It's been 13 years since I turned in my uniform and although my life has changed drastically since those days on the Texas Stadium field, the friendships remain the same....solid and unwavering. After retirement, I stayed with the Cowboys in Sales & Promotions before moving to Puerto Rico for the next four years. That's where my newest challenge took shape...

Animal rescue became my passion and my focus quickly moved to changing the lives of those animals neglected on the streets...this was my new fight. I've been blessed to surround myself with many rescue groups and volunteers who devote a tremendous amount of time and energy to give abandoned animals a voice. It's truly heartwarming to see how open to love these rescues remain in spite of their struggles.

It was my four years of living on the island of Puerto Rico that motivated me to join forces with a small group of animal rescues in the mountains trying to make an impact in the lives of those left to fend for themselves- Second Chance Animal Rescue. We are an all non-profit group that exist with one sole purpose...to rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home over 300+ island dogs annually. The success stories that have followed my almost nine years of rescue are heartwarming, uplifting, and inspiring. Knowing there are more stories to share and successes to be made, is what keeps me digging in deep and overcoming extreme moments of grief to provide a hopeful future and that valuable second chance. From Alaska to St. Croix, we've found loving families looking to open their hearts and their homes to them all. We have recently been given some national exposure with other island groups and are proud of the movement that has started to take shape for the "Sato's", street dogs of Puerto Rico.

I never considered myself an outspoken animal activist, but it only takes witnessing one act of violence against a helpless animal that will bring you to your feet and inspire you to yell at the top of your lungs that something has to change! It's an all consuming desire to make a difference that fuels my passion. I realize this battle will not be won in my lifetime, but I'm committed to trying. There is a huge injustice and misconception about the struggles of street dogs and the overwhelming overpopulation problem that exists in the world today. At no fault of their own, they deserve chance. Take a look for yourself- www.scarpr.org

After a series of moves...Puerto Rico, Washington, and now Minnesota...my heart still belongs in Dallas.

Sideline Q & A

What made you decide to "hang up the Pom Poms" and retire from being a DCC?

Ronda: I "hung" up my poms three times only to realize that I had more memories to make. It became a little on the comical side as my application for auditions passed over Kelli's desk. Never knowing quite what to do with an old returning veteran like myself, they always found room on their roster for me.  Thank you Kelli and Judy!

Favorite memory of Texas Stadium?

Ronda: It would be so easy to pick the first game, the last game and every game in between, but honestly my favorite moments were not on game day, but the laughter we shared during rehearsals. We laughed to the point of exhaustion night after night. We bonded over everything, anything and everything.

If you could have one thing from when you were a Cheerleader, what would it be and why?

Ronda: I already have my DCC veteran ring, which is truly my most valued memento. It signifies every moment I wore the boots and every moment after that I've shared with my fellow alumni unforgettable, irreplaceable moments.