Where Is Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Victoria Kalina Now?

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Victoria Kalina is in the concrete jungle where her dreams are made of. 

Following her departure from the Dallas Cowboys cheerleading team during the previous season, the 25-year-old found herself residing in New York City.

In the second season of Netflix’s “America’s Sweethearts,” Victoria, alongside her mother Tina Kalina, embark on a trip to New York and decide to settle there in an apartment for Victoria. In episode seven, they delve into the city’s offerings – from bustling streets, Times Square, and the subway system, to various other attractions.

Victoria confessed in the show that it was an enlightening experience for her to realize there’s life beyond DCC. She had never left for college before, so this was her first time being independent, away from Dallas and her family.

After a challenging choice, Victoria decided to depart from DCC as she was informed she wouldn’t receive a leadership position during her fifth and final year. However, she unequivocally expressed that she harbors no regrets about this significant shift in her career path.

During a recent episode, Victoria expressed her affection for the current location, stating, “I’ve discovered where I belong, and I understand my purpose here. I believe that once you comprehend this, you won’t long for what was merely insufficient.

Reflecting on my journey with DCC, I find myself filled with gratitude for the lessons and growth I’ve experienced. Yet, an exciting new chapter beckons, and I am eager to embrace it.

But, deciding to depart from Dallas wasn’t straightforward for Victoria. She had initially been prepared to spend her fifth year with DCC, but a sense of rejection from director Kelli Finglass and choreographer Judy Trammell left her without a guarantee of a team leader role, which ultimately prompted her decision to leave.

In an interview with Glamour in July 2024, she confessed, “I’d prepared my audition song and had planned out the choreography for my trip. Everything was arranged – even my costume was designed. The whole thing was running smoothly. But that unexpected conversation took me by surprise, like a sudden blow. To be honest, I felt blindsided by it.

Instead, she pondered over remaining to demonstrate her worth to the team, but in the end, she perceived it as a struggle that wasn’t essential.

Last season, Victoria expressed, “Indeed, I could disprove them, and I would be happy to, but I find it unnecessary.” She continued, “I’ve demonstrated this repeatedly in the past, so I see no need to do it again.

For more on the DCC squad, keep reading…

In a recent statement, former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Caroline Sundvold revealed that performing their iconic jump split moves can lead to strain. Caroline, who starred alongside her younger sister Anna Kate in the first season of the Netflix docuseries ‘American Sweethearts’, shared this insight about her DCC experience.

As a dedicated follower, I found myself in a challenging situation when a doctor advised me that I required surgery due to the damage I’d inflicted on my joints over four consecutive seasons. On the show, I expressed my predicament by saying, “However, a hip surgery of this magnitude typically requires a recovery period of three to six months. Yet, I found myself yearning for one more year of cheerleading, choosing to persevere.

After her fifth season, Caroline remarked that the decision to have the operation was absolutely worthwhile, as she had been able to do so at last. However, a subsequent foot surgery she endured turned out to be far more distressing than anticipated.

Caroline remarked, “I assumed hip surgery wouldn’t be this tough, but the foot is packed with numerous nerves. As a result, since the [end-of-season] event up until now, I’ve been largely focused on recovery, which has served as something of an eye-opener.

None of which deterred Anna, who after making the 2023 squad was back on the roster for 2024.

Notable figure Madeline Salter, often referred to as America’s Sweetheart, was once again seen supporting the Cowboys during their 2024 NFL season. She has shared more instances of therapy sessions on her Instagram than many others, with frequent visits to Kinetic Centre – a clinic specializing in spine and sports rehabilitation – to alleviate tension headaches and have her feet taped.

As a lifestyle expert, I frequently emphasize the importance of maintaining optimal health and wellness. In my personal experience, I’ve found tremendous value in the expertise of Dr. Kristina Myles, a skilled chiropractic sports practitioner. Recently, she shared insights in a post showing her working on a patient, highlighting their focus: “Our primary goal is to correct deeper layers within the body that can lead to pain, stiffness, or restricted range of motion when they become injured or overworked.

For the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, being prepared for a football game is second nature. Yet, while this job offers an exciting opportunity, it’s not their primary source of income.

In 2017, ESPN disclosed that NFL team cheerleaders typically earned between $75 and $150 per game, surprising many spectators who thought these attractive entertainers were well-compensated financially. At the very least, it seemed they should be making a fair income.

In the debut season of “America’s Sweethearts”, former DCC member Kelcey Wetterberg is revealed to be a pediatric nurse, whereas Reece Allman (formerly Weaver), who rejoined for the 2024 season, worked at a flower shop in Dallas to boost her cheerleading income.

As reported by the Dallas Morning News, the remuneration for cheerleaders now hovers around $400 per game, in addition to payment for the hours devoted to game preparations and public appearances.

In fact, Kat Puryear, a graduate of DCC, mentioned on the Netflix show that her earnings were similar to those of a part-time employee at Chick-fil-A who works full-time, or roughly equivalent to a substitute teacher’s salary.

