Blanton Resigns at Estancia High

Ed Blanton, who coached the Estancia High School football team to two Sea View League championships in his eight years at the Costa Mesa school, has resigned.

Blanton, 40, compiled a career record of 42-39. The Eagles won the Sea View League title in 1979 and 1980 but have not had a winning season since 1981.

Blanton said there was no pressure from the administration for him to resign, but Blanton had expressed frustration that he was unable to return the program to its former stature.

In 1985, Estancia was 5-5 overall and 3-4 in league play, tying Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar for fourth place.

Blanton said a two factors influenced his decision.

“First, I don’t take losses well, and I’ve developed an ulcer,” he said. “And we just don’t have enough players anymore. We had only 28 on the roster this year.

“I thought it might be good for the school to be able to bring in a new coach who could get more players to go out for the team.”