Her Story
About Jacquelyn
Jacquelyn "Jackie" Garza is an accomplished coach, choreographer, and leader in professional sports entertainment with more than 25 years of dance experience. As the Head Coach and Choreographer for the Houston Rockets' Clutch City Dancers and Launch Crew, she oversees choreography, talent development, auditions, and game-day entertainment, building on a distinguished career as a professional dancer and team captain. Jackie began dancing at the age of eight and followed a path that led her from the Friendswood High School drill team to the renowned Kilgore College Rangerettes, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education with a specialization in coaching from The University of Texas at Austin. She is also a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and CPR/AED certified, combining her expertise in performance, fitness, and leadership to help others reach their highest potential. Throughout her career, Jackie has demonstrated a passion for developing performers while creating memorable live entertainment experiences. Before stepping into her coaching role in 2024, she performed with the Capital City Dancers and later the Houston Rockets dance program, where she became captain during the organization's transition to the Clutch City Dancers. Her first season as head coach was highlighted by having members of her team invited to perform during the 2024 NBA All-Star festivities, a milestone she considers one of her proudest professional achievements. Beyond the basketball court, Jackie has expanded her expertise into live event production, serving as Talent Operations and Stage Manager for Houston's FIFA Fan Festival, where she coordinated performers and production teams for one of the city's largest entertainment events. Jackie's leadership philosophy is rooted in discipline, respect, teamwork, and continuous growth. She credits influential mentors—including Shelley Wayne and Dana Blair of the Kilgore College Rangerettes, along with Marcella from the Austin Spurs organization—for shaping her approach to coaching and mentorship. Passionate about fostering healthy, supportive environments, she actively mentors emerging leaders and recently advocated for mental health awareness through her participation in the Brain Abouts podcast. Whether coaching elite performers, leading live productions, or helping others live healthier lifestyles, Jackie is committed to empowering others with confidence, resilience, and the belief that every day is a new opportunity to grow.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jacquelyn
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible mentors who have invested in my growth throughout my journey. Leaders like Shelley Wane and Dana Blair from the Kilgore College Rangerettes program, along with Coach Marcella from the Austin Spurs, have shaped my leadership style by modeling excellence, accountability, and compassion. Their guidance inspired me to mentor others, and one of my proudest experiences has been working with our team captain, McKenna. Watching her grow from being shy and reserved to confidently leading and speaking in front of large groups has reinforced the importance of empowering others and creating opportunities for them to succeed.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage them to go for it with confidence. This industry offers incredible opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. One of the things I value most is being part of a culture that emphasizes respect, teamwork, and helping one another become our best selves. My advice is to embrace who you are, stay authentic, and never underestimate the value of your unique perspective and talents.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me most are integrity, respect, empathy, and service. I believe in creating supportive environments where people feel valued and empowered to grow. My involvement with Brain Abouts, a neuroscience-based high-risk prevention program focused on youth mental health, has strengthened my commitment to mental health advocacy. Through my participation in their podcast, I had the opportunity to share my experiences with mental health in dance teams and discuss the importance of fostering positive, healthy environments as a coach. Those experiences continue to shape how I lead and support others.
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