Chino High athletes rally for Coach Fierro after unexpected head coach appointment

In a packed room filled with passionate voices, the Chino Valley Unified School District Board of Education meeting on January 16, 2025, became a platform for students and community members to express their concerns about recent coaching decisions that have stirred emotions and sparked debates within the district.

As the evening unfolded, heartfelt testimonies emerged from students advocating for their beloved coaches. Pablo Valdez, an 11th grader at Chino High School, spoke passionately about Coach LaRosa, recalling how he inspired not only athletic excellence but also personal growth among his players. “He makes you want to be better on the field, in the classroom, and in all aspects of your life,” Valdez shared, urging the board to recognize the character and dedication of both Coach LaRosa and Mr. Henkel, who have been pillars of support for the student-athletes.

The atmosphere shifted as Raul Magadan, a junior football player at Don Lugo High School, voiced his disappointment over the recent resignation of head coach Joshua Knight and the subsequent appointment of a less experienced coach. Magadan highlighted the achievements of Coach Daniel Fierro, who had led the team to back-to-back league championships and helped numerous athletes secure college scholarships. “With Coach Fierro, we built a family at Don Lugo,” he lamented, warning that the decision could lead to players quitting and jeopardize the future of the school's athletic programs.

Jacob Silphy, another student from Don Lugo, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the positive environment fostered by the coaching staff over the past two years. He expressed concern that the new leadership could disrupt the strong bonds formed within the team, stating, “These coaches have done great things in building more than just a team.”

The meeting underscored the deep connections between students and their coaches, revealing how pivotal these figures are in shaping not just athletic success but also personal development and community spirit. As the board listened intently, the voices of the students painted a vivid picture of the impact that coaching decisions can have on the lives of young athletes, leaving the community to ponder the future of their beloved sports programs.