Salem College is proud to welcome Christina Gaines as Assistant Cheerleading Coach. A Winston-Salem native, Christina's passion for cheerleading began while attending North Davidson High School before continuing her athletic career as a collegiate cheerleader at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education while cheering for the Spartans, laying the foundation for a career dedicated to teaching, coaching, and mentoring young athletes.
Following graduation, Christina began her teaching and coaching career in Mount Airy, North Carolina, where she coached multiple sports while developing student-athletes both in the classroom and in competition. She later served as Varsity Cheerleading Coach for Forsyth Home Educators from 2014 to 2019, leading the program to an impressive five Grand National Championship titles. Throughout her coaching career, she has been committed to building confident leaders, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and excellence both on and off the mat.
Christina has helped develop numerous athletes who have gone on to cheer at NCAA Division I colleges and universities across the country, a testament to her ability to prepare athletes for success at the next level.
In addition to coaching, Christina is a respected national cheerleading judge. She currently serves as an Overall Competition Judge for the Christian Cheerleaders of America (CCA) and the Open Series Championships, evaluating school, all-star, recreational, and collegiate cheerleading programs at competitions across the nation. Known for her professionalism, consistency, and integrity, she brings a wealth of technical knowledge and competitive experience to every event.
Outside of cheerleading, she is proud to be a wife and mother continuing her teaching career homeschooling her four children. She and her family reside in Wallburg, North Carolina.
With a lifelong passion for cheerleading, a proven record of developing championship programs, and a heart for mentoring student-athletes, Christina is excited to join the Salem College Cheerleading program and help continue its tradition of academic and athletic excellence.
