The Sunbirds Sports Show with Paul Meadors

With Finals and Commencement coming up next week, this will be the final episode of season 2 of the Sunbirds Sports Show! Joining host Paul Meadors in the ESPN Studios will be former Sunbird pitcher and local entrepreneur Aaron Lynn along with frequent contributor, FPU Men’s Basketball Head Coach and Assistant Athletic Director C.J. Haydock.Donors can be the lifeblood of small universities like Fresno Pacific, and the Sunbirds’ Athletic Department relies heavily on fundraising to accomplish their goals. After graduating from FPU, Aaron began serving his community through organizing and executing fundraising initiatives for schools across the Valley. Aaron’s contributions to the Sunbirds’ fundraising efforts have revolutionized their Week of Giving and more.  Then, as not just a coach but also an AD in charge of enriching the student-athlete experience, C.J. discusses the specifics of where and how donations have transformed FPU Athletics as well as the impact that collective, targeted efforts such as the Week of Giving can do to improve everything from travel budgets to facility upgrades and more. It’s a peek behind the scenes of a function of college athletics administration that isn’t measured necessarily on wins and losses, but ultimately will play a huge role in the dictating the long-term growth and development of FPU’s many athletic programs.Coming up on June 22nd is the 30th Annual Sunbird Golf Classic at Belmont Country Club.  Don’t miss this fun day on the links supporting the Birds.  Visit fpusunbirds.com/golf to learn more and register today!#BackTheBirds

It’s a special episode of the Sunbirds Sports Show live on location at the Raising Cane’s on Kings Canyon near campus to recap Tuesday’s Flight Night – FPU’s annual awards celebrating the year that was for the Sunbirds. Host Paul Meadors – last night’s co-emcee with Scott Bemis - relives this amazing night for the FPU student athletes.With Jackson Paramo alongside and dozens of student-athletes in attendance, Paul is joined on the mic by Comeback Athlete of the Year TJ Smith, Newcomer of the Year Titus Wheelock, and Aaron Martinez, who along with Smith and Wheelock combined to win Play of the Year for the Sunbirds baseball team. Then, Sunbird of the Year Geneva Elliott of the Volleyball team joins the show with coach Kelsee Montagna. This fun episode is then closed out by the Men’s Track & Field trio of Senior of the Year Shemar Palmer, Best Individual Performance winner Shane Bagley, and Grace & Glory Award winner Malachi Carrasco.**Special thanks to our wonderful partners at Raising Cane’s for hosting this episode on-location and preparing 200+ chicken tenders for our hangry fans in the audience**#BackTheBirds

You’ve heard them both here as co-hosts of the Sunbirds Sports Show and as co-commentators on the PacWest Network. Joining host Paul Meadors in the ESPN Studios as guests this time are FPU Men’s Track & Field student-athletes and broadcasters Jackson Paramo and Zach Sims, along with The Voice of the Sunbirds, FPU’s own Eric Bentley.It’s been a fun year for Eric , who’s been sharing a booth with Jackson and Zach during volleyball and baseball seasons, respectively. Hear a bit about everything that’s gone into developing these guys for the mic and what they’ve brought to FPU gameday experience. Plus, as active Track & Field student athletes, learn a bit more about their crafts and their ambitions heading into next week’s PacWest Championships. This was a conversation that could’ve lasted another hour if we had the time – enjoy!

After taking a week off due to programming conflicts, the Sunbirds Sports Show on 790 ESPN returns with another episode highlighting a respected alumnus and community member.  Host Paul Meadors is joined in the ESPN Studios by former Sunbirds women’s soccer player and current local non profit director Erin Obwald.Erin and her family’s story started long before FPU but it was her time as a Sunbird that set them on their journey as servants to Christ both locally and abroad.  After founding the FPU women’s soccer club, she helped transition the program into a fully fledged NAIA program before playing for the Sunbirds in her final year of eligibility.  Since graduating, Erin and her husband, David – a fellow FPU grad and former RD on campus – have become diligent servants to their community through their non profit work while also raising five children. This is a fun conversation you don’t want to miss.#BackTheBirds

After taking last week off, host Paul Meadors is back in the ESPN Studios for another episode of the Sunbirds Sports Show.  This week he is joined by members of the Men’s Tennis team: senior Angel España, junior Cedric Kaufman, sophomore Joaquin Salinas and freshman Ezra Betancourt.On a team that’s largely comprised of international student-athletes, Angel (from Valencia, Spain), Joaquin (Quito, Ecuador) and Cedric (Mannheim, Germany) each tell their unique stories that led them to Fresno. Then, Ezra – from Reedley – explains how his experience joining this tight-knit squad has been. Plus, hear Cedric – who is deaf – describe competing in the Deaflympics for Team Germany last fall and winning the bronze medal.#BackTheBirds

