MSJC Welcomes More Than 400 Student-Athletes Back for the 2026-2027 Academic Year
8/17/2026
As Mt. San Jacinto College Eagles returned to classrooms across the district this week, more than 400 student-athletes representing 13 sports landed at the San Jacinto Campus Theater on Friday, August 14, for the annual Athletics Welcome Forum. 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.
MSJC Superintendent/President Dr. Tawny 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. They are here to help you do that along the way,” Dotson said. “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.”
Dotson, who also serves as vice chair of the California Community College Athletic Association (3C2A), 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,” Dotson said. “I believe deeply in the work you are doing as student-athletes, and I’m all in on your success.”
Mt. San Jacinto Community College District Trustee Brian Sylva, who represents Trustee Area 1, recognized the perseverance required of student-athletes and reminded them that their responsibilities and potential extend well beyond athletics.
“Thank you for pushing through one more rep and the late nights in the library; you’ve proven that you have the grit and dedication to get to this point,” Sylva said. “You are student-athletes, but also future leaders and community builders. The Board expects you to remain eligible, healthy, and successful. Success starts in the classroom and carries over into competition.”
Sylva also recognized the behind-the-scenes work supporting MSJC student-athletes.
“I’m deeply grateful to all the coaches and staff who work tirelessly to keep these programs running for you,” Sylva said. “Your coaches and staff sacrifice more than you’ll ever know to make your athletic experience possible.”
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.