Texans Ben Jones talking camo in the December 2014 issue of 002 Magazine
Texas is home to a slew of good ole boys, which is probably one reason Texans offensive lineman Ben Jones fits right in. “That’s one of the things I love about Houston – you’ve got the big city and all your nice restaurants, but you can go 30 minutes outside and you’re in the middle of nowhere,” Jones says.
Ben Jones is by definition a country boy.
Just ask him his favorite color. His response: “Does camo count?” He’s a proud owner of camo-colored crocs. Recently married, Jones says, “the best I could do was wear boots,” since camo was vetoed. Even guys like Arian Foster and Duane Brown give him heat for owning so much camo. “They’re always like, ‘what else could you possibly have?’” since he even carries camo luggage to the games.
While the Alabama native is 100% committed to football season, Jones points out it’s also dove-hunting season, and he’s taking advantage of it every chance when he’s not on the field. His favorite hunting buddy is teammate and friend Shane Lechler, where the two share a unique Monday Night Football experience.
“His [Lechler’s] mom has land in Sealy – it’s a way to get away from football and clear your mind. Go out there, relax and just talk – we’re out in the middle of nowhere. If we go out there on a Monday we might watch some football – his mom has a TV in the barn – we’ll clean the doves we killed and cook supper out there and watch the game,” Jones says.
Jones love for hunting started when he was six. “After my dad passed, my mom would carry me hunting – she would sit in the hunting stand and read her magazine while I was hunting because I wanted to go and she didn’t want me to go by myself,” he recalls.
Hunting is also a way for Jones, now in his third season with the Texans, to spend time with family. “My granddaddy trains bird dogs so that’s something we can do together,” he says.
While Lechler is his go-to hunting buddy, Jones has put some thought into other teammates he’d like to see with a shotgun.
“I’d probably take Duane Brown, Chris Meyers, or Garrett Graham – Garrett’s never shot a gun so that could be fun. Chris grew up in Miami and always been in a big city, but he could be all for it. I know Duane’s been [at the range in Vegas] and likes to shoot guns, so getting him out of his comfort zone in the middle of nowhere – I’d like to see that. Duane probably doesn’t have any camo so I’d have to loan him something. All he wears is his golf attire because he’s a big golfer,” Jones says laughing at the image of fellow larger-than-life lineman decked out in camo.
Want more proof Ben Jones is a good ole country boy?
His favorite store: Gander Mountain, Bass Pro Shop, Academy
Collects: Shot guns.
Favorite Brand: Benelli
Favorite Show: Duck Dynasty (Si and Godwin especially)
This article originally ran in the December 2014 print edition of 002 Houston Magazine (now LOCAL Houston Magazine).
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/50_Dec14_002houston-copy.jpg16831533Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-12-01 11:58:592015-01-15 12:04:35Ben Jones: Football, Family and HUNTING
Behind the scenes with Mandi of the Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders
My love and loyalty for the Eagles is definitely a biased one. That is my team. Perhaps that’s why I say The Linc is the best stadium in the NFL and why the Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders are my absolute faves.
You can only imagine my delight when I got to interview Mandi, who is in an elite club with guys like Peyton Manning and George H. W. Bush, and can school me in math, dance moves and maybe football knowledge. All that aside, she’s one tough chick, she’s a fan of blue wigs, Beyonce and comes from a long line of cheerleading ladies.
And yes, she was dancing (and smiling) on the sidelines during the infamous Snow Bowl and didn’t once complain about it.
On to the interview, then you can watch our exclusive preview of her calendar shoot, and check out her gallery. Deal?
Man Cave Daily: Where are you originally from?
Mandi: Bucks County, PA
MCD: What school did you go to? Tell me what things you were involved with during college?
M: I graduated summa cum laude from West Chester University with a B.S. in Elementary Education and a minor in Mathematics. I was a member of Alpha Sigma Tau National Sorority, as well as Omicron Delta Kappa, a national honors society, whose members range from Peyton Manning to George H. W. Bush.
MCD: Occupation?
M: I’m a kindergarten teacher in a school district in the suburbs of Philadelphia.MCD: Years on team?
M: This is my second season on the squad! During my last year of college, I decided to give my lifelong dream of being an Eagles Cheerleader a chance. Even though I didn’t make the squad that year, I made it to the final auditions, and I left with a strong appreciation for how hard each woman works to get here–and stay here. I was ready to try again the following year, and this time, was more than grateful to be selected as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders! Coming from a long line of cheerleaders and die-hard Eagles fans, I’ve been cheering and “bleeding green” ever since I could stand on my own feet and spell E-A-G-L-E-S, EAGLES!
I grew up learning the old cheerleading and pom routines of my mom and aunts, who cheered together in high school. To this day, my cousins and I could most likely perform the ’70s version of high school cheerleading…if we wanted to! Coincidently enough, my aunts and mother went to the same high school that my sister and I attended. We have a funny picture somewhere of all of us in our high school cheerleading jackets “through-the-decades.” Many of my family members went on to coach high school cheerleading, however, I am the first in my family to become a NFL cheerleader!
MCD: Are you in the calendar?
M: We are a very fortunate squad, in that we ALL get to be featured in the calendar! Each
F-L-Y Eagles F-L-Y (and Mandi)
cheerleader has such stunning photos–it’s great that our fans get to see them all!
MCD: Greatest memory so far?
M: Some of my favorite memories including cheering at the “Snow Bowl” game last season, appearing at New York Fashion Week in our latest signature pieces designed by Vera Wang, volunteering for numerous charity and military appreciation events.
MCD: Favorite player?
M: David Akers. He was such a reliable kicker for our team, and always made time to volunteer within the community. On and off the field, he showed what it meant to be a role model for fans and athletes.
MCD: I’ve never heard anyone say a kicker, I like that. I am a BIG Akers fan. For those who have never been to your stadium, describe the atmosphere.
M: Seventy thousand seats at Lincoln Financial Field are filled during every Eagles game in a sea of green with passionate, spirited, loyal fans…including fans celebrating their 50+ years as season ticket holders! The atmosphere is absolutely electrifying. Fans begin to chant and cheer even before entering the gates and they keep up that same energy level until the very last play. Some fans donning only green body paint and feathered hats in 20-degree weather take “fandemonium” to a whole new level! It’s awesome! There is a strong sense of pride and tradition that fills the hearts of everyone at Eagles games especially when the 100 yard American flag unfurls, the fighter-jets flyover during the national anthem, the Rocky theme song is played at kickoff, and military servicemen and women are honored during the game. Lincoln Financial Field ignites after every Eagles touchdown! It is an unforgettable day that as Eagles Cheerleaders we get to experience with the best fans in the NFL.
MCD: I’ve been there a hundred times and probably couldn’t have described The Linc any better. You are absolutely right; our fans are like no other. Which Spice Girl would you be?
M: Sticking with my childhood alter-ego, I’d have to go with Posh Spice! I may or may not still have my “little Gucci dress” from a “Mini-Spice Girls” concert I performed in the fourth grade…
MCD: Who’s your bestie on the squad?
M: Over the past two years, I’ve become very close with the other cheerleaders on the squad. Becoming friends, both on and off the field, I know that I can turn to any one of them! I have an extra special bond with the other six women who I made the squad with in 2013. Sharing that first year together as Eagles Cheerleaders is something irreplaceable that will always be with us!
MCD: What charity is nearest and dearest to your heart?
M: My grandfather was my role model. He taught me how to “fly” on my own and be a good person along the way. (He also raised me to be a true Eagles fan… pretty smart guy!) Unfortunately, he passed away from lymphoma, so every now and then when I am missing him more than usual I make a private donation to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in his honor.
MCD: If you could only dance/perform to one artist for the entire season, who would it be?
M: Beyoncé! She’s the queen for a reason. I love her music and even her older songs still get me pumped to take the field!
MCD: Most random thing we’d find in your recent Google history?
M: “Blue wig for sale” …it was for my Halloween costume (it’s my favorite holiday!)
MCD: Since you’re so busy getting ready for the games, (sadly) you miss one of my favorite parts — tailgating! If you were asked to bring one thing, what would it be?
Mandi surely is a wing woman, an Eagles wing woman
M: As Eagles cheerleaders, we do get to be a part of the tailgates and spend time with fans before kickoff. It’s the best of both worlds. We visit the tailgates prior to kickoff with the Eagles Pep Band, Drumline, Alumni players, and our mascot SWOOP to get everyone pumped up for the game with the Eagles Fight Song! As far as what I will bring with me? There isn’t much! Eagles fans are known for their fantastic tailgates–they bring everything you could imagine including incredible food, fire-pits, camping RVs painted green and white, and big screen televisions.
MCD: A huge part of being an NFL cheerleader is visiting/spending time with the military (which I love!). If you could give a message to those who serve our country and fight for our freedom, what would you say?
M: THANK YOU! As simple as it sounds, I can’t thank the military enough for their sacrifices and bravery. They are truly heroes and deserve of appreciation and support.
MCD: Look in your purse/bag right now — what’s the most random thing in there?
M: An obnoxiously large bag of trail mix… I admit it–I’m hooked. I’ve been creating my own mix recently–peanuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate, peanut butter chunks, and a secret ingredient! My family calls it “Mandi Mix.”
MCD: Favorite book/magazine/website?
M:Once Beneath the Stars by R.S. Lentin. It’s based on a true story of an ex-football player, who becomes paralyzed from the neck down during a play. It makes you realize how your life can change in a split second.
MCD: Cheerleaders are known for taking the perfect selfies — probably more so than Kim Kardashian — what’s your secret to a perfect selfie?