Both basketball programs join host Paul Meadors in the ESPN Studios for a pair of season recaps and overall reflection on the year as well as their final stand as members of the PacWest Conference before departing for the CCAA.  Women’s head coach Tim Beauregard kicks things off with his local freshmen duo Sienna Evans and Alexa Perryman, followed Men’s head coach C.J. Haydock bringing us home with New Zealand sophomore Nick Davidson and local graduate student Jaden Geron.From the highs and lows to the challenges and successes and even some best and worst moments, enjoy this look back on the year that was for Sunbird Hoops.#BackTheBirds

Get ready for that Sunbird Spirit!  The latest episode of the Sunbirds Sports Show is all about the FPU Cheer team. Joining host Paul Meadors in the ESPN Studios is former Cheer coach Rayna Harris, junior Jaslin Saephanh, sophomore Jahayra Romero, and new Director of FPU Cheer & Dance Devin Balbach.Paul kicks things off with Rayna – who led the program since 2020 – and FPU Cheer vets Jaslin and Jahayra talking about their recent 4th place routine at the US Collegiate Cheer competition, the rigors of being a student-athlete, and the memories and friendships made.  Rayna gives an overview of the program, its history, and praises the athleticism and dedication of the FPU cheerleaders who she’s coached and led for seven years.Then, new director Devin joins the show to talk about her experience coaching cheer and directing spirit, as well as share her vision and aspirations for the program under her leadership.#BackTheBirds

Tennis season is now in full swing for the Sunbirds, and host Paul Meadors is joined in the ESPN Studios by members of the women’s tennis team: senior Malia Mitchell, juniors Yume Ueoku and Halle Faherty, and freshman Fabiana Gonzalez.Coming off a challenging season with a small squad, the Lady Birds have reloaded in 2026 with six new additions to the roster and a strong 3-1 start. For a program that thrives on culture and chemistry, this year’s team is stronger than ever.  Junior duo Halle and Yume kick things off by describing their intercontinental journeys that brought them to Fresno from New Zealand and Japan, respectively, as well as their differing opinions on the local sushi scene.  Then, ITA west region #2 ranked singles player and true freshman Fabi details the start of her college career as well as her family’s story of immigrating from Venezuela to Utah, while senior Malia reflects on her entire FPU experience, team dynamics, and what’s next as she departs from Fresno with her degree later this spring.The men’s team was in action against Fresno City College at the time the show went live, so head coach Sam Gaeddert was unable to join, but - as you’ll hear - the four Sunbird ladies held it down on ESPN Radio.#BackTheBirds

For the 50th Sunbirds Sports Show, host Paul Meadors welcomes in to the ESPN Studios a true volleyball legend of FPU, Alyssa “Bissie” DenHartog.A four-year starter from 2013-2016, Bissie is one of the greatest setters to ever wear the navy and orange, with her name all over the FPU volleyball record books.  The high school mathematics teacher is also the varsity girls’ volleyball coach at Immanuel High School, where she’s led the team to back-to-back state championships.  Bissie is a proud alum, educator, coach, and follower of Christ who embodies truly what it means to be a Sunbird.  In this episode Bissie covers everything from being a multi-sport athlete to following in her mother’s footsteps as not only a Sunbird legend but a teacher, and then into establishing herself as one of the preeminent high school volleyball coaches in the region.#BackTheBirds

Host and big-time gamer Paul Meadors has one of his favorite FPU teams in the ESPN Studios this week: Sunbirds Esports.  He’s joined by program director Chris Carlson, freshman Jose “Jason4239” Alvarez, sophomore Chris “Mr.Sentinel” Taylor, and junior Alyssa “Mclovinn” Zuniga.If you missed last season’s Esports episode – or you enjoyed it so much that you couldn’t wait for them to return – you’re really going to enjoy this one.  Now into their second year in program history and coming off a strong fall season that ended with a postseason berth, the ‘Birds are gearing up for a strong spring season competing in Super Smash Bros, Overwatch II, Rocket League, and Marvel Rivals.  Esports is such a new phenomenon in college athletics, and program founder and director Chris talks about the structure and format of competition as well as the leap from starting out as a burgeoning, grassroots program to now challenging for trophies in less than two years.  Hear from these newest Sunbird student-athletes as they talk about the impact the Esports program has had on them and their roles in turning FPU into a destination for gamers across California and beyond.#BackTheBirds

We’re back in the pool this week as host Paul Meadors is joined in the ESPN Studios by members of the women’s water polo team – head coach Bryan Suhovy, senior Emma Cook, junior Maggie Cook, and freshmen Kennedy Green and Sofia DeRollo.It’s a new era for Sunbird polo, as program-founding head coach Suhovy now leads just the women for the first time ever.  Along with the Cook sisters, he talks about their season expectations, recruiting and coaching philosophies, and the impact that longtime Sunbirds Emma and Maggie have made on the program.  Plus, the pair of freshman – Kennedy from the LA area and Sofia from the Bay Area – describe their adjustments to college life in Fresno, their recruitment, and the step up from high school to college polo.#BackTheBirds

