Mt. San Jacinto College welcomed more than 400 student-athletes representing 13 sports for the annual Athletics Welcome Forum.
Superintendent/President Dr. Tawny Dotson, Trustee Brian Sylva, and Dean of Athletics & Student Life Patrick Springer welcomed the Eagles and emphasized the college’s commitment to supporting their academic and athletic success.
The event brought together student-athletes, college leaders, coaches, and Athletics staff to celebrate the start of the 2026-27 academic and athletic year, connect students with resources, and reinforce the importance of success both in the classroom and in competition.
Dr. Dotson encouraged student-athletes to take advantage of the people and resources available to them and emphasized that asking for help is an important part of their success.
“You have support systems at MSJC to help you succeed. Your coaches and faculty want to make sure that you can compete in the classroom and on the court.” Dr. Dotson said. “They are here to help you do that along the way. Here is my advice: If you have a question, ask. Do not fear the question. We have incredible, caring people everywhere at this institution who are here to answer that question for you; all you need to do is ask.”
As vice chair of the California Community College Athletic Association, Dr. Dotson told students they can expect to see her supporting the Eagles throughout the year. “You are going to see me cheering you on because I believe deeply in what this institution does,” she said. “I believe deeply in the work you are doing as student-athletes, and I’m all in on your success.”
Patrick Springer, dean of Athletics & Student Life, said the forum helps establish a shared sense of purpose among student-athletes as they begin the academic and athletic year.
“Our student-athletes bring tremendous energy, discipline, and pride to MSJC, and today is about reminding them that they are part of something bigger than any one team or season,” Springer said. “We want every Eagle to know that we are invested in their success as students first, as athletes, and as members of our community. Our coaches, faculty and staff are committed to giving them the support they need to reach their goals at MSJC and wherever their journey takes them next.”
Competition for the 2026-27 year will soon get underway, including the Eagles football season at the HCN Bank Stadium at the Menifee Valley Campus. For MSJC’s student-athletes, the Athletics Welcome Forum marked the beginning of another competitive season and reinforced a college-wide commitment to ensuring Eagles have the academic resources, mentorship, and support they need to succeed in the classroom, in competition, and beyond MSJC.