M: My friends always ask me to take the selfie because of my long arms. I guess the right distance is the secret to capturing your good side!
MCD: Any time for hobbies or interests?
M: Yes — photography! I used to volunteer my time staging and photographing portrait shoots. Some of my photography is still featured today, in company publications and brochures local to Philadelphia. During my free time, I still love to dust off my SLR and take pictures!
MCD: What’s the team’s character like?
M: With many different interests and careers, our squad is very dynamic! As a very supportive and encouraging group of women, we truly appreciate one another for what each person brings to the table. Learning from each other and working hard together, we are a very motivated group!
MCD: Homebody or an adventurer?
M: I like to think of myself as a homebody, but when I look at the things I’ve experienced in my life, I guess I’m more of an adventurer than I realized!
MCD: So, what’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done?
M: A few years ago, I packed my bags and moved to Barcelona with two of my friends. It was definitely an adventure considering none of us had ever been outside of the US before! We experienced Spain’s beautiful costal lands, rich culture, and welcoming people. I can’t wait to go back!
MCD: Tell me something about you people would find completely interesting?
M: I’ve flown an airplane before. My grandfather was a pilot and used to take me up in his private plane when I was younger. As soon as we were in the sky, he would let go of the controls and teach me how to fly it!
Eagles spirit, personal success, planes: Mandi flies ‘em all. Now see her bonus gallery for more reasons why we think she’s keen (and her full suite of pictures)! It’s time to enjoy her calendar shoot with a fuller appreciation of why she’s so great.
This article on Mandi originally ran in the sport’s section of CBS Man Cave Daily. Click here to see the original one and a big thanks to ShockTop for creating this NFL Cheerleader series!
Jets Flight Crew Kristina L. Plays Hard, Works Harder, Cheers Hardest
You know that saying, “You have just as many hours in a day as Beyonce?” Well, I’m pretty sure Kristina has more than Beyonce because she manages to get more done (WITH A SMILE ON HER FACE) in a few hours than I can muster in a few days. An attorney by day, Kristina, who goes by “Steen” thanks to her college cheerleading coach, spends the rest of her hours dancing, practicing and loving football as a New York Jets Flight Crew Cheerleader.
The two-year Flight Crew veteran considers her style “structured,” and one that fits many occasions. Much the same can be said for her lifestyle. She’s structured, she’s gorgeous and she’s got moves I’ve tried to learn via YouTube, but failed miserably. She’s kind of awesome.
Man Cave Daily: Where are you from?
Kristina: I’m a military brat, so I have such a hard time answering this question! I was born in Germany, and I’ve lived in Virginia, South Carolina, Washington State, Louisiana, Georgia, Maryland, Washington D.C., and now, New York. I went to high school in South Carolina, so I claim that as my “hometown.” The southern drawl comes back as soon as I set foot below the Mason-Dixon Line.
MCD: What school did you go to?
K: I went to undergrad at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, and am a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Eta Kappa Chapter. I am super connected to Spelman and to my sorority life. I also love supporting and encouraging high school students to attend historically black colleges (“HBCUs”). Both of my sisters also graduated from Spelman and are members of sororities. My parents both graduated from HBCUs, and my husband graduated from Howard University, an HBCU in D.C. For law school, I attended Georgetown Law.
MCD: Why do HBCUs mean so much to you? Did you learn unique things or is it just something you learned from your family?
K: I love this question! I think it has the most to do with the history behind how HBCUs came to exist. This was something my parents definitely taught me and my sisters growing up. The idea was that for so many years, young black people weren’t permitted to attend predominantly white colleges and universities, so HBCUs were a place founded for them so that they could receive an education. I feel a real kinship to that kind of idea! In high school, I just loved the idea of knowing that I was going to a college I knew was founded for me. It made for a different kind of college experience that I’d heard my aunts, uncles, mom, dad and older sister all talk about.
MCD: Day job?
K: Attorney. I practiced corporate law (mergers & acquisitions) at a law firm in Connecticut for over three years. I now work at a non-profit organization in Manhattan, where I help private donors fund public school classrooms.
K: That movie is so fun, and I think we can all learn a few things from Elle Woods (awesome style, included)! She was such an underdog when she entered law school, and she really proved people wrong. I can totally relate to that. It’s a great lesson in not judging a book by its cover.
MCD: Years on team?
K: This is my second year on the team, and I feel so blessed to have made it on my first try. It was such a hard process, though! I attribute making the team to actually attending prep classes with Denise [the coach] and the Flight Crew before auditions. Those classes were a MUST.
MCD: Number one “trick” you learned in those classes?
K: Those classes redefine what it means to be in shape. I learned that just because you run fast and do a ton of push-ups doesn’t mean anything if you can’t hit a dance routine at your absolutely hardest for 60 seconds. In that class, I remember watching the two Flight Crew Cheerleaders perform a routine for the group of audition candidates, and they didn’t even look tired. Their makeup didn’t move! As soon as we ran the routine once, I was breathless and my makeup was everywhere. It was priceless to hear the cheerleaders and Denise talk about nutrition, a solid exercise regimen (lots of dancing!) and makeup tips for performing on a field.
MCD: Are you in the calendar?
K: Yes — I’m honored to be the month of March in this year’s calendar.
All smiles for the woman who does in fact seem to have more hours in a day than Beyonce
MCD: Greatest memory so far?
K: My greatest memory happened at the end of last season. It was the last game of the 2013 season when my group shared a huge group hug as the clock ran down in the 4th quarter. It was one of those moments that you don’t plan or choreograph. It just happens. I remember hearing the fans count down the last few seconds of the game — and the cheerleaders in my group suddenly rushed toward each other with tears of joy, sadness and accomplishment. I especially felt lucky to witness veterans from our inaugural team complete an awesome career on the Flight Crew. I can’t imagine what my very last game will look like, but that feeling is one I won’t ever forget. It’s like years of hard work, sweat, tears and joy coming together for a grand finale.
MCD: For those who have never been to your stadium, describe the atmosphere:
K: Jets fans make MetLife Stadium, and I love that feeling of Jets loyalty every time I set foot on the turf. Sundays at the stadium are just raw, New York/New Jersey football. I also love that it’s an outdoor stadium, so you get the elements — wind, cold, rain and shine. There’s nothing better than looking up in the stadium when it’s snowing and seeing shivering fans wearing face paint and rooting on the Jets.
MCD: If you had a Real Housewives intro, what would yours be?
K: I’d be wearing my best suit, a judge’s robe, killer pumps, and slamming a gavel into my palm. I would say nothing (as my coach Denise would say, “I’d just make a statement without saying a word.”) … And then, I’d probably crack up and need to do a few outtakes before actually nailing some sort of serious lawyer intro.
MCD: I like your style. Biggest misconception about Cheerleaders?
K: I’m not really concerned about any misconceptions that others have about cheerleaders, particularly in the NFL, because that would imply that we’re all spending season after season aiming to prove people wrong. And that’s not why we’re here! Instead, I think that the act of cheerleading, itself, is pretty awesome and pretty important as a way of life: Cheerleaders are selflessly supporting others (the team), encouraging others (fans) to do the same, promoting health and physical fitness, and always remaining optimistic — all while upholding a positive self image. We do all of these things even when we aren’t on the sidelines.
MCD: What charity is nearest and dearest to your heart?
K: DonorsChoose.org, where ordinary people can give money to public school classrooms. I’m all about putting kids on equal footing so that they have the materials they need to learn!
MCD: If you could only dance/perform to one artist for the entire season, who would it be?
K: Janet Jackson (“Rhythm Nation”). I’m obsessed.
MCD: Since you’re so busy getting ready for the games, (sadly) you miss one of my favorite parts – tailgating! If you were asked to bring one thing, what would it be?
K: I spent a big part of my childhood in the south, so I would certainly be the one bringing the meat… and the grill! My dad taught me and my sisters how to grill at an early age, so I’d probably come to the tailgate with my grill in tow on the back of a truck filled with ribs soaked in an awesome marinade. I don’t eat ribs, but I’m sure they’d taste great!
MCD: I know a huge part of being an NFL Cheerleader is visiting/spending time with the military (which I love!). If you could give a message to those who serve our country and fight for our freedom, what would you say?
K: I would give them the silent nod of thanks — just a salute to honor their major sacrifice. My dad is retired military, and he’s the kind of patriotic army man that when the national anthem comes on, no one in the family is permitted to move, talk or disrupt. A lot of my family and friends growing up were military, so when we sit down at meals for the holidays, my mom and dad always pray for the soldiers and their families who are separated. Because that used to be us, there’s never a dry eye at the table! I know that it’s those prayers that bring home soldiers to their children and significant others.
MCD: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
K: Multiple pairs of shoes. I like to know that my look could translate to any part of my day. I wouldn’t want to be invited to a night out on the town — or dinner with the president — and be unprepared without the perfect attire.
MCD: Such an attorney mindset, I love it. Favorite book?
K:The Giver by Lois Lowry. The main character, Jonas, is the person in his society who’s responsible for keeping all of the memories and history of his community’s past. I’m fascinated by the rich history in the stories of my own grandmothers, their mothers, and so forth, so I feel like I really understand Jonas’ character in this book.
MCD: Cheerleaders are known for taking the perfect selfies – probably more so than Kim Kardashian – what’s your secret to a perfect selfie?
K: Dare I say it… I’ve never taken a selfie! I’m not quite comfortable with the idea of posting a solo shot, and then anxiously awaiting the thumbs up from friends and strangers. It makes me nervous. However, I’ve heard that the perfect filter can put a nice touch on a selfie!
MCD: Hobbies or interests?
