Think you got what it takes? The Buffalo Jills 2010 auditions will begin this March, welcoming both dancers and non-performers alike. The NFL cheerleading team is looking for elite and talented women to rock their uniform on the sidelines this season.
Those interested are encouraged to attend the Buffalo Jills Prep Class, Saturday, March 6th, at 3PM held at Gold's Gym, 770 Wehrle Drive, Cheektowaga. There is a $20 cash only registration fee. The class includes helpful hints from Buffalo Jills Director Stephanie Mateczun; Coordinator Nichole Becker; and renowned choreographer, Kelli Wagner.
"Young ladies coming to the prep class will learn what is expected at auditions with regard to hair and make-up, physique requirements, interview, dance skills necessary and expectations if they make the team," Mateczun said.
Open auditions begin Sunday, March 14th at 10AM, at The Conference Center of Niagara Falls, 101 Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls. Formal dance training is not required, but is beneficial. Non-performers are welcome to audition for the Ambassador squad.
According to the Jills website "typically 150 to 200 girls try-out." The final team is narrowed down to about 35 dancers and 10 ambassador girls. For the dance team, judges are looking for dance ability, showmanship, appearance, and presentation skills.
Choreographer, Kelli Wagner says there is one important element she looks for in her dancers - confidence. Wagner added "If you are confident while trying out it, makes us more confident in a decision to take you onto the team. Someone that seems unsure makes the judges feel unsure."
Ambassador girls will be judged on their overall appearance, poise, and knowledge of the Buffalo Bills, along with interview and presentation skills.
"Firstly, a young lady needs to have the "NFL look" when they walk into a room or get on stage; they have to have that 'wow' factor and command attention. Second, performance skills - whether it's in their dance performance or speaking skills, they [need to] make me want to watch or listen to them. Thirdly, is enthusiasm and willingness to grow. A rookie may not have all of the skills a veteran has, but I need to see they have the potential and willingness to learn," Mateczun said.
First cuts are Saturday, March 20th at 10AM at the Conference Center of Niagara Falls. There is a $45 non-refundable audition fee.
"I love auditions because of the energy. NFL cheerleaders should be performers at heart, who thrive in this environment. This process shows us if they can shine and perform under pressure. It also shows the public what really goes into being an NFL cheerleader. Some people think it's all 'glitz and glam' and they don't know how hard these young ladies really work," Mateczun said. The public is welcome to watch the first round of auditions - entry fee $5.
Want to get in on the action? Be a judge! Buffalo's 97 Rock-WGRF 96.9 is hosting a contest to judge Buffalo's beauties. They are currently accepting on-line applications through March 12th. The winner will travel to the Buffalo Jills first-cuts on March 20th in an Advantage Limousine to be a celebrity judge. As if that was not good enough, the winner will also travel to Jamaica with DJ Jickster in May, with the official 2010 Jills for their swimsuit calendar shoot.
"Every guy (I would assume) dreams of being a judge for a bunch of incredible looking girls," said Jickster. "We are giving one lucky listener a shot at [judging] and we added an all inclusive trip to for 2 to Jamaica. They will get behind the scene access to the bikini photo shoot process," said Jickster.
For applications, contest rules and information visit 97 Rock.
The rigorous Jills audition process runs the entirety of March. The final team will be selected at Jills headquarters - Citadel Broadcasting, Tuesday, March 30.
For details and more information on becoming a Buffalo Jill log on to the Buffalo Jills web site.
The most grueling test is the Chicken Wing Eating contest. Potential Buffalo Jills are required to consume one chicken wing in less than 15 minutes and then keep it down for another 15 minutes.