DCC Alumni Spotlight – Kim Stevens
I had the pleasure to interview Kim Stevens. Kim was a DCC for 3 seasons (84, 85, 86) and cheered with Kelli McGonagill Finglass. Kim was the youngest on the team when she made it at the age of 18. A fun fact Kim shared is when she made it to training camp, she was actually still in high school. They announced it on the intercom during announcements at her high school and she was so embarrassed! After her first try, Kim was put on show group and remained for three years. She also shared that during her first year on the team, she was placed in the first row in her group and then had the honor to be a leader her second year.
Kim shared that her biggest role model, and former choreographer, Shannon Werthmann is who inspired her to become a DCC. While on the team, Kim choreographed several dances, which were among her favorite dances, along with the Thriller routine. One of her favorite memories involved USO Tours that she was able to attend. While on one of the tours, one of her most memorable events, was performing on an aircraft carrier in the middle of the Indian Ocean.
Kim shared a piece of advice and said it’s the most valuable thing she received on the team…cherish every single minute that you get to live your dream. This really resonated with me, as it has been a consistent piece of advice throughout most of my alumni interviews. I hold this near and dear, as I approach every day of practice.
Kim’s favorite DCC tradition is the ring ceremony and dinner at Suzanne’s house. We still have the ring ceremony, only it is now held at our end of the year banquet. Kim’s advice tosomeone going into their first year on the team or even their last year, is to soak in the feeling when entering the field. There is nothing else like it, and never take for granted the opportunity that has been given.
XOXO,
DCC Amber
Greetings, readers. As an avid enthusiast and seasoned expert in the world of dance, cheerleading, and specifically, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC), I am here to share my extensive knowledge on the topic. My years of experience and deep understanding of the intricacies of cheerleading allow me to delve into the details of the article featuring Kim Stevens, a notable DCC alumna.
First and foremost, it's crucial to recognize the significance of being a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, a role that demands not only exceptional dancing and cheerleading skills but also embodies the spirit and tradition of one of the most iconic cheerleading squads in the world. Now, let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article.
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DCC (Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders): The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are renowned for their talent, precision, and iconic presence during NFL games. Kim Stevens was part of this prestigious squad for three seasons, from 1984 to 1986, cheering alongside Kelli McGonagill Finglass.
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Training Camp and Making the Team: Kim Stevens made the DCC team at the age of 18, a remarkable achievement that highlights her exceptional skills and dedication. Her journey began while she was still in high school, making her one of the youngest members on the team. The article mentions the unique situation of her selection being announced on the high school intercom, underscoring the excitement and embarrassment of that moment.
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Leadership and Show Group: Kim's progression within the DCC is noteworthy. After her first try, she was placed in the show group and remained there for three years. Her leadership qualities were recognized, as she moved from the first row in her group during her first year to a leadership role in her second year.
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Inspirations and Role Models: Kim Stevens attributes her desire to become a DCC to her role model and former choreographer, Shannon Werthmann. This emphasizes the mentorship and inspirational dynamics within the DCC community.
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Choreography and Favorite Dances: Kim's involvement in choreographing several dances, including the iconic Thriller routine, showcases her artistic contribution to the team and the significance of dance routines in the DCC culture.
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Memorable Experiences and USO Tours: The article highlights Kim's participation in USO Tours, with a particularly memorable event being a performance on an aircraft carrier in the middle of the Indian Ocean. This underscores the unique and diverse experiences that being a DCC can offer.
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Advice and Cherishing the Moment: Kim's advice to cherish every single minute of living the dream as a DCC resonates as a valuable lesson. This sentiment is a common thread in alumni interviews, emphasizing the profound impact of the DCC experience.
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DCC Traditions: The article mentions Kim's favorite DCC tradition, the ring ceremony and dinner at Suzanne's house. This tradition, now held at the end-of-year banquet, reflects the camaraderie and sense of family within the DCC community.
In conclusion, Kim Stevens' journey as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, her contributions to the team, and the insights she shares serve as a testament to the rich tradition and enduring legacy of the DCC. As a passionate advocate for dance and cheerleading, I find great joy in unraveling and appreciating the stories of individuals like Kim who have left an indelible mark on the world of cheerleading.
