Coaching Staff

Dance Team Coach

Coach Gaines is in her 14th season coaching the University of Minnesota Dance Team - and her 18th total season with the program. In addition to her position as the Dance Team Coach, she is also the Head Coach and Program Director of the entire University of Minnesota Spirit Squad, a role she’s held since 2025. Coach Gaines has been connected with the program as a Choreographer, and previously as an athlete. Coach Gaines has been an integral member of the Golden Gophers winning 19 different National Championships from 2006-2025.

Assistant Dance Team Coach

Coach Tumbleson is in her fifth season on the staff as the Assistant Dance Team Coach, and has been a large contributor to the teams success over the past decade. ‘Coach T’ has also spent time coaching at Edina High School. Prior to her coaching role, she was a standout athlete on the University of Minnesota Dance Team.

Assistant Dance Team Coach

Coach Greco is entering his first season on the coaching staff, after a tremendous four-year career as a student-athlete. As an athlete, he made history as the first male member of the University of Minnesota Dance Team - and was an integral part of claiming four consecutive DIA Pom National Championships, and an ICU World Championship representing the United States National Team. In addition to coaching, Coach Greco is also a decorated choreographer.