According to Mic.com, a leaked NFL Handbook from 2012 has revealed some bizarre rules that certain cheerleaders have to follow. In this case, it's the cheerleaders for the Oakland Raiders.
We get that rules are there for a reason, but we can't help but think that some of these are just a bit on the excessive side.
The handbook states (in all capitals, no less), "If you are invited out to dinner or other occasions like that, you must call the Raider office and inquire as to whether a certain event is off limits to you!".
You are allowed to date players, but they must also know and follow these rules and not invite any of their "buddies" to get-togethers you two might attend as a couple.
"In most cases, they won't tell you!" the handbook says.
It advises the Raiderettes to call the Raider office and inquire on a player's marital status if they need to know. They are actually encouraged to do so, because again, the players won't tell you the truth.
"It is not acceptable to have Raiderettes all dressed up at an event, hanging onto any player."
"There's not a female alive (or male either) who doesn't like attention. But you need to learn to deal with the attention you receive from the public (and especially the players) without it getting out of hand and going to your head."
"DO NOT BECOME THE TOPIC OF CONVERSATION IN THE LOCKER ROOM AND/OR BY THE RAIDER STAFF. WE EVENTUALLY HEAR EVERYTHING!"
They must cover up on the way to and from events, but if they're not wearing an official Raider-issued tracksuit, they'll be fined $10.
This means crossing your legs or ankles. You're also never supposed to lean on anything or put your feet up on anything.
The goal is to have the public recognize you and say, "Raiderettes always look fabulous!".
Crude language, innuendos, slang, and even negative facial expressions are all strictly banned.
"The client assumes you are professional and close to perfect. Be sure you are!".
Raiderettes are required to wear a two-piece outfit consisting of a sports bra-type top and shorts. The shorts must reveal your belly button, and failure to comply with this dress code will result in a $10 fine.
"Football is the name of the game. Fans would come to see the games whether or not we had cheerleaders," the handbook reads.
You must never send junk or chain emails to the entire squad, and your inbox must always be cleared of the same types of emails.
Some of them were completely unpaid, and cheerleaders would be responsible for covering their own expenses.
If you show up late to an event, you must complete an additional charity requirement on top of your required ten.
What do you think of these rules? Is it worth it to be a Raiderette? COMMENT and tell us your thoughts!
