Why Faith Ward is the only Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader allowed to break one of DCC's biggest rules as fans accuse DCC of favoritism

Fans of America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders quickly noticed something different about Faith Ward during the latest season.

While every other cheerleader followed the team's signature hairstyle, the Australian rookie stood out with a high ponytail, leaving many viewers wondering why she was the only member allowed to break one of the organization's most recognizable traditions.The answer came directly from Ward herself.

According to the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, the hairstyle wasn't her own idea.

Instead, it was encouraged by longtime DCC director Kelli Finglass after noticing that Ward's hair was affecting her performance during rehearsals.Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders director approved Faith Ward's ponytailSpeaking to ABC Perth, Ward recalled the moment Finglass first suggested trying a different hairstyle.“I’m in rehearsal one of the days with my hair out and I am, you know, sweating after doing ‘Thunderstruck’.

She’s looking at me and she’s like, ‘You know what? I really want to see what your hair would look like tied up’.”The change was unusual because Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have traditionally performed with long, voluminous curls worn down.

The hairstyle has become one of the squad's signature trademarks and is considered an important part of the team's visual identity during routines.Ward embraced the suggestion and continued wearing her ponytail during uniform fittings, hoping Finglass still approved of the new look.She remembered the director's enthusiastic reaction.“I go into uniform fittings and kept my hair up in hopes that she would like it still, and I walk in and she goes, ‘You’re giving Ariana Grande! We need an Ariana Grande moment on the team’.”According to Ward, Finglass later suggested making the ponytail "longer and blonder," helping create a look that has since become her trademark.Faith Ward's hairstyle reflects changing Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders traditionsAlthough the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders remain known for their strict appearance standards, recent seasons have shown signs of greater flexibility.Hair has long played an important role in the team's performances, with synchronized "hairography" forming part of many routines.

Cheerleaders are also expected to maintain polished makeup and a consistent appearance throughout rehearsals and game days.However, Ward is no longer the only example of evolving beauty standards within the squad.Second-year cheerleader Ava Lahey has been permitted to wear her hair long and straight rather than in traditional curls.

Rookie Parker performs with her natural curly bob, while veteran Kelee Norris and Kayla Hayes have each incorporated hairstyles that better suit their individual preferences and hair textures.Hair extensions also remain common throughout the squad, allowing many cheerleaders to achieve the volume associated with the iconic DCC image.Ward's signature ponytail has now become one of the most recognizable looks on the team.

While it may have started as a practical solution during rehearsals, it also reflects a gradual shift toward allowing individuality within one of professional sports' most tradition-driven cheerleading organizations.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates.

Download the TOI app.