K: I love nerdy legal stuff. In my third year of law school, I took classes like critical race theory, feminist legal studies and economic justice. Now, I find myself spending lunch breaks catching up on the new scholarship in these areas! I also love home decor. I could spend an entire day just roaming home decor galleries in the city.
MCD: What’s the team’s character like?
I may not cheer for the Jets, but I’ll cheer for Kristina any day!
K:This year’s team is about business! Our veterans take seriously the role of being veterans and our rookies are so spunky and awesome. We send text and email reminders to each other about everything, and we take seriously our deadlines, commitments and practices. We’re a relatively young team (our oldest veterans have been on the team 4 years), so many of us are still learning things. The great part is, even though we appreciate the business side of our jobs, it’s really fun and exciting to treat everything like it’s our first time experiencing it. It’s cool to watch even fourth-year veterans get teary-eyed during the national anthem, showing the same excitement they had rookie year. That energy totally carries us!
MCD: Homebody or an adventurer?
K: I took a personality assessment once that said I was an adventurer. I think I’m bold when it comes to making life choices, but not necessarily adventurous in daily life. A date at home with my husband to watch House Hunters International sounds fun and adventurous enough to me!
MCD: What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done?
K: I quit my corporate job, and I became a professional cheerleader. It was the best decision of my life.
MCD: Tell me something about you people would find completely out of character?
K: In reality, my personality is kind of intense. I care a lot about cheerleading and sacrificed a lot to be here — so in practices and in games, I work super hard and always try to push my teammates to do the same. What I think often surprises people, though, is just how much of a jokester I can be. My teammates joke that I’m the perfect locker room prankster because no one is ever suspecting that it would come from me. I love it, and think it’s great when we can share a quick joke after mastering a hard routine at practice — and still sweat and shout words of encouragement and motivation when times get tough. Just like in my life, where I play the role of a wife and a lawyer, I love playing all of these roles on the team. Work hard, play hard!
Before this Jet takes off, make sure your seat is in an upright position and you’ve seen her full flight of photos in her Bonus Gallery!
This article originally ran in the sports section of CBS Man Cave Daily. Click here to see the original article and even more photos!
Chris Carter and The Blonde Side’s Jayme Lamm working out before ESPYS 2014
If you’ve ever met a professional athlete, at least a good one, you come to learn there is no such thing as an “off-season.” No matter what your contract looks like or how healthy you are, you are never guaranteed that coveted spot on the roster you’ve spent your lifetime working for (unless of course your name is Kobe).
As an athlete you know that someone younger, stronger and with even more determination is right on your cleats and if you slip up for even a second, it could all be gone. That’s why guys like Chris Carter, recently waived outside linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts, can’t give those guys a chance to catch up – he doesn’t let up. He can’t let up. It’s not in his DNA. In his fourth NFL season, and still considered a career back up, he has no room to let up – his job depends on it. Carter’s “off-season” workout proves just how focused he is year-round.
If all it took to play in the NFL were dedication and heart, Carter would be a starter by anyone’s standards. But as we already know, it takes more to play at this level. Much more. Which may be why he started the season with the Steelers, then was quickly signed by the Colts, and is now released on waivers. But has he given up? Nope. Has he slowed down? Nope again.
Diligently passing his time before heading back to Pittsburgh for training camp and most recently landing a spot on the active roster in Indy, Carter returns home. Home is Southern California, which is where he teamed up with Matthew Uohara (MS, CSCS), a Los Angeles-based strength and conditioning professional specializing in athlete off-season development. Uohara brings an unprecedented science to the ssport, which is becoming more common and sought-out from today’s athletes. As competition is more vigorous than ever, it goes beyond how fast you run a 40 or how many pounds you can bench, something Carter has quickly become familiar with.
If you’ve ever made it past any junior varsity sport, odds are you know how to work out, as defined by sweating with cardio and doing a suggested numberof reps through your gym’s purposeful circuit. Uohara works with Carter on an individual level, like he does all his athletes. As cliché as “everyone’s an individual” is, there is more truth to that when it comes to bodily abilities than perhaps all else.
“This is absolutely true. Every athlete will come in with specific goals and although you may have two players from the same sport that play the same position and look completely identical on paper; their expression of the stimuli that we give them (training) can be very different,” Uohara explains. Carter is no exception.
On paper Chris Carter is a beast – he’s big, strong, fast and dedicated – each a fundamental for having a successful NFL career. Yet to snag a professional sack on the field, Uohara sees Carter in a different light, noting specific areas for improvement.
“When we looked at the tape and evaluated his movement, we found that there were specific reasons why he was not able to express his speed and strength optimally on the field. This was a very different approach for him. Throughout the off-season we used a variety of physical, visual and auditory cues to continuously re-educate these new patterns. One is an exercise we call “the stealth walk.” This exercise uses your body weight to aid in extreme dorsiflexion of the ankle. To the average viewer it may look like we are just walking very slowly and close to the ground. However, what we are truly doing is teaching his brain/body that this position is both safe and comfortable. When we can provide that environment of stability, the brain will give the body all the range of motion it needs. The coolest part is not only having the range but being strong there too,” Uohara says.
Not missing a single practice with Uohara, the 2011 fifth round draft pick knows there is truth behind ProFootballTalk.com calling this a “now-or-never season” for him. Having played 29 games for the Steelers over the last three seasons, Carter got the chance to take his talents to Indianapolis where the competition is just as stiff, if not more so. Whether that competition was just too stiff or the current depth chart just didn’t have a spot for Carter remains to be determined, but it’s the motivation he needs to work even harder.
As for the benefits, Carter’s seen a few early on. “What benefited me the most is the way we worked on my posture. In addition to that, my hips and hamstrings were always tight in the past. Now they never get tight and I feel very fluid,” Carter says.
Understanding where your body is “supposed to be” (i.e. posture) helps the body control each and every deliberate movement, giving the athlete more power, explosiveness off the line and resistance to injury. The exact things the Colts hope to see in Carter right away.
Back in the day we heard stories of football players like Herschel Walker taking ballet to improve flexibility, agility and endurance, which has morphed over time into practices like Yoga, Pilates, and SPX. But true to form, Uohara and others in his field continue to be progressive and have joined the JOGA movement, receiving his stamp of approval. JOGA quickly became a constant in Carter’s summertime workout rotation.
“Not a lot of people in my profession are huge fans of yoga and for the most part nor am I. In saying that, Jana Webb, a yoga instructor from Canada, has created JOGA–a yoga system with the athlete in mind. In my experience, [JOGA] accomplishes much of the same tasks in a regenerative manner. In essence, it is a form of yoga that can be used to both train and facilitate recovery,” Uohara says, which is optimal for any athlete who performs at high levels.
Uohara takes one of the most commons poses in yoga, the Down Dog, and explains JOGA modifications. “The traditional Down Dog attempts to take the client’s heels all the way through the floor. This is great if they have the structural pre-requisites to do this, however, if not, the athlete will attempt to get there anyway, taking the path of least resistance. Often times this is also the path of dysfunction. Keeping this in mind, JOGA has what they call a Crouching Down Dog–the heels are off the mat and knees are bent. This position still capitalizes on all the benefits you would see in a traditional Down Dog such as ankle dorsiflexion, hip hinge patterning, thoracic extension as well as length in the lats. In addition to this, it uniquely trains a modified squat pattern all the while decreasing the likelihood for injury,” Uohara explains noting that is one of the main attributes to Carter feeling more “fluid.”
The scientific art behind this form of strengthening and re-training gets guys like Carter ready to hit the field at newly re-defined speeds, which is what Carter needs as he’s finding his place on the depth chart in Indy.
Consider Uohara’s sessions camp before camp. But when Uohara sends these guys back to the field, he continues to keep a close eye and has been known to send a text or two while watching a game. He strives to give immediate feedback such as “I noticed some stumbling coming out of your backpedal, lets make sure to get some more of your quick foot work in prior to stepping on to the field.” Although he still reaches out, Uohara notes that when the guys return to their teams they are in fully capable hands and he has faith that all that hard work over the summer will continue to pay off.
There’s no telling where Carter’s career will take him, but it’ll be interesting to see where these new movements and retrainings might land him on the NFL’s big stage, hopefully back onto the field and into the starting lineup.
This article originally ran in the sport’s section of CBS Man Cave Daily here.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/chris-carter.jpg349620Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-11-19 09:31:092014-11-19 09:31:10Chris Carter Reinvents Himself
Ben-Gals calendar covergirl Lauren talks to The Blonde Side in the 2014-2015 NFL Cheer Series Presented by ShockTop
Meet cover-girl Lauren C. from the Ben-Gals. Yes, you can see the beautiful Lauren gracing the cover of the 2015 Ben-Gals calendar, but you get to actually hear a bunch of cool things about here right here in this exclusive Man Cave Daily interview.
Three years ago the blonde bombshell was voted Rookie of the Year and she hasn’t skipped a beat since – there is literally no stopping this gal – on or off the field. She’s all smiles, all heart and even has a good dose of humor and wit to go along with her stunning good looks. She even sees beyond the Bengal stripes and calls Peyton Manning an “iconic football player,” which is nothing but the pure truth. She loves close games (assuming her team wins) and loud fans. Want to know more about Lauren and what she loves?
Man Cave Daily: Where are you from?
Lauren C.: Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
MCD: What school did you go to?
L: I went to The Ohio State University and graduated with a major in Psychology and minors in Communications and Spanish. I absolutely loved it…I thought I wanted to go to a small school originally, but when I visited campus I knew that’s where I wanted to go! I was in the sorority Delta Gamma, which definitely made it feel a little bit smaller because I was able to form a close bond with so many women. It’s funny — one of the rookies on the squad this year was in DG at Bowling Green. It’s nice to be able to make that connection wherever I go!
