Glendale saw some unexpected sideline changes during last night's NFL game between the Arizona Cardinals and the Los Angeles Chargers, as cheerleaders were noticeably absent from their usual spots cheering for the team. Friends and family reported that the squad only appeared on the field during gameplay breaks, a change linked to new premium seating options that require clear views.
The change surprised many in the cheerleading community and their supporters, as the team's usual presence during nearly three hours of game time was reduced to just 10 to 15 minutes. As a result, cheerleaders who typically energized the crowd were mostly kept in the locker room, which shocked both them and fans used to their lively sideline performances, according to a Head Topics report and the social media backlash that followed.
Family members of the cheerleaders have noted their disappointment, mentioning that the squad received only four days' notice about the change. This sudden shift in protocol resulted in confusion and disappointment among the cheerleaders and attending fans—"We drove three hours," a mother said, "What am I supposed to tell my daughter? Where are the cheerleaders?" The cheerleaders themselves were brought out for brief appearances during game breaks, as reported in statements obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix.
Former and recent members of the cheer squad emphasized the importance of their role in the fan experience, with one ex-cheerleader Kim Denson recounting to FOX 10 Phoenix, "We added spice, girls, and something different than football." Likewise, Davis Berryhill, who cheered from 2017 to 2021, reflected on the impact they had especially on young fans, "When I was on the team, seeing all the little girls in the stands was my favorite thing ever. For them to see a woman can be in professional sports. A woman can be in the NFL. I think having that representation of women is really important," Berryhill stated.
Amid fan backlash, the Cardinals organization has not commented on the cheerleaders' removal from the sidelines during the primetime game. Supporters have taken to social media to express their concerns, with the hashtag #KeepAZCCOnTheField gaining traction within the NFL's cheerleading community. The Arizona Cardinals have not issued a public statement on the matter, FOX 10 Phoenix reported.