It’s the start of baseball season, so host Paul Meadors is joined in the ESPN Studios with head coach Oscar Hirschkorn and members of the Sunbird baseball team: grad student TJ Smith (2B) and seniors Chris Clement (INF/OF), Darryl Dilworth (OF), and Aaron Martinez Jr (3B).Before heading south for the first series of the year, Coach Hirschkorn and team swing by to discuss how their preparation for the new season has been going while describing all the work behind the scenes getting the guys ready for opening day.  2026 marks the first full season for the team in their beautiful new home, Dan Martin Stadium, and the guys talk about how special it is to be able to practice, play, and hang out at such an elite baseball facility.  Plus, the guys talk about their expectations for the season, the results of the PacWest coaches poll, and five questions to close it all out.#BackTheBirds

#46: Track & Field – Robert Foster, Gus Remlinger, Avril Mendoza and Brooklyn EpperleyThis week, members of the stacked FPU Track & Field team join host Paul Meadors in the ESPN Studios: head coach Robert Foster, sprinter Gus Remlinger, hurdler Avril Mendoza, and thrower Brooklyn Epperley.Coming off quite possibly the greatest season in program history, expectations for the ‘Birds are sky high for both the men’s and women’s teams in 2026.  Two-time Olympian and Fresno State record-holder Coach Foster describes season expectations and the types of student-athletes he covets while Gus, a former Bulldog football player, talks about being a big goal guy as well as the story of what made him switch from the Fresno State gridiron to the FPU track.  Plus, Avril – who finished 4th in the nation in the 400m hurdles last season as a freshman – talks about getting to now be coached by her former teammate, FPU legend Brianna Green, and Cal Poly transfer Brooklyn speaks on the throwers’ training regimen as well as her opinion on Central East’s switch from Grizzlies to Bengals.#BackTheBirds

Class is back in session and so is the Sunbirds Sports Show!  In the first episode of 2026, host Paul Meadors chats with former FPU men’s basketball player AJ Kirby.It’s been one year since the devastating fires that ripped through Los Angeles began, so we thought it was fitting to catch up with AJ – a fulltime firefighter stationed in LA.  AJ shares memories from that time for the LAFD, his journey from playing basketball in Fresno to joining the fire department back in his hometown, seeing some famous faces while out on calls, and the impact that Fresno Pacific has made on his life.  AJ is one of those guys whose name brings a smile to the faces of everyone who knows him from campus, so enjoy hearing about the latest chapter in the life of a beloved Sunbird.** Due to AJ’s demanding schedule at the fire station, this interview was recorded in advance on his day off. **#BackTheBirds

The final Sunbirds Sports Show of 2025 is throwing it back to the glory days of Fresno Pacific College men’s basketball!  Members from the 1994-1995 Sunbirds are in the house – host Paul Meadors is joined by legends Tim Amundsen, John Jones, and Tod Tompkins.Bullard High varsity boys head coach Tim, Clovis North varsity boys assistant coach John, and Caruthers Unified administrator Tod reunite with their former classmate Paul for an hour of hilarious stories from their days competing for the Sunbirds in the NAIA that you do not want to miss.#BackTheBirds

It’s Finals Week on campus for the student-athletes of Fresno Pacific University, but one of the greatest Sunbirds in recent memory was able to find some time to join host Paul Meadors in the ESPN Studios.  Four-year volleyball standout Cambria Waites, along with head coach Kelsee Montagna, break down the incredible and historic season for Sunbird Volleyball.Just days after their season ended in the Sweet Sixteen, Kelsee and Cam go over everything from this memorable fall that ended with a 27-2 record and conference championship.  2025 marked the rebirth of Sunbird volleyball - once the pride of Fresno Pacific Athletics – and it all began last year with the arrival of Coach Kelsee and her staff as they began to rebuild the program’s culture piece by piece.  Less than two calendar years later they are NCAA contenders unified by a love for the game and each other.  Kelsee and Cam discuss how important this progress has been and where it will take the program going forward. Plus, Cam - a Criminology major - talks true crime, and Kelsee tells the wild story her ultra-marathon runner husband accomplished while the team was competing in the PacWest Tournament.#BackTheBirds

The Sunbirds Sports Show is back after a nice Thanksgiving break.  Host Paul Meadors welcomes back the Men’s Water Polo team to the ESPN Studios – head coach Jon Miller, seniors Forrest Gray and Samuel Ramos, junior Chase Hammes, and sophomore Jordan Lambert.Fresh off his first season in charge, Coach Miller reflects on the season that was that included a victory over a D-I opponent, taking down mega rival Biola on the road, and a fourth place finish in the WWPA conference.  Forrest and Sam discuss their chemistry in the pool as teammates, give their takes on Thanksgiving vs Christmas, and look back on their time as Sunbirds.  Chase and Jordan talk about goalies scoring goals, finding your role on the team, and what it really takes to play collegiate water polo.  Plus, best Christmas gifts ever, and more.#BackTheBirds

