“She’s the glue. She’s a whole person, and that’s something I strive to be.” Those were the words of Dave Roberts for his wife. As the manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, he guides the team through a tough 162-game season with style and emotion. But there is a softer tale behind the scenes, one of love, family, and home.

On the outside: brilliant lights, full stands, and the clamor of millions. But if you look behind the curtain, you’ll see Dave as just a common man, one who probably loves having candlelit dinners after busy game schedules. With his wife, Tricia Roberts. 

Let’s go back to the beginning now. As Dave celebrated Tanabata-themed interviews in Japan with ABEMA, he thought about the stars that had led him there. He smiled playfully and said, “We met in high school.” It was in Spanish class, and they were 15 at that time. And then they fell in love.

Not only that, but Dave Roberts also mentioned how she has always been a great advisor. “When I’m having a hard time or have a question, she gives me good advice when I’m dealing with something. She’s a great person for me to talk to.”

And soon after years of dating, the childhood sweethearts became lifetime partners in 1997. They have built a family over the course of almost thirty years. The couple has two children, a son named Cole and a daughter named Emmerson.

And that’s not it. Dave and Tricia Roberts are also engaged in social work, especially with UCLA.

Bruins for life: How Dave & Tricia Roberts bring UCLA home

Dave Roberts and Tricia went back to UCLA’s Santa Monica Oncology Center. There they visited patients and expressed their support for those fighting cancer. This was a cause that was close to their family, as Dave was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2010. Their visit wasn’t just a gesture; it highlighted how they work together to give back to the community that raised them.

In April 2016, Dave Roberts, who had just been hired as the Dodgers’ manager, stepped onto Covel Commons for a “warm homecoming” put on by UCLA. He thanked the university’s culture for shaping his character and leadership when he was among other alumni, students, and young people from local baseball programs. Roberts loves UCLA culture, as he mentioned, “I grew and grew every year.” And he also “wants those young men to be better people and care for one another.”

Tricia and Dave Roberts were all smiles when they walked down the blue carpet at the LADF Gala. Not only is Dave a great manager. But Tricia is also a big part of the Dodgers family. They work together to promote charity and encourage Dodger pride.

Their dedication is still strong: Tricia goes to university activities with Dave, which strengthens UCLA’s role in their family history. The couple’s commitment to UCLA goes beyond nostalgia. They exhibit it by going to health clinics and celebrating sporting triumphs. They are dedicated to helping others through shared ideals, compassion, and service.