MCD: Is “the” really necessary when saying Ohio State? Honestly?
L: Haha! I’m pretty sure “The” is part of the official name! Regardless, the moment I became a Buckeye I was basically groomed to include the “The.”
MCD: Occupation?
L: Project Manager (official title is Senior Account Executive).
MCD: Years on team?
L: This is my third year, and I was lucky enough to make it my first time trying out…but it was definitely a difficult and competitive process!
MCD: One secret to being a successful NFL cheerleader?
L: There are so many important aspects of NFL cheerleading…dance ability, showmanship, fitness, glamour, community service, confidence, professionalism, etc. I think the key is putting 100% effort behind each one. Being well rounded and embracing all of those things is what makes us successful because they’re all equally important.
MCD: Are you in the calendar?
L: Yes! The Ben-Gals do a great job of featuring each girl in the calendar. This year, I am on the cover! It was
2014-2015 NFL Cheer Series Presented by Shock Top – because these ladies are SHOCKING
by far one of the greatest moments of my Ben-Gal career!
MCD: Part of your body you work hardest for?
L: That’s tough…I really enjoy getting a full body workout, but I always make sure to do abs (mainly because we wear a two-piece uniform for most of the season!).
MCD: Yes, I’m well aware, as is most of the NFL world! Greatest memory so far?
L: I have so many; I don’t think I can choose just one! Aside from being on the Cover of this year’s calendar, making the team and stepping onto the field for the first time are high on my list. Another great moment is when I was voted by my teammates as Rookie of the Year my first year on the squad—that meant a lot to me. This year, I was chosen as a side captain by my coaches, which was an incredible honor. I love having the opportunity to lead such an amazing group of women.
My favorite game has to be last year’s game against the Green Bay Packers. We came back fourth quarter and won 34-30…I don’t think the crowd has ever been so loud!
Still, some of the greatest memories are the small things. There are those times when we go out on the field and practice at night, in an empty stadium under the lights with no one else in sight. That’s my absolute favorite… when I can really take it all in. It’s an indescribable feeling!
MCD: Favorite player?
L: This is always changing–I love watching Giovani Bernard play this year… he’s a powerhouse! Of course, AJ Green is always one of my favorites because he’s such a talented athlete. There are a few players, like Andrew Whitworth and Domata Peko, who always go the extra mile for their fans, which is so great to see.
If I had to choose a player on a different team, I’d say Peyton Manning. He’s an iconic football player and such a well-respected person in the NFL.
MCD: For those who have never been to your stadium, describe the atmosphere?
L: It’s amazing! I really encourage anyone who’s never been to game to go! Looking into a sea of orange and black and hearing the roar of the crowd never, ever gets old. I still get goosebumps every time “Welcome to the Jungle” comes on! Game day at Paul Brown Stadium is something every Bengals fan needs to experience at least once.
MCD: Which Spice Girl would you be?
L: My very first concert was the Spice Girls…I loved them! When I was younger I would’ve said Sporty, but now, I’d probably say I’m a combination of Sporty and Posh. Being athletic is a huge part of NFL Cheerleading, but so is glamour!
MCD: Who’s your bestie on the squad?
L: The squad is truly a sisterhood, and I’m very lucky to have gained so many amazing friends over the past three years. Friendships are maintained throughout the years, but always changing due to new girls joining and other girls retiring. My “rookie class’ (who are now the “juniors’) became really close. One girl I instantly clicked with is Carli…I was in her wedding this past August! Even though we’ve only known each other for three years, it feels so much longer.
MCD: Biggest misconception about cheerleaders?
Ben-Gals Lauren – truly the definition of an amazing woman
L: I think the biggest misconception is that NFL cheerleaders don’t have full-time jobs. In fact, you have to have a full-time job or be a full-time student to try out for the squad. I work from 8:30-5 Monday thru Friday, and then go to practice! It’s exhausting, but totally worth it.
MCD: What charity is nearest and dearest to your heart and why?
L: We do a lot of charity work in the NFL, and there are so many great ones! One that stands out in my mind is Kicks for Kids, which offers opportunities to children, who are challenged mentally, physically, or by the environment in which they live; through a collaborative effort with other local kids’ organizations. There’s a Christmas event at Paul Brown Stadium every year, where the kids visit with Santa Claus and Who Dey, eat food and just have a great time. Then, they walk down to the visitor’s locker room, where a locker is decorated with a personalized nameplate and filled with a new winter coat, hat and pair of gloves, a Bengals football for autographs, school supplies, and many other gifts that change from year to year. After they put on their gear, they run to the field for some fun! Seeing their faces light up in that locker room is something that really touched me.
In addition to Kicks for Kids, there’s been incredible support this year around Devon Still’s daughter, Leah, who’s fighting pediatric brain cancer. It’s been amazing to be part of an organization that is so supportive of the cause. To see her story spread across the nation the way it has is really remarkable.
MCD: If you could only dance/perform to one artist for the entire season, who would it be?
L: I don’t think I have a good answer to this because I love so many different artists! It really depends on my mood…I love dancing to Beyonce, Pitbull, and Rihanna because their songs are upbeat and fun. Michael Jackson is also one of my all-time favorites because he has so many classic hits!
MCD: What’s the most embarrassing/random thing we’d find in your recent Google history?
L: I was trying to decide on a Halloween costume, so I have some pretty hilarious searches. Teletubbies, skeleton makeup, Mean Girls, the list goes on! I couldn’t decide if I wanted to be something scary or funny!
MCD: Since you’re so busy getting ready for the games, (sadly) you miss one of my favorite parts – tailgating! If you were asked to bring one thing, what would it be?
L: I have a HUGE sweet tooth, so definitely some type of dessert. Cake, cupcakes, brownies, cookies, candy…you name it, I’ll bring it!
MCD: If you could give a message to those who serve our country and fight for our freedom, what would you say?
L: To the men and women who serve our country, thank you for your courage, dedication, and sacrifice!
MCD: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
L: Three little bottles of Mio! I used to be really bad when it came to drinking a lot of water, so now I ALWAYS carry Mio around to add some flavor.
MCD: Favorite book/magazine/website?
L: I’m sort of a reality show junkie, so whenever I’m traveling I’m always buying gossip magazines like US Weekly, or reading E! News online. I can’t help it! Like most girls, I loved the Fifty Shades of Grey series…I’m counting down the days until the movie comes out!
MCD: Cheerleaders are known for taking the perfect selfies – probably more so than Kim Kardashian – what’s your secret to a perfect selfie?
L: I’m definitely not the best person on the squad to ask about selfies, but the right lighting makes all the difference!
MCD: Time for interests or hobbies?
L: Whenever I get free time, I just enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I do enjoy working out, so I guess you could consider that a hobby, but I also LOVE food…so trying out new restaurants is really fun for me. Since I’ve only lived in Cincinnati for three years, there’s still a lot to explore!
MCD: What’s the team’s character like?
L: The team is so eclectic and our personalities really balance each other out. We have a really big age range (from 22 years old to the oldest cheerleader in the NFL, who’s 46!). I think that’s the best part about it…you have a group of 30 women from different backgrounds with different goals and aspirations, but we all share a common passion for dance, cheer, and community service. I’ve learned a lot about myself since joining the Ben-Gals. I had just graduated college when I first made the squad, so the past three years have been really important in figuring out who I am and who I want to be. I would not be the same person I am today without this experience, and I’m a better person for it!
MCD: Homebody or an adventurer?
L: Definitely a homebody! I love to go out with my friends on the weekends, but I also love staying home and relaxing when I get time, which isn’t very often!
MCD: What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done?
L: I’m not a very daring or adventurous person, but this year I went to Colorado Springs on vacation and climbed the Manitou Incline, which gains over 2000 ft. in less than a mile. Typically I like to relax on vacations, but a few hours after stepping off the plane I decided that I wanted a REALLY good work out!
MCD: Tell me something about you people would find completely interesting/out of character?
L: I grew up with all kinds of dance/cheer experience, but my specialty was tap dancing! All of my competition solos were tap…I miss it!
Follow the Ben-Gals cover girl on Twitter and Instagram: @LaurenCoben (and be sure to tell her The Blonde Side sent you and says “Hey!”)
To see the original article, which ran in the sport’s section of CBS Man Cave Daily (and a lot more pictures), click here. A big thank you to Shock Top for sponsoring this series on The Blonde Side so we can show the world how awesome NFL cheerleaders are – not just on the field, but in their everyday lives.
Every once in a while a fellow female walks into your life and you realize immediately you’re going to be the best of friends. Indianapolis Colts cheerleader Hannah Y. doesn’t know that yet, but it’s a friendly proposition I plan to make, because she’s hilarious and I don’t even think she knows that either, and I want to be friends with her. You probably do too actually.
Her beauty, her bright smile and her charisma may intimidate some, but she’s one of the most down-to-earth and fun gals you’ll ever meet. And she just so happens to look pretty darn good in chaps and a sequined halter – which is not a look just anyone can pull off, trust me.
I’m going to go out on a limb and say one of the reasons the Indianapolis Colts breed such elite quarterbacks like Peyton Manning and Andrew Luck is thanks to the Sweethearts of the Horseshoe they have faithfully on the sidelines each and every home game.
See for yourself why Hannah Y. (there are two Hannahs on the team this year, so yes, the “Y.” is imperative) will soon be one of my besties. Here’s our exclusive interview with the thrifty and big-hearted brunette…who also happens to be a self-proclaimed cat-lady…
Man Cave Daily: Where are you originally from?
