Cross Country News

ANAHEIM - Coach Richards Gibbs has announced his retirement as Head Track & Field Coach. Between two stints, Gibbs led the track program for nearly three decades while subsequently serving as the cross country coach until 2018. 

Coach Gibbs shared, “I cannot express what a great time I had as head coach. There were great athletes, parents, and experiences. Looking back, there are 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.” He went on to say, “I want to thank all of the coaches I’ve worked with throughout my career as well as Servite and Alan Clinton for allowing me to do what I love.”

Since 2002 when Coach Gibbs returned to the helm of the track program, the Friars have won six Trinity League titles, including a 3-peat from 2017-2019, and the school’s first ever CIF-SS Championship in 2017. During the same time frame, Gibbs coached athletes to 16 Individual CIF Championships, 70 Trinity League Individual titles and countless school records. In addition, he has sent over 20 athletes to compete at the collegiate level including Max Thomas (USC) and Jared Steins (MIT) from the Class of 2022, who are arguably two of the most decorated athletes to come out of the program. 

Athletic Director Alan Clinton shared, “It’s hard to think of the Servite track program and not think of Richard Gibbs. He has provided invaluable leadership to thousands of student-athletes and served as a great mentor and role model. His passion for the sport and love for his athletes goes unmatched. We thank him deeply for his years of dedicated service to our community.”

In addition to coaching, Gibbs was also a mainstay on campus serving as a teacher for many years. Throughout his tenure, he taught history, economics and health.  

Principal Stephen Walswick added, “Coach Gibbs has demonstrated a true commitment to advancing the mission of Servite High School throughout his time on campus. His work ethic and dedication have exemplified what it means to be a Servite Friar. I am most grateful to him and his family for their sacrifice and service to our school and wish them the best of luck in this next phase of life.”

A search for Servite’s next head track & field coach is already underway. Any interested candidates should email Matt Marrujo at mmarrujo@servitehs.org.