It’s another special edition of the Sunbirds Sports Show, as host Paul Meadors is joined again by FPU legend and director of soccer Jaime Ramirez.Last time Jaime - aka Profé - was on the show, he shared stories of this childhood growing up in Mexico, his move to Fresno when he was 11 years old, and his time as a Sunbird player.  In this episode, Jaime picks right back up where he left off – from his professional playing career and signing with the LA Aztecs, to his first days leading the Fresno Pacific program.  You won’t want to miss the last chapter of this fascinating conversation with one of America's most accomplished college soccer coaches.#BackTheBirds

This week, the Sunbird swimmers are back in the ESPN Studios.  Host Paul Meadors is joined by head coach Ray Eggert and assistant coach Rebeca Bribiesca Spears, plus seniors Cara Moehle and Tony Montes, and freshmen Mia Manno and Santiago Schute.It’s a new era in the pool for FPU as coach Eggert takes over the program that he once starred for as a student-athlete.  The 2010 and 2011 NAIA national champion and former team captain discusses the state of the program toward the midpoint of his first season – everything from establishing a new culture to setting championship expectations for the program he helped put on the map over a decade ago.Tony and Santiago dive deep into their training regiments, team bonding, and some… interesting pre-race routines.  Coach Rebeca – from Mexico City – and Germans Cara and Mia each talk about their individual journeys that brought them to the Valley, as well as their favorite bits of culture shock here in America and Fresno.#BackTheBirds

FPU’s newest sport is in the house – Women’s STUNT.  Host Paul Meadors welcomes head coach Alyssa Troutt, senior Jaime Galvez, and freshmen Bella Miranda, Allison Geiger and Alycia Escalante into the ESPN Studios.Don’t know much about STUNT?  You will after this episode!  Having now assembled her first roster, Coach Alyssa breaks down the fundamentals of the competition and details how the first few months of formation and practice have been going with the new team.  Many of the student-athletes on the STUNT team are still adapting to the new sport from their time competing in cheer in gymnastics, the three freshmen recall their first days on the FPU campus, meeting their new teammates, learning the routines, and overcoming the fear factor involved in competing in STUNT.  Senior Jamie talks about her experience as a Sunbird cheerleader and the transition process into trying this new program, plus 6am practices and more.#BackTheBirds

With less than one week until the Sunbirds tip off basketball season against Fresno State, host Paul Meadors sits down in the ESPN Studios with head coach CJ Haydock, senior Isaac Peralta, junior Seth Brown, and local freshmen Loukas Jones and Logan Kilbert.Expectations for the ‘Birds are high heading into the season, with the PacWest coaches predicting them to make a lot of noise in the conference race this season.  All-PacWest second team performer Peralta, along with Brown – the team’s top two scorers from last season – break down their preparation for the new season, their chemistry, and their expectations.  Coach Haydock talks about everything from the community impact of playing the Bulldog to the mentality of this year’s squad ahead of what could be a special season for the Sunbirds.  Then, two well-renowned local stars in Loukas and Logan (the former CIF all-time leader scorer from Sierra High School) discuss the transition from high school to college and how excited they are to continue adding to the legacies here in the Valley.Monday November 3rd – the Sunbirds face Fresno State at the Save Mart Center.  The women tip off at 5pm, the men at 7:30pm.  Let’s pack the SMC and #BackTheBirds!

With college hoops season so close to tipping off, host Paul Meadors is joined this week in the ESPN Studios by members of the Sunbirds Women’s Basketball team: Associate Head Coach Santino Reynolds, senior Aaliyah Seuell, and freshmen Alexa Perryman and Sienna Evans.The former San Joaquin Memorial duo of Alexa and Sienna dive into the details of acclimating to college life from studying and time managment to daily practice and preparation for the season. Plus, coach Tino talks about the amount of player turnover from last year compared to this year and how they expect to replace nine outgoing seniors, and Aaliyah reflects on her FPU career ahead of her final season in the Navy and Orange.#BackTheBirds

After being preempted last week by the MLB Playoffs, the Sunbirds Sports Show on ESPN 790 returns this week with the FPU Women’s Soccer team.  Host Paul Meadors is joined by head coach Roberto Hernandez, sophomores Sophie Rosales and Ayana Kirisimasi, and freshmen Abby Cano Ledezma and Rosie Farina. It’s been a challenging start to the year for the team, but their resilience, grit, and courage has been on display week in and week out.  Despite what the win/loss record says, the coaching staff sees a young, hungry side that’s ready to show what they’re capable of. Coach Roberto talks about what each student-athlete brings to the core of the squad, and Ayana describes her experience with the American Samoa National Team.  Plus, toward the end of the show Paul is joined by his new co-host, Zach Sims, for the Five Questions segment.#BackTheBirds

