Football Coach Garrison Quits St. Francis Job

St. Francis High football Coach Bill Garrison, whose team rebounded from a 1-9 season in 1989 to advance to the Southern Section playoffs last fall, has resigned, effective at the conclusion of the school year.

Garrison said his decision to leave the school after two seasons was not prompted by a “negative situation,” but said that unspecified promises made to him by the school’s previous administration were not met.

“There were some philosophical and financial considerations that needed to be addressed,” said Garrison, 33, who will finish the school year as science and physical education teacher. “Some things that were promised were left unfulfilled.”

Lawrence Caruso, who this year returned as St. Francis’ principal after 12 years, said Garrison told him Thursday night of his decision.

“There were some things that I just wasn’t able to follow through on,” Caruso said.

Garrison, whose teams compiled a two-year record of 8-13, said he has applied for a head coaching position at other high schools. While he said he has not received a formal offer, he indicated that more than one was pending.

Last season St. Francis lost to Glenn, 40-19, in the first round of the Southern Section Division VII playoffs. The Golden Knights finished second in San Fernando League play at 3-1 and were 7-4 overall. St. Francis was 1-9 in 1989.

Caruso said the school has no preferred candidate for the position and will be accepting applications through April 22.