What makes being a male cheerleader a big deal?Ī: I think male cheerleaders at the NFL level is fascinating to people, because just two years ago, there weren’t any men on NFL squads. Once making the team, I was able to see even more clearly some of the amazing qualities the Eagles organization represents…community, passion, diversity, inclusion…and I am so proud to be a member of this team. I began training even harder, and soon enough, I was swept up in the extensive audition process. I knew being an Eagles Cheerleader was something I could see myself doing and I wanted to do everything I could to become a part of the team. She spoke so positively about the Eagles organization that it sparked an interest in me to audition. One of my college classmates, Azari Ford, became an Eagles Cheerleader the year prior to me. Since moving to Philadelphia, I have met some of the kindest, passionate, and humorous people ever, and they are all Eagles fans! I gained so many friends and spent Sunday’s with them cheering on the Birds. How did you become affiliated with them?Ī: It all started by becoming a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles. Let’s talk about the Philadelphia Eagles. Once I started at UArts, I couldn't picture myself anywhere else, and knew it was the perfect fit for me! I chose to transfer to UArts in Philadelphia because of its prestigious dance program, the faculty, and its location in the city of Philadelphia. However, I was accepted at the University of the Arts as well, and I knew I belonged in a larger city setting. Where did you go for after high school study?Ī: After high school, I began my freshman year as a dance major at Dean College in Franklin, Massachusetts. I consider myself lucky to have been a part of such a great high school community … from being a part of the marching band and cheerleading squad to having great teachers as mentors and fellow students as good friends! I truly believe that the support I received from everyone at Spaulding High School really gave me a giant push to follow my dreams and never quit. Did you relate to your high school cheerleaders?Ī: I am still very close with some of my high school cheerleading teammates! A few of us have stayed in contact throughout college. I always had an interest in sports, but it wasn’t until I started college in Philadelphia that I became a passionate fan of the NFL, specifically the Philadelphia Eagles. After finding my love of dance, I studied at Fusion Dance Academy and knew dance was what I wanted to focus on the most for as long as possible. My parents allowed me to try a multitude of activities and experiences. Although I never played football, I participated in hockey, tee-ball, soccer, basketball, track, cheerleading, and Boy Scouts growing up in Rochester, NH. My parents, siblings, grandparents, and great grandparents have always encouraged me to pursue my dreams.
When faced with adversity, we survive it together when experiencing joyous times, we celebrate as a family. We are close knit and always there for one another. Kyle, tell us a little bit about your upbringing … were you a football fan? Did you ever play?Ī: I grew up in New Hampshire and my childhood was filled with love from my very supportive family. Tanguay took the time to respond to questions now that he's about halfway through his first season in the NFL as a trailblazing male cheerleader. His skill, passion and enthusiasm was obvious and although there were more than 100 applicants he earned a place on the squad.Īlthough Tanguay is settled in Philadelphia, according to his mentor Joanne Houston, who is the music director at his old high school, “Kyle always comes to visit when he is home, he is a genuine loving man.” Kyle’s roommate, Rae Holtzman, was a member of the Eagles cheerleading team and her enthusiasm spurred him to try out for a team that did not have a male member.
After moving to the City of Brotherly Love, he became immersed in Philadelphia Eagles mania as they won the Super Bowl in February 2018. Tanguay graduated from high school in 2016, and eventually became a student at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. Little did anyone know where the cheerleading experience would lead him. He was also active in the local band and as a cheerleader and color guard member. His outgoing personality and skills powered him through his teen years at Spaulding High School, where he could be found on stage singing and dancing in many shows.
He discovered dance at the age of 10, following that passion with local dance instructor Jaime Gagner. Kyle Tanguay grew up in Rochester and was an active child, participating in many sports. If you didn't notice already this book is in alphabetical order so I have some songs in draft I'll try to post those ASAP. She is always right there when I need her Oh, I think that I've found myself a cheerleader