A cheerleader from Manly has missed her chance to join the world-famous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, after reaching the final cut of an audition that saw more than 4,000 hopefuls from around the world.
Third Time Ends in Disappointment
Indianna Carroll, a longtime Manly Sea Eagles Seabirds cheerleader, has made her third attempt at joining the elite Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. She reached the final 80 global candidates after progressing through several tough rounds.
Only 10 new members are selected each year, with the training camp set to begin in mid-July. Carroll was not chosen but said she gave the experience everything she had. The world-famous squad recently gained extra spotlight through a Netflix documentary.
Strong Support Back Home
Although disappointed, Carroll said she was proud to represent Manly, Sydney and Australia on a global stage. She reflected on the differences between Australia’s cheer systems and the US scene, saying she had to push forward without the same access to resources or networks that many American dancers had.
She also acknowledged the strong backing she received from the local community, including her old squad at the Manly Sea Eagles, where she performed for more than 10 years.
What Comes Next
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders’ four-week training camp kicks off this July, with final squad decisions expected by mid-month. Carroll will not be among them, but she has not ruled out trying again or exploring new paths in dance and cheer. She said she would take time to reflect and is open to what comes next.
Speaking about the experience, Carroll said, “I brought everything I had—my heart, my training, and my deep love for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders’ legacy.”
This was the second year in a row that she reached the final day of auditions, one of the most competitive selection processes in the cheerleading world.
A Cheerleader’s Legacy
Indianna Carroll is the daughter of NRL great Mark “Spud” Carroll, who played for the Manly Sea Eagles. Her path into cheerleading came from a mix of local pride and lifelong dedication. Her recent effort in the US has stirred local support and admiration, with many in the Manly community following her journey.
While she didn’t secure a place in the 2025 squad, Carroll has made her mark and shown what dedication and passion from a small community can look like on an international stage.
Published 19-June-2025
