Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders’ First New Zealander Dancer Reveals ‘Massive’ Culture Shock After Moving to the U.S. (Exclusive)

**Meet Faith Ward: The Trailblazing Cheerleader from New Zealand**

Faith Ward has made history by becoming the first-ever dancer from New Zealand to join the ranks of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC). At just 22 years of age, the cheerleader is not only breaking barriers but also sharing her unique experiences since relocating to the United States.

Originally from New Zealand, Faith spent a significant part of her life in Perth, Australia, where she developed a passion for performing arts. Despite her background in dance, her journey to becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader was anything but traditional. In an interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s ABC News Breakfast, she recounted her bewilderment upon receiving a message from a DCC recruiter on Instagram. Initially wary of the authenticity of the outreach, she thought it could be a scam.

“I remember thinking, ‘This has to be fake, there’s no way this is happening,’” Faith explained during the interview. However, once reassured that the organisation was indeed seeking international talent, she took a leap of faith. Ward packed her bags and travelled to Dallas, where she participated in the demanding auditions for the team.

Ward’s foray into American football culture began surprisingly; her very first experience of watching an NFL game was also the first time she cheered for one. “Coming from the Southern Hemisphere, it was an eye-opener,” she said, reflecting on how different everything felt. She watched rugby in her youth and later became acquainted with Australian rules football, but entering the NFL landscape posed a new challenge.

Throughout her initial year with the team, Faith encountered numerous cultural differences that left her both shocked and intrigued. Among the most startling was the size of food portions commonly served in the United States. “I had no idea how much food I would get when I ordered. It often feels like they serve half the ocean on my plate!” she remarked with a smile, adding, “I adore American cuisine, especially Texas barbecue, but I had to adjust to the significant portion sizes.”

Driving in America also took some getting used to for Ward. Transitioning from the left side of the road to the right proved to be a daunting experience as she adapted to the bustling Texas highways. “In Dallas, drivers go at breakneck speeds. It’s such a contrast to the relaxed driving culture back home, where it’s more laid-back and coastal,” she noted.

Another cultural adjustment for Faith involved the Southern etiquette norms she encountered within the DCC. Learning to address colleagues and seniors with terms like “ma’am” and “sir” was initially perplexing. “In my upbringing, I learned to acknowledge people as I spoke to them as a sign of respect,” she said. “However, here in Texas, it’s customary to stay quiet until the end of a conversation.”

Despite facing challenges, Ward embraces the cultural differences and the lessons they offer. Her experience has turned out to be a rewarding journey of personal growth. “Adjusting to a new culture can be difficult, but I’ve found it fascinating. Learning about different traditions makes it all worthwhile,” she reflected.

Faith’s journey is featured in the recently released third season of Netflix’s docuseries “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders,” where she shares her story alongside her fellow cheerleaders. The series offers viewers a glimpse into the demanding, yet exhilarating world of one of America’s most iconic cheerleading squads.

For those interested in Faith’s journey and the broader experiences of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, all three seasons of “America’s Sweethearts” are now available for streaming on Netflix. With her groundbreaking role, Faith Ward has not only marked her place in history but also serves as an inspiring figure for aspiring dancers and cheerleaders around the globe.