Femininity and Southern Belle Stereotypes in Texas Drill Teams

This study examines how high school drill teams engage with and challenge Southern Belle stereotypes concerning beauty and sexuality through a revolving feminist perspective. Drill teams, originating from Texas, are a type of dance team composed of uniformed girls commonly performing kick lines during halftime of a football game. This research is a case study of the "Sundancers” Drill Team at Westwood High School in Austin, Texas. Through a 12-month participant observation and five in-depth interviews, this paper aims to showcase the dancer’s perspective of the drill team and how it contrasts with popular belief. Specifically, this paper explores how diverse drill team members– across various gender, race, and dance backgrounds– navigate their individuality and social dynamics within a drill team. The analysis reveals that, despite the uniformity, traditions, and strict structure emphasized by drill teams, these teams provide a sense of belonging, increased confidence, and empowerment.