In this episode of Saddle Up, we welcome Isela “Sel” Gomez, UTRGV alumna and the first full‑time Head Coach of the UTRGV Spirit Program, to share her inspiring vision and journey building spirit, dance, cheer, and mascot excellence at the university.

Isela returned home to the Valley to lead UTRGV’s expanded Spirit Program, overseeing cheer, dance, and mascot teams and helping bring new traditions to campus life. University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley+2utrgvrider.com+2 With a foundation in dance (she holds a bachelor’s degree in Dance from legacy UTPA) and years of work in local dance and drill programs, she brings both expertise and heart to this role. University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley+1

In our conversation, Isela discusses:

• What motivated her to return and lead the Spirit Program

• The challenges and opportunities in growing a collegiate spirit organization from the ground up

• Collaboration with her staff, including cheer and dance coaches, and the role of the spirit program in supporting athletics and campus engagement

• The rollout of new features like a UTRGV drill team debuting Fall 2025 KRGV+1

• Her goals for elevating the program competitively, institutionally, and in the community

Whether you’re involved in spirit/dance, athletics, or campus life — this episode gives a behind-the-scenes look at the work and passion needed to build culture, pride, and momentum.