Alumnus and Napa Native Daniel Morales has been the assistant athletic director at PUC for the last two years and was assigned to be the NAIA Compliance and Eligibility Coordinator this school year. He graduated from PUC with degrees in communication studies and Spanish in 2016, and feels his role as assistant AD is a full-circle moment.

“PUC gave me the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level through an athletic scholarship, and taking on this role felt like a full-circle moment,” he said. “My goal since taking this role has been to improve areas that were lacking when I was here, make sure our students have the best experience possible, and to put PUC athletics on the map.”

How do you define a successful athletic program, and what’s your role in achieving that vision? 

Success can be defined in many different ways depending on the resources and limitations one is provided. A successful athletic program at PUC is being competitive on the court/field, strong academically, and supportive of student-athletes as people. My role is to help create the structure behind the scenes through compliance, logistics, and exposure, so our coaches and athletes are positioned to succeed and be noticed beyond the hill. 

What strategies do you use to build and maintain a positive team culture? 

Positive culture starts with trust, communication, and consistency. Being present, approachable, and supportive allows student-athletes and coaches to feel confident that they’re being heard, which naturally strengthens team culture. Availability is key; being an Assistant AD isn’t a 9-5 type of job. The unpredictability of the job makes it rewarding and fun. You’re always present, no matter what. One day it’s calm, the next there’s a broken water pipe in the gym that you have to attend to late at night, so not only athletes but our whole student body can enjoy the space the following day. So I’d say my main strategy is being available and willing to make sacrifices for the good of the team. 

How do you support academic success and monitor student-athlete progress?

Being the Compliance and Eligibility Coordinator, I work closely with student-athletes to ensure they understand eligibility requirements and remain academically eligible. This role has allowed me to establish strong relationships with students, which is key to accountability and trust. Sometimes I give good news, and other times, bad news. I’m lucky to work with athletes who are understanding and appreciate my direct, honest style. Not beating around the bush has been the most effective way to monitor progress. 

What are your priorities regarding student-athlete mental health and well-being? 

Student-athlete mental health and well-being are major priorities for me, especially because I have first-hand experience as a former student-athlete here at PUC. I understand how grueling and long seasons can feel, along with the pressure of staying on top of responsibilities both in the classroom and in athletic competition. Because of that experience, I emphasize balance, open communication, and making sure student-athletes feel supported as people first. Creating an environment where athletes feel comfortable asking for help and using campus resources is essential. 

What are your expectations for new athletes? 

I expect new athletes to be committed, coachable, and willing to buy into the culture coaches are building. Representing PUC comes with responsibility, and we want athletes who are ready to compete, grow, and support one another, but most importantly, want to be here to earn a degree. 

How do you support your players off the court? 

Support off the court includes helping student-athletes navigate academics, eligibility, personal challenges, and day-to-day concerns. A simple conversation can go a long way. 

Why should prospective high school athletes choose PUC over another college or university? 

PUC offers the opportunity to be part of a growing athletic program where student-athletes can make a real impact immediately. Often, freshmen have to wait a year or two before seeing the court or field. Here, you can play right off the bat if you’re the better player. Our close-knit community ensures athletes are supported academically, athletically, and personally, not just as players, but as individuals. 

How do you support the coaching staff? 

During my first year, my focus was to support our coaches as much as possible and gain a clear understanding of what it would take to make our teams competitive on and off the field. That included helping with logistics and removing distractions, at times even being there to serve water. 

In year two, that support expanded to overseeing eligibility requirements and assisting in hiring the proper student workers and assistant coaches to make sure we have a smooth operation running. 

What is your favorite thing about being a part of the Pioneers community? 

Competitive wise, being the underdog and proving people wrong. In general, beyond varsity athletics, I’d have to say so far, helping manage intramurals and growing that side of the Pioneers community. Seeing students, staff/ faculty, and alumni come together is awesome. Kaia Miller, our Student Athletics Assistant and Intramural Manager, has done a fantastic job, big props to her.

What would students be surprised to learn about you? 

Students may be surprised to learn that since I’m part-time at PUC, I also work as a freelance writer and social media coordinator for numerous clients.

Where is your favorite restaurant in the Napa Valley?

Too many to name, but I’d say you can’t go wrong with driving down the hill to spend some time in Napa and choosing between a burrito from Economy Food Market or a sandwich from Vineburg Deli. 

When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing? 

When I’m not working, I enjoy staying active and traveling as often as possible.