Name: Ashlyn
Nickname: Ash
Hometown: Danville
Current Home: Newport Beach
Tenure: Rookie
College: University of California, Irvine
Degree: B.A. Criminology, Law and Society, B.F.A. Dance Performance

What was your first job?
My first ever job was working as a busser in my local restaurant! It taught me so much about work ethic, dedication and responsibility.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Ever since I was little I knew I wanted to pursue dance as a professional career. I feel so lucky for this dream to be coming true today.

What activities bring you the most joy?
My favorite activities to do outside of dancing of course include yoga, going to the beach, and being around my family and friends!

What is your personal motto?
I always like to remind myself that everything happens for a reason and if some things meant to be, it will be.

What causes are you passionate about?
I'm most passionate about giving back to my community, especially through causes that support children and families. I love finding ways to make a positive impact, whether it's volunteering, participating in community events, or simply brightening someone's day. Being able to connect with others and give back is something that's very meaningful to me!

Do you volunteer? If so, where?
During the past four years I've volunteered through my sorority with Service for Sight, working directly with Beyond Blindness in Irvine, helping give back to the community and support those with visual impairments. Giving back has always been important to me, and I'm always looking for new opportunities to get involved and make a positive impact.

What is an interesting fact about you?
Growing up I did both dance and played competitive soccer. I was dedicated to both sports but ultimately ended up pursing dance!

If you could make up a cheerleading superpower, what would it be?
If I could create a cheerleading superpower it would be the ability to turn pregame butterflies into confidence and make everyone's excitement contagious before we take the field each game!

How do you want people to remember you?
I hope people remember me for my kindness, contagious energy, and the way I made others feel. I always want to leave people smiling and make everyone feel welcomed and valued!

What is a personal goal you are working towards this year?
My personal goal for this year is to soak in every moment of my rookie season while continuing to grow as a dancer. I also want to keep pushing myself outside of my comfort zone, embracing new experiences, and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way.

Who is your biggest role model and why?
My biggest role model is my mom. She has taught me what it means to be dedicated, kind-hearted, and selfless. Through her actions, she has shown me the importance of leading with kindness, working hard, and always showing up for the people you care about. I hope to reflect those qualities in everything I do.

What is your favorite thing about Gold Rush?
My favorite thing about Gold Rush is my teammates. They are some of the most supportive, genuine, and uplifting people you could surround yourself with. They are incredibly dedicated, talented, and inspiring, and I'm so grateful to be learning from them. As a recent college graduate navigating my next career steps, it's especially meaningful to be surrounded by such accomplished women and men who motivate me to keep growing both personally and professionally.

What song gets you pumped up on game day?
My favorite pre-game song is anything Megan Thee Stallion

If you were a football player, what position would you play?
I'd be a wide receiver because I would definitely have the most fun with the touchdown dances.

What are you most looking forward to this season?
I'm most looking forward to stepping onto the field in front of my family and friends and sharing such a special moment with them. I can't wait to bring the energy to the Faithful, perform alongside my teammates, and soak in every game day experience during my rookie season.

Is there anything else you'd like to share with the Faithful? What do you want us to know about you?
I have always had a passion for performing and I am beyond grateful to represent the Gold Rush on the field this season!