Santa Margarita Water Polo Coach Resigns: A New Chapter Begins
In a surprising turn of events, Brian Weathersby has stepped down as the head coach of the boys and girls water polo teams at Santa Margarita Catholic High School. Both the coach and the school confirmed the news, marking the end of an era for a program known for its competitive spirit and success. As the high school water polo season approaches, Weathersby’s resignation brings new challenges and opportunities for the Eagles, particularly for the boys’ team, which is gearing up for the upcoming fall season.
Weathersby leaves a remarkable legacy, especially with the girls’ team. Over his 12-year tenure, he brought home three CIF-SS championships (2014 in Division 2, 2019 in Division 2, and 2023 in Division 1) and clinched four Trinity League titles. His coaching prowess earned him recognition as the Register’s O.C. Girls Coach of the Year in 2014, a testament to his stellar ability to cultivate talent and foster teamwork. His overall record with the girls stands at an impressive 184 wins against 125 losses, showcasing his commitment to excellence in the sport.
However, the recent season was a stark contrast for the girls’ program, which finished with a disappointing record of 2-21 and missed the playoffs for only the second time under Weathersby’s leadership. As the tides of competition shifted, the decision to resign may serve as a pivotal moment for both the coach and the teams he has guided. In April, the school announced the hiring of Aaron Arias, an assistant at Orange Coast College, as the new head coach for the girls, indicating a shift towards revitalizing the program.
Weathersby’s impact wasn’t limited to the girls’ team. During his two-year tenure with the boys’ program, he led them to the CIF-SS Open Division playoffs twice, compiling an overall record of 36 wins and 16 losses. His coaching style emphasized discipline, strategy, and skill development, which resonated well with the student-athletes and helped elevate the boys’ team’s performance in a competitive league. The transition to a new coach for the boys’ team will be guided by Christian Macias, an assistant under Weathersby, ensuring continuity during this period of change.
Despite stepping down from his coaching roles, Weathersby expressed his desire to continue coaching at the high school level, indicating that he is not completely stepping away from the sport that has shaped much of his career. Additionally, he has decided to conclude his involvement with club coaching at SOCAL, focusing solely on his next steps. His experience and knowledge will undoubtedly be an asset to whichever program he eventually joins.
As the Eagles embark on this new chapter with fresh leadership, the school community is excited about the potential for growth and success in both the boys’ and girls’ water polo programs. The future holds promise, and with a dedicated coaching staff and enthusiastic athletes, Santa Margarita’s water polo teams are poised to make a strong comeback in the competitive arena. Subscribe now to support high school sports coverage and stay updated on the latest developments in high school athletics.
