While being viewed as the blueprint for the NFL’s sidelines, the Dallas Cowboys’ cheerleaders have nine strict rules to follow close to and away from the gridiron. 

The firm rulebook starts from their initiation and lasts throughout their entire tenure with the team. The first rule is that cheerleaders must attend every rehearsal, with no indication of what the penalty is for falling ill. 

Each contract with being a Cowboys cheerleader is one year long, with applicants told up front about the time commitment. Past rules have also stated showing up with hair and makeup done, and without wedding rings on game days, are also part of the uniform. 

Having makeup be ‘neutral and natural’ is also a requirement of a Dallas cheerleader.  

Another rule is the cheerleaders maintaining a certain body shape, with no obvious gains in weight being the biggest red flag. The team’s website states the cheerleaders need to ‘look well-proportioned in dancewear.’

The cheerleaders’ appearance requirements do not stop there, as they are mandated to wear their hair down, even at rehearsals. 

These are the nine rules Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders have to follow to be part of the team

Everything from their appearance, to clothing, and possibly who they date is mandated

The Cowboys’ cheerleaders iconic outfits, with stars on their tops and short bottoms, with a mᴀssive amount of midriff showing, are provided by the team  and must be returned at the end of the season. 

Not part of the team uniform provided is any hosiery, which must be bought by the cheerleaders themselves, per PEOPLE.

As an overall aesthetic, the Cowboys cheer squad must maintain a clean and wholesome overall appearance, as the team wants to adhere to a family-friendly environment, despite them being scantily clothed at times.   

The cheerleaders are also paid for their time like any another job. Per Texas Monthly, the cheerleaders make $12 per hour and $400 for every game. 

The final, and arguably biggest rule for the cheerleaders, if it is still around, is not being able to date the Cowboys’ roster. 

The rule was in existence decades ago, but has not been spoken about publicly in years. The penalty for having relations with a Cowboy was being kicked off the team, while the Dallas NFL star would face no backlash.