Detroit, MI — Until this year, the Detroit Lions were one of only
 a handful of teams in the NFL without cheerleaders.
Today, team president Ron Wood announced the Lions would
end that tradition this season.
In a statement made this afternoon, Wood said “after thorough
consideration and receiving input from our fans through season
ticket member surveys and focus groups, we believe that this is
 an opportunity to elevate our game day entertainment.”
The team’s cheerleaders will perform choreographed dances
 and cheers during games and “will also have a presence in the
community,” appearing at various events.
The Lions hired Rebecca Girard-Smoker, who spent 10 seasons
as the dance team director for the Detroit Pistons, as director
of the Detroit Lions Cheerleaders.




There are now six NFL teams
without an official cheerleader
 squad: the Bills, Bears, Browns,
Packers, Giants and Steelers.
In a post on their Facebook page,
the Pride stated “We are SO excited about the Lions announcement
today! It's about time fans! Get ready for the poms to fly in Ford Field!”
The Lions will hold auditions for "female-identifying applicants"
beginning June 25 at Ford Field. Registration is required ($25)
and information is available atdetroitlions.com/cheerleaders or
 by calling (313) 262-2300.