CORVALLIS, Ore. – Heading into the 2020-21 year, 24 student-athletes were named to the Cascade Collegiate Conference Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), representing their schools.
Cortez Rodelo is one of the two representatives from Warner Pacific University, along with
Gabriella Bruno. The junior wrestler chose WPU because he loved the setting of a small and diverse campus, along with the wrestling program and coach.
“Our coach, Frank Johnson, is the most influential person in my life at WPU,” said Rodelo. “I have never met someone with his type of energy and willingness to put others before themself.”
Being a part of the Knights’ wrestling program has its demands, but Rodelo also enjoys being able to travel to competitions.
“Some demands of being a student-athlete are making and managing time in order to compete, get educated, volunteer, and work to pay for school,” said Rodelo. “You also represent your school everywhere you travel to compete. The best experiences so far have been traveling with the team to different parts of the West Coast.”
The Aloha, Ore., native is studying criminal justice and hopes to work in juvenile corrections someday.
While the pandemic has shaken things up for everyone, Rodelo has welcomed some of the changes it has brought.
“COVID-19 has made it easier to manage time with online classes,” said Rodelo. “By not having many classes in person, I am able to work more hours at my job, and find more time to focus on other opportunities.”
When not wrestling or studying, Rodelo likes to compete in Sim Racing and Esports. He is in his second year as a SAAC rep and hopes to continue making a difference.
“I hope to establish a SAAC at WPU that athletes can participate in for years to come,” said Rodelo.