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An inspiration to many dancers: Nebraskans assist in leading the legendary Dallas Cowboys cheer squad.

They receive minimal pay, often work during unconventional hours, and have experienced challenging situations in the past. Yet, two Nebraska natives who are part of the renowned Dallas Cowboys cheerleading squad wouldn’t trade their experiences for anything.

In a game during the 2023-24 season, Nebraska natives Claire Wolford and Kelcey Wetterberg, along with 34 other women, performed as members of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders in front of nearly 94,000 fans. The squad, once known as America’s Team, was hoping for a playoff run towards the Super Bowl.

Wolford, in her fourth season and first as a co-captain, expressed the mix of nervousness and excitement during such high-profile performances. Despite the challenges, both Wolford and Wetterberg, co-captains and leaders on the iconic cheerleading squad, emphasize the incredible feeling of being part of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders.

The tradition of Nebraskans being part of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleading squad dates back to 1960 when Cowboys general manager Tex Schramm introduced professional models with little dance experience as cheerleaders. Over the years, the squad evolved, breaking barriers and becoming a phenomenon. Notable Nebraska natives who have been Cowboys cheerleaders include Beverly Flower Gallagher, Micaela Johnson, Carmen Butler, Tami Barber, and now Claire Wolford and Kelcey Wetterberg.

Wetterberg’s journey took her from dancing competitively at Arizona State to studying nursing at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Meanwhile, Wolford, with a passion for dance since childhood, enrolled at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Both connected during their time with the Scarlets dance team, and eventually, their paths led them to become Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders.

The audition process for the iconic squad is rigorous, lasting from May to August. Wetterberg, who admired the Cowboys cheerleaders during her hospital visits as a child, initially doubted her capabilities but eventually made the team in 2019. She encouraged Wolford to audition in 2020, and despite the challenges posed by virtual auditions due to COVID-19, Wolford successfully joined the squad.

Being a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader requires significant sacrifice, with minimal pay of $150 per home game. The cheerleaders, aside from game days, practice three hours each weekday evening while juggling day jobs. Despite the demanding schedules, both women express that being a part of the iconic team is a dream come true.

The cheerleading world has faced controversies and lawsuits related to wage theft, harassment, working conditions, and discrimination. In 2022, the Cowboys settled a confidential $2.4 million lawsuit with four cheerleaders who accused a former senior team executive of voyeurism.

Despite these challenges, Wolford and Wetterberg, now veterans on the 36-person squad, serve in leadership roles, running practices and ensuring the team is prepared for each performance. Both credit their Nebraska upbringing for instilling values like family, faith, hard work, and humility, shaping them into proud ambassadors for their home state.