Bio

Adam Santa Cruz is a collegiate softball coach driven by passion for athlete development, academic excellence, and creating an unforgettable collegiate experience. He began his athletic journey at Sultana High School, where he graduated in 2015. He continued his career at Victor Valley College from 2016–2017, competing at the community college level before transferring to the University of La Verne.

In 2019, Coach Santa Cruz earned his Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with a concentration in Health and Human Performance. He continued his graduate studies at La Verne, completing a Master of Education, Special Emphasis. Committed to lifelong learning and leadership, he later earned a Master of Science in Physical Education from Azusa Pacific University in 2023. During his college career, he received numerous athletic and academic honors, but his proudest achievement remains being a 2018 SCIAC Champion with the University of La Verne Leopards and the life-changing moment of meeting his wife, Toni.

In the fall of 2021, Coach Santa Cruz returned home to begin his collegiate coaching career at Victor Valley College. With a deep desire to give back to the community that shaped him, he stepped into coaching with a purpose—to elevate the program, aid in the growth of Victor Valley College, and help take the institution to the next level. He was determined to reinvest in the institution that gave him his opportunity as a student-athlete, and contribute to its expanding impact within the region.

As a coach, he believes that success is built through detail, accountability, and reliability. His coaching philosophy centers around providing a first-class collegiate experience at Victor Valley College, while preparing athletes for lifelong achievement beyond the game. He is committed to fostering a culture where student-athletes are supported, challenged, and empowered to grow through consistent habits, personal responsibility, and trust-based leadership.

Coach Santa Cruz strives to strengthen the program by developing confident, resilient competitors, while encouraging academic success, integrity, and commitment in all aspects of life. His mission is simple: invest in his players, elevate the program, and leave both his athletes and the Victor Valley College community stronger than when he arrived.