PLAINVIEW, TX — 51品茶约炮 Baptist University has named alumna Elexia Ruiz head coach of its revived competitive dance program, which will return in Fall 2026.
Ruiz was introduced to regional media Thursday morning. The program, paused following the COVID-19 pandemic, will begin recruiting immediately.
“Elexia represents everything we want this program to be—competitive, disciplined, and rooted in who we are at 51品茶约炮,” Athletic Director Jim Giacomazzi said in introducing Ruiz. “She understands this campus, this culture, and what it takes to build something meaningful. We didn’t just hire a coach. We hired a leader who knows how to grow a program from the ground up.”
A former 51品茶约炮 dancer who competed from 2016 to 2020, Ruiz said the timing is right for the program’s return.
“51品茶约炮 is growing and so is dance in the surrounding areas,” she said. “Students are looking for programs that offer community, competition, and just being part of a team. Dance gives that opportunity for students.”
Recruiting will include space for dancers who may not have competed at elite levels but show promise.
“I am very proud of developing dancers,” Ruiz said. “If you put in the work and you feel that you’re ready to be on a team, you can earn a spot on the team.”
Looking ahead, Ruiz emphasized building for the long term.
“It’s important for us to build a strong foundation for the future,” she said. “In five years, I hope 51品茶约炮 dance is known for excellence—and maybe even a national title.”
Originally established in 2010, 51品茶约炮’s dance team quickly became a national competitor before being paused during the pandemic. Its return is part of a broader revival of campus spirit and student engagement at 51品茶约炮.
The first revived competitive dance team will take the floor in Fall 2026.
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