A Lasting Tribute: New England Patriots Unveil Statue Honoring Tracy Sormanti, Beloved Cheerleader and Director
Foxborough, MA – July 22, 2025* — In a moving tribute filled with emotion, celebration, and lasting legacy, the New England Patriots unveiled a bronze statue on Monday in honor of Tracy Sormanti, the team’s iconic cheerleader and cheerleading director, who passed away in December 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer.
The unveiling ceremony, held just outside Gillette Stadium, drew a crowd of former cheerleaders, Patriots alumni, team executives, fans, and family members. Standing proudly in her classic cheerleader uniform, one arm raised high with a pom-pom and the other over her heart, the statue captures Sormanti’s lifelong passion, unwavering dedication, and vibrant spirit that made her an irreplaceable part of the Patriots organization.
A Cheerleader Forever
Tracy Sormanti’s association with the Patriots began in 1983 when she joined the team as a cheerleader. Over the next several decades, she became one of the most beloved figures in the franchise, not only for her years on the sidelines but for her transformational leadership as the cheerleading director. In total, she served 32 seasons with the Patriots—first as a cheerleader and then as the heart and soul behind the cheer program.
“It’s hard to put into words what Tracy meant to this team,” said Patriots owner Robert Kraft at the ceremony. “She was more than a cheerleader, more than a director—she was family. Her passion, energy, and grace inspired everyone who had the privilege to work alongside her. This statue ensures that her spirit will forever dance with the Patriots.”
A Statue Steeped in Symbolism
The life-sized bronze statue depicts Tracy in a lively yet poised pose—smiling with purpose, exuding confidence and cheer. Created by renowned sports sculptor Diane Montoya, the piece took nearly a year to design and cast. It features fine details of her cheer uniform and pom-poms, and the pedestal is surrounded by 32 stars—each representing one season she devoted to the Patriots.
The base of the statue bears a powerful inscription:
Tracy Sormanti
1966 – 2020
New England Patriots Cheerleader & Director
32 Seasons of Dedication, Passion, and Patriot Pride
“Her spirit danced on every sideline.”
A small Patriots logo sits just above the quote, blending seamlessly into the bronze base and symbolizing her deep-rooted connection with the franchise.
“This statue isn’t just for us,” said Montoya. “It’s for the thousands of women she mentored, the countless fans she inspired, and the legacy she left in sports and beyond.”
Remembering Tracy’s Legacy
Those who worked with Tracy Sormanti recall her tireless dedication to excellence and her unmatched ability to uplift others. As cheerleading director, she was known for her high standards, eye for talent, and commitment to building strong, empowered teams. Under her leadership, Patriots cheerleaders traveled internationally to visit troops, participated in high-profile NFL events, and became a model program throughout the league.
“She saw something in me I didn’t even see in myself,” said former cheerleader Jessica Ramos. “She made you believe you were capable of more—not just on the field, but in life.”
Sormanti’s reach extended beyond the NFL. She was an advocate for young women, promoting confidence, professionalism, and service. Her influence shaped not only the careers but the lives of hundreds of young women over the years.
“She wasn’t just our coach,” said another alumna, Sarah Douglas. “She was our mentor, our leader, our guiding light. Tracy was the standard.”
Honored in Patriots Hall of Fame
In 2021, just a few months after her passing, Tracy Sormanti became the first cheerleader ever inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame—a groundbreaking recognition that honored not just her contributions, but the value and visibility of women in sports leadership.
“She broke barriers by simply being the best at what she did,” said team president Jonathan Kraft. “Her Hall of Fame induction was long overdue, and now this statue stands as the next chapter in her recognition.”
Family’s Emotional Response
Tracy’s family was present for the statue unveiling, including her siblings, nieces, and close friends. Emotions were high as the tarp came off and the crowd saw the sculpture for the first time. Many were brought to tears.
“To see her immortalized like this—it’s overwhelming,” said her brother, Michael Sormanti. “We miss her every day, but this… this means she’ll always be here. Leading, cheering, inspiring.”
Tracy’s niece, Ava, who had recently joined a local cheerleading squad, added, “I want to be just like Aunt Tracy. Strong, brave, and full of joy.”
A Legacy That Lives On
The New England Patriots plan to incorporate Tracy’s story into their ongoing educational and outreach efforts. A new scholarship fund for aspiring cheerleaders was announced during the ceremony, aimed at supporting young women who demonstrate leadership and community involvement.
In addition, Gillette Stadium will display interactive exhibits around the statue that detail Tracy’s life, career, and the evolution of the Patriots cheerleading program under her leadership.
“This is more than a statue,” said cheer program coordinator Lindsay Ramer. “It’s a landmark of legacy. Future generations of fans will walk past this and know exactly who Tracy Sormanti was—a pioneer, a role model, and the forever heart of Patriots cheer.”
Final Words
As the sun set behind Gillette Stadium, casting a golden glow over the bronze figure, a group of current and former cheerleaders performed one of Tracy’s favorite routines. The music, the movement, the energy—it was all hers.
And as the crowd applauded, one thing was clear: Tracy Sormanti may be gone, but her spirit will forever echo through the cheers of Foxborough.
—
**#TracySormantiForever | #PatriotPride | #LegendsLiveOn**
