Jessica of the Washington Redskins

This is Jessica’s 4th season with the Washington Redskins Cheerleaders. She is originally from San Francisco and loves going back home spend time with her family. Jessica is absolutely obsessed with her two pit bulls, Baby and Bing, so cuddling with them is the highlight of her day. She works as an executive assistant for an IT company and helps out at a yoga studio as Yoga is a huge passion hers and thus, is an essential part of her life. The First Ladies of Football have transformed into the NFL cheerleaders of the millennium by breaking new ground with their sleek new style and amazing talents. From the simple, yet very visible redesign of the uniform, to the rejuvenated commitment to charity and community, these ladies have established themselves as the premier squad in the NFL. In the early 1980s, the Redskins Cheerleaders toured China to promote American-made products; were featured on the David Letterman’s Top 10 list and won the ESPN celebrity pool tournament. As a matter of fact, Men’s Journal called the 2007 squad the Best in the NFL and Michael Strahan wrote in his book that the Redskins Cheerleaders are the Hottest in the NFL.

See more of Jessica here

ASIANCE: What inspired you to become an NFL Cheerleader?

I love dancing and football. What better way to combine the two by cheering on the sidelines!

ASIANCE: What background do you have that contributed to your success as a professional cheerleader?

I did a little bit of cheerleading in middle school and my mother always encouraged me to dance even if it was just around the house.

ASIANCE: Did you get any resistance from your family as this profession is not a typical choice for a traditional Asian family member?

Not at all, my family was very supportive. They are always there for me.

ASIANCE: When did you realize you wanted to be a Washington Redskins Cheerleader?

When I turned 18 I wanted to do something big. Being involved with the Redskins provided that kind of milestone.

ASIANCE: Who is your favorite current Redskins player?

London Fletcher

ASIANCE: What is the first thing you notice in a man?

His sense of humor.

ASIANCE: What qualities do you look for in a boyfriend?

Someone who is a gentleman, loves animals, is funny, active and doesn’t smoke.

A look inside the Washington Redskins cheerleaders locker room!

ASIANCE: Do you have a celebrity crush on someone who is in the public eye that you would like to date? We want a feel for your type!

I think Jason Mraz for now. He’s a talented artist and he has an avocado farm.

ASIANCE: What was the worst pickup line you have ever heard?

One pick up line I heard was, “Do you have a band aid?” [insert awkward pause] “Because I skinned my knee falling for you.” I’ve also gotten on the spot marriage proposals. Neither worked out.

ASIANCE: Name three words that describe you.

Goofy, nerdy and curious

ASIANCE: What is your favorite activity to do in Washington?

Visiting the National Zoo!

ASIANCE: What is your best feature?

I get a lot of compliments on my lips. People think they are fake.

ASIANCE: What is the most adventurous thing you have done?

I recently went skydiving. It was definitely a rush!

ASIANCE: What is the best part about being a Redskins Cheerleader?

The best part about being a cheerleader for me is the sisterhood that comes out of it. I have my closest friends on the team and I’ve bonded with each and every woman. We go through a lot together and share that camaraderie.

ASIANCE: Do you think that Asian/Asian American Women are finally making strides on the professional cheerleading squads?

I do. I remember while growing up, it seemed like all the women on the field were either white or black. There was no real in between. Now, especially with how diverse the DC area is you can find white, black, yellow, pink, polka dot, plum, etc.!

ASIANCE: What is the greatest accomplishment in your life thus far?

The greatest accomplishment in my life thus far has definitely been the opportunity of going overseas to Afghanistan and Kuwait to perform and hang out with the troops. It was such a pleasure to be with the men and women who risk their lives for us and really give us an eye opener to what life is like out there. Without the Redskins, this opportunity wouldn’t have been possible to me.

Jessica of the Washington Redskins

ASIANCE: Can you tell us about a crazy fan/stalker incident?

One game a few of us were walking back from a tailgate and a fan yells over to us so he can show us his tattoo on his leg. We have seen many dedicated fans sport Redskins ink but this guy had a tattoo of ME he took off the Redskins website! I am really flattered and still in shock! I think I probably dreamt that happened!

ASIANCE: Where do you hope your NFL Cheerleading experience will lead you to?

It already has led me to great experiences such as traveling, meeting wonderful people and getting to be involved in various charities!

ASIANCE: You all look so gorgeous on the field. How do you manage to look so perfectly coiffed throughout the routines and in all types of weather?

We have many sponsors who really help us out with our hair, makeup, tans, teeth etc. which can go a long way. Throughout the years you also learn little tricks of the trade which get you through the game and our directors and captains prepare us for many types of conditions.

ASIANCE: Do you have any “beauty secrets” that you can share with our readers?

I drink tons of water every day and do Bikram yoga.

ASIANCE: What advice do you have for young girls aspiring to become NFL Cheerleaders?

I would suggest they get involved in dance, stay healthy and always smile.