Philly Woman Makes Eagles Cheerleading Squad

PHILADELPHIA —A Philadelphia woman has been selected as a cheerleader for the Philadelphia Eagles 2020 season.

Allison Tuso was one of eight people selected to join the Eagles Cheer Team during the most recent auditions. A record high 576 candidates applied to audition, the team said. Auditions were done virtually over the course of two months.

Thirty contestants made it to the final audition, which consisted of a choreographed dance routine and an in-depth business interview. Eight new members were selected for the 2020 squad, and they'll join 30 returning veterans from the 2019 squad.

"Being an Eagles Cheer Team Member is truly a dream come true," Tuso said. "I am a passionate advocate for the autism community and I now have an opportunity to represent an organization that supports the autism community. Being a part of the Eagles organization while earning my doctorate in occupational therapy enables me to further help those affected by autism. I've participated previously in the Eagles Autism Challenge and can't wait to now participate as an Eagles Cheer Team Member!"

Tuso earned a Bachelor of Science degree in child development from California Polytechnic State University and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in occupational therapy at Thomas Jefferson University. You can meet all eight new cheerleaders here.

Exactly how the season will play out amid the pandemic remains to be seen. The league has said it plans to start on time, according to Sports Illustrated.

The newest members of the cheer squad received the news through a surprise virtual call. Watch it here: