In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month and this year’s theme, “Together, We Are More,” The Big West is highlighting the student-athletes and staff who proudly represent the diverse cultures, traditions, and communities across the conference.
For UC San Diego softball student-athlete Jackie Tremper, Mexican American heritage is rooted in family, sacrifice, and gratitude. As a first-generation college student, Tremper carries the lessons of two immigrant parents onto the field, competing with the resilience and work ethic that have shaped the family’s journey from Mexico to the United States.
From celebrating Día de los Muertos and enjoying homemade tinga, green pozole, and listening to Spanish rock, Tremper remains closely connected to the traditions passed down through generations. Through softball, the Triton hopes to honor those sacrifices, inspire future Hispanic and Latino athletes, and show that their backgrounds should never limit what they can accomplish.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Tremper — Hispanic Heritage Month is about celebrating my Mexican culture while honoring those who came before me and did not have the same opportunities I have today. It is a time to recognize their sacrifices, make the most of the opportunities they created, and represent my heritage with pride. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the incredible contributions Hispanic individuals have made throughout our communities.
How do you identify within the diverse Hispanic and Latino communities? What country, region, or cultural background is part of your story?
Tremper — I identify as Mexican American, and my Mexican heritage has been a big part of my life since I was born. Both of my parents immigrated from Mexico to give my sisters and me the best life possible. Growing up, I’ve always been surrounded by Mexican traditions, food, family, and culture. I’m especially proud of where my family comes from and the sacrifices my parents made for us. Their story has taught me to value family, work hard, and appreciate the opportunities I have today.
How do you use your sport as a form of expression? What other forms of expression do you gravitate toward?
Tremper — Softball is one of my biggest forms of expression because it allows me to show who I am without having to say anything. As a Mexican American, I carry my family’s story with me every time I step onto the field. My parents’ journey from Mexico and the values they instilled in me have shaped the way I approach softball, teaching me to play with pride, resilience, and gratitude. Playing at UC San Diego is not only something I love, but also a way I feel connected to my family and proud of where I come from. Outside of softball, I use journaling to reflect on my experiences and emotions, while music gives me another way to express myself and connect with how I’m feeling.
How do you hope to represent your heritage through your sport?
Tremper — I hope to continue breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation of Hispanic athletes to pursue their dreams. I want younger athletes to understand that they belong in sports and that their backgrounds should never limit what they can accomplish. Every time I step onto the field, I know I am representing more than myself. I am also representing my family and the sacrifices they made to help me reach this point. Being a first-generation college student, graduating from college and competing in a Division I sport are tremendous sources of motivation. I want to make my family proud by embracing every opportunity and never taking any of it for granted.
What is something from your culture that you carry with you every time you compete?
Tremper — I carry a strong work ethic with me. Nothing was ever handed to my family, and I grew up hearing stories about everything my parents sacrificed to give my sisters and me the lives we have today. Those stories remain in the back of my mind whenever I compete. My parents gave me the blueprint to pursue what I want in life. I strive to become the best version of myself on and off the field. Being the first person in my family to attend college and having the opportunity to play softball at UC San Diego are things I will never take for granted.
What does being a first-generation student-athlete at UC San Diego mean to you and your family?
Tremper — The word that comes to mind is gratitude. Attending UC San Diego and representing its growing athletic program is an incredible opportunity. My parents always tell me how proud they are, and that can be emotional because I know how much they have done for me. I carry their support with me, especially when school or softball becomes difficult. Remembering their sacrifices motivates me to keep working, remain focused, and get through those challenging moments.
What is a favorite celebration, custom, food or tradition that connects you to your Hispanic and Latino heritage?
Tremper — One of my favorite traditions is Día de los Muertos because it gives me a chance to celebrate and remember the family members we have lost. I love how it brings my family together to share memories and talk about the people who are still such an important part of our lives. It’s a tradition that reminds me how important family is to me and keeps me connected to my Mexican heritage.
What are some of your favorite dishes connected to your culture?
Tremper — Two of my favorites are tinga and green pozole. My mom makes tinga with shredded chicken and a chipotle sauce, and I like adding plenty of red onions. I will eat it in a bowl or on a tostada with sour cream or crema. I also love green chicken pozole. In my opinion, it is one of the best foods ever.
What music artists help you feel connected to your culture?
Tremper — I really enjoy Peso Pluma and appreciate seeing a Mexican artist achieve so much success. I also listen to corridos and older Spanish rock. The music my parents listened to always finds its way back to me. I may not always admit it to my dad, but my parents introduced me to some great music.
This year's theme is "Together, We Are More." What does that message mean to you, and how have you experienced the power of togetherness within your family, team, or community?
Tremper — “Together, We Are More” means that you can accomplish more when you trust the people around you and work toward the same goal. I’ve experienced this through softball, where success depends on staying connected as a team, especially when things get difficult. There are going to be moments when things don’t go as planned, but trusting the process and supporting each other helps us push through. Being part of a team has shown me that when everyone does their part and works together, we can overcome challenges that would be much
harder to face alone.
What are some challenges you've faced as a Hispanic and Latino individual, and how have you overcome them?
Tremper — One challenge I’ve faced is being a first-generation college student. My parents immigrated from Mexico, so navigating college and figuring out opportunities has sometimes been unfamiliar for both me and my family. However, I’ve learned to advocate for myself, ask questions, and seek out resources. Knowing how much my parents sacrificed to give me this opportunity motivates me to keep pushing forward and make the most of it.
How can college athletic programs better support and represent Hispanic and Latino student-athletes, staff, and their experiences?
Tremper — I think college athletic programs can better support Hispanic and Latino athletes by creating spaces where we feel represented, heard, and comfortable sharing our experiences. Such as celebrating Hispanic and Latino cultures through team events and recognizing the accomplishments of Hispanic and Latino athletes and staff, and providing mentorship and support for athletes who may be first-generation college students.
Who is a Hispanic or Latino administrator, coach, or athlete you look up to, and why?
Tremper — One person I really look up to is my assistant coach, Coach Fernandez. She is also Mexican, and since I’ve been at UC San Diego, she has been a great role model for me. Seeing someone who shares a similar cultural background in a coaching position has made me feel represented and understood. She has supported me both as an athlete and as a person, and I really appreciate having someone I can look up to who understands where I come from.
What advice would you give your younger self or another young Hispanic and Latino athlete?
Tremper — I would tell my younger self to never give up, no matter how hard things get. There will be sacrifices, setbacks, and moments when you question yourself, but they will be worth it. Being able to attend a school like UC San Diego receive a great education, and play the sport I have loved since I was a kid is something I’m incredibly grateful for. I would remind myself to trust the process, stay true to who I am, and remember why I started.
Gallery: (10-14-2026) HHM: UCSD SB's Jackie Tremper