This week, host Paul Meadors is joined in the ESPN Studios by members of the FPU volleyball team: head coach Kelsee Montagna, grad student Mikayla Weiss, junior Rachel Plantinga, and freshman Madelyn Feramisco.FPU volleyball is off to a hot start, currently 10-0 on the season and just outside the national top 25 rankings.  With a grueling trio of matches against the PacWest’s best coming up this weekend, the three student-athletes go through what a practice looks like and how they prepare for competition before every game.  Coach Kelsee reflects on the season so far – her second in charge of the Sunbirds – as well as the team’s tight-knit chemistry, the light-hearted side of the program, and the traits she looks for in recruiting student-athletes.  Plus, the three student-athletes describe their different journeys to FPU.  Mikayla – who recently scored her 1000th career collegiate assist – talks about her move to FPU from Fresno State, and Madelyn – a freshman superstar in the making who was on the verge of quitting volleyball after high school – details  how attending a practice with the Sunbirds made her change her mind and commit to Fresno Pacific.#BackTheBirds

This week is a special edition of the Sunbirds Sports Show, as host Paul Meadors is joined by one of the greatest ever to wear the Navy and Orange: 5-time NAIA All-American, FPU Hall of Famer, and current Sunbirds assistant volleyball coach Kelly (Watney) Winter.  The Watneys are no strangers to athletic success here in the Valley, and Kelly continues to add to the family legacy as a fundamental figure in the local volleyball community and beyond.  The Sunbirds’ all-time assists leader, conference player of the year, and former head coach shares her story – from her early days growing up under her father - legendary Fresno State golf coach Mike Watney - to starring for the ‘Birds both on the volleyball court and in track & field, later leading them into the NCAA Division II era as head coach, and then ultimately finding her next calling as a mathematics professor at Reedley College.  There are few Sunbirds as decorated as Kelly, and after this episode you’ll know why.#BackTheBirds

Sunbird Soccer is in full swing and the men’s team returns to the ESPN Studios for their first appearance of season two.  Joining host Paul Meadors is FPU head coach Cameron Shahrokhi, assistant coach Villyan Bijev, and senior captains Julian Arán Martín and Lucas Ribeiro.As the two senior captains approach their final games leading the Sunbirds, they reflect on their time in Fresno and their journey together on the pitch as teammates and off the pitch as best friends.  After last season’s deep run in the PacWest playoffs, Coach Cam talks season expectations and the DNA of this season’s squad.Assistant coach and former professional Villyan shares the story of beginning career with England powerhouse Liverpool FC at age 18 and the playing and coaching career that brought him back home to Fresno.Plus, plenty of talk about the state of soccer in the Valley, drinking mate tea, a passionate GOAT debate, and five questions from the FPU students.#BackTheBirds

Men’s and Women’s Cross Country is back in the house with host Paul Meadors, and this time he’s joined by new FPUXC head coach Landon Miller, seniors Julissa Avila and Rodney Chemalmal, and sophomores Julia Martinez and Aidan Ransom.Fresh off the heels of a successful race at Woodward Park with both the men and women taking first place, Coach Miller shares his outlook on the season and what he hopes the team to accomplish in 2025.  Then the four student-athletes talk about both their training routines and off track endeavors and aspirations.  Plus, Rodney – from Kenya – shares his unique story from his tribe back home to discovering FPU, and what he misses most about his homeland.#BackTheBirds

This week, host Paul Meadors is joined in the ESPN Studios by FPU’s new men’s water polo coach Jon Miller, plus senior Blake Johnson, sophomores Tristan Fox and Jake Canales, and freshman Matthew Dillsaver.After the program’s founding coach Bryan Suhovy decided to shift his focus fulltime to leading the Sunbirds women’s team, FPU men’s water polo turned to Clovis High legend and former California Baptist University standout player and coach Jon Miller.  Coach Miller discusses returning home to the Valley after years in SoCal, what drew him to the university, and what he looks to build on as the second person ever to lead an FPU water polo program.  The four student-athletes – Blake from SoCal, Tristan from Oregon, Jake from Texas, and Matthew from Atwater – talk about their favorite parts of living on campus, extracurriculars, their outlooks on the fresh season, getting recruiting to play college water polo at FPU, pregame food routines, and tons more.Plus, the return of the weekly Five Questions segment rounds out the show, and the guys will have you cracking up with some hilarious responses.#BackTheBirds

