What Carol Watched

I quit dance more than 10 years ago and every time I watch a new season of the DCC documentary, I regret my decision just a little bit. As frivolous, dramatic, or superficial as the dancers may seem, they are everything but. They are strong, passionate high level athletes that work so incredibly hard. I absolutely love that this show has given them an even larger platform to showcase their hard work. 

This newest season might have been my favorite yet. The first of seven episodes starts with part one of the audition process. These girls have to submit video auditions and then be selected to have the opportunity to dance in front of judges. If chosen to move on, they are invited into “training camp.” This camp doesn’t even guarantee a spot on the team; it is just where Kelli Finglass, director of the DCC and Judy Trammell, head choreographer of DCC then decide if they make the final cut. The following episodes showcase the rigorous details of training camp, the heartbreak of those who are cut, the final selections made by Kelli and Judy, and the battle these girls go through in order to dance professionally. 

What I truly love most about this show is not only the raw talent that each of the girls possesses, but also the demonstration of girlhood. Becoming a Dallas Cowboys’ Cheerleader may seem like a useless goal to some, but it is the lifelong dream of many of these girls. Some of them danced from the moment they could walk, competed in grade school, performed at a collegiate level, took hours of DCC style Pom classes, and danced in front of judges for mere minutes only to have their dreams squashed. The grit that these girls display absolutely captivates the watcher, whether you’re a fan of dance, the Cowboys, or neither. 

And all of the hardships that the girls face in order to maybe achieve their dreams are what really bring the girls together. This show really displays what it means to be a team and how to support the women around you. I know I’ve written what seems like an AP English analysis of a show about cheerleaders, but I really think the point of this documentary is to prove that they are more than just sideline characters. To me, this show gives little girls the opportunity to dream big, young adult girls beautiful and kind role models to look up to, and adult girls a chance to see themselves reflected through the work and evolution of the dancers into young women. 

Even if you are not a dancer, a girl, or a Cowboys fan, I think this show can be worth your while. It might even inspire you to be determined, strong, and resilient when chasing your own dreams.

Rating: 8/10

Where to watch: Netflix

How many seasons: 3