Making the Team: Anxiety, Dread and Excitement
It's hard to believe that we are entering into our third full season of Making the Team. For me, the beginning of a new season always conjures up a variety of emotions -- a combination of anxiety, dread and excitement. Believe it or not, I, too, get pre-audition nerves and suffer through sleepless nights (exacerbated by my snoring 15-year-old Shih Tzu) just like the contestants!
I become anxious about finding the right women to make our team, and I dread the loss of family time and the commitment to a rigorous training schedule. I hate shattering the hopes and dreams of the brave young women who come to our auditions and have the courage to perform in front of our panel of judges and the CMT cameras. All of this contributes to more than a few sleepless nights!
While my job description does permit me the opportunity to make dreams come true for 36 young women every season, with that also comes the responsibility of shaping and molding these women into first class entertainers in a highly accelerated and grueling process. Not an easy job, especially when you are melding a team of experienced veterans with young ladies that are diverse in many categories: age, dance experience, cultures, etc. Every year brings a new and interesting combination of challenges and opportunities, as you will see in this season's episodes.
I believe that "Things never stay the same. They either get better or worse." As the director of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, I am a chronic "improver," and I have had a close-up view from the sidelines for the past 17 years, and it has been my personal commitment to make sure that this organization is always improving. For the viewing audience, the reality of our team requirements may seem daunting and even disconcerting, but like every CEO of a Fortune 500 company, it falls into my line of work to strive for excellence. My boardroom just happens to be a football field!
Stay tuned. This season promises to be the best ever. I am trying to add a new dimension to the show this season with a commitment to blog! I hope you will enjoy hearing from the Director's chair -- literally!
Cheers,
Kelli
©2008 Country Music Television, Inc., a Viacom company. A division of
Cj says:
Kelli, Enjoyed reading your blog. It is so nice to hear how much you care about the girls. I can not imagine how it must be to tell the girls there dream has come to an end. I like the show and watch it all the time. Good Luck this year.
ROSEBUD says:
Kelli, I really enjoy the show. One of my favorites last year was Loni. I’m so glad she made the team. I’ll definately be turning in this season. The crazy thing is my husband hates when I watch . Shouldn’t it be the other way around? Go figure!!!!!!
Suzie Breymeyer says:
Kelli, I have enjoyed your show, more than you can imagine! To me, this is actually the “4th” season–counting the very first 2 hour special you also had! I live in Illinois, so am not able to attend a game to view the cheerleaders in person, so this has been wonderful to see the trials the girls go through to make the team, and the dedication they must all have to remain on the team! I hope one of these seasons you will be able to show the girls preforming a whole “routine”! Can;t wait for Saturday to tune in! Thanks!!
Jennifer says:
Kelli,
Where is Natalie Woods?
Rose says:
Looking forward to this season! I love what you have done with the new DCC website with videos and blogs…you are a great visionary :o)
Just Curious says:
I was wondering where Natalie was at too. I know she made the team. I was rooting for her the year before when she was cut. How is Brooke doing after her surgery?
Kim C says:
Hi Kelli! Thanks for starting this blog. I love watching the show, keeping up to date on the website, and reading about all the accomplishments of the DCC. Keep up the great work!! Can’t wait to see the new season this Saturday night! I’ll be watching from Indianapolis, IN! :)
April F says:
Hi Kelli! I’m so excited to watch the new season! I will be faithfully glued to the t.v Love the cute commercials too. This show has everything. Class, tears, laughter, cheering, what else would you need?! I Love this show!!
Dee K says:
I am obsessed with this show! I love it. I found it on a VH-1 marathon and now I can’t stop watching it on the CMT website. I LOVED Loni on the last show. I wish the show would tell the music that is played during rehearsals. There is one song I cannot find on itunes that I can’t get out of my head. I am taping the new series on my dvr. I’m so excited to see what happens. Kelli, you are wonderful to watch. Thank you for all your grace and class.
Dee K says:
If these shows could be available on dvd, that would be amazing. The show is really inspirational, it’s G-rated, and fun to watch. Thanks!
Kathryn S says:
Hi Kelli!
I’m so excited for this show to start this year! You are such an example of a successful, well polished confidant leader. My 9 year old daughter usually watches with me and tries to dance along during the audition process. My cheerleading days live on through watching your show… thanks so much for a great show!! :)
Valerie says:
All of y’all work so hard at the DCC!! Best wishes to all and good luck. I know that the best will ultimately be doing a great job in Texas Stadium. If some need to “make this your last night..” I hate that, but still say that if you had the courage to go to try out, God bless and hope things go well with you this year.
Cortney says:
hey…i love this show it is amazing…it has made me become a Cowboys fan!
Cat says:
Kelli, thank you for starting this! It gives fans like myself a way to interact with the show that is very cool.
