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.
Gabriella Bruno is one of two reps from Warner Pacific University. Bruno is a senior on the women’s basketball team at WPU, who recently was crowned
NAIA Conference Commissioners Association Champions of Character Team of the Year, and head coach Matt Gregg played a big role in Bruno’s decision to become a Knight.
“My coach was a huge factor in my decision to come to Warner Pacific,” said Bruno. “I knew he could make me better and help me grow on and off the court. Aside from that, I loved the community and values of the school.”
Coach Gregg has been an important influence in Bruno’s life, along with Cassie Trentaz, Lloyd Chia, and Dr. Cook. She has enjoyed creating relationships with her professors over the years at WPU.
Bruno is a criminal justice major with a minor in political science at WPU and hopes to become a police officer before attending law school someday. The Lake Oswego, Ore., is used to putting in hard work as a student-athlete, which will come in handy even after graduation.
“The hours,” said Bruno on the demands of being a student-athlete. “There are a lot of things you’re juggling every day outside of your practice and classes. Things can pile up, and it tests you, but in the best possible way that strengthens your ability to handle multiple responsibilities at once.”
When not playing basketball or studying, Bruno enjoys doing something outdoors, like hiking, running or swimming. She loves to do “anything active whilst enjoying what’s around [her].”
Bruno’s favorite part about being a Knight has been playing NCAA Division I teams.
“It’s been really cool experiencing that level of competition,” said Bruno.
Bruno is a veteran rep on the Cascade Collegiate Conference SAAC and looks to continue helping the conference grow, as well as herself.
“I’d love to work alongside the group to grow further as a leader, and to help be a bridge between our athletes and our athletic admins,” said Bruno. “It’s so important to feel that your needs are being heard, especially right now.”