Gabe Pagano is the Director of Athletics and Activities for Bend-La Pine Schools, where he leads districtwide athletic and student activity programs serving thousands of students across Central Oregon. He works closely with school leaders, coaches, and community partners to ensure students have access to safe, inclusive, and meaningful extracurricular opportunities. With more than 20 years in public education, Gabe has served as an English teacher, coach, athletic director, assistant principal, principal, and district administrator. His career has been guided by a belief that athletics and activities are powerful extensions of the classroom, helping students develop leadership, resilience, teamwork, and character. Gabe's current work focuses on strengthening coach development, improving student safety, expanding participation opportunities, and building sustainable systems that support schools and communities. He is committed to creating experiences that prepare students for success both during and after their school years. He earned a bachelor's degree in English Literature with a minor in Spanish from the University of Oregon and a master's degree in Secondary Education from Northern Arizona University. Outside of work, Gabe enjoys spending time with his wife, Heather, and their family. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys rafting, camping, fishing, and exploring Oregon's rivers and mountains.

Alex Reininger is a dancer, choreographer, roller skater, figure skating coach, and movement educator based in Bend, Oregon. A Central Oregon native, she is the founder of Mindful Motion, a movement practice dedicated to helping people build confidence, connection, and joy through dance, skating, and mindful movement. With over 15 years of formal dance training in ballet, jazz, lyrical, and hip hop, Alex teaches weekly beginner line dance lessons at The Coyote and coaches roller skating and figure skating through Bend Park & Recreation District at The Pavilion. She also performs with Grand Ballet Academy, founded Roller Skaters of Central Oregon, and proudly works alongside her family at Leapin’ Lizards Toy Company, a local business that has served the Central Oregon community for decades. After coaching Team Love in Motion in her debut season as a Pro Hip Hop Coach for Dancing with the Central Oregon Stars last year, Alex is honored to return for a second season. Growing up in Central Oregon has given her a deep appreciation for this community, and she is grateful for the opportunity to support Sparrow Clubs by using movement to bring people together in service of local children and families.