Spotlight on Charger Girls

Photo from 'SD Dirk' via Flickr

There’s more to a San Diego Chargers cheerleader than her shiny gold pom-poms and her megawatt smile.

Named the “Best Cheerleaders in the NFL” by Sport Magazine, the 28 San Diego cheerleaders who make up the 2009 squad have both beauty and brains.  Among them are teachers, managers, small business owners, eco-activists, personal trainers, and many full-time students.

One thing these women all have in common is their commitment to the Chargers’ organization.

Although considered a part-time job, these cheerleaders often arrive five hours before kickoff, then pump up the crowd nonstop for all four quarters of the game.  While the players get a break during time outs or halftime, the Charger Girls stay on the field and entertain the crowd some more.  When all is said and done, each game day adds up to eight or more hours of hard work.  Not to mention full-day rehearsals on Saturdays.

Also, don’t forget to count the numerous hours clocked supporting the organization’s many charities (which include the Junior Seau Foundation, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the American Diabetes Association to name a few) and acting as community ambassadors at various promotional events. They even made an appearance at the Entertainer’s own kickoff party at 710 earlier this year.

Add to that a full class schedule or a 40-hour work week, and it’s no question that the San Diego cheerleaders that make the iconic Charger Girls squad should also be considered the “Most Dedicated Cheerleaders in the NFL”.