Cardinals fans were outraged Monday night to see the team’s less-beloved cheerleaders reportedly forced to watch much of Arizona’s victory over the Los Angeles Chargers from their locker room.
Cheerleaders were moved to allow for better sight lines and reduce sideline crowds following the addition of new field-level seating this season, the team explained in a statement.
“This also included certain aspects of our game entertainment group – such as the cheerleaders and flag runners – only being on the field during performances,” the statement to DailyMail.com said. “We will continue to evaluate these areas throughout the season to provide the cleanest and safest environment for everyone.”
But according to Fox 10 Phoenixthose cheerleaders have been moved to their own locker rooms and away from their adoring fans. Furthermore, with few exceptions, cHeerleader’s performances were limited to halftime and the breaks between quarters.
Since then, Cardinals fans and former cheerleaders have expressed their displeasure using a hashtag on social media: “#KeepAZCCOnTheField.”
The Arizona Cardinals cheerleader performs during the NFL game at State Farm Stadium
The Cardinals cheerleaders perform during a game at State Farm Stadium on September 29
“Cheerleaders were removed from the sidelines for ‘blocking the view’ at @AZCardinals games?” one fan asked online. “When you go to a game, you already know there will be cheerleaders. That’s not a hindrance, it’s an expected improvement to the personal gaming experience. #KeepAZCCOnTheField.”
In addition to the male audience, several mothers expressed concern that their daughters would not be able to watch their favorite dance team during competitions.
‘This is absolutely outrageous!’ wrote one woman on What a terrible thing to do to a group of women who worked hard to get here! #KeepAZCCOnTheField.”
“Cheerleaders are just as important as players,” another added. ‘Keep them on the field. They keep their spirits up and play a crucial role in the audience’s hype at important moments. This is just a move by owners to maximize seat revenue. The 12th man gets to work with cheers. They need stadiums.’
The Arizona Cardinals cheerleaders pose together after their season opener
A former cheerleader sided with the current dancers in commentary on Phoenix’s Fox 10.
“When I was on the team, seeing all the little girls in the stands was my favorite thing ever,” Davis Berryhill said. ‘When they see a woman playing a professional sport. A woman can be in the NFL. I think that representation of women is very important.’
But another former Cardinals cheerleader had a different take on the situation.
She explained that the dance team blocked some fans’ opinions and sided with spectators who wanted to focus on the game instead.
“What about the guy who really can’t afford to go to a game, but saves up and buys himself a ticket to finally see for himself what the whole game day experience is about?” Dionna Greene asked on Instagram. “These are all fans, and no one is more important than the other.”
The Cardinals are in Miami on Sunday, but will be back home on November 3 for their Week 9 meeting with the Chicago Bears.