Hannah Y: Originally from Bedford, a small town in southern Indiana.
MCD: What school did you go to? Were you in a sorority?
HY: I graduated from the Indiana University School of Dentistry in Indianapolis. Go Hoosiers! Although I originally thought I might go to college and rush, I ended up meeting my CC Sisters when I made the squad at the end of my freshman year.
MCD: Occupation?
HY: I work five (sometimes six) days a week in Bloomington, IN as a licensed dental hygienist. The office opens earlier and stays open later than most of the other offices in town, so I spend a lot of time with my coworkers. Although, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, I am the first one out of the office in order to make the drive to practice in Indianapolis (approximately an hour and ten minutes away).
MCD: Years on team?
HY: This is my fourth season as a Sweetheart of the Horseshoe! I first auditioned for the team in the spring semester of my freshman year of college. I was studying for finals in the car (listening to audio lectures—totally focused on the road, of course) on my way to auditions (which, at the time, lasted nearly a month). I did not plan on making the team my first year auditioning; I was completely overwhelmed by my lack of experience and by the Veterans” incredible beauty and talent. You can probably imagine my surprise when I was selected to be a member of the 2011 Squad.
MCD: Are you in the calendar?
2014-2015 NFL Cheer Series Presented by ShockTop because these ladies are SHOCKING
HY: Yes! The Colts are very supportive of our squad, and they work very hard to make sure that each girl is featured in the calendar. Last year, I was shocked when I was chosen to be on the cover on the 2013-2014 calendar! This past summer, we were lucky enough to be able to shoot our 2014-2015 calendar in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I am featured with the lovely Erin B. in March 2015.
MCD: Greatest memory so far?
HY: This question means so much more to me now than it used to. My fiancé is graduating in May, and we will be getting married a few weeks later. So, knowing that this will be my last season on the squad, I started making a list of amazing memories that being a CC has allowed me to cherish.
Here are a few (in no particular order):
-My rookie year on the squad, Indianapolis hosted Super Bowl XLVI, and our squad received many incredible opportunities. A group of us were able to perform on Jimmy Fallon’s Live Super Bowl Special with The Roots (swoon!), and that is something I will never forget. I can still do the dance we performed that day.
-My fiancé proposed on the field mid-performance during my second season on the squad. He interrupted our dance to “Super Bass,” and my life hasn’t been the same since. I cannot begin to describe the love and support that we received from my teammates and Colts staff. Seriously, I will never really know how much work Bradley and the Colts put into making that moment happen.
-Especially this season, I have been appreciating my time at every single community appearance I do. As a young girl, I remember always looking up to the cooler, older dancers and cheerleaders in my school and studio. Now, I am like one of those girls, except I am a PROFESSIONAL cheerleader. That fact really hits me when I am at an appearance and a little girl in a Colts cheerleader uniform asks for my autograph. Coach Kelly always tells us that our uniform is a superhero cape, and I cherish every minute that I get to use my power to make someone smile.
Sorry, that is probably way more of an in-depth answer than you could ever want!
MCD: No, I love the stories, this is what makes each story so unique. Thank you for sharing! Favorite player?
HY: Reggie Wayne is my favorite current player. Of course, he is a part of the Colts family, but he is an inspiration even to non-Colts fans. His leadership and determination were evident last season when he was recovering from his injury, and his rapport with our fans is unsurpassable. Not to mention, there’s nothing like hearing the crowd chanting, “Reggie! Reggie! Reggie!” after another one-handed catch. I don’t have the words to describe how thunderous the crowd was at Lucas Oil Stadium when #87 was announced at this season’s home opener. Honestly, I cried… On the field… In front of 67,000 fans. That is what being a part of the Indianapolis Colts does to you.
MCD: Well I have no doubt you were wearing waterproof mascara! For those who have never been to your stadium, describe the atmosphere.
HY: I recently flew into Indianapolis, and when Lucas Oil Stadium came into view, I nearly burst with pride. This happened even when I lived in Indianapolis and drove by LOS regularly. Since it was built with the dream of hosting a Super Bowl in mind, every inch of the stadium is beautiful and modern. Some of my favorite features are the retractable roof and the window that perfectly displays the city skyline. There’s nothing like having the roof open during a sunny, 80-degree day in September with my favorite sport being played right before my eyes. My teammates and I have the best view in the house, although even the 600 level seats have a great view of the action on the field. Seriously, there’s not a bad place to sit in Lucas Oil Stadium.
MCD: Which Spice Girl would you be?
HY: Of course, I always wanted to be Baby Spice. She was so playful and adorable and kind of quirky. I definitely have my quirky moments.
MCD: Who’s your bestie on the squad?
2015 Colts Cheerleader swimsuit calendar shoot with Hannah Y.
HY: My BFF on the squad is Allie J.! She and I became close during our rookie year in 2011, and since then we’ve remained close friends. She always knows what I am thinking without me even saying a word, and half the time we end up saying the same thing at the same time. (She’s likely to be predicting the end of my sentences as she reads this interview.) Allie was one of the few people that collaborated with my fiancé when he was planning to propose, and she will be standing by my side as a bridesmaid at my wedding next summer.
MCD: Ah, I know Allie J. well, I loved my interview with her last season. Nice to be interviewing beautiful besties! Biggest misconception about cheerleaders?
HY: I think the biggest misconception about NFL cheerleaders is that we are mistreated by our organizations. There has been a lot of negativity in the media recently, and it makes me feel even more thankful to be an Indianapolis Colts cheerleader. Our organization supports us 110% and wants to do everything they can to make our squad successful. My teammates and I do put in long hours at the gym, studio, and practice, but I speak for all of us when I say that we wouldn’t trade it for anything. How many people can say that they work for their favorite sports team AND get to stand on the sidelines for every home game?! Not many.
MCD: What charity is nearest and dearest to your heart?
HY:Autism Speaks and Riley Hospital for Children are both very close to my heart. My younger brother Matthew, 21, is non-verbal and is on the Autism Spectrum. Throughout his life, I have learned a lot about understanding and accepting others, and I have become an advocate for him and others on The Spectrum. Additionally, Riley Hospital for Children is important to me because I was admitted to Riley Hospital when I was 17 years old. I stayed there for 28 days and learned how hard the entire hospital staff works to make children feel safe and at home while in a scary place. The nurses became friends to my family and I, and my nephrologist continued seeing me once I was released up until I graduated college (and entirely too old to be seeing a doctor in a pediatric hospital). She just cared that much about following up with her patients and making sure that they receive the best care.
MCD: If you could only dance/perform to one artist for the entire season, who would it be?
HY: I honestly don’t know how to answer this question because my taste in music varies based on my mood. Some days I only want to hear Drake and 2 Chainz, while other days I find myself listening to Florida Georgia Line and Clayton Anderson. Also, I grew up listening to ’80s hair bands with my dad, so some days I’m in the mood to play Tesla and Van Halen.
MCD: What’s the most embarrassing/random thing we’d find in your recent Google history?
HY: The most random thing you’d find in my recent Google history is “Petsafe coupon,” searched on 9/22/14. I have a secret… I am a crazy cat lady. For Christmas last year, I bought my cat Kitan (like the game Settlers of Catan, but spelled differently because I didn’t want his nickname to be, “Cat”) a water fountain. Yes, he is spoiled, but as a kitten he was obsessed with running water and would cry until I turned on either the sink or the bathtub faucet. Anyway, I had to buy a new part for his water fountain, thus I searched Google to see if there was an online coupon code I could use.
MCD: Since you’re so busy getting ready for the games, (sadly) you miss one of my favorite parts – tailgating! If you were asked to bring one thing, what would it be?
HY: My go-to party dish is cheese dip. I only use three ingredients: Velveeta cheese, ground hamburger, and Rotel. It may be simple, but it’s always a hit.
MCD: I know a huge part of being an NFL cheerleader is visiting/spending time with the military–if you could give a message to those who serve our country and fight for our freedom, what would you say?
HY: I would thank them for their service and sacrifice because I cannot imagine how hard it is to be away from family and friends. I would tell them that we appreciate them every day, even when we don’t say it. Also, I would tell them about how I tear up each time I stand next to the full-field American flag during the pregame performance of our National Anthem. Literally, every time.
MCD: Again, thankful for that waterproof mascara! Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
HY: Fabric samples. My aunt is making a quilt for the guest “book” at our wedding, so I always have samples of our colors with me in case I find another fabric that would look good in the quilt.
MCD: Favorite book/magazine/website?
HY: Right now, my favorite websites are for the two fantasy football leagues I’m in. I’m the only girl in a league with my fiancé and his guy friends, as well as a league with my CC Sisters. I got second place in both leagues last year, so this season I’m out for blood. PS: I beat Allie this week because she started Tom Brady and the Patriots defense. As a Colts fan starting one of our biggest rivals, she had it coming.
MCD: Cheerleaders are known for taking the perfect selfies – what’s your secret to a perfect selfie?
HY: It’s all about the angle. Oddly enough, though, the angle that looks perfect one day may look terrible any other day. I try not to stick to one angle or one “good side” because, for me, it changes.
MCD: You’ve obviously got a full schedule. Any time for hobbies or interests?
HY: I absolutely make time for hobbies, mostly because I need to be happy to keep my sanity. In my free time, I enjoy exercising (lately I’ve been on a hot yoga kick) and crafting. I am slowly, but surely, making the majority of my wedding decorations just because I like doing things like that.
MCD: What’s the team’s character like? What have you learned since joining?
HY: My teammates and I balance each other very well. We’ve got the serious, down-to-business girls…the quirky, quiet girls (I fall into this category)…and the sweet, hug-you-when-you’re-down girls. Together, we complete each other and make for an unstoppable team!