We’re back!  Host Paul Meadors kicks off season two of the Sunbirds Sports Show with frequent contributor and FPU Director of Athletics, Kyle Ferguson, and FPU Vice President of Student Development, Jake Gilbertson.It was a busy summer at on the campus of Fresno Pacific, and Kyle and Jake will walk you through it.  From significant facility upgrades to landmark donations and gifts, those behind the scenes at FPU stayed pretty busy all summer.#BackTheBirds

It’s still summertime in Fresno, but the Sunbirds Sports Show returns for a special episode to discuss the big news from earlier in the week – FPU is joining the CCAA, the most successful Division II conference, in the fall of 2026.  Host Paul Meadors is joined by Fresno Pacific Director of Athletics Kyle Ferguson, and CCAA Commissioner Allen Hardison.First up, Kyle joins Paul in the ESPN Studio to go into more detail on the two-year process that led to this moment, as well as the many of positive opportunities that will come from being members CCAA members – from increasing their regional footprint, decreasing their time on the road, and what it will be like to be the only private, Christian university in the new conference.Then, CCAA Commissioner Allen Hardison joins by phone from SoCal to talk about their expansion process and what excited them about the prospect of adding the Sunbirds to the conference.  From expanding into the growing Fresno market to bolstering their central valley presence along with UC Merced and Stanislaus State, the conference envisions a bright future with Fresno Pacific now on board.   #BackTheBirds

Host Paul Meadors is back on the FPU campus this week for the last episode of the season and is joined by grad student and FPU water polo legend Tatum Benson, men’s basketball head coach CJ Haydock, and new Sunbirds swimming and diving head coach Ray Eggert.Tatum just finished up her graduate degree and her fifth and final season playing water polo for the Sunbirds as FPU’s all-time leading scorer and a three-time all-conference first teamer.  As her FPU career comes to a close, she tells us what’s next for her.  Then, frequent contributor to the Sunbirds Sports Show, Coach CJ, drops by to catch up with his old friend Paul to talk about everything from offseason team bonding and incoming transfers to the overall optimism and forward progress of FPU athletics.Ray Eggert, a former Sunbird swimmer and national champion, is up next to discuss the recent news of his appointment leading the swim program, what it’s like being back on campus, and how excited he is to be leading the program that helped shaped him as a coach, teacher, and follower of Christ.  And finally, communications intern and Sunbird of the Year Pablo Zubieta puts Paul on the Five Questions hot seat… at least while time permits!#BackTheBirds

This week, host Paul Meadors recaps Flight Night – FPU’s annual awards celebrating the year that was for the Sunbirds.  Paul co-hosted the night with Scott Bemis and relives all the wonderful moments from an unforgettable night.  He is joined in the ESPN Studios by Female Senior of the Year, Brianna Green, and Male and Female Sunbirds of the Year, Pablo Zubieta and Lydia Manu.The three accomplished seniors all recap the evening through their eyes, describing what it felt like to be recognized in front of their teammates and peers for their accomplishments on and off their fields or courts.  As this era of their lives is nearly complete, the trio reflect on their FPU experience as well and what the last few days of being on campus will look like for them.  Plus, Paul highlights some of the major winners at last weekend’s PacWest Track & Field Championships and Brianna talks about her preparation for the upcoming NCAA national championships.#BackTheBirds

FPU is hosting this weekend’s PacWest Track & Field Championships, so host Paul Meadors begins the show catching up with PacWest Conference Assistant Commissioner Joe Reinsch – who called in to the studio from the PacWest Golf Championships in Las Vegas – about the event and all the work that goes into planning these full-scale conference events, and also talks about the unique passion and competitiveness of Division II athletics.Then FPU’s Director of Track & Field, Dr Ray Winter, joins Paul in the ESPN Studios to talk about the nationally ranked #7 (men’s) and #9 (women’s) Sunbirds’ chances this weekend, and how optimistic they are at attempting to knock off reigning men’s and women’s champions Azusa Pacific.  Coach Ray also spends some time praising all the hard work and dedication of many of his incredible student-athletes.#BackTheBirds

Host Paul Meadors is back in the ESPN Studios after being on-location at FPU last week, and he's right in his element talking video games!  The big-time gamer is joined by members of FPU’s inaugural Esports team: Coach and program founder Chris Carlson, seniors Julian Bloemhof and Devin Kelly, and sophomore Juryel Vega.Chris starts the conversation by walking Paul through the early days of the program and how the team came to be before Juryel from New York City and Valley locals Juju and Devin talk about FPU Esports’ first competitions in Super Smash Bros, Rocket League, and Overwatch 2.  The guys also talk about their favorite games and consoles growing up, the current buzz and hype of Esports locally in Fresno, and their on-campus gaming “arena”. This was a fun one!#BackTheBirds