Just want to say, you are such an inspiration to me. You are so strong, beautiful, poised, tough yet caring, and so put together. I admire your adherence to your principles, values and standards ’so high they’re almost unattainable.’ Too often in our society, we make exceptions or settle for less. You prove the point that setting the bar higher than anyone else pays off in the end. Keep fightin’ and know you have a lot of fans out there supporting you!
Peggy Farling says:
I didn’t tune in for season 1 because I felt it wouldn’t give a true reality of what these girls have to go through to make the team! However, I did watch season 2 and was so impressed in the production of the show and fell in love with this show. These girls are amazing! I would like to comment on Brittney (season 2) that was cut due to her “bad habits” of arriving late and looking like she had just rolled out of bed. This was a very wise decision on your part to cut her. I’m glad she didn’t make the finals this year because there were too many ladies that were more deserving.
Arica says:
I was just wondering why there are not many woman of color showcased during the tryouts. I know there have never been more than 5 or more on the team at one time. So why don’t you at least show more woman of color during the try-out process? Maybe it would give more of us the courage to tryout if we seen more woman like us. I have watched this show for the last two years and each year this has been the case.
kaitlyn says:
the show is really good. i try to watch it every time it comes on.
ampmmom says:
My DD who is 6 yrs old and in her second season on a dance team is so inspired by your show!!! It sounds silly, but she was most excited last season to see the girls stretching and practicing and exclaimed “they do it too!!!” and she really has been working hard on her splits “just like the real cheerleaders”.
Your focus on “off field” stuff is great for the young kids to see that it takes more than great dancing to make it… We can’t wait for tonight’s new episode!
Lynette says:
I admire your commitment to excellence. You, your staff and the cheerleaders motivate me to be the best I can be!!!!! I look forward to every episode.
Bess Kelly says:
Dear Kelli,
I have been watching the DCC programs for a few seasons. This year I would have liked to see that one gal that was let go last year get another chance this year. She came back as you asked, her appearing much more ready and prepared. I know she stumbled on the dance but most of the contestants did as well. That was your goal for her. Also, I notice families of DCC members getting that chance very quickly. Should family members be exempt?
Angela says:
What happened to Natalie Woods???
Honie says:
Kelli
You are such an inspiration to young women all around the world. Keep up the great work..Dallas is an amazing organization..and your a key player.
Have a great season!
Paula says:
Kelli,
I don’t watch much reality tv but got hooked on the show last season (I especially liked the way you let everyone know they had made the team!). You strike me as having just the right amount of fairness and compassion but you know your first loyalty must be to the team and that of course means some ladies won’t make it.
I too am curious about Natalie! As well as the young lady who was hearing impaired. Please address favorites from last season, in your blog.
Kathy says:
Kelli, I too would REALLY like to her about the Former Cheerleaders and how things are going for them!!! Loni’s strong commitment and the compassion shown by Judy and yourself were one on the most inspiring acts I had witnessed. (Refreshing) It continues to show me as well as others that commitment and perservience pays off. It was amazing to see the Former Cheerleaders from the 70’s through the present perform. I was sooo impressed to see the ladies from the past on the field again reliving a “Breathless Moment” I would have loved to have seen you and Judy out there. (I saw Mrs. Carter) It is amazing to see The DCC Organization and the level that you’ve brought to the Organization. You are a role model. You are a Wife, Mother, Leader, Entertainer, and Entrepreneur. All of that and you still maintain your beautiful Appearance. YOU HAVE THE TOTAL PACKAGE!! I am your age and I model my like after your…I pray God blesses you with Everything you would like to see for the DCC organization.
Shawuana L. says:
I must say that this show is WONDERFUL!!! I have been watching it for the past few seasons and enjoy every moment of it. My husband plays football and I always see him watching shows of football training camps and now to have one displaying that of the cheerleaders is awesome! Cheer and Dance is pretty much all I know so this upcoming season I am going to audition to become a 2009 DCC. I can not wait and this show has prepared me so much for the audition process. Thanks Kelli, Judy and CMT! See ya soon!
Shawuana
Cathy says:
Hi, I would like to know what happened to Natalie too. Please let us know.
cathy
Peaches says:
I so love this show! It makes ME strive to be more aware of being kind and working hard.
For those of you wondering where certain girls are, they probably wanted just one season as a DCC. I would think not everyone’s circumstances would allow them to spend many years on the squad because of how much is expected of a DCC. But it doesn’t mean we can’t miss them!!
Keep up the good work!
Angie says:
It’s fantastic how you describe your job as CEO and your boardroom is the football field. It was also so interesting to hear how you too suffer through the sleepless nights and pre-audition jitters.
You are an excellent blogger and we, the fans, thank you for your time to give us a glimpse into your world!
