Nov 27, 2023 | Education K-12, Featured, Los Angeles, NFL, Sports, Valleys

Chargers Honor High School Coaches

The “Coach of the Year” accolade is a testament to the Los Angeles Chargers’ ongoing dedication to supporting local high school football programs. Throughout the high school football season, the Chargers identify a “Coach of the Week” from Los Angeles County, San Diego County, and Orange County. These weekly winners then contend for the prestigious title of “Coach of the Year” at the season’s end.

“Coach of the Year” winners (L to R) Kevin Oberlander of Sonora High School, David Dunn of Lincoln High School, LaDainian Tomlinson Hall OF

Famer, Sara Media, Son Samuel Media and Sister -in-Law Veronica Garibay. (Photo: LA Chargers)

By Earl Heath

Contributing Sports Writer

The Los Angeles Chargers proudly bestowed the title of “Coach of the Year” upon three exceptional individuals representing the regions of SoCal Recognized for their influence both on and off the field, Steve Medina of Legacy High School, (Los Angeles County). Kevin Oberlander of Sonora High School in The OC, and David Dunn of Lincoln High School (San Diego County) stood out as exemplary leaders during the 2023 high school football season.

The selection of Medina, Oberlander, and Dunn as Chargers “Coaches of the Year” was grounded in their unwavering commitment to advancing youth football, nurturing motivated student-athletes, and making substantial contributions to their respective communities.

Nominees for the Chargers “Coach of the Year” are chosen by a panel of distinguished C.I.F members, including Dick Dorman (Los Angeles County Section), Thom Simmons (Southern Section), and Joe Heinz (San Diego Section). The ultimate winners are determined through a fan vote on the Chargers’ website, ensuring community engagement in the selection process.

Tragically, Coach Medina, a Week 1 Coach of the Week recipient, recently passed away. He led his Legacy Tigers to an impressive 8-3 record, leaving an indelible mark on his team and the community. Media was an All-City Player at Southgate High. Oberlander, who guided the Sonora Raiders to a commendable 9-3 record, was recognized as the Week 8 Coach of the Week, along with Dunn, who propelled the Lincoln Hornets to an outstanding 11-1 record.

As recipients of the “Coach of the Year” award, each honoree was presented with a generous donation for their respective high school football programs by Chargers Hall of Fame running back, LaDainian Tomlinson.

For nearly two decades, the Chargers have teamed up with the NFL to host the team’s High School Football “Coach of the Week” program. Annually, this program recognizes high school football coaches who have made a difference in the lives of their players through leadership, hard work, and a special dedication to their young scholar-athletes. All nominations are decided upon by the Chargers “Coach of the Week” selection committee comprised of California Interscholastic (CIF) Federation administrators, retired coaches, and more. Each winning Coach receives $1,000 to go to their school’s athletic department.

Aside from the Coach of the Year announcement, all 33 “Coach of the Week” winners were spotlighted, emphasizing the Chargers’ commitment to recognizing and celebrating the incredible contributions of high school football coaches.