Missing from the Sidelines

Book excerpt: The Chicago Honey Bear cheerleaders, in their iconic white boots, cheered and danced their way across Soldier Field right into the hearts of Chicagoans and Bears fans throughout the world for nine NFL seasons. Fans watched these talented, vivacious, young women help support the team through one of the best decades of Bears football, leading up to the 1986 Super Bowl XX championship.But while celebrating the Super Bowl XX victory, the Honey Bears found out they would never take the field again. The abrupt decision by Bears management sent shock waves throughout the Bears nation and the entire National Football League.Legendary NFL co-founder and owner of the Chicago Bears, George "Papa Bear" Halas, wanted nothing more than to have cheerleaders on the sidelines at Soldier Field in Chicago; and an amazing staff was quickly put together to make his dream a reality. So why were the Honey Bears sent packing after one of the most successful seasons in the Chicago Bear's history?"Missing from the Sidelines" poses that question, along with many more:* Why were the Honey Bears disbanded? Was it the Playboy scandal? Was it fraternization between players and cheerleaders?* Were the Honey Bears a distraction to the players on the field?* Was the disbandment of the Honey Bears really just a "business decision?"* Is there a Honey Bear curse and will it ever be lifted?Written and compiled by two former Honey Bears, "Missing from the Sidelines" opens the door to the behind-the-scenes world of the Honey Bears through their own personal stories. Including an exclusive new interview with Coach Mike Ditka, stories from the Bear's notorious super fans, and over 400 Honey Bear photos, "Missing from the Sidelines" is a must-read for any Chicago Bear's fan!