Daniela Zubia, originally from Chihuahua, Mexico, has realized her dream of becoming a Denver Broncos Cheerleader. Her journey began not in an NFL stadium but in the sports fields of her hometown, where she developed discipline and a strong work ethic through gymnastics, athletics, basketball, and especially competitive cheerleading.
Zubia spent nearly 20 years as a cheer athlete, earning eight national championships and two world titles. She credits this background with shaping her determination and resilience. The idea of joining the Denver Broncos Cheerleaders emerged after she attended a Broncos en Español event in Denver and was inspired by the team’s members.
“The confidence that I received from them to be able to achieve it awakened something in me,” Zubia recalled.
The Denver Broncos have a significant following in Mexico, particularly in Chihuahua. Over time, Zubia connected with what the team represents: community, tradition, and hard work—values she identifies with from her own upbringing.
Auditioning for the team was challenging. “Entering a process surrounded by talented, athletic, and confident women can intimidate anyone,” Zubia admitted. Despite moments of doubt during auditions, encouragement from her family helped her persevere: “If you’re not going all out, why go at all?”
Zubia emphasizes that auditions involve more than dance skills. “Prepare yourself holistically,” she advises candidates. Emotional control is crucial during both performance and interviews because these are opportunities to showcase personality and values beyond technical ability.
Her advice to aspiring cheerleaders is straightforward: Work on your mindset as much as your technique; focus on your own process instead of comparing yourself to others; be authentic because that is what truly connects.
Joining the Denver Broncos Cheerleaders provided Zubia with more than professional experience—it offered camaraderie among talented women who supported each other like family. “We were not just teammates. We were family.”
She cherishes memories such as participating on game days before large crowds and being present at events like Peyton Manning’s induction into the Ring of Fame or meeting legends like John Elway. For Zubia, some of the most meaningful experiences happened off the field—visiting children’s hospitals or representing the organization internationally.
Zubia believes diversity within NFL cheer squads allows broader representation for young girls who may see themselves reflected on such teams. Before one game day appearance, a father approached her with his daughter to say: “Because you’re there, you give hope to my daughter—and our family—that we can achieve great things.”
To Latina girls dreaming about similar paths but feeling uncertain about trying out for teams like DBCs (Denver Broncos Cheerleaders), Zubia offers encouragement: “Be brave. If you don’t try it already means no—but if you work hard and approach it believing you belong—you can do it.”
Her story underscores how personal heritage can serve as strength rather than an obstacle: “Fall in love with your culture; your story is your greatest power.”
Applications for the 2026 Denver Broncos Cheerleaders auditions open March 2 and close March 25.
