The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have long been considered the gold standard of NFL cheer squads — a mix of beauty, athleticism, and precision that defines America’s most famous sidelines. But a recent viral TikTok from cheerleader Abby Summers is challenging that glossy image, revealing the unseen labor that comes with keeping those iconic pom-poms performance-ready.
Abby Summers’ viral TikTok exposes the tedious side of cheerleading glamour
Summers took to TikTok earlier this week, casually announcing, “Tonight starts pom pom fluffing time,” as she began the intricate process of tying and reshaping each strand of her cheer gear. “As I fluff, I’m going to catch up on the rest of my Love Island episode,” she added, showing fans just how hands-on the work really is.In the clip, Summers patiently demonstrated the process, explaining, “You just keep repeating the process of tying in different directions until it gets fluffy.” After a long stretch, she jokingly admitted, “We’re a fourth of the way done,” before calling it a night, a moment that left many viewers stunned by the amount of effort required for something most fans never think twice about.
Fans call out the Cowboys organization for outdated treatment of cheerleaders
The lighthearted TikTok quickly turned into a heated online discussion. Many viewers criticized the Cowboys organization, arguing that the cheerleaders shouldn’t have to handle such menial tasks on their own — especially given the team’s multi-billion-dollar status.“DCC is literally so embarrassing what do you mean you have to make your own pom-poms and wash your own uniform that you literally don’t even get to keep when you retire?!?!?! It’s a multi-billion dollar organization,” one user wrote. Another fan added, “Imagine if the football players had to blow up the footballs themselves and make their costumes.”Others echoed the sentiment, suggesting that the team should have an equipment staff to handle such tasks. “Why don’t they have an equipment manager team for you all to ensure uniforms are washed and your poms are ready,” one commenter asked.
A spotlight on the unseen realities behind the NFL’s most iconic cheer squad
The debate sheds light on a long-running conversation about how professional cheerleaders are treated within major sports organizations, often celebrated for their talent and image but under-supported behind the scenes.Also Read: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders director Kelli Finglass returns to the stage with an empowering message for Mississippi womenWhile Abby Summers’ video may have started as a simple behind-the-scenes moment, it has now sparked a larger cultural discussion about respect, labor, and recognition for the women who bring energy, artistry, and tradition to the NFL’s biggest stages.
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