MCD: Homebody or adventurer?
HY: I’m definitely an adventurer. Some days I can’t seem to sit still and am only happy if I’m on the go. I recently traveled to Ecuador for a dental mission trip with several third-year dental students and a dentist from IUSD. Although I am usually up for anything, every once in a while I just want to curl up on the coach with my cat and watch HGTV.
MCD: Ok, I too love adventure–what’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done?
HY: This past summer I went skydiving… It was not by choice, but I don’t regret it for a second. The feeling I experienced when the instructor and I were free falling was absolutely incredible. When I landed on the ground, I was ready to go back up in the plane again.
MCD: Tell me something about you people would find completely out of character?
HY: I think it may be hard for people who don’t know me very well to believe I am extremely shy. In school, I was very quiet and reserved (most of the time). I didn’t talk very often to my teammates in the first few months on the squad during my rookie season. Being a Colts cheerleader has pushed me to open myself up to people I don’t know and to be more outgoing.
You can follow one of my Colts cheerleader besties on Twitter @HannahY_CC (well, I guess both her and @AllieJ_CC are my besties on the team now–I hope they’re OK with that!). Tell my favorite blonde and brunette in Indy that The Blonde Side sent you and says hello!
But you’re not done yet — oh no, you’ve got a lot of admiring to do over in the overflow of images that is Hannah’s bonus gallery.
This article originally ran in the sport’s section of CBS Man Cave Daily. Click here for more photos and to see the original article. Thanks to Shock Top for sponsoring this great series on The Blonde Side and showing the world just how awesome NFL cheerleaders are – off the field too.
Kareem Jackson and his player-inspired Fly Guy line for the Houston Texans (photo: Houston Texans)
Kareem Jackson: Looking good both on and off the field.
Look out, Chloe Dao – there’s a new designer in town whose threads are being displayed at NRG Stadium. Texans cornerback Kareem Jackson recently debuted his Player-Inspired Fly Guy apparel line, which includes t-shirts and caps. On the field, the 2010 20th overall draft pick dons the exact pieces as the other 52 guys on the roster. With the NFL’s new stricter uniform policies, it’s no wonder Jackson takes pride in his extracurricular apparel, but that’s nothing new. His love for fashion dates back to middle school.
“I was one of those kids that always had to have the latest shoes and nicer clothes,” the 26-year-old says. Somewhere along the line, Jackson was dubbed best-dressed on the team and admits this could be his post-football calling. “Hopefully I’ll be playing the game a long time – as long as God will allow – but it’s something to think about. It would be interesting to design clothing, shoes or whatever the opportunity may be,” the cornerback says. Jackson says creating his line was fun and in-depth. “This was my first chance to actually design something, and it was a lot harder than I thought. So many fabrics and colors I had to narrow down, then I had to think about things the fans like and wanted to pay tribute to Houston. That was pretty much the thought process,” he explains.
Jackson may be the best-dressed, but he isn’t the only one vying for the title. “We definitely have some guys that are into fashion, but I’d like to say I’m one of the best-dressed on the team,” he says. Jackson gives the second place fashion-forward accolade to fellow cornerback Johnathan Joseph. “We have pretty similar taste and probably Andre (Johnson) next – we all think alike when it comes to clothing.” Even with The Galleria around the corner, Jackson admits he finds most of the good stuff online. “I think there’s more variety – tons of websites people may not know about. Some may be a bit exclusive. Going in the mall you’re taking a chance of somebody having the same thing. It’s the same online but chances are slimmer,” Jackson shares.
Mr. Porter (mrporter.com), FarFetch (farfetch.com) and SSENSE (ssense.com) are some of Jackson’s frequented online shops, but admits his wardrobe is diverse. He says it’s all in the shoes. Find a nice pair and you can build from there. “If I decide what shoes I want to wear, then I can get my jeans and shirt and so forth,” he says, admitting he has at least 200 pairs. He could probably give Carrie Bradshaw a run for her money, and says you can’t go wrong with Louis Vuitton shoes.
As the months get colder, Jackson finds himself getting excited about winter fashion. “That’s the time of year you get a lot of different clothing – your sweaters, jackets, pea coats, cashmere and all that stuff,” he says.
Yes, a football player well-versed in interceptions and pea coats.
WHERE TO BUY IT: NRG STADIUM
This article originally ran in the print issue of 002 Magazine, November 2014. Click here for the online version.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/805.jpg424588Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-11-01 09:22:352014-11-19 09:25:30Kareem Jackson
There may be a debate across the country (and especially in Texas) on who really is America’s Team, but there is no mistaking who has Houston’s heart when it comes to their sweethearts – that spot is reserved for the much revered for the 34-women who make up the Houston Texans Cheerleaders (HTC).
Third-year veteran and hometown Texas girl, Liz has more energy bottled inside her small frame than any Starbucks or Red Bull commercial could ever dream of capturing. Think of a gorgeous and gregarious Energizer bunny – but in knee-high boots, a Texans crop top and white booty shorts with a huge smile and big hair. Yup, that’s 23-year-old Liz and Houston fans are head-over-cowboy-boots in love with her.
Man Cave Daily digs deeper than her cheerleader profile goes – we already know her favorite color is orange and she’s a big fan of donuts, cheeseburgers and fries (thankfully her dance routines combined with CrossFit help balance that out), but check out a few more details on Liz in our exclusive interview…and then don’t forget to check out our entire gallery of her.
Man Cave Daily: Where are you originally from?
Liz: I pretty much grew up in the sticks of Rosenberg, TX. It’s a small town where everyone knows everyone outside of Sugar Land.
MCD: Occupation?
L: [laughing] I like to consider myself a “day maker”–Also known as a professional hairstylist (or a free therapist). I love my job. The relationships I get to build with my clients are indescribable. They trust me with pretty much anything and at the end of day making them feel beautiful is what I live for. I make people’s days!
MCD: Years on team?
L: I am living the dream as an HTC for my THIRD YEAR! I first auditioned when I was a senior in high school–unfortunately I didn’t make the team. However I’m glad I didn’t make it then–I was just a baby–I didn’t have the experience or the “swag” that the other girls had. I finally got serious, whipped myself into shape and auditioned in 2012, and I finally get to wear the infamous outfit as a third year veteran!
MCD: I’m pretty sure I speak for all of Houston that we’re glad you get to don that wonderful uniform! Are you in the calendar?
L: Yes! This is my second year to be featured in one of the NFL’s Hottest Cheerleader Calendar. I am Miss July 2015, and I am extremely blessed to say I am also one of the six calendar cover girls! (Which happens to be the very first Houston Texans Cheerleader Calendar to ever have six cover girls!)
MCD: Greatest memory so far?
Those Houston Texans Cheerleaders (HTC) are reason enough for Texans fans to cheer
L: That’s a tough one. I must say my rookie year is definitely a year to remember. My greatest memory was when our Texans won their second consecutive AFC South division title, and defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in the Wild Card round of the playoffs. Playoffs 2013 were incredible; HTC was on fire with all new dance routines. Not to mention, I was selected to dance on stage with Clay Walker for our Pregame Performance, which was a HUGE honor. I really didn’t know what it was like to lose a game since I cheered on a 12-4 season!
MCD: Unfortunately times have changed from that 12-4 record, but you ladies still rock it out each and every home game! Favorite player?
L: Andre Johnson or should I say Andre 13K! I have mad respect for Andre, his dedication and loyalty to our team is truly appreciated. He’s been through thick and thin but he’s still a Texan! This man never fails to amaze me! Seriously? He comes out of nowhere with those catches! I know for a fact he will be in the Hall of Fame! Most importantly is his very own foundation, the Andre Johnson Charitable Foundation that focuses on children and teens growing up in single parent homes. Last year I got to partake in one of the best appearances with Andre. It included 12 beautiful children, 12 cheerleaders & 80 seconds to fill up your basket with whatever you want at Toys ‘R’ Us and Andre picked up the tab–$17,352 later. How awesome is that? Giving back is what it’s all about. Especially to these children that look up to him! I literally had tears rolling down my face during this appearance. I love Andre for that!
MCD: For those who have never been to your stadium, describe the atmosphere?
L: NRG Stadium is exhilarating! If you’ve haven’t been, you need to GO!
From the second you walk in the main entrance you’ll see the Official Go Texans Store where you can find anything and everything “Texans.” Walking around the stadium you’ll feel pumped up – there are teamwork signs hanging everywhere including my personal favorite: “When you Come Here 1. Do your job 2. Work hard 3. Pay attention & focus 4. Always put the TEAM first” sign.
You’ll even see life-size J.J. WATT PICTURES! Sitting in your seat is pretty intense–you can literally feel the heat from the cannons being fired when the players come out of the tunnel. And when we score a touchdown, Football Time in Houston by Clay Walker is jamming! But if JJ WATT scores a touchdown, man the entire stadium is roaring and you can’t forget his signature song “Turn Down for Watt.” All the fans are on their feet! I pretty much lose my voice at every game–win or lose. Even if you don’t like football (which I don’t know anyone who doesn’t), I promise you’ll have an awesome time.
MCD: Which Spice Girl would you be?
L: I’d love to be a mixture of Sporty Spice and Posh! I can have the best of both worlds. I’m kind of a tomboy at heart but don’t get me wrong I love to dress up and look chic.
2014-2015 NFL Cheer Series Presented by Shock Top because these ladies are SHOCKING
MCD: Who’s your bestie on the squad?
