When folks think about cheerleading, they often picture the flashy uniforms and big stadium smiles. But behind the scenes, there’s real business, planning, and leadership at play. At the top of this world sits Kelli Finglass, the longtime director of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Her name is big in sports entertainment, and people often wonder: how much does Kelli Finglass make a year?
Let’s break it all down—from her job roles and income sources to how her work fits into the bigger picture of women in leadership.
Who Is Kelli Finglass in the Cheerleading World?
The Legacy of Kelli Finglass
Kelli Finglass isn’t just any cheerleader turned executive—she’s a game-changer. She began as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader in the 1980s and worked her way up to director of the squad by 1991. Over the years, she’s helped transform the team into a global brand.
What Does She Do as Director?
As the director, Finglass runs auditions, oversees training, plans appearances, and manages public relations for the team. She also works closely with media outlets and coordinates the cheerleaders’ presence at charity events, NFL games, and national broadcasts.
Where Does Kelli Finglass’s Income Come From?
Her Main Job: Director of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
The biggest chunk of her income likely comes from her job as director. This salary reflects her executive position, years of service, and the massive brand value the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders bring to the NFL.
While exact figures aren’t confirmed publicly, similar roles in the NFL front office or entertainment management can earn anywhere between $100,000 to $250,000 a year—especially with her level of visibility.
Extra Earnings from TV Appearances
Kelli Finglass also stars in DCC: Making the Team, a reality show that follows the cheerleaders’ journey. With the show airing on national television for over a decade, she may earn additional income from on-screen work, production credits, or bonuses tied to ratings.
TV hosts with regular airtime typically make $30,000 to $100,000 per season depending on their role and network reach.
Speaking Gigs, Licensing, and Brand Deals
As a respected figure in sports and entertainment, Finglass might also be paid for guest speaking, workshops, or leadership panels. Additionally, merchandise licensing related to the cheerleaders and her brand may bring in royalties.
Why Are Cheerleader Salaries Often Misunderstood?
Myths About Cheerleading Pay
Many people still assume cheerleaders are volunteers or part-time dancers earning very little. While that may be true for entry-level performers, leadership roles like Finglass’s are far more serious—and better paid.
Hidden Figures and Private Contracts
Public salary databases often don’t list entertainment-based sports roles clearly. Contracts may include bonuses, renewals, or media clauses that aren’t shared publicly, which makes it hard to pin down the exact number Kelli Finglass makes per year.
Misleading Celebrity Net Worth Estimates
Sites that list celebrity net worth often rely on guesses or outdated info. So if you see a dollar figure tagged next to Finglass’s name, take it with a grain of salt unless it comes from a verified source.
Women in Sports Entertainment: How Does Kelli Compare?
Other Female Execs in the Industry
When comparing salaries, it’s helpful to look at women in similar sports entertainment positions. Female directors, brand managers, or producers working in major sports leagues often earn six-figure incomes, especially if they handle branding, team logistics, or public image.
Kelli Finglass fits right into this space—not just as a director, but as a public face of an iconic franchise.
Growth in the Cheer Industry = Higher Pay
With shows like Making the Team, public interest in the behind-the-scenes world of cheer has exploded. This has helped elevate pay, sponsor interest, and licensing deals for key players like Finglass.
Is Her Salary Justified? A Look at Her Impact
Changing the Image of Cheerleading
Under Finglass’s leadership, the cheerleaders are more than dancers. They’re seen as athletes, ambassadors, and role models. She’s changed the way people look at cheerleaders—and that influence is priceless.
Boosting Brand and TV Viewership
It’s not just about routines and pom-poms. The reality show and brand merchandise have turned the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders into a multi-million dollar brand. Much of that success ties back to Kelli Finglass and her ability to connect tradition with media savvy.
So, if you ask, is she earning too much?—the better question might be: how much value has she created?
Conclusion: Counting More Than Just Dollars
More Than a Job, It’s a Legacy
Kelli Finglass may earn a solid salary, but her role isn’t just about paychecks. It’s about legacy, leadership, and lifting up a profession often misunderstood by the public.
Leading with Vision
From managing one of the most recognized cheer squads in the world to building a powerful media brand, Finglass leads with passion and sharp business sense. Her annual income may range widely depending on bonuses and deals, but one thing’s clear: she’s earned her place at the top.
Estimated Income Summary (General Public Knowledge Only):
- Base Salary: $100,000–$250,000/year
- TV Revenue: $30,000–$100,000/season
- Other Streams: Varies (royalties, guest appearances, etc.)