Cesar Rivas-Sandoval

Cesar Rivas – Sandoval, Director of Athletics, Westcliff University, Westcliff Athletics

Director of Athletics

EDUCATION:

  • Master of Education in Cross-Cultural Teaching (M.Ed), National University (2003)
  • Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, University of California, Davis (1999)

AREAS OF EXPERTISE:

Cesar Rivas-Sandoval brings over two decades of leadership across NCAA Divisions I, II, III, and professional-level football. From his formative roles across high school, junior college, and collegiate levels to his experience in Division I (UT-Martin), Division II (Fort Lewis, Azusa Pacific), and international affiliations (NFL, CFL), his career is defined by adaptability and strategic impact.

He excelled as Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator at Azusa Pacific, guiding a defense that helped secure three GNAC championships, two playoff berths, and a 40–16 record. His units consistently ranked nationally in key metrics such as sacks, forced turnovers, red-zone defense, and produced numerous All-Conference, Defensive Player of the Year, and All-American players.

Cesar has also embraced inclusive development, guiding players toward academic and athletic excellence, and broad, sustained success at every stop.

Entrusted with recruiting, performance strategy, and culture-building, he is grounded in the belief that every athlete has the potential to be great, and that with the right coaching and training, that potential can be unlocked.