Faith Ward makes history as first NZer and third Aussie to join Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders squad.

Faith Ward, a 22-year-old Perth dancer, has made the prestigious Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders squad, becoming the first New Zealander and third Australian to do so. The grueling audition process saw Ward compete against thousands of other cheerleaders for one of six rookie spots. She credits the team's director and choreographer for their guidance and support, saying the process was "cutthroat" and "brutal" but ultimately rewarding. Ward will now practice with the team for the NFL regular season, which begins in September.

Perth-based dancer Faith Ward has made history by securing a spot in the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) squad, becoming the first New Zealander and third Australian to do so. Ward, 22, was announced as one of six rookies selected for the 2025-2026 season, joining the 36-member team that will perform at NFL games.

The grueling audition process saw Ward compete against thousands of other aspiring cheerleaders for one of the six rookie spots. The selection is highly competitive, with very few spots available for fresh faces each season [1]. Ward's journey began with submitting dance videos and photos, followed by learning specific choreography and traveling to Texas for trials. After making it through the initial rounds, Ward expressed her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the experience [1].

Ward's selection marks a significant milestone for New Zealand and Australia in the world of professional cheerleading. She joins the iconic DCC, known for their performances since 1961, and their global fame following the Netflix docuseries "America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders" [1]. The series highlighted the demanding nature of the routines, the long hours, and the relatively low pay, but also captured the pride and skill required to make the team [1].

Ward will now begin training with the DCC, preparing for the NFL season that kicks off in September. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring dancers and cheerleaders worldwide, demonstrating the dedication and resilience required to achieve such a prestigious position.

References:
[1] https://www.rnz.co.nz/life/people/first-ever-new-zealander-makes-the-dallas-cowboy-cheerleaders
[2] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nfl/news/netflix-fan-favorite-jenna-waller-makes-the-cut-as-dallas-cowboys-cheerleaders-announces-2025-rookie-cheerleaders/articleshow/122734642.cms