Hundreds Will Audition To Become Ravens Cheerleaders

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- If you've ever dreamed about performing in front of 70,000 people, now's your chance. The first step could come Saturday at the Merritt Downtown Athletic Club.

Ron Matz reports hundreds of people will try to win a coveted spot on the Ravens' cheerleading team.

Nothing quite compares to being on the field as a Baltimore Ravens cheerleader.

"Oh my goodness, from the National Anthem standing there to having a brand new family and being a part of the Ravens organization, it's been unreal. Chills standing there, listening to the crowd cheering," said Natalie. "It's been so great."

Hundreds will try to make the squad when they hit the floor at the Merritt Downtown Athletic Club. Even current team members must audition.

"Saturday is a huge day for us. We get a lot of talent and newcomers out. The veterans have to try out, too, but not until Sunday. We'll be here tomorrow to help as needed," said Jessica. "They'll have about 45 minutes to learn four to six, eight counts of dance and then you have a little bit of time after that to perfect the dance."

Men and women can try out. The Ravens have the only coed cheer team in the NFL.

"We practice two times a week, as much time as needed. We all come together as a team; by the time Sunday comes around, we're ready to roll," said Melvin.

And when you roll with the Ravens cheer team, there's no off season.

"We don't have an off season, especially if we get into the playoffs. March comes around with tryouts; we hit camp in April and May, beach bash comes up in June and then we're already into pre-season," said Jessica.

And the Ravens season will be here before you know it.

"It's almost indescribable being a Ravens cheerleader. It's amazing. You get to work with so many amazing charities in the Baltimore community so when people think about the team, they obviously think about game day---which is an amazing experience---but I get a lot of joy and fulfillment from the outside stuff, too," said Ali.

The Ravens' cheerleading squad has about 50 members. Saturday's auditions begin at 9:30 a.m.