News Summary

Ron Pangilinan has been appointed as the head boys varsity basketball coach at Emerald High School for the 2025-26 season. This marks the school’s inaugural varsity basketball season, generating excitement within the community. With over 30 years of coaching experience, Pangilinan promises to inspire the young athletes. The selection process for the new coach was comprehensive, aiming to ensure the best fit for the program. Community members are hopeful for a successful season ahead as they support this new chapter in Emerald High School’s history.

Exciting Changes at Emerald High School with New Basketball Coach!

In the vibrant city of Dublin, there’s some thrilling news for sports fans! Ron Pangilinan has been named the new head boys varsity basketball coach at Emerald High School (EHS) for the upcoming 2025-26 season. This is a historic moment as it marks the first varsity basketball season for the school. The anticipation is palpable, and everyone is buzzing with excitement about what this means for the team and the community.

Decades of Coaching Wisdom

Pangilinan isn’t just any coach; he brings over 30 years of coaching experience to the table! That’s right! He’s been around the block and back, having held positions at schools like Acalanes, College Park, Las Lomas, Bentley, Northgate in Contra Costa County, and Head Royce in Oakland. With a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record, Pangilinan promises to be a guiding light for the young athletes at EHS.

A Thorough Selection Process

Selecting a coach is no small task, and the process at EHS was thorough and comprehensive. A dedicated panel comprising staff members from three different school sites sifted through 14 applicants for the head coach position. From that pool, six candidates were invited for interviews. The selection panel included various stakeholders—a new athletic director, an administrator, a parent of a student-athlete, a current EHS athlete, certificated employees, and even a classified employee, ensuring every voice was heard in this important decision.

Principal’s Confidence

Principal Lenni Velez expressed optimism about Pangilinan’s extensive coaching background and how it could positively impact the EHS basketball program. With the new school year just around the corner, the entire school community is eager to see how Pangilinan’s vision and strategy will shape the team.

A Crossroad for the Program

It’s worth noting that this change comes in the wake of some controversial decisions regarding the previous coach, Jason Rockwell, who was also a special education teacher. Rockwell found himself in the midst of controversy after being placed on a 10-day leave of absence without any explanation in February. This unexpected move set off a wave of support from parents and students who rallied at a Dublin Unified School District Board of Trustees meeting. Many sported shirts that read “Team Rock” and passionately spoke about Rockwell’s influential coaching style and connection with the players.

Rockwell’s Legacy at EHS

Rockwell, who played a significant role as one of the inaugural staff members at EHS, has an impressive background. With 13 years of coaching experience throughout the Bay Area and six years as a special education teacher, he had been a pivotal figure in the community. Despite his intentions to transition into the role of head varsity coach—especially after applying for the position—he was not selected. The Dublin Unified School District has remained tight-lipped about the specifics surrounding Rockwell’s leave, but they have confirmed that he still holds his position as a special education teacher at the school.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Ron Pangilinan steps into this new role, the Emerald High School community is brimming with hope and enthusiasm. With strong leadership, a shared vision, and dedicated athletes, the future of EHS’s basketball program looks promising. Community members are eager to support the team as they embark on this fresh start and navigate the exciting challenges that lie ahead. Here’s to a successful inaugural season and a new chapter for Emerald High School’s boys basketball!

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