The Kansas City Chiefs are not only gaining new fans among young women, thanks to the Taylor Swift effect, but they are also making waves on the internet with an unexpected group of supporters. The Primrose Sedalia Chiefs Cheerleaders, a spirited ensemble of residents from the Primrose Retirement Community in Sedalia, Missouri, located southeast of Kansas City, went viral during the NFL playoffs for their lively “Swag Surfin'” routine.
This unique cheerleading squad showcases a group of dancers performing choreography while seated in chairs, accompanied by others holding up signs such as “Senior Swifties,” “Chiefs For The Win,” and “Touchdown Kansas City!” The heartwarming routine caught the attention of social media, drawing widespread appreciation and admiration.
Jackie Canaan, one of the cheerful dancers, expressed her joy during an interview , stating that even though she couldn’t understand the music or the words, it didn’t matter because it was all for the Chiefs, making the experience fun. She wore a No. 87 jersey T-shirt, representing tight end Travis Kelce, who happens to be Swift’s boyfriend.
Lory Moxter, another enthusiastic dancer, highlighted the physical effort required for the routine. She shared that while it may look easy, it can be a bit challenging when you’re just starting. Despite the initial difficulty, everyone involved enjoyed the experience, giving their best effort to contribute to the fun and energetic atmosphere.
Connie Chevalier, the life enrichment director at the Primrose Retirement Community, is the creative mind behind the unique cheerleading group. She leads the community’s members in chair Zumba every morning and was inspired to create the Chiefs Cheerleaders after witnessing Taylor Swift joining the Arrowhead Stadium crowd in the “Swag Surfin'” dance during the Chiefs’ wild-card game against the Miami Dolphins.
Chevalier incorporated the energetic dance routine, set to the song “Swag Surfin'” by F.L.Y., into the community’s activities, providing residents with an entertaining and engaging way to support the Chiefs. She posted a video of the Cheerleaders on Facebook ahead of the divisional round, and the video quickly gained viral status, surprising everyone involved.
Residents at the Primrose Retirement Community are avid sports fans, particularly supporting the Chiefs and the MLB’s Kansas City Royals. Chevalier, with a background in Zumba, decided to blend the fun energy of dance exercise with the community’s love for the Chiefs. She expressed her delight at the unexpected popularity of the video, emphasizing that the community members feel a sense of belonging and joy in being part of the viral sensation.
The Cheerleaders’ routines extend beyond sports-related dances. Last season, they learned a routine to Tech N9ne’s “Red Kingdom” as the Chiefs marched to Super Bowl 57, securing their second title in four years by defeating the Philadelphia Eagles.
Despite a challenging start to the current season, many residents initially doubted the Chiefs’ chances of repeating as champions. However, the community’s support remained unwavering, with Moxter stating, “They’re winning. They’re winning,” confidently predicting the team’s success.
Chevalier, in addition to teaching dance routines, creates signs for less mobile members of the community, inspired by signs fans bring to Arrowhead Stadium. The supportive signs add a touch of humor and enthusiasm to the Cheerleaders’ performances, such as one asking, “Is Taylor Here?”
Looking ahead to the Super Bowl, Chevalier plans to teach the group one more routine for the season, aiming to release the video before the Chiefs face the San Francisco 49ers. The Cheerleaders aspire to contribute to the Chiefs’ journey and add another memorable moment to their already impressive dynasty.
In conclusion, the Primrose Sedalia Chiefs Cheerleaders have become an internet sensation, showcasing the power of community, joy, and support through their unique and spirited routines. Their unexpected rise to online fame has brought smiles and positive energy to the residents of the Primrose Retirement Community and Chiefs fans worldwide.