Megan McElaney, returning in 2024, shared a sneak peek into her daily routine as a football cheerleader juggling multiple roles, which began at 6:15 a.m. with her morning alarm.

Beyond her day job as a marketing/recruiting coordinator at Bluecrest Financial Alliances, according to LinkedIn, she has also taken on the role of makeup artist for The Styling Stewardess. When her workday concludes, she heads to AT&T Stadium for evening practice, which wraps up at 11 p.m.

According to Salter’s statement to TopMob News, “DCC has shown many of us the importance of managing our time effectively. It’s crucial that we balance our responsibilities towards work, DCC, and personal time.

As a lifestyle expert, I firmly believe that staying physically fit is an essential aspect of my daily routine. However, it’s not just about physical fitness; it’s also about embracing individuality and promoting self-love. That’s why I am thrilled to be part of an organization that has taken a significant step forward by tailoring custom uniforms for each cheerleader according to their unique body shapes. This shift away from a more body-image-focused era is not just about aesthetics, but about fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered, regardless of their physical form.

In conversation with TopMob News since 1991, Kelli Finglass, the director of DCC, emphasized that achieving the perfect fit for the uniform and graceful lines is more about tailoring than weight. She explained that all the girls are responsible for their dietary needs and personal workouts. The dance studio has a gym nearby, and there are nutritionists and mental health professionals on hand for advice when needed.

Women have the autonomy to prioritize their individual routines, and we strive to supply them with resources and educate them on the subject. We then step back and let them take charge. In my opinion, this approach benefits us all.

On the DCC’s website, the FAQ for auditions recommends that you should appear balanced and suitable in dance attire. It is important to note that they do not have particular height or weight prerequisites.

Although the DCC organization has undergone significant changes since its inception, as evidenced by the introduction of star-spangled uniforms in 1972, it still bears a striking resemblance to its early days.

According to Finglass, it seems everything surrounding the cheerleaders has undergone a transformation. They’re adjusting to various aspects such as social media and increased visibility. However, at their core, they are exceptional dancers who often demonstrate a selfless attitude. This characteristic has been consistent throughout our entire history.

Another resource at the ready: An etiquette coach.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d rephrase it this way: “I often find myself dining with senior military personnel, which exposes me to experiences that might be new and unfamiliar for someone who is 18 or 19 and hails from a small-town background.

Because people are thrilled to encounter the DCC in various parts of the globe, she went on to say, “I delight in watching them grasp all aspects, becoming polished, composed, and ready. My aim is simply to equip them with as many tools as I can, so they can feel confident.

Although they can ask for help when needed, these women are tasked with styling their own hair and makeup prior to games. (Sophy Laufer, who joined the team in 2022, shares a detailed tutorial on achieving her stunning game-day look on TikTok.)

In terms of aesthetics, there are a few guidelines: Lips should not be painted red, and neither should fingernails. Furthermore, it is important to keep your hair loose, as Dallas’ Tangerine Salon has been known for styling women’s hair with bounce for quite some time.

Regardless of how flawless your legs are, as a DCC (Drill Team Member), they will always be covered with nude stockings.

As a committed adherent, I uphold the rule that any tattoos must be fully concealed using makeup and bronzer during gameplay, ensuring a uniform appearance for all participants.

As someone who appreciates a sun-kissed glow, I’ve learned that the ideal spray tan should have a warm hue, devoid of any orange undertones. According to the DCC site, it’s crucial for the shade on your face and body to be harmonious. When a spray tan is too dark, it can make facial features less distinct or even seem to ‘wash out’.

In addition to their roles at the DCC, Judy Trammell, our esteemed head choreographer, took pleasure in observing the community-oriented spirit of her dancers mirrored in the production of “America’s Sweethearts.

She expressed regret that their 16-season CMT reality show, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team, which concluded in 2022, didn’t highlight the activities we engage in during the rest of the year, Trammell shared with Entertainment Tonight. “What we do on USO tours, visits to veterans hospitals, and children’s hospitals is seldom shown,” she added, implying that there is much more to us than what has been portrayed.

After you depart the team, Finglass mentioned to TopMob News, there’s an energetic and interactive alumni group known as The Spirit of DCC that you can become a part of.

Transitioning out of cheerleading, much like leaving the military, represents a significant shift in lifestyle, as one goes from spending evenings with teammates at rehearsals to not doing so. This is why we make an effort to offer alumni activities right away, explained the DCC director, because it’s a difficult adjustment for everyone involved. It’s genuinely sad for all of us.

Reflecting on how the women continue to celebrate significant events in their lives, like weddings and subsequently their children’s weddings, long after their active days have ended, Finglass commented, “It feels like I’m a teacher, and when my students graduate, I always look forward to the incoming freshmen. Yet, it’s natural to have feelings and connections that may not be experienced or expressed daily.

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2025-06-20 17:47