recognized for its excellent performance and professionalism.
Struggles and Challenges
There were difficulties along Finglass’ path to success. Early on in her career as director, she had to balance modernizing the DCC’s performances and operations with preserving its rich history. Innovation and tradition had to be carefully planned for and carried out. She had to deal with both external and internal pressures, such as handling the media, team owners, and fans’ expectations.
Getting the cheerleaders to be recognized as performers and athletes rather than just glamorous icons was one of her biggest challenges. Finglass worked tirelessly to change public perceptions, emphasizing the rigorous training and discipline required to be a DCC member.
Television and Media Presence
Kelli Finglass’ leadership and the fame of the DCC led to numerous television appearances. The squad’s popularity soared with their regular performances at Dallas Cowboys games and various public events. Finglass capitalized on this by involving the DCC in several television specials and documentaries.
The reality TV series “Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team,” which premiered in 2006 on CMT, became a massive hit. The show provided an inside look at the demanding audition process and the rigorous training the cheerleaders undergo. Finglass, along with choreographer Judy Trammell, played a central role in the series, which highlighted their meticulous selection process and commitment to excellence. The show ran for 16 seasons, making Finglass a household name and bringing unprecedented visibility to the DCC.
Recent Work: “AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS”
In 2023, Kelli Finglass took her media presence to a new level with the Netflix series “AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Season 1.” This series offered a fresh perspective on the world of professional cheerleading, focusing on the personal stories, challenges, and triumphs of the DCC members. Finglass’ role in the series underscored her unwavering dedication to the squad and her ability to adapt to the evolving media landscape. The show was praised for its insightful portrayal of the cheerleaders’ lives and the behind-the-scenes efforts that make the DCC a premier organization.
Legacy and Impact
Kelli Finglass’ impact on the world of cheerleading extends far beyond her administrative duties. She has been a mentor, role model, and advocate for countless young women who aspire to be part of the DCC. Her emphasis on discipline, integrity, and professionalism has set a high standard in the industry.
Under her leadership, the DCC has not only maintained its status as the most iconic cheerleading squad in the NFL but has also expanded its influence globally. The squad has performed at numerous international events, military bases, and philanthropic functions, promoting a positive image of American cheerleading.
Kelli Finglass’ journey from a young cheerleader to the director of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders is a testament to her passion, resilience, and visionary leadership. Her recent work on the Netflix series “AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS” has further cemented her legacy, showcasing her ability to evolve with the times while staying true to the core values of the DCC. Finglass’ story is an inspiring example of how dedication and hard work can transform a passion into a lifelong career, impacting countless lives along the way.