Football coach Chad Martinez is out at Wasco High

Wasco High head football coach Chad Martinez resigned on Friday, saying in his resignation letter he "was informed the program needed new direction."

The leadership shift seemed to be a surprise to most everyone, including the coach, who said in resignation letter posted on the Wasco High Football page on Facebook that "he fully intended on returning and had begun preparations for the 2025 season."

He said in the letter that did not want to "stand in the way of progress," and wished whoever the new coach may be "the best of luck in the world." He also expressed thankfulness for the time that he served in the role, and the student athletes he worked with.

Last year, the six-year coach led the team to their first State Championship game, but this year the Tigers had a 5-6 record (3-2 in the South Sequoia League) and lost to archrivals Shafter, 35-14, the first of this month. They lost to McLane two weeks ago in the first round of the post-season.

Wasco High Principal Rusvel Prado would not comment on the change in leadership, citing confidentiality policy on personnel matters. In a telephone interview later, he wished Martinez well for his future and was appreciative of his time at the helm of the Tigers, where the coach had a 49-33 overall record.

Last year's Valley title was the team's first in more than 10 years. No information was provided on the process to replace Martinez.