Prospects
Gaines, a DB the last two years after hoping to start his VU career on offense, is back in the mix at TB. Should contend with Norval McKenzie and Ronald Hatcher for starting RB role if he adds power to running style and improves on consistency. Gaines possesses speed, quickness and vision needed to contribute.

2001
Did not start, but played in every game... Utilized on special teams and nickel coverage packages as DB... Credited with seven tackles, including a pair of stops at South Carolina.

2000
A key special teams performer, was moved to DB prior to season in spring practice... Contributed a tackle at Georgia.

High School
Three-year starter at RB... Team captain as junior and senior... Named Denton (Tex.) Area Offensive Player of the Year... Ranked among Lone Star Top 20 RBs and Top 100 athletes as senior... As senior, rushed for 1,137 yards on 134 carries (8.5-yard avg.) and scored 22 TDs... Helped team to two district titles... Two-time regional track qualifier (300-meter hurdles and 1,600-meter relay)... Participated in numerous extracurricular activities, including Boy’s State and National Leadership Conference... Named Mr. Denton High School... Active in school theater... Named Who’s Who of American High School Students.

Academics
Gaines is working toward a degree in Human and Organizational Development (leadership track).

Personal
Son of Carolyn Mohair and the late Reginald Gaines... Born June 23, 1982... “Lightfoot”... Mom is middle school counselor... One of nine siblings... Switching to uniform #33 this year from #30... One of the Commodores’ true freespirits... A talented musician and vocalist, Gaines plays piano, guitar, saxophone and clarinet... Maintains portable studio, and is nearing completion of solo alternative rock CD... Also cut two CDs with group from high school, Muddrunner.. Frequently can be heard playing with teammates Lorenzo Parker and Mike Adam... Enjoys impromptu jams in different outdoor venues on campus... Arrived on campus riding his pride and joy, Suzuki SV 650.