Herb Meyer, the most successful football coach in CIF San Diego Section’s history, has passed away at the age of 87.
Meyer holds the record for the highest winning percentage in San Diego County at .690, with a combined record of 339-148-15. He surpasses other esteemed coaches like Oceanside’s John Carroll (226-104-9 from 1989-2014) and Rob Gilster (243-148-5 from Orange Glen and Valley Center).
Meyer became the first California high school football coach to achieve 300 wins and 100 wins at multiple schools.
After graduating from Oceanside High School in 1953, where he played quarterback, and later from Pomona College, Meyer returned to Oceanside as a teacher and football coach. He led the team to a 113-44-6 record from 1959-1975 and won two San Diego Section championships.
Meyer transitioned to El Camino High School in 1976, where he coached for 28 seasons until his retirement in 2003. Under his guidance, the Wildcats achieved a 226-104-9 record and won eight San Diego Section championships.
El Camino’s Athletic Director, Blake Moorman, expressed shock at the news of Meyer’s passing, remembering him as a “treasure” who continued to contribute to the team even in his later years.
Bill Kovacevich, Meyer’s longtime assistant and a fellow regular at El Camino home football games, praised Meyer as an excellent leader. Kovacevich worked with Meyer for 23 years, including 17 as defensive coordinator, and acknowledged the impressive legacy Meyer leaves behind.
Throughout his career, Meyer achieved 12 double-digit-win seasons, 11 of which were at El Camino. The school’s football stadium is named in his honor.
Meyer’s numerous accolades include lifetime membership in the American Football Coaches Association, induction into the NFHS National High School Hall of Fame in 1995, and the National High School Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1997.
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