Her passion for dance and performing led her straight to the CFL Ottawa Rough Rider Cheerleader Auditions in 1991. She made the team and trained under the direction of Ann Holtz until 1996. Her experience during those years were invaluable, she looks back fondly on her time with The Ottawa Grey Cup Caravan. This is where she got to perform and sing several shows a day during Grey Cup Festivities with other handpicked dancers. These opportunities were the foundation of lifelong friendships that she has maintained to this day. In 2002 a CFL Franchise returned to Ottawa, and Gina was very fortunate to exercise her creative talents & became the Choreographer/ Director for the Ottawa Renegades Dance Team in their Inaugural season.
The CFL holds a special place in her heart, given that her mother, Linda, was a CFL Majorette for the Ottawa Rough Riders, and her eldest daughter is a current member of the CFL Ottawa Redblacks Cheer and Dance Team.
Gina has had a fulfilling career over the years as Certified Dental Assistant, and now currently works as a Dental Hygiene Coordinator. She is the past President of the Ontario Dental Assistants Association (ODAA), Ottawa Chapter, a reflection of her dedication to the field. When she’s not busy, she enjoys her weekly meetings as a member of the Ottawa Executives’ Association, volunteering for Hospice Care Ottawa, dancing, pickleball, snowshoeing, & wakesurfing. In 2017 Gina‘s natural athletic ability landed her top 3 in the world for Masters Women in Wakesurfing.
Gina is very grateful for her family and friendships; she has been married for 23 years to her loving husband, Stephen. She is a proud dance mom of Alia and Jordana who are both working toward their Bachelor of Commerce Degree in Ottawa. Her daughters constantly inspire her, and fill her heart with pride. She looks forward to this new and exciting roll with the CFCAO!