This week's Pioneer Spotlight shines on Cooper Groshart from men's golf and Carlota Eroles from women's golf. Both Pioneer golf teams look for a strong push in the spring season toward greatness and Groshart and Eroles indeed will play a major part in the success of the golf teams this season. 

Cooper Groshart - Men's Golf
Cal State East Bay sophomore golfer Cooper Groshart is captivating attention not only for his achievements on the golf field but also for his commendable efforts towards personal growth and community involvement. The university proudly recognizes Groshart for embodying the spirit and values of the Pioneers, both in his athletic pursuits and personal endeavors.

Growing up with a passion for golf, Groshart has quickly established himself as a key player for the Cal State East Bay Men's Golf team. His impressive freshman year included standout performances, such as tying for second place at the Nighthawk Invitational with a score of -2 and securing sixth place at the Tim Tierney Pioneer Shootout with an outstanding -6. His consistent performance earned him a place on the CCAA All-Academic Team, highlighting his dual commitment to athletics and academics.

Off the course, Groshart's dedication extends into his academic life and community engagement. Majoring in Business, he is keen on applying his knowledge broadly and is an advocate for mental health, emphasizing the importance of not tying self-worth solely to achievements. His hobbies like playing the guitar, hiking, and enjoying music contribute to his well-rounded character.

"Being a Pioneer means more than just representing myself, I am representing the brand of East Bay as well," stated Groshart, reflecting on his role within the team and the university at large. This ethos of striving for excellence while maintaining humility and community spirit is exactly why Groshart is being celebrated - for inspiring his peers and representing the true values of a Pioneer.

Cal State East Bay's women's golf team is shining the spotlight on one of its exceptional members, Carlota Eroles. Eroles, a native of Zaragoza, Spain, is being honored for her remarkable contributions to the team, both as an athlete and a scholar.

Carlota has been a standout performer for the Pioneers, helping the team to qualify for the NCAA Division II Women's Golf Championships. Notably this season, she finished tied for 5th at the Tim Tierney Pioneer Shootout (+1) during her junior year in the 2024-25 season and tied for 15th at the LA Spring Kickoff (+8). Her academic accolades are equally impressive, having earned distinctions such as the CCAA Spring Academic Honor Roll, WGCA All-American Scholar, and the D2 ADA Academic Achievement Award in 2023-24.

Beyond her athletic and academic successes, Carlota's journey is marked by personal resilience. After overcoming a wrist injury in November 2023, she has made a significant comeback, supported by her teammates, coaches, and family.

Carlota shared her thoughts on what being a part of the Pioneers means to her, "Being a Cal State East Bay Pioneer means a lot to me. It's a symbol of hard work, determination, resilience, teamwork, and the support of a strong community. As a student-athlete, being a Pioneer is about pushing myself to be better, both on and off the golf course, while representing a school that encourages growth, diversity, and excellence."

Her devotion to golf and her passion for psychology—pursued with the intent to aid others with mental health issues—highlight her balanced commitment to personal and professional development. This recognition underscores Carlota's multifaceted success and her integral role within the Cal State East Bay community.\

With the challenges Eroles has faced, she has turned them into an opportunity to help others. "Mental health is something I deeply care about. I believe it's just as important as physical health, but it's often overlooked. With my studies and personal experiences, I want to contribute to breaking the stigma around mental health and making mental support more accessible."