Extra Post: Cheerleaders are lucky to just be admired

http://www.slate.com/articles/double_x/doublex/2014/04/nfl_cheerleading_lawsuits_five_former_buffalo_jills_are_the_latest_in_a.html


above is an article I found describing the situation professional cheerleaders have faced and are still facing today. I was shocked to learn professional cheerleaders do not even make minimum wage, are not paid for their required expenses, and are even fined by their bosses when they gain weight. They are also not compensated for required appearances (such as 'sitting on the laps of important men while they ride on golf carts) and are 'auctioned off' at some events for team fundraising without receiving much if any cut from the deal. Though their practices are extremely time consuming and their job requirements demand much physical preparation. After learning that this is definitely illegal, some cheerleaders banded together to file a lawsuit, and demand living wages for their work, as cheerleaders are not involved in the labor organization of the NFL.
They claimed that they had not before done this because their coaches explained to them that the team was 'like a family' (they are encouraged to call each other sisters etc.), and that they were 'lucky to just be admired by the players and audience'. This is illegal, and obvious manipulation. They are benefiting off the sexuality and dance skills of these women, and not paying them with the excuse 'your lucky to just be admired by the men' and 'there are a million other girls willing to take your place'. What are your alls' thoughts?