COSTA MESA, Calif.--With the 2025-26 academic and athletic seasons just around the corner, student-athlete leaders from all of the Pacific West Conference's 13 schools met this week at Vanguard University for planning, community service and collaboration.
The 18th annual PacWest SAAC Retreat gave leaders from each conference school the chance to mingle, hear guest speakers, and plan for the coming year. They also participated in a community service project and attended an Angels-Rays game in Anaheim. SAAC is short for Student Athlete Advisory Committee.
“My experience at the PacWest SAAC retreat was truly unforgettable," said 2025-26 PacWest National SAAC Representative
Mariah Hughes of Point Loma. "Throughout the retreat, I gained valuable insights, skills, and perspectives that will strengthen my leadership and allow me to represent my peers more effectively. Connecting with passionate, driven student-athletes from throughout the conference was both inspiring and motivating. I left feeling not only excited and honored, but also deeply empowered to use my voice and work alongside my fellow student-athletes to make a meaningful impact. “
The three days (Aug. 4-6) were packed with meetings and activities.
Day 1 - Welcome from the Vanguard VP for University Advancement
Justin McIntee, PacWest Commissioner
Brad Jones and SWA
Piper Brewster...meetings and campus updates...Angels Stadium for dinner and game.
Day 2 - Guest speaker
Dr. Chip Espinoza, Dean of Strategy & Innovation at Vanguard...Stategic Planning and roundtable activity over lunch...Community Engagement activity at the Orange County Mission...Dinner at hotel and PacWest TV video.
Day 3 - Made plans for the upcoming year, including setting meeting dates, communication strategies and electing the SAAC Executive Board.
"This retreat was truly a special experience," said PacWest Associate Commissioner and Senior Women Administrator Brewster. "A special thank you to one of our newest members, Vanguard University, for being incredible hosts. Getting the opportunity to serve as the conference SAAC liaison provides a front row seat to watch student-athletes across our member institutions come together to collaborate on ideas and form friendships.
"Having the opportunity to serve at the OC Mission during this year's retreat reminded me that true leadership is rooted in service. Through hands-on leadership training and meaningful community engagement, I witnessed our future leaders grow."
2025-26 PacWest SAAC Executive Board:
President - Mattie Prior, CUI (women's volleyball)
Vice President - Bri Bellfi, Biola (women's volleyball)
Secretary - Mandi Roberts, Menlo (women's soccer)
Social Media Director - Jason Riviello, Jessup (baseball)
Professional Development Director - Sarah Wilson, APU (women's volleyball) & Robert Ronco, Vanguard (men's soccer)
National SAAC Representative - Mariah Hughes, PLNU (women's volleyball)