Julie says:
I have to be honest, there were quite a few women who were better dancers and more attractive than Cassie T. I really think, and maybe it was subconciously, she was given preference over some of the other more deserving girls because of her mother. I could be jumping ahead and the future episodes will show more of her dancing but from what I’ve seen so far, I’m not impressed. She totally messed up her audition and still made finals. I didn’t think that was fair when you guys cut perfectly good veterans.
Tammy says:
I have loved watching this how. Brooke S. is my fav as well as Melissa Rycroft. Where is she? Did she voluntarrily give up her spoy because she was one of the best and most entertaining. You can tell when you have fav like Megan Fox who is very talented. but your favortism and espeially Judy’s shows. I love Natalie woods and was bummed she was cut the first year then the two # 37,and 38 were given chances over and over again and neither were as talented as Nat.There were a few cut vets that should have made camp over Cassie( another fav) Please showcase Brooke more . Luy luv luv her . Fun to watch one of the best dancers as well as Kandi would like to see more of them. Please let us see a routine from start to finish something in 4 seasons that has not been done. If a vet gets cut over Cassie we will know it was fixed.
Tammy says:
I understand that Judy is supposed to be a great dancer and choreographer, yet I have never sen her dance. Iwould like to see her practice what she preaches.
Brian says:
What happened to Natalie and Lonnie? I also believe you have your favs and without a doubt Cassie T will make the team even though others are more talented.
Shannon says:
Can you do a blog not only about the present season, but give an update on some of the cheerleaders from previous seasons. We get to see only up to the first game, and then start all over the next year with auditions. I would love for them to continue the show, and maybe have one one hour show devoted to showing how the girls that made the team did through-out the football season. That to me would be a blast to watch!
carolyn says:
well, lets see here,
if you ain’t pretty, if you ain’t skinny, then what the hell is the point to even watching this show??? i am really disappointed in CMT for putting you guys on here. the show requires alot out of people. yeah, its great physical stamina, but why put it on cmt instead of spike tv??? cmt is Country Music Television, they should be playing videos, not women in skimpy outfits that my children watch…i turn on cmt to watch the latest videos from all the hots stars, and the new stars. not to watch women parade in almost nothing…..this is a disappointment letter, not a hate letter….move to a different station please!!!!
Teresa says:
Please update the fans on ALL previous cheerleaders since this CMT show began. We get so attached, and feel like we know these young women. What happened to Megan Fox, who has been there for years? Also, how is Brooke’s knee after surgery. Thanks for a wholesome show. Keep up the good work.
Becky says:
I want to thank you for allowing us to see how this whole process is from start to finish! I don’t ever want this show to end, I can’t tell you enough how I look forward to watching. I am a nurse and have to work when it first airs to I anxiously drive home from work knowing that’s it’s recorded (which I have to watch after a 12 hour shift). God bless to a wonderful team and I will get to Texas to see a game and watch the DCC’s as all my friends say would make my life complete because I drive them crazy talking about the DCC’s!
Tracy says:
I knew that when Cassie T. was picked that people would start blogging that it was because of her mom. Come on folks haven’t you ever been in a position where your child is participating in something you are involved in also ? I have and I know how Judy feels while trying to watch your child try to do something they have a passion for. Cassie is being judged for Cassie not for being Judy’s daughter. Even watching last night ,10/25/08 ,Cassie was called out for “loosing steam”. Don’t you all think that Judy has had this discussion with everyone involved in DCC that people would think there would be issues of how Cassie was viewed because of who her mom is. Of course and I”m sure Cassie heard it and is hearing it. So lets move on past all this “cause she is Judy’s daughter”. Love the show and of course where the heck is Natalie Wood,Loni or Brooke?
Julie says:
Cassie T should not have made the team, period. She not only “ran out of steam” in last night’s episode but she has messed up every routine she’s done, starting from her auditions! She does not have what it (usually) takes to make the team. Kelli would have cut her in a second if she was not Judy’s daughter. I’ve talked to friends of mine in Dallas who have season tickets. They’ve seen her TWICE mess up on the field and just STAND THERE looking dumb. In my opinion she is bringing the status of the team down by being there undeservedly. I’m disappointed for Kelli not putting her foot down!
Earlene says:
I really enjoy watching Making the Team and look forward to seeing each program. Tia Williams is superb! Where is Natalie Woods and Brooke? I have not seen them in the last two episodes.
