Mike Hobbie, who resurrected San Marino High School’s football program and then carried it to unprecedented heights, will retire at the end of the 2018-19 school year. Hobbie informed The Tribune of his intentions shortly after New Year’s, but kept the news private until he informed SMHS administrators and returning football players, which he did this morning.
“The game of football and the profession of coaching have afforded me countless opportunities and relationships for which I will be eternally grateful,” Hobbie said in a statement to The Tribune. A “turnaround” specialist known for his uncanny ability to drastically reverse the fortunes of struggling programs, Hobbie has coached at several schools but admitted to a soft spot of sorts for San Marino, which, barring a change of heart, will be his last.
“I will be forever grateful to the San Marino community,” he said. “I never could have dreamed how much love and support you showed my family and me. You have helped us beyond words during a most difficult time in our lives. San Marino will always hold a special place in our hearts. Thanks for making us feel so loved and treating us like members of your family. San Marino is truly a special place.” Among his many accomplishments, Hobbie led the 2015 Titans to a 15-1 record, Rio Hondo League and CIF titles and a spot in the State Championship game.
Hobbie’s wife, Suzanne, a beloved science teacher at San Marino High School, will also retire.
Hobbie coached eight seasons, winning two Rio Hondo League championships while compiling a remarkable 33-7 record against league foes. He is also the varsity baseball coach at San Marino High School.
