Support our high school sports coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. Subscribe now
Veteran Servite track and field coach Richard Gibbs, who guided the Friars to a CIF-SS title in 2017 and a runner-up finish this season, has retired.
“I cannot express what a great time I had as head coach,” said Gibbs, who began coaching at Servite in 2002. “There were great athletes, parents and experiences. Things I’ll remember forever. Some of the most memorable experiences were not always with stars … I’ll miss those as much as any of the others.”
Gibbs guided USC-bound sprinter Max Thomas and MIT-bound distance runner Jared Steins among others in recent years. The duo helped the Friars finish second to Cathedral of L.A. this past season at the CIF-SS Division 3 finals.
Gibbs led Servite to Trinity League titles in 2017-19 and earned O.C. Register coach of the year honors in 2017.
He also is the school’s former cross country coach. He led the team to a CIF State Division III title in 2004 and a Trinity League crown in 2015.
Related Articles
Rus Soobzokov takes over as Laguna Beach boys basketball coach
CIF-SS Division 1 football final to be played at Rose Bowl
Orange Lutheran names Jacob Moore boys water polo coach; Ivan Buich departs San Juan Hills
Tetairoa McMillan, Morgan Netherton win OCADA athlete of the year awards
John FitzPatrick returns as Santa Margarita’s softball coach after one-year absence
Gibbs endorsed Thomas’ father, Brandon, as his successor. The former Long Beach State and UCLA standout has been an assistant at Servite and led an improved Rosary this spring.
Gibbs added he would like to serve as a part-time assistant to Brandon Thomas next season.