Lori says:
I really admire Kelli for the standards she holds these girls to…the DCC’s are a high-class organization and that is due to Kelli and her high expectations! I love how she’s always concerned with the girls having poise, manners, and knowledge about the Cowboys, in addition to being amazing entertainers. I also wish the show would follow up on last year’s favorites…I want to see Natalie, Brooke and Loni and how they fared last season! I was so excited for them, especially Natalie, and thought how Kelli slyly told them they’d made the squad was perfect! And I agree…would love to see a full, one-hour show (or longer, can’t get enough!) of the DCC’s at a game, performing at other venues, on tour, etc., etc. LOVE the show and watch every week!!
michelle morgan says:
i would really like to know if and who the veterans r that made the squad, i really like watching the show. did star make it this year.
John says:
What I love about this show is that it is huge leadership lesson for people in all areas of management. To watch how Keli and Judy talk, act, deal with the candidates is something very impressive. They demonstrate how leading by example, treating with people with respect and at the same time sticking to the high standards is required to be an effective leader. Keli thanks for the weekly leadership lessons you give me.
LEJoner says:
I love watching this show. I was PLEASANTLY surprised at first to discover it was more about discipline, fitness, reputation, and so on. These girls work hard and earn their spot on the team. I admire their skill and determination!!
Jaime says:
I am outraged at the episode I just saw!!! Sending a girl home because she is too bottom heavy so therefore YOUR uniform won’t accomadate her!!!!! Super flat stomach and you are sending her home because she has hips!!!!! outragous!!!!!!!! i will never watch this show again. I have been stick thin forever and would die to have some curves. the message you sent to your viewers is that if they are not stick thin you cant be a dallas cowboy cheerleader!! You repulse me Kelli!
Lori says:
I to am somewhat perplexed on Cassie T. making the team. While I do think that she is a pretty girl I don’t see her as DCC material. She seems to struggle with the routines and in one episode had to stop and use an inhaler. Does she have the stamina to make it through an entire game performance??? Brook S. is also one of my favorites and I would like to see more on her in the future.
Elizabeth says:
I am an older woman that has truly enjoyed watching the show. I rooted for Loni, Kellie Jo, and Natalie last season. Like so many of the other bloggers, I would like to know about them, as well as the hearing impaired young lady and Melissa Rycroft. I enjoy seeing the girls struggling, and then suceeding. Please tell Judy, that when she was telling about Cassie’s text, she choked up, that I’ve been in the same position with my child, and go for it. Don’t be afraid to try because of what other people say. You guys have set the bar high, and the girls have met them. Don’t settle. Thanks so much.
Bess Kelly says:
Kelli, I hope you sit and watch these episodes. The girl who was let go due to the fact that you could not get a good cheerleader fit on the uniform was heartbreaking. I think every woman in America was not prepared for that episode. Because we are of so many different sizes and shapes there should be someone in the organization that could have put a fit together for her. You could feel her pain and embarassment on national tv. It’s a good program, don’t stereotype it with skinny cheerleaders but rather talented cheerleaders. Thank you.
Michele says:
Where is Natalie and Brooke?
mary says:
I so disagree with so many of you. I think Cassie T. is adorable and does a great job. I too would like to know about Loni from last year.
tammy says:
I have enjoyed this show for three years. I was wondering where Natalie and Loni are this year. Did they choose not to return or was that decided for them?
Lisa says:
Kelli, I have just finished watching several episodes of the show and have mixed feelings. Cheerleading is a great sport for women and should create positive self esteems. However, you and Judi are lacking in the constructive criticism area. The episode in which you told a beautiful young lady that her body did not fit the uniform was very disappointing. You sent a terrible message to young girls that if they are thin but have curves then they are not good enough to be a DCC. I also question why Judi’s daughter is still in the competition. Another negative message that “it’s who you know”. This show has the potential to send some positive messages to young girls so get that downward smirk off of your face and start giving some positive feedback.
Keith says:
The show where Katie Schouten was cut because she was “bottom heavy”.
How come she was cut, yet Erica was kept on with a much higher “fat content” ?
Katie seemed to be a beautiful and bright young lady.
Also, after somebody has been cut, have you ever made a mistake and asked her back ?
Ann Zacher says:
Hi Kelli, This is one terrific program for me. I love seeing it many times, and I would like to see it again on CMT. Would that be possible? It is really fun to get to recognize the beautiful young women on your team and to see them dance. They really are wonderful dancers, and all so lovely in their own individual ways. Please let me know if it will be telecast again soon. Thank you.
Barbara says:
I watched the show last season. Fall 2008. It was one of the weaker seasons for the show. Don’t know why, it just was.
Without Loni, and Natalie Woods, there was little to root for, perhaps. I miss their personalities, maybe they can be persuaded to try out again.
I thought Loni Lindsey would remain a DCC for several years, she tried so hard, and kept a healthy attitude about the tryout process.
Looking forward to the show this fall 2009.
alan says:
i sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo hope that there will be a fourth season of making the team for the 2009 squad and if there is i just cant wait 2 see it.