The Cincinnati Bengals cheerleading squad, known as the Ben-Gals, just completed the final round of tryouts for the 2012 squad. The auditions were open to all, including members of the 2011 squad as returning Ben-Gals are all required to try out again each year. It seems safe to assume that current Ben-Gal Team Captain Sarah Jones, currently awaiting trial for first degree sexual abuse, will not be among those chosen for 2012 Ben-Gals.
Sarah Jones' has been charged with having sexual relations with a minor - a student of hers when she was a teacher at Dixie Heights High School in Kentucky. Though it is not known if Jones attended try outs for the Ben-Gals again this year, the final round took place this weekend May 19th. It seems Jones would be at a disadvantage physically, as she is court ordered to wear a cumbersome electronic ankle bracelet. Jones appealed this restriction on Monday, along with a ban on her being allowed to text or drink alcohol, but the judge refused to budge.
Regardless of whether Jones did try out for the 2012 Ben-Gal squad, and even if she was able to perform routines with finesse despite her clunky ankle jewelry, Jones should no longer be eligible to cheer for the Cincinnati Bengals.
The General Information posted on Cincinnati Bengals website in regards to the Ben-Gal Cheerleaders clearly states that all candidates must "Represent the Cincinnati Bengals organization by actively supporting the team, values and goals of the Club." It seems the actions of Sarah Jones clearly violate this code of conduct. Having sex with a minor, and even worse a student at a school where she taught, is above and beyond a lack of good values.
Hopefully the 2012 Ben-Gal squad will be announced soon, and without Sarah Jones among them. At least at that point the national media, which is so fervently covering her case, will begin referring to her as a former Ben-Gal cheerleader.
The Cincinnati Bengals football team has had their share of players that have been in the headlines for exercising bad judgment, but none of them quite as tawdry and scandalous as Sarah Jones. It is a shame that this football team, who has come so far both on and off the field, is associated with this case at all.
Ben-Gals Cheerleader Auditions, bengals.com
Jim Hannah, "Judge reduces bond for ex-teacher Sarah Jones," news.cincinnati.com
Lisa lives in the suburbs of Cincinnati and is a die-hard Bengals fan. As her husband unfortunately supports the Dallas Cowboys , Lisa has taken it upon herself to buy tickets for her family to attend at least one game every season. She was beyond thrilled this year when she won tickets to the NFL's Stomp Out Hunger and was able to meet most of the players, with her nine year old daughter at her side. The number one item on Lisa's bucket list is to go to the Super Bowl and watch the Bengals finally win it all.
Other Articles by this Contributor:
Teacher (and Cheerleader) Sarah Jones and the Cincinnati Bengals - Fan's Take
Former Bengals QB Boomer Esiason Changes His Tune: Fan's Perspective
Bengals Cincinnati Based Training Camp Benefits Fans and Players: Fan's Take
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