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Justine Lindsay has been creating tremors in the NFL pool. She is the very first open trans-woman cheerleader of the league. Her love for dancing dates back to her childhood when she was only five years old. Lindsay caught a glimpse of the “Revelations” being performed. She could instantly feel a sense of attraction to the art form. Later, it was her mother who supported her and encouraged her to take up ballet lessons. 

Soon, the passion for dance took over Lindsay and she went on impressing people with her moves. So much so, that she was selected among 100 kids by the prestigious Debbie Allen Dance Academy. However, these achievements were just the tip of the iceberg. The biggest limelight in Justine Lindsay’s life was still waiting to be shone. And it did shine bright! Let’s take a deep dive into the story of a 31-year-old, whose perseverance and grit made her an NFL sensation overnight. 

Justine Lindsay determined to succeed on the big stage

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After being pushed to appear for the cheerleader audition for the TopCats, Lindsay hesitated for a while. However, as soon as she realized that the opportunity would be an ideal platform to shut all the naysayers. Thus, the 31-year-old became determined, You know what? If I’m going to do this, I’m going to do this.”

Her confidence in the audition was reflected when she appeared with a clean-shaven head. Reflecting on her remarkable performance, TopCats coach Chandalae Lanouette stated, “You could tell that she was happy to be in the space with other dancers, and that’s kind of what you look for.” 

After successfully making it to the TopCats squad, Lindsay took to her Instagram account and shared the big news. She wrote, “Cats Out the Bag!” Lindsay further went on to say that she wants to instill the belief and fighting spirits within the hearts of everyone who is doubtful of themselves. However, even though Lindsay was selected, she did not have a bed of roses to relax on. 

Fighting negativity with love: Justine Lindsay winning hearts

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The moment Lindsay broke the news of her selection, her comments section was flooded. Much to her dismay, not everyone was appreciative of her feat. There were a lot of negative comments that would have been enough to break anyone’s heart. But Lindsay was built differently. Without paying much heed to the naysayers, the 31-year-old embraced the positivities. 

She doubled her efforts in cheerleading and her impeccable talents soon caught the eyes of the fans.  Right now, Lindsay is one of the most happening cheerleaders in the NFL circuit. 

Read More: “Have to Stand Out for the Right Reason”—Transgender Cheerleader Justine Lindsay on Setting the Stage for an NFL Cheerleading Renaissance

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Her sound background knowledge in dance has also helped to stamp her authority in the cheerleading realm. Truly, an inspiration, Justine Lindsay has proved her own words, which she murmured as a 5-year-old, “Dang, I could do that.” Indeed, she can. 

Watch This Story: Justine Lindsay, NFL’s Trans Cheerleader Is Shattering Stereotypes While Dancing to Authenticity