Fresno Pacific unveiled Dan Martin Stadium this week, and the Sunbirds Sports Show was on campus to capture all the excitement from a memorable and historic night for FPU athletics.  Host Paul Meadors is joined by a variety of guests including Mayor of Fresno Jerry Dyer, FPU President Dr. André Stephens, FPU Athletic Director Kyle Ferguson, and FPU Baseball’s Oscar Hirschkorn, Gabe Henderson and Jordan Smith.Mayor Dyer kicks things off discussing with Paul the value of Fresno Pacific and the importance of what Dan Martin Stadium will bring to not only southeast Fresno but the entire valley.  Dr. Stephens and Kyle talk about how this facility is all part of a bigger, collective vision for the university, and – since this is a sports show after all – Coach Oscar and the boys close out the show expressing their excitement for this stadium and what it means to the proud Sunbird baseball program.This is an important and insightful hour that touches on all the unique and special reasons that make Fresno Pacific University such a vital part of our local community.#BackTheBirds

This week, Women’s Soccer is back in the ESPN Studios.  Host Paul Meadors is joined by Head Coach Roberto Hernandez along with juniors Madisyn Anderson and Katelyn Gonzalez, sophomore Celene Corona, and freshman Gizelle Aguirre.Roberto was recently elevated from associate head coach to head coach, and discusses with Paul what the future of FPU women’s soccer holds with him fully at the helm.  Plus, the women talk about their recruitment to FPU, the spring exhibition schedule they’re currently dominating, and their hunger for the fall season to begin!#BackTheBirds

The Sunbirds Sports Show is back after taking last week off, and Paul sits back down with women’s basketball Head Coach Tim Beauregard and “super seniors” Anisa Rillo, Joleen Corona, and Lydia Manu in the ESPN Studios.It’s been an amazing run for the nine graduating Sunbirds in Coach Tim’s squad, but the future is bright for them as they enter their next adventures in life.  Tim discusses with Paul the impact this class has left on him and the program, and then Anisa, Jo, and Lydia – who are all about to earn their MBAs – reminisce on some of their greatest achievements together, how their experience as Sunbirds has shaped them, and what they hope to accomplish after FPU.  From the video game industry to pro sports management and beyond, the sky’s the limit for these three dream chasers.#BackTheBirds

The Sunbirds men’s soccer crew is back in the house with Paul Meadors in the ESPN Studios.  Head Coach Cameron Shahrokhi is joined by juniors Chris Macias, Elmer Carballo and Ernesto “Ernie” Aguilera.With both soccer teams gearing up for the spring exhibition season, Paul and the guys discuss Coach Cam’s recent elevation to Head Coach after previously serving as Associate Head Coach.  Plus, they reflect on last season’s run to the PacWest Championship game and what to expect this fall from the returning players, newcomers, and incoming transfers.#BackTheBirds

Host Paul Meadors isn’t joined by any student-athletes this week, but has two fantastic guests join him in the ESPN Studios.  First up is FPU’s first-ever head coach of STUNT, Alyssa Troutt, and she’s followed by KSEE24/CBS47 Sports Director and voice of Sunbirds hoops, Scott Bemis.STUNT is one of the fastest growing sports in America, and Alyssa is here to school Paul and the entire audience on the ins and outs of this brand-new program at FPU that will begin competing in 2025/26.  It’s exciting what Coach Alyssa has in store!Then Scott drops by to talk about his first season broadcasting FPU men’s and women’s basketball on 790 ESPN and the PacWest Network – often with Paul on the co-commentary – and to preview the FPU Women’s PacWest Tournament first round game on Thursday.#BackTheBirds

Host Paul Meadors is back in the ESPN Studios and he’s joined by men’s basketball head coach C.J. Haydock and his stellar senior class: Australian Ryan Abbott, Fresno’s Jonah Geron and Ryas Vang, and grad transfer Cooper Sheldon.It’s been a wild season for men’s hoops and Coach Haydock and the boys will break it all down.  Paul also recounts a very special night for the FPU men that turned out to be one of the most memorable games of the season.#BackTheBirds

This week, FPU’s resident broadcaster Eric Bentley fills in for host Paul Meadors who is covering central valley high school hoops playoffs.  Joining Eric in the ESPN Studios is head coach Robert Foster and members of the Track & Field team: senior Bo Olsen, juniors Shemar Palmer and Jackson Paramo, and freshman Gianna Menchu.This speedy crew of sprinters, hurdlers, vaulters, and marathon runners from the nationally-recognized Sunbirds team share their journeys to FPU.  Coach Foster and Shemar – both from Jamaica – and locals Jackson, Bo, and Gianna talk everything from breaking school records to the grueling and punishing training they go through to compete with the nation’s finest.#BackTheBirds

