About:

Hometown: Tampa, Florida
College: University of Central Florida
Occupation: Social media specialist and dance instructor
Nickname: G
Zodiac sign: Aquarius

FAVORITES:

Movie: It's a toss-up between "Ace Venture: Pet Detective" and "Remember the Titans"
TV Show: "Gilmore Girls"
Song to dance to: Anything with a good beat!
Junk food: Chips & salsa (especially from El Camino)
Kids cereal: Frosted Flakes
Dream car: Navy soft-top Jeep Wrangler
Color: Blue
Holiday: My birthday
Animal: Lemur
Quote: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." – Maya Angelou

Get to know Gioia:

What does being a DBC [Denver Broncos Cheerleader] mean to you?
Being a DBC means having the unique opportunity to make a difference in people's lives and in our community. It means bringing a smile to each person that you meet, while being your best self in everything that you do. It means representing our Denver Broncos, as well as Mr. B's legacy of excellence, both on and off the field.* *

Who is your inspiration?My parents are my inspiration! My dad played in the NFL and showed me that you can't beat hard work and resilience. My mom cheered in the NFL and showed me that you should chase your passions. These two raised me to love the game of football and dancing. They chose to make their dreams a reality — and inspired me to do the same!

What would fans be surprised to know about you?I have a not-so-great history with animals. I've been stung by a stingray and bitten by a zebra, a duck and an Icelandic horse (seriously).

What was the first concert you've ever went to?
My mom picked me up from dance practice and surprised me with tickets to see my beloved Backstreet Boys in concert! It was pretty life changing for my tween-self. ... I've loved live music ever since!

If money was not an issue, what would you do with your life?
I would travel the world and teach dance to kids in developing countries. Children have the power to change their world, despite the circumstances surrounding them. Music and movement are universally understood and can help them realize that their voice is important!

What was your favorite subject in school?
Theory of Knowledge! The class was a part of my IB [International Baccalaureate] curriculum. It focused on the nature of knowledge and how we know the things we think we do (did I confuse you yet?). It encouraged you to ask, "Why?" and question common knowledge based on awareness and credibility. Really intriguing!

What was you first job?
I worked at the YMCA. I started with the company as a volunteer in middle school & worked as an employee through part of college! I coached gymnastics, taught dance classes, hosted birthday parties, supervised our indoor rock wall, and was a summer camp counselor. And yes, we danced to "Y.M.C.A." almost every single day!

What is your dream vacation destination?
Italia! I would love to experience the history and culture (and food) of where my family is from.

Any hidden talents or tricks you can do?
I'm learning to play the ukulele. … Does that count?

When did you first start dancing?
I started dancing when I was 3 years old. I took a brief hiatus to play volleyball & run track, but I loved performing too much and had to return to the stage!

A past accomplishment I'm really proud of is …
Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, the tallest free-standing mountain in the world and one of the Seven Summits!

In 10 years I see myself …
Living in the mountains and successfully running my own dance studio. Or maybe climbing Mount Everest. ... It's a toss up!

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
An astronaut. The concept of space and our universe is mind-blowing. Plus, I love exploring!

What advice would you give your younger self?
Don't feel pressured to live your life the way other people want you to. Do what makes you happy and what makes the world a better place!