Vikings’ male cheerleaders respond on social media amid fan criticism
It’s not every preseason that an NFL team’s cheerleading roster makes headlines, but that’s exactly what’s happening with the Minnesota Vikings for the 2025 season. The team introduced Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn as part of their new cheer squad, grabbing attention well beyond the field—and sparking heated discussions among football fans across social media.
The announcement that Shiek and Conn would join the cheer squad made waves, with some fans openly criticizing the decision and others going to the extreme of threatening to withdraw their support for the Vikings altogether. Despite the online backlash, neither Shiek nor Conn seems fazed. In fact, Shiek took to Instagram with a light-hearted jab at all the attention, posting a photo with Conn in their uniforms and writing, “Wait…did someone say our name?”
The Vikings organization was quick to jump into the conversation. They released a statement defending their squad’s newest members, reminding the public that “while many fans may be seeing male cheerleaders for the first time at Vikings games, male cheerleaders have been part of previous Vikings teams and have long been associated with collegiate and professional cheerleading.” According to the team, about one-third of NFL teams in 2025 feature male cheerleaders.
A spokesperson for the Vikings emphasized, “Every member of the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders program has an impressive dance background and went through the same rigorous audition process. Individuals were selected because of their talent, passion for dance and dedication to elevating the game day experience. We support all our cheerleaders and are proud of the role they play as ambassadors of the organization.”
For some context, the NFL has a relatively short history of male cheerleaders, with the Los Angeles Rams leading the way back in 2018. Since then, more teams have followed, gradually shifting the landscape of NFL cheer culture. Louie Conn, one of the new Vikings cheerleaders, comes to the squad after performing with the Iowa State Cyclones dance team, making him no stranger to big crowds and spirited performances.
While there’s been an online uproar, the actual impact appears small. Despite fans publicly voicing intentions to cancel season tickets, the Vikings confirmed to NBC News that no fans have actually followed through.
Opinions remain split. Some fans support the inclusion, viewing it as a progressive step that breaks down outdated gender roles and showcases athletic talent regardless of gender. Others fiercely cling to tradition, arguing that male cheerleaders don’t belong on NFL sidelines. Social media platforms have become the prime battleground for these debates, with voices on both sides making their case loud and clear.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Shiek, Conn, and the rest of the Vikings cheer squad. Their presence is more than just a roster move; it’s a statement about how both the team and the NFL are evolving—and how sports culture keeps shifting with the times.
Source: nypost.com