First published in the Feb. 4 print issue of the Glendale News-Press.
Glendale High School’s Jacob Ochoa stepped down from his position as head coach of the varsity football program after four years. He announced he will become defensive coordinator at Maranatha High School in Pasadena next season.
“I think everybody agreed it was time to move in a different direction,” Ochoa said. “I feel like I put everything into Glendale and did my best to improve the program. We were 2-0 against Hoover, we brought the victory bell back to Glendale, improved the numbers, we upgraded the program [with] uniforms, helmets and equipment. We definitely left [the program] better than we found it and that was my goal coming in.”
Ochoa departed Glendale with a 5-29 record since the 2019 season. His most memorable experience was the Hail Mary pass play victory against rival Hoover High to end the 2022 campaign.
“That was a great way to go out. Absolutely memorable for the kids,” Ochoa said. “It was great to be a part of it, I was so excited for the kids and I’m glad to be going out on top.”
Glendale did not name a new head coach as of the Glendale News-Press’ deadline. More information on the school’s next head coach will be reported when it is available.
