On top of all the other ridiculous requirements for cheerleaders’ bodies, some NFL handbooks also mandate that the women must be tan. If they’re not tan naturally, they have to go to a tanning salon on their own time and try to match the skin tone of their teammates.
Of course, the tans must then be maintained. It’s just another expense that cheerleaders are never reimbursed for, and they could face consequences if they choose not to follow through with their fake tanning.
They Must Understand They Are Expendable
This is less of a rule and more of an insult on the part of NFL teams. Amidst the handbook that outlines everything cheerleaders can and can’t do, the cheerleaders are also told that they’re not really important to the game.
One handbook explained that the fans will come to see football whether the cheerleaders are there or not. Therefore, cheerleaders are told that their jobs aren’t important and that they can be replaced at any time. In order to be part of the team, they have to acknowledge that they’re completely expendable.
They Must Wash Off Their Makeup Before Bed
Most dermatologists recommend that women wash off their makeup before bed. It’s supposed to be better for your skin and it helps to ensure a clean face free of breakouts. Rather than offering up this advice as a recommendation, however, NFL teams make it a part of cheerleaders’ jobs.
Some NFL handbooks state that cheerleaders must wash off their makeup before bed. By putting it in the handbook it becomes part of the job, creating an even more invasive environment for the women.
Their Teeth Must Be White
Cheerleaders are checked from top to bottom, particularly before they appear at games or events. Much like a horse, some NFL teams also choose to examine their cheerleaders’ teeth.
If a woman’s teeth aren’t white enough, the team can demand that they get their teeth whitened. This expensive procedure certainly isn’t reimbursed and a failure to come back with glowing teeth could result in a suspension.
They Can’t Wear Their Uniform Outside of the Stadium
Even though cheerleaders buy their own uniforms, the NFL still controls when they can and can’t wear them. Some NFL handbooks tell cheerleaders that they’re not allowed to wear their uniforms outside of the stadium.
However, the handbook also stipulates that cheerleaders aren’t allowed to be in the stadium in their regular clothes. Basically, the cheerleaders must change once the game ends and then head home. If you thought they could stick around and celebrate their hard work, you thought wrong.