KINGSTON, RI — Rhode Island alumna and former New England Patriots cheerleader Kayla Jensen has been named as the new URI Ramettes head coach.
The official dance team of Rhode Island Athletics, the Ramettes perform at URI football and men's and women's basketball games.
"We are excited to welcome Kayla as our new Ramettes head coach," Brigid St. Leger, URI's associate athletic director for marketing, said in a media release.
"She brings a unique combination of URI pride and professional experience with the New England Patriots," St. Leger said. "Kayla's strong Rhody spirit, coupled with exceptional skill and leadership, will elevate the program to new heights."
Jensen graduated from URI with a degree in business in 2021, the release said.
"While she was in school, she began her cheerleading career with the Patriots in 2019," the release said.
"A squad captain from 2021-23, she led the 32-member team," according to the release. "She was with the Patriots through the 2025 season. In addition to performing at NFL games, she interacted with fans in the community and volunteered for community relations events during her time in Foxboro."
Joining Jensen as an assistant coach is Emily Gargarese.
"A four-year member of the Ramettes, Garganese graduated from Rhode Island in the Spring of 2024," the release said.