The Derrick Dolls were the former NFL Cheerleaders for the Houston Oilers Football team during the 1970’s, 1980’s and 1990’s. They officially began in 1978 with a group of beautiful women selected from over hundreds of applicants. Thirty-two women were chosen along with eight alternates. All eyes were on the four corners of the field as the Derrick Dolls dazzled the Oiler fans with dance routines throughout the game and during pre-game and halftime performances. Four squads made up of eight cheerleaders rotated at the end of each quarter to each corner of the playing field of the Astrodome, much to the delight of the Oilers fans. The style of the cheerleading routines was primarily dance and less like the traditional cheer routines, chants and gymnastics of high school and college cheerleaders. Fans waved posters stating "Luv Ya Blue" during playoff season in 1978 and quickly became a proud trademark statement for the Houston Oilers. Several posters of the cheerleaders were in circulation throughout Houston for the signing of autographs for their fans. A “Luv Ya Blue” song was written by Mack Hayes and became their rallying song through the 1979 season. Another fight song was written by Lee Ofman, “Houston Oilers #1” and used until the Oilers left Houston in 1997. It was this song that the Derrick Dolls performed the well-known sideline dance routine showing off their beautiful red, white and blue uniform adorned with long white fringe and waving their enormous white pom poms.

As the 1980’s rolled in, the Derrick Dolls continued to make TV appearances and commercials, featured on posters, playing cards, calendars and had their very own stuffed doll resembling the cheerleaders in uniform. Even though they only performed at home games, they made personal appearances all over the State of Texas and to Mexico City to appear on the "Hoy Mismo" (Today Show) to promote American football. They also traveled to Monterrey, Mexico as Good Will Ambassadors for Governor Clements, the State of Texas and marched in their Independence Day Parade. In the 1980’s, the first show troupe was organized consisting of talented dancers, singers and gymnast to entertain our United States Military all over the world. Due to long year after year losing streaks of the Oilers and football strike, the Derrick Dolls continued to appear throughout Houston for various charities, promotions and kept the positive fan support alive until the disbanding of the cheerleaders in 1986.

After a six-year absence, the Derrick Dolls made a triumphant return to the sidelines in 1992—this time as the Houston Oiler Dancers. The squad featured a talented 36-member team, bringing energy, spirit, and glamour back to the Astrodome. A major highlight of their first season back was an unforgettable trip to Tokyo, Japan, where the Oilers played the Dallas Cowboys—a milestone moment that marked the Dolls’ return to the Houston Oilers. 

In 1993, the beloved name Derrick Dolls was officially restored and brought back. That year also introduced a dynamic 12-member show troupe, which gained opportunities to perform on DOD-USO tours, representing the team and supporting U.S. military personnel around the world. The Derrick Dolls continued to shine on international stages, with performances at the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio, Texas, as well as shows in Mexico and Canada, where they headlined various telethons and public events. Their talents were also recognized on both local and national media platforms, including an appearance on the popular show “Entertainment Tonight.”

Although the Derrick Doll era officially ended in 1996 with the Houston Oilers' relocation to Tennessee, the team remained a fan favorite, making personal appearances and leaving a lasting impression on the community.  

The organization is led by two governing bodies: the Board of Directors and the Board of Officers. Together, these dedicated women lead the organization and continue to build the strong foundation of friendship and support the Derrick Dolls have always represented.

Today, the Derrick Dolls Alumni is a thriving organization of over 175 former members, united across the United States with a strong presence in the Houston area. Members actively engage at both the national and local levels, demonstrating a deep commitment to community service and philanthropy. 

The organization proudly supports national charitable initiatives such as the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Toys for Tots, Bread of Life, and the Houston High School Football Combine. Locally, the Derrick Dolls Alumni are also involved with the Houston NFL Alumni Association Chapter, regularly participating in events across the city and contributing to various community outreach efforts.

As proud members of the National Football Cheerleaders Alumni Organization (NFCAO), the Derrick Dolls Alumni also take part in national events affiliated with the NFCAO, including Wreaths Across America, Taste of the NFL, and the Boys & Girls Club of Brazoria County Celebrity Golf Tournament. Additionally, members reunite biannually for special reunion weekends, joining fellow professional alumni cheerleaders from NFL franchises across the country. These cherished gatherings, hosted in select cities, celebrate the enduring bonds of sisterhood of the NFL Alumni Cheerleaders across the United States. 

From the sidelines of the Houston Oilers to a nationwide network of empowered women, the Derrick Dolls have always been more than a dance team—they are a family. Today, that legacy continues through ongoing service, lasting friendships, and the vibrant spirit that defines the organization.

Nearly five decades later, the Derrick Dolls story continues to inspire. Once a Doll, always a Doll.