Filling the shoes of the man for whom the school’s stadium was dedicated to honor, Tom Renno is two seasons into his first year as Campolindo’s sole Athletic Director.
By all appearances, Bob Wilson’s legacy is in capable hands.
Prior to taking on the responsibility of the school’s athletics program, which has been among the top in the region over the past decade, Renno coached wrestling, coached girls’ softball, and was the co-athletic director with Wilson for 2 years. In addition, he teaches US History and Economics and AP Comparative Government.
So far this year, Renno has guided the program to the same level of competitive success the school and community grew accustomed to under Wilson.
During the fall season, both girls’ and boys’ water polo teams and girls’ and boys’ cross country teams won North Coast Section titles. Senior Aidan Goltra won an individual state championship for cross country. Girls’ volleyball and football also advanced into the post season with winning records.
As the winter sports approach their playoffs Renno feels good about the Cougars’ chances. “Winter sports are off to a great start,” he said.
“All of our winter teams are working really hard. Spring sports are also already gearing up,” he said.
Part of the recipe for such wide spread success includes continuing to hire outstanding coaches and maintaining a positive environment that focuses on character as much as on competitive achievement. “Bob Wilson left a great legacy here of great coaches and great people,” said Renno.
Rennon does not plan to make any significant changes to the system that was in place when he took over. “I just want to continue our successful programs and support the great coaches,” Renno said.
Softball and wrestling coach Bob McLaughlin, coincidentally also Renno’s old wrestling coach, is satisfied with Renno’s duties as athletic director. “He was very knowledgable about wrestling,” McLaughlin said of Renno as a coach.
As for what makes the school’s program so strong, McLaughlin believes, “it’s based on the students more.” From McLaughlin’s point of view, not much has changed since WIlson stepped down besides some financial differences.
Whatever the reason for the consistent excellence in its programs, Renno is grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of it. “I really love high school athletics. I believe it has the ability to have a positive impact on students,” Renno said.
