Miami Dolphins cheerleaders’ rigorous behind the scenes

When you think of the Miami Dolphins cheerleaders, what likely comes to mind are the high-energy performances on game days.

But behind the sequins, smiles and sideline routines is a months-long journey of auditions, conditioning and late-night rehearsals — a grind that rivals that of the players on the field.

Every season begins with auditions that can draw hundreds of hopefuls. Veteran cheerleader Stephanie says the process is anything but easy.

“For the Dolphins cheer auditions, you show up to the preliminary auditions, sometimes with 400 other candidates… and then you get whittled down to a group about 60 that will move on to boot camp,” she explained.

From there, training camp kicks in, a stretch filled with choreography, conditioning, and team-building before the final 28 members