L: I’m pretty lucky to say that I have 32 best friends. Being part of this sisterhood for three years– I guess you could say I have about 90 best friends! But there’s definitely a “bestie” each year– my girl Amelia! She was my little sister last year and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know her these past two years. This girl will bend over backwards for you, she’s a shoulder to lean on, a good laugh, and is truly just one of those forever kind of friends. Late phone calls/early texts–doesn’t matter what time of day she’s always there for me. It’s also funny how I know exactly what she’s thinking most of the time without even saying a word. I know she says she looks up to me but little does she know I’m the one that looks up to her! I love you girl, XOXO.
MCD: Biggest misconception about cheerleaders?
L: Most cheerleaders are said to be “stuck up,” “dumb” or that we have the easiest job in the world to “just stand there and look pretty,” which is totally not true. I cheer alongside of some of the classiest, smartest, and talented girls I’ve ever met. We have an engineer on the team, a girl who is attending nursing school, teachers who help educate our youth, we even have a full-time mom and that’s just to name a few. Cheering is a part-time job for us, we love what we do and who we do it for! But being a cheerleader isn’t at all easy, we have long nights & early mornings, we love reaching out to our community, countless hours in the gym, and you can’t forget the dancing. There’s about a hundred dances we learn. And we do it all for the FANS!
MCD: What charity is nearest and dearest to your heart?
L: Compassion International is very special to me. Compassion International is a Christian child sponsorship organization dedicated to the long-term development of children living in poverty around the world. I have a huge heart for the children of the world. Two years ago I actually decided to sponsor a child through Compassion. His name is Elias from Ethiopia; he’s the cutest 6-year-old who loves to play soccer. Sponsoring a child will help give them food and clean water, medical care, educational opportunities, important life-skills training and encourage them to develop a lifelong relationship with God. I hope to help Elias graduate school and hopefully attend college. I plan to one day visit him and to continue changing this world one child at a time!
MCD: If you could only dance/perform to one artist for the entire season, who would it be?
L: That’s easy. MY GIRL BEYONCE! Anyone that knows me knows that I love Queen Bey!
MCD: What’s the most embarrassing/random thing we’d find in your recent Google history?
L: Well…. I have an obsession with Great Danes! I find myself searching daily, looking at them. My poor friends are probably tired of me talking about Great Danes. I plan to get a Blue Great Dane once I finish football season and I cannot WAIT! I’m definitely going to be that crazy dog lady.
MCD: Since you’re so busy getting ready for the games, (sadly) you miss one of my favorite parts – tailgating! If you were asked to bring one thing, what would it be?
L: I love chips & dip! Who doesn’t? I would bring my personal/fan favorite fiesta seven layer dip— colorful layers of refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, cheese and spicy tomatoes–with a party size bag of Fritos SCOOPS! Scoops are a must! I can literally sit there and eat the entire bag.
It’s unfortunate that I miss out on one of the best parts about football– tailgating! But when I’m done with my cheerleading career I will be at every tailgate.
MCD: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
Six beautiful cheerleaders graced the cover of the Houston Texans swimsuit calendar, including our girl Liz
L: Gum–minty gum, fruity gum, sour gum! You name it, I have it! Can I pay you in gum? I chew gum ALL DAY (except at practice–my coach hates gum) and sometimes you get tired of one flavor so I like to have options! And yes, I do share.
MCD: Favorite book/magazine/website?
L: I’m currently obsessing over “White Girl Problems” by Babe Walker. I think Babe is my new #WomenCrushWednesday. She’s like a modern day version of Marilyn Monroe only with no filter & zero class. Reading this book is so hilarious I’m sure people think I’m crazy when they see me laughing to myself.
MCD: What’s your secret to a perfect selfie?
L: [laughing] Last year I was voted by my teammates as the “Best Selfie Taker.” I only ever take selfies when I’m in the car. Why? I have no idea. I guess because that’s the only the time I actually have to myself. Or maybe because of all the natural light coming through the windows. I just know that my hair color is always on point when I’m in the car. I do always hold my phone at a lower level than most girls I see taking selfies.
MCD: Your hair is probably perfect because of your profession. Just saying…Twerking: Fun while it lasted or wish it never started?
L: I guess it was fun while it lasted. Coming from a dancing background, “twerking” wasn’t anything new. It does crack me up when I see my little niece attempt to “twerk.” I like to say the word more like #TwerkingOut.
MCD: You’ve obviously got a full schedule–any time for hobbies or interests?
L: When I’m not working in the salon or cheering on the sidelines I like to CrossFit! I love being able to tie my hair in a messy bun (which I never get to do, being that I do hair for a living & we cheer with our hair down) and jam out to some rock and lift heavy weights for a change of pace. I like a good challenge and friendly competition.
MCD: Homebody or an adventurer?
L: Definitely a homebody. I could be an adventurer, I just don’t have time or the energy on most occasions. After working 10 hour days, I just want to go home and change into my yoga pants, maybe eat a bowl of cereal (Honeycombs) and watch some Netflix.
If you want more Liz and HTC, follow her on Twitter @HTC_Liz. She wants you all to know that she follows back!
You’re not done yet, hoss — Liz sent us a couple dozen photos, and rather than deprive you of any of them, we put ‘em all in a gallery!
This article on Texans cheerleader Liz originally ran in the sport’s section of CBS Man Cave Daily. Click here to see the original and yes, more photos too. A big thank you to Shock Top for sponsoring this series on The Blonde Side, so we can show the world just how awesome NFL cheerleaders are – even when they aren’t wearing their uniforms.
Animal lover, firm believer in a judgment-free friend-zone, dancer, lover of all things military, culture and football, Monique is a prime example of an NFL cheerleader. And not just any NFL cheerleader, but an esteemed and gorgeous member of the Washington Redskins Cheerleaders, lovingly known to most of the football world as the First Ladies of Football.
Oh, and did we mention she works in federal law enforcement and can take a selfie better than Kim Kardashian? Or that she was crowned Miss District of Columbia? Yeah, she’s kind of a big deal and we’re pretty sure you’ll agree.
Now check out our interview with our favorite first lady on the turf…
Man Cave Daily: Where are you originally from?
Monique: Washington, D.C
MCD: What school did you go to?
M: The University of the Arts.
MCD: Occupation?
M: Investigative Analyst.
MCD: Years on team?
M: Five years.
MCD: We hear making a team is hard, did you try out multiple times before making it?
M: I was fortunate enough to make it on my first try.
MCD: Are you in the calendar?
M: Yes, I am November 2014.
MCD: Greatest memory so far?
M: Greatest memory so far has to be our trip to Hong Kong for the Chinese New Year. It was exciting seeing how many fans we had in another country as well as experiencing a new culture and performing for one of their most celebrated holidays.
MCD: Favorite player?
M: Darrell Green. He was the first player my family told me about as a child and I became a huge fan of his immediately. As I got older and understood the game more I was able to truly appreciate how great of a corner he was for our team.
MCD: For those who have never been to your stadium, describe the atmosphere.
M: I call game days at our stadium a mini carnival. If you get there early and don’t have a tailgate to attend we have plenty of things you can take part in before the game. You can find music and a bar-b-q on one end of the stadium, a chance to meet our cheerleader ambassadors on another and even catch a quick performance by us on three different occasions before the game. Even after the game we have a mini party we call “Fifth Quarter” for those who just don’t want to go home right after the game. It is a great way to avoid sitting in the post-game traffic!
2014-2015 NFL Cheer Series Presented by Shock Top because these ladies are SHOCKING
MCD: Oh yes, the fifth quarter – always a fun time. Which Spice Girl would you be?
M: I would most likely be Scary Spice! As a child I always picked her to imitate out of the group and she has a great mix of sweet and sassy that I can definitely relate to!
MCD: Who’s your bestie on the squad?
M: My bestie on the squad is Chantelle. We have really grown close over these past two years which isn’t easy because I am so to myself a lot of the time! She is definitely the one person I can count on for any and all life issues from relationship talks to hair conversations. Always a phone call away and we have a strict no-judgment zone!
MCD: No judging is key in any relationship! Biggest misconception about cheerleaders?
M: There are so many misconceptions about pro cheerleaders, but the biggest one must be that this is our full-time job. Per our contract, we actually have to have a full-time job, be a full-time student or be a full-time mom to be on the team. Cheering for us is more of a part-time job on top of our other responsibilities in life. I had the privilege to cheer next to some of the brightest women I have ever met, from lawyers to scientists. Right now I cheer with a woman who has a full-time job, a side job and three kids on top of cheering, and my coach has two kids and is in school getting her master’s! So greatest is a requirement! And it starts from the top for our squad.
MCD: What charity is nearest and dearest to your heart?
M: The ASPCA is very dear to me. I have always been an animal lover from a very young age. I would scream for my family to pull over the car whenever I saw a stray animal, wanting to help it. That’s how I came across my second dog Stella, that I legally adopted after saving her from an intersection. She is now the sister to my pomeranian Scrappy. My friends joke a lot because whenever watching a movie with an animal costar, I am always the one rooting for the animal. Saddens me how much harm comes to animals by those they depend on and I truly appreciate the ASPCA for fighting so hard for them!
MCD: If you could only dance/perform to one artist for the entire season, who would it be?
M: So as much as I don’t want to sound cliché, I will sound cliché and say Beyonce. Her dancers DANCE! And one thing I admire most after seeing her dancers perform is that she allows them to perform so many different styles of dance. One minute they can be doing hardcore hip-hop, then they are doing African dance, then tapping, then en pointe then they’re doing modern dance! I really respect that about her. She allows them to truly showcase their talents and not be what my college jazz teacher likes to call “one trick ponies,”
MCD: What’s the most embarrassing/random thing we’d find in your recent Google history?
