Minnesota Vikings’ male cheerleaders Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn are defying stereotypes and inspiring fans by showing how inclusivity and athleticism are thriving in the NFL despite a recent wave of online backlash.
Vikings Cheerleaders: Changing the Game
In May, Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn celebrated their selection to the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders (MVC) 2025 roster — a significant milestone in a league where men have only recently taken their place beside women on NFL squads. The duo faced criticism online from some right-wing fans who argued that men shouldn’t be allowed to cheer.
Instead of responding with negativity, Shiek shared a playful photo with Conn, confidently showing their pride in being part of the squad.
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NFL veteran and former player Torrey Smith joined in with a message of support, welcoming Shiek and Conn’s presence on the team.
Vikings Stand Tall on Inclusion
The Vikings organisation was quick to defend all their cheerleaders, making it clear that everyone on the team has an impressive dance background and completed the same challenging audition process. The club voiced its pride in the ambassadors representing the Minnesota Vikings.
Gender is not part of the team’s audition requirements — only that candidates are at least 18 years old, possess prior dance training, and demonstrate athleticism, technique, showmanship, and teamwork.
In advance of the 2025 auditions, the MVC called for dynamic dance athletes with outstanding energy and talent to represent the Vikings.
The NFL’s Journey Toward Diversity
The inclusion of male cheerleaders in the NFL dates back to 2018, when the Los Angeles Rams welcomed Quinton Peron and Napoleon Jinnies as the league’s first men on a cheer squad. In 2022, the Carolina Panthers featured Justine Lindsay, the NFL’s first out transgender cheerleader, who has since returned for another season.
Men are steadily becoming a regular part of both professional and college cheerleading. According to UCLA research, nearly half of college cheer teams in the United States now include men. Last season, seven NFL teams featured a combined total of 18 male cheerleaders, highlighting the growing acceptance of diversity and talent in the sport.
Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn are now part of this ongoing push for representation, showing that passion, skill, and dedication matter far more than outdated ideas about who belongs on the field.
Last Updated on Aug 19, 2025
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