Erika Bargas began her FPU coaching duties just prior to the 2001-02 season. She is a 1995 graduate of Clovis High School where she helped the Cougars win three North Yosemite League championships. She survived a near-fatal automobile accident in 1997, then played three seasons of basketball for the Sunbirds. She appeared in 68 games, including 33 starts, and averaged 4.2 points, 2.0 assists and 1.8 rebounds per game. She obtained a teaching credential in 2000, then began teaching physical education at Central High School in Fresno, where she also coached the junior varsity team for one season before joining the Sunbird staff. Bargas has recently obtained a master's degree in education and curriculum.