Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders

Lore & Background

The Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders were introduced in 1984, filling a role previously held by various high school and community groups. Before the MVC, the Vi-Queens performed from 1961 to 1963, followed by the St. Louis Park High School Parkettes (1964–65, 67–83), with the Edina High School Hornettes and Minneapolis Roosevelt High School Rockettes serving in 1966. The squad makes off-field appearances at parades, schools, and charity events, and hosts tryouts each April at Winter Park.

The MVC also operates a Junior Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders program, with divisions for girls aged 3–5 (Junior Angel Division) and 6–14 (Junior Cheerleader Division), and mentors these junior cheerleaders by enriching their interests. From the division's founding in 2002 until 2016, when the Detroit Lions Cheerleaders were re-established, the Vikings were the only NFC North team with a cheerleading squad.

In the 2025 preseason, the Vikings introduced two male cheerleaders, Louie Conn and Blaize Shiek, which led to national backlash on social media and from Fox News personalities. The Vikings defended the dancers in an official statement, noting that male cheerleaders had been part of previous Vikings teams and had long been associated with collegiate and professional cheerleading.

Reader's Guide

The Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders represent a longstanding tradition of NFL cheerleading in Minnesota, bridging earlier community-based performances with a professional squad established in 1984. Their annual swimsuit calendar, released since 2001, and their Junior Cheerleader program reflect broader league practices while engaging local youth. The squad's role as the only NFC North cheerleading squad from 2002 to 2016 underscores their unique position within the division during that period. The introduction of male cheerleaders Louie Conn and Blaize Shiek in the 2025 preseason marked a notable shift, generating significant public debate and prompting an official team response affirming the historical presence of male cheerleaders in the sport. This event highlights ongoing discussions about gender roles in professional cheerleading. The MVC's off-field community involvement, including appearances at parades, schools, and charity events, reinforces their connection to the Minnesota fan base and local organizations.

Did You Know?

• The Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders were established in 1984, replacing earlier groups such as the Vi-Queens and the St. Louis Park High School Parkettes.
• In the 2025 preseason, the Vikings introduced male cheerleaders Louie Conn and Blaize Shiek, sparking national backlash.