University of the Pacific’s new director of track and field and cross country, Cherise Roberts, lives by the mantra: “Nobody said it would be easy; it would just be worth it.” 

Roberts believes in finding fulfillment and joy in the challenge of running, but also in life—a lesson she’s taught her student-athletes across her career. 

As Roberts steps into her role as head coach, she hopes the foundation established over the past few months will shape the teams’ success and identity moving forward.

“I’m excited to lead this program with an elite vision that we’ve had since the spring,” Roberts said. “I want to see more of our student-athletes being courageous to overcome any obstacles in the way because of the training and the mentality that we’ve developed in our culture. 

“My hope is to progress toward making this a program that people desire to come to because of the culture we’ve created and the team we’ve trained. I’m looking forward to writing our team’s story,” she said.

Roberts served as an assistant coach last year and helped lead the men’s cross country team to three top five finishes during their inaugural season. Her work with the women's side of the program helped break a school record in the 6K.

A Manteca native, Roberts has strong connections with the community, including coaches from local high schools. Having a feel for the area helps her identify local athletes to recruit and helps her make students from other areas feel more at home during their time at Pacific. 

“The most challenging part of recruiting athletes is developing a relationship with them and having their coach support them as a person,” Roberts said. “Being from around here, it’s nice to share that local flavor with the new athletes that we’ve brought here. I’m excited to work with them, but also our returners and leaders as we look ahead to build upon a strong season from last year.”

Last season, the men’s and women’s teams competed together for the first time in cross country and track and field. Pacific broke a combined 22 school records in the spring, including an indoor individual championship in the mile at the MPSF Indoor Track and Field Championships.

Emma Kaufman ’27, an English major and returning senior, is excited for Roberts to lead the program. 

“She’s like a ball of sunshine,” Kaufman said. “She adds so much energy to our program. She cares not only about how we are doing race wise, but also mentally and nutritionally. I believe this is going to benefit the entire team tremendously.”

As they enter their second season of competing together, the Tigers look to build on last year’s progress. 

“Coach Roberts is very passionate about leading and giving us encouragement while we’re running,” said Logan Evans ’26, a Media Arts and Production major. “Last year was more a learning curve for the guys in our inaugural year, but this year, I feel more motivated to give it my all. We have a young core, but some strong returning leaders to do some exciting things at the conference level.”

Cross country begins its season Aug. 29 at the USF Invitational. The Tigers will host the Pacific Invitational at Micke Grove Golf Course Oct. 3. See the full schedule.