Patrick Rivenes out as La Quinta head football coach after 4 seasons, AD Juan Ramon Ruiz to serve in interim role
Patrick Rivenes will no longer serve as the head football coach at La Quinta high school.
BREAKING: Patrick Rivenes is out as La Quinta high school football coach after 4 seasons. I'll have more tonight on @KESQ, including comment from Rivenes. @lqathletics @LQBlackhawks @lqprincipal @LQHSFootball @BaileyKESQ @Jesus_G_Reyes pic.twitter.com/vzodoUtkCx
— Blake Arthur (@BlakeArthur24) April 12, 2022
The 35-year old coach and La Quinta alum told Sports Director Blake Arthur on Monday afternoon that he was informed of the decision earlier in the day.
"I am no longer the head football coach. I found that out today," said Rivenes via text message.
Despite his departure, Rivenes leaves his alma mater with class, wishing future success for the football program.
"I wish the Blackhawk football family all the best. We have a solid core group of guys that will make a big impact this season," said Rivenes.
9-35 record in 4 seasons at LQ for Rivenes. Did it go the way he wanted? No. He'll man up & tell you that himself. But wins & losses don't define someone's character. Rivenes is a class act. Nothing but respect. He provided one of the best post-game videos ever, too. @KESQ pic.twitter.com/CzI6Wcs0ev
— Blake Arthur (@BlakeArthur24) April 12, 2022
La Quinta went 9-26 in 4 seasons and made the playoffs just one time under Rivenes, who admits his tenure wasn't as successful as he would have hoped for since he took over the program in 2018.
La Quinta Principal Rudy Wilson issued a statement on Tuesday after news broke of Rivenes no longer in the head football coaching role.
"On behalf of the entire La Quinta High School community, I would like to thank and acknowledge Patrick Rivenes for the absolute dedication and care he brought to both the campus and his students. During the past four years, Coach Rivenes demonstrated why he is such a blessing for children. He has been an outstanding classroom teacher, an amazing coach, and a great role model. Everyone who knows coach, loves coach. While Coach Rivenes will no longer serve as the head varsity football coach next season, he will always be welcomed by the Blackhawk family," said Wilson.
Wilson went on to address the upcoming season, announcing that La Quinta athletic director Juan Ramon Ruiz will serve as interim football coach.
"Anyone who follows football understands; it is very late in the year to do a proper search for the next football coach. In an effort to maintain stability to the program and support the team, I asked Coach Ruiz (athletic director) to step in as interim head coach for the upcoming season. This will also allow for a proper search as we look to fill the vacancy," said Wilson.
As for Rivenes, he has accepted a teaching position at Horizon School. He still plans on running the "To the Max" kids camp which helps raises funds for leukemia and lymphoma society. That event is planned for Saturday, April 30.
Stay with KESQ News Channel 3 for the latest on this developing story and for continuing coverage of high school football.