M: Fortunately for me, I can answer this honestly and say nothing! I am usually only on the computer when I am at work and since I work for the government there isn’t much embarrassing things I can Google.
MCD: Since you’re so busy getting ready for the games, (sadly) you miss one of my favorite parts – tailgating! If you were asked to bring one thing, what would it be?
M: I would bring crab mac and cheese. Oh my goodness, it will change your life! Mac and cheese is appropriate anywhere you go but add some crab meat to it and now you are eating heaven with every bite.
So you’re telling us somewhere there’s a guy who gets to date Monique, play with dogs, and eat crab mac ‘n’ cheese? How do we overthrow and usurp him?
MCD: Thanks Monique–it’s only 9am and I’m craving tailgate food!I know a huge part of being an NFL Cheerleader is visiting/spending time with the military–if you could give a message to those who serve our country and fight for our freedom, what would you say?
M: Thank you so much for your continued service, dedication, and bravery for our country. There is never enough appreciation shown or expressed for what you all do and the sacrifices you make!
Monique – first lady of football, November 2015 swimsuit calendar girl
MCD: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
M: Haha I have one random sock in there. It’s CLEAN! But very random… I wonder where the other one is…
MCD: Favorite book/magazine/website?
M: My favorite website is Houzz.com… I love all things relating to home décor!
MCD: Cheerleaders are known for taking the perfect selfies – probably more so than Kim Kardashian – what’s your secret to a perfect selfie?
M: I would check out our Selfie parody video! I think we kind of nailed it there.
MCD: You’ve obviously got a full schedule. Any time for hobbies or interests?
M: I am a hardcore movie buff so I LOVE going to the movies or staying in to rent the latest releases. I also enjoy bowling but I can’t say I make a lot of time for it, unfortunately.
MCD: What’s the team’s character like? What have you learned in your five years on the team?
M: We are like a sisterhood. Being on the team for five years you watch many come and go, but one thing I can say is that our sisterhood never goes anywhere. We are always one call away. There is a bond there that can’t be imitated.
MCD: Homebody or adventurer?
M: I am a little bit of both. I am a serious homebody but I will definitely head out for an adventure. It usually has to be something exciting and adventurous to get me out. I recently swam with dolphins, which have been on my bucket list for quite some time. Glad I can check that one off!
MCD: Tell me something about you people would find completely out of character?
M: Every time I tell people I work in federal laweEnforcement that seems to completely shock people. So I guess my career is completely out of character. Don’t judge a book by its cover.
And of course of you can follow Monique and all the beautiful First Ladies of Football on social media…
This article originally ran in the sport’s section of CBS Man Cave Daily. Click here to see the original article with a lot more pictures of gorgeous Monique. Thank you to Shock Top for sponsoring this fun and unique series on the ladies of the NFL.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Monique-024.jpg40502700Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-10-21 10:04:522014-11-19 11:01:58Monique – First Lady of Football
Titans cheerleader Jena showing the NFL world how it’s done
Whoever said there’s no accounting for taste would know how wrong they were if they ever accounted for our taste in accountants: Jena, a captain of the Tennessee Titans cheerleaders, is one impressive lady. And sure, we could gush about her, but that’d make this interview we’re about to conduct awkward, so we’ll just let her tell you about her passions for sports, cheering, country music, and breast cancer prevention. We figure before very long you’ll find we have similar tastes in kind, driven women.
But why take our word for it? Let her tell you about herself in her own words. Meet the self-described country girl who’s the one they had in mind when they coined the line, “Girl, are you from Tennessee? Because you’re the only ten we see.”
…that line isn’t going to work on her though. Because she is from Tennessee. Oh well, we tried. To the interview!
Man Cave Daily: Where are you originally from?
J: McMinnville, TN – a small country town between Nashville and Knoxville.
MCD: What school did you go to? What was your focus?
J: University of Memphis – graduated with a degree in Accounting.
MCD: Occupation?
J: Staff Accountant (except I have a sense of humor).
MCD: Hey, accountants party harder than anybody on April 15. How many years have you been a Titan?
J: This is my sixth year on the team and second as a captain. I started cheering in 2009.
MCD: Are you in the Titans calendar?
J: I share the October 2015 page with two of my beautiful teammates Jocelyn and Kaitlin.
MCD: What charity is nearest and dearest to your heart and why?
J: Breast Cancer Awareness – my grandmother died from breast cancer and my mom was diagnosed when she was 40 (16-year survivor).
MCD: Greatest cheering memory so far?
J: I have two: the Titans always honor breast cancer survivors at a game in October and in 2011 I asked my coach if we could honor my mom and my teammate Clair’s mom that year, and my coach Stacie made it
2014-2015 NFL Cheer Series Presented by Shock Top because these ladies are SHOCKING
happen. Our mothers had no idea that we would be recognizing them on the field that day. I wanted it to be a surprise, so after one of our routines we walked over to them and took them out onto the field. We presented them with a pink helmet signed by the coach. My mother means the world to me and is the strongest person I know so to be able to have her on the field with me while 70,000 Titans fans cheered for her is a moment that I will never forget. She was diagnosed when I was 13 and I remember her trying to comfort us even though she was the one going through it. It was the first time that I’ve ever seen my dad cry.
The second one would be my trip to Tokyo, Japan this past Super Bowl to visit the troops at Camp Zama with four other NFL cheerleaders (Missy — Vikings, Alice — Falcons, Kristen — Cardinals, Susan — Redskins, and Krystal — Chiefs) This was my first time out of the country and it was by far the best trip of my life. To be able to see what our military does for us was truly amazing. Thank you Pro Tour Productions, Camp Zama and our host Randy Benton for giving us a trip of a lifetime.
MCD: Favorite player and why?
J: Coty Sensabaugh – Coty and his girlfriend Dominique are most definitely the nicest and most giving people that I know. They do a lot of charity events to raise money for the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society and always ask us to be a part of the events. They come and support us at our calendar release party and this year Dominique brought us each a gift to thank us for always helping with their events and to show how much it means to them. Coty and Dominique have hearts of gold.
MCD: Which Spice Girl would you be?
J: Sporty Spice–I played pretty much every sport you can think of growing up and you could find me playing basketball, soccer or football with the guys instead of playing dress up.
MCD: Who’s your bestie on the squad (and why)?
J: Tandra – Tandra is the most thoughtful person that you will ever meet. She has a huge heart and is always there for people when they need it the most. We have the same sense of humor and are both country girls. I actually helped her fiancé plan his proposal to her in July at the Talladega race track (like I said we are both country girls). She is 5’1″ and I’m 5’7″ so taking photos with her is quite entertaining.
MCD: Biggest misconception about cheerleaders (in general or in the NFL)?
J: Most people think that being a professional cheerleader is our only job but it’s not. We are required to either be a full-time student or have a full-time job in order to be on the team. We have girls who are nurses, teachers, engineers, accountants, occupational therapists and some that are working on their masters.
MCD: If you could only dance/perform to one artist for the entire season, who would it be (dead or alive)?
J: I am a HUGE country music fan so I would be happy dancing with any country singer but my pick would definitely go to George Strait. He is a legend and his music is one of a kind.
MCD: What’s the most embarrassing/random thing we’d find in your recent Google history?
J: We are in the process of choosing our Halloween costumes for the game this year and I just googled “How to make a football costume sexy.”
MCD: Since you’re so busy getting ready for the games, (sadly) you miss one of my favorite parts – tailgating! If you were asked to bring one thing, what would it be (i.e. beer/wine – if so what kind, a special dish you made from scratch, your favorite brand of chips, etc. – get creative if you can)?
J: I absolutely love to cook, so when it comes to tailgating I always make brownies that look like footballs.
MCD: I know a huge part of being an NFL Cheerleader is visiting/spending time with the military. If you could give a message to those who serve our country and fight for our freedom, what would you say?
J: Thank you for your service, sacrifice, bravery and selflessness.
MCD: Look in your purse/bag right now – what’s the most random thing in there?
J: The most random thing in my purse right now is a tennis ball. I just had my third knee surgery and my muscles are always getting tight from therapy so I use the tennis ball to roll out the muscles. Plus it always comes in handy when I get bored at work.
MCD: Favorite book/magazine/website?
J: My favorite website is ESPN Sportscenter so that I can stay updated on the players that are on my fantasy team and TheBlondeSide.com.
MCD: Aw, thanks for the plug! What’s your secret to a perfect selfie?
Jena is a big reason why I’ll always cheer for the Titans cheerleaders
J: I am probably the world’s worst selfie taker so I avoid those at all cost because they never turn out good.
MCD: Twerking: Fun while it lasted or wish it never started?
J: Still fun! I even taught my eight-year-old nephew how to twerk. I don’t think my sister-in-law was very happy about that though.
MCD: You’ve obviously got a full schedule. Any time for hobbies or interests?
J: I love going to sporting events so when I have free time you will find me at any SEC football game or Memphis Tigers basketball game. I also love to go back home and visit my family especially my nephew.
MCD: What’s the team’s character like? What have you learned since joining?
J: Funny – we probably have the funniest group of girls that you will ever meet. There are a few girls that could have a great career in standup comedy for sure.
MCD: Are you a homebody or an adventurer?
J: Adventurer – I have too much energy to be a homebody. I love being outdoors. Since the age of four, I’ve played basketball, soccer, softball, golf, gymnastics and cheerleading.
MCD: Tell us something odd about yourself.
J: I can quote the entire prayer scene from Talladega Nights.
To check out the original article that ran on Man Cave Daily (along with more pictures), click here. And a big thank you to The Blonde Side’s sponsor Shock Top for allowing us a platform to show how awesome (and shocking!) these NFL ladies are.
