The Arizona Cardinals may have secured a win on Monday night, but they also sparked a wave of frustration among fans due to a controversial decision regarding their cheerleading squad. During the Cardinals’ game against the Los Angeles Chargers, fans noticed that the cheerleaders were largely absent from the sidelines, only appearing during breaks in the action. This change was reportedly made to accommodate new “premium seating” at State Farm Stadium.
The new seating arrangements, which offer fans a closer view of the game, prompted the team to limit the presence of their cheerleaders and other game-day entertainment groups, like flag runners, to ensure an unobstructed view for these high-paying attendees.
In a statement, the Cardinals explained the move, saying, “This has included certain aspects of our game entertainment group—like the cheerleaders and flag runners—only being on the field when performing. We will continue to evaluate these areas throughout the season to provide the cleanest and safest environment for everyone.”
Despite the team’s reasoning, many fans are outraged by the decision, fearing that it sidelines the cheerleaders for the majority of the 2024 season. For some, this represents a significant loss to the overall game-day experience.
Critics quickly took to social media to voice their disapproval. “Getting rid of cheerleaders because they are blocking the view of the idiots that spent $50,000 to socialize is a pretty on-brand thing for this dumpster fire organization run by a garbage owner,” one fan tweeted.
Another fan added, “How come you moved the Cardinals cheerleaders off the field? In the home stadium. Poor management.”
Many fans also highlighted the importance of cheerleaders in creating a lively atmosphere. “I’m so disappointed to see your cheerleaders removed from the sideline. Cheerleaders are an integral part of game day and community outreach. Shame you’re choosing a few fans paying premium for on-field seats over the experience of the other 60,000 fans. Let them cheer.”
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Former Cardinals cheerleader Davis Berryhill also weighed in on the situation, expressing her disappointment with the decision. “It does hurt my heart a little bit that they won’t be out there tonight,” Berryhill shared. “When I was on the team, seeing all the little girls in the stands was my favorite thing ever. For them to see that a woman can be in professional sports, a woman can be in the NFL—that representation is really important.”
Berryhill’s sentiment underscores the larger issue for many fans and former team members who believe that cheerleaders play an essential role, not just in game-day entertainment, but also in inspiring young fans, particularly girls, by showing them that women can have a presence in professional sports.
While the backlash continues to build, it remains unclear if the Cardinals will reverse their decision. As of now, the team has given no indication that they plan to change course, despite the growing public pressure.
For fans, the removal of cheerleaders from the sidelines represents more than just a seating arrangement—it’s a move that threatens to diminish the vibrant and inclusive spirit of game day.
Whether or not the Cardinals respond to the criticism, one thing is clear: many supporters feel that prioritizing premium seating over the traditions and entertainment value of cheerleading is a misstep that risks alienating a broader segment of the fanbase.