We’re back in the pool this week as Women’s Water Polo join host Paul Meadors at the ESPN Studios.  Coach Brian Suhovy is joined by two sets of sisters – senior Tatum Benson and freshman Frances Benson, junior Maggie Cook and sophomore Emma Cook.It’s a fascinating look into their childhoods, families, and their unique bonds now as teammates that unite them at FPU.  As children of FPU alums, Clovis-natives Emma and Maggie discuss their similarities and differences.  For Tatum – FPU’s all-time leading scorer and senior leader – and Frances – a freshman looking to write her own chapter at FPU, it’s going to be an exciting season for the Benson family.  Plus, coach Bryan talks about the future of FPU Water Polo and some big changes coming to the program.#BackThe Birds

FPU Tennis goes back-to-back on the Sunbirds Sports Show, with the Women’s team up this week.  Head coach Sam Gaeddert is back in the ESPN Studios with senior Daimy Paula, junior Malia Mitchell, and sophomore Halle Faherty.Like the Men’s team, the FPU Women come from all over the world to play their tennis in Fresno.  Hear from two internationals as Daimy – from The Netherlands – and Halle – from New Zealand – discuss some of the unique differences from abroad, and SoCal-native Malia describes how FPU went from being an unknown to her new home.#BackTheBirds

Host Paul Meadors is joined in the ESPN Studios this week by FPU Men’s Tennis: head coach Sam Gaeddert and seniors Ravi Nelson and Ben Cronau, along with co-host and senior Pablo Zubieta who is back on the show as a guest.Coach Sam previews the new season that begins later this week and his high hopes for the year.  With the entire team from last year all returning, it could be a big year on the court in PacWest conference play.  Then, Sacramento-native Ravi is joined by Ben – from Germany – and Pablo – from Mexico City – to talk about their very international roster, culture shock, settling into life in Fresno, and what’s next after graduation.#BackTheBirds

This week, host Paul Meadors sits down with FPU baseball head coach Oscar Hirschkorn and seniors Tim Ruiz, Jordan Smith and Connor Semone.Hardball season is about to begin and the team’s outlook is sky high ahead of the opening of FPU’s brand-new Dan Martin Stadium complex.  Coach Oscar – FPU’s only baseball head coach in program history – talks about the new stadium and what it means to him and the program, and then pitchers Tim and Connor, and catcher Jordan – the 2023 PacWest Defender of the Year – talk about their different and unique journeys that led them to the FPU Diamond and what they are most excited about this year at the new stadium.#BackTheBirds

With Christmas just around the corner, Women’s soccer is back in the ESPN Studios.  Host Paul Meadors welcomes in associate head coach Roberto Hernandez, plus juniors Karyssa Lopez, Karyme Hernandez, Paige Smith and sophomore Cadence Cunha.Coach Roberto’s first season leading the women’s team saw many signs of progress for t he program, and the four local players talk about their roles on the team and what the season meant to them.  They also share their favorite moments from the season and what they’re most excited about for Christmas.#BackTheBirds

Head coach Tim Beauregard and associate head coach Santino Reynolds join host Paul Meadors this week in the ESPN Studios.From talking MJ to the Warriors to Shaq, FPU women’s hoops’ geek out on basketball with Paul while discussing their coaching styles and reviewing the season so far.  With the holidays coming up, Tim and Tino get fired up talking Christmas movies, breaking down their favorite post-game food spots while on the road, recruitment methods, and speaking on their many players and alumni who’ve been shaped by their time as Sunbirds.#BackTheBirds

It’s a special episode of the Sunbirds Sports Show, as legendary Valley soccer figure and FPU Director of Soccer Jaime Ramirez sits down with host Paul Meadors.  The Fresno Athletic Hall of Famer and lifelong Sunbird began his FPU career as a player in 1977 and has spent over 40 years leading multiple generations of Sunbirds soccer.  In addition to numerous conference crowns and Coach of the Year honors, the FPU soccer field was renamed in his honor in 2001.  This is a captivating view into the mind of one of California’s most revered soccer leaders.#BackTheBirds

This week, Volleyball is back in the ESPN Studios as host Paul Meadors is joined by head coach Kelsee Montagna and freshmen Makayla Smith and Devyn Castaneda.It was an epic season on the court for Coach Kelsee and crew, who defied the preseason predictions to finish 3rd in the PacWest standings behind national powers Chaminade and Point Loma.  Local standout Makayla was honored as the PacWest Freshman of the Year, and Devyn made a huge impact as a starter from game one.   Hear all about it through their stories!Plus, coach C.J. Haydock stops by to spread the word about the upcoming Giving Tuesday event and to call the FPU faithful into action to support Sunbird athletics.#BackTheBirds

We’re staying in the pool this week as host Paul Meadors welcomes in FPU Swimming & Diving.  Paul is joined by head coach Brian Sharar, senior Max Pecile, juniors Emma Marsalek, Enzo Duffey, and freshman Tora Nordli.You all know Enzo from listening to this show, but get to know more about Tora who hails from Norway and Max and Emma who both come from the California Central Coast.  Coach Brian discusses the relentless training and endurance his student-athletes have and all the hard work that goes into competing in the pool.#BackTheBirds