Rivera Named Lobo Spirit Head Coach
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.— After serving as the coed cheer team coach at New Mexico for the past five seasons, Gabriella Rivera has been hired as the spirit coordinator and head coach for the cheer, dance and the mascot programs as announced by Vice President / Director of Athletics Fernando Lovo on Wednesday.
A cheerleader for four years on the coed cheer team and a 2018 graduate of The University of New Mexico, Rivera has accumulated over 11 years of experience leading spirit programs across collegiate, high school and all-star levels.
“It is an incredible honor to serve as the next head coach and spirit coordinator of the UNM spirit program,” noted Rivera. “This program has shaped so much of who I am—as both an athlete, coach, and a person — and it holds a truly special place in my heart. It’s a privilege to give back to the university, community, and student-athletes who continue to inspire me every day. I am truly thankful to Fernando Lovo, Madison Baumann, Ryan Berryman and Jalen Dominguez for believing in me and entrusting me with this opportunity.
“My goal is to lead this program with integrity, firsthand insight, and purpose—fostering a culture where student-athletes feel supported, valued, and proud to represent Lobo Nation.
“To Rafael Martinez and Debbie Perry, thank you for being the mentors who shaped my path, challenged me, and helped mold me into the leader I strive to be. I am forever grateful.”
Rivera brings to UNM a well-versed skillset in routine structure and an understanding of choreography for building clean, effective and crowd-engaging performances.
In her role as the coed cheer team coach, she led UNM’s coed squad in game day performances and competitions as well as prioritized community engagement. Among the highlights under her guidance, the Lobos placed 11th nationally in the Game Day division at the 2023 UCA College National Championship and first in the Sideline division at the 2024 USA College Championship. Beyond her role as the team coach, Rivera also planned spirit fundraising events, coordinated team practices and oversaw academics, ensuring academics remained a priority for the student-athletes.
Prior to being hired at UNM in 2020, Rivera spent two years at Hope Christian High School in Albuquerque as the varsity cheer head coach, in charge of all elements of the varsity cheer program including designing and implementing routines and choreography. Rivera got her start with the Royal Cheer Academy and Cheer Central Suns as the tumbling and all-star cheer coach, a role she held for five years.
“We’re excited to welcome Gabriella as the new head coach of the cheer, dance and the mascot programs and spirit coordinator,” stated Lovo. “Her background as a cheerleader at UNM as well as her experience as the coed cheer team coach for the past five seasons gives her keen knowledge of UNM Athletics and the spirit program, which stood out in the hiring process.
“I’m confident that she will bring dynamic game day experiences for our fans and elevate our cheer and dance teams.”
Rivera graduated from UNM with a B.S. in signed language interpreting.