Do Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Travel to Away Games?
No. The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders do not travel to away games. They perform only at home games held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, and at a limited number of selected special events, which do not include road contests. This longstanding practice is rooted in squad logistics, uniform and boot costs covered by the team, and brand-consistency priorities. Squad members are employees of the City of Arlington and are subject to rules that limit appearances to home games and approved off-field engagements.
Selection and Season Structure
Auditions and Commitments
Each spring, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders hold open auditions in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Successful candidates enter a multiyear program with rehearsal schedules, public-appearance requirements, and strict conduct standards. The season typically runs from August through early February, aligning with the NFL regular season. Because travel is not part of the role, members maintain outside jobs or educational pursuits during the year and commit to rehearsals and home-game performances.
Game-Day Roster and Substitutions
On game days, around 30 to 36 cheerleaders are selected to perform. The squad rotates members across home games to manage workload and allow more participants over a season. Uniforms, boots, and game-day makeup are provided by the team, and hair, shoes, and accessories are regulated to preserve the iconic image. Away-game duties fall solely to other Cowboys entertainment partners, not to the cheerleader corps.
Uniforms, Compensation, and Rules
Appearance Standards and Costs
The Cowboys cover costs associated with game-day appearance, including uniforms and transportation to and from AT&T Stadium. Cheerleaders must adhere to detailed grooming and attire guidelines at all times during the season. This eliminates personal footwear and hairstyle variability on game days, ensuring consistent branding. Members must also maintain academic or employment commitments and comply with rules restricting certain activities while on the squad.
Compensation and Perks
Compensation varies by tenure and role within the broader Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders program, which includes youth teams and alumni activities. Reported hourly pay ranges focus on public appearances and rehearsals rather than game-day performance alone. Below is a simplified overview of program attributes rather than precise figures, given limited public verification for individual salaries.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Travel to Away Games | No travel; performances at home games only | Organization Policy |
| Uniform and Boot Provision | Provided and maintained by the team | Program Guidelines |
| Season Timeline | Late summer to early February (regular season) | Annual Schedule |
| Primary Location | AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas | Venue Information |
| Employment Status | City of Arlington staff under specific rules | Employment Classification |
In-Game Responsibilities
On days they perform, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders execute structured routines at set times: usually during pregame, halftime, and postgame. They do not roam seating areas or participate in player interactions during play. Sideline positions are assigned by choreography leads, and adherence to timing is critical for transitions. Broadcast camera work focuses on signature formations, dance sequences, and flag or pom segments. There is no on-field involvement during active play.
Comparison with Other NFL Teams
Few NFL cheerleading organizations travel to away games, and policies vary widely. Some teams allow limited road appearances for playoffs or special events, while others, like Dallas, keep performances strictly at home venues. Variations often reflect city jurisdictions, union agreements, or cost-management decisions by each franchise. Below is a concise status comparison across four teams to illustrate how travel expectations differ.
| Team | Travel to Away Games | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dallas Cowboys | No | Home games and selected events only |
| Green Bay Packers | Limited playoff appearances | Subject to league and union rules |
| Buffalo Bills | Yes | Regular season and postseason travel |
| Las Vegas Raiders | Yes | Full season road schedule |
These policies can change if collective bargaining agreements or local regulations shift, so teams may adjust travel expectations over time. For now, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders remain a home-only performance group within the franchise.
Off-Field Engagements and Media
Throughout the season, cheerleaders participate in community events, charity functions, and corporate appearances. These activities may occur on non-game days and can involve travel within the Dallas area or occasional regional trips. Such appearances are organized separately from game-day staffing and typically do not conflict with school or work schedules. Media interactions are managed by the team and focus on brand representation rather than game outcomes.
Common Misconceptions
- Myth: Cheerleaders travel with the team to every road game. Fact: They perform only at home games and approved events.
- Myth: Being a cheerleader includes national TV exposure every game. Fact: Broadcast time is limited and rotated; not every performance is televised.
- Myth> Members receive free travel and lodging for away games. Fact: There are no away-game travel benefits tied to the cheerleading role.
How to Confirm Current Policies
Because employment rules and league agreements can evolve, the most reliable way to verify current practices is to consult official sources. Prospective members should review the City of Arlington’s recruitment materials and the official Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders website for audition details, rules, and any updates related to appearances, travel, and compensation. Direct questions about travel should be addressed to program administrators during information sessions.