Bring Back Oxnard High Swim Coach

As members of the community, swimmers and people aware of Larry Raffaelli’s competence and dedication, we encourage the Oxnard Union High School District to rise above the local politics and reconsider the decision to remove him as head swimming and water polo coach at Oxnard High School.

We know from personal experience the benefits of aquatics in developing healthy and self-disciplined students and citizens. We are also aware how difficult it is to find people with his level of ability and understanding of swimming in this area. It would be unfortunate to remove a man who has dedicated himself to sharing his love and knowledge of swimming, and who is willing to work to build a team even when there was no appropriate facility at hand. It is important to be aware of what is best for all of the young people and not be used by a few with personal or political agendas to deprive the community of Raffaelli’s expertise.

We understand that it is difficult for the Oxnard Union High School District and the Board of Education to make the decisions for what is best for the students. But it is under such circumstances where leadership calls for resolving differences, not taking sides. I know that Raffaelli is willing to put the past behind him and work with you to build a strong swim program. Please do not hold his dedication and advocacy of the much-needed swimming pool against him.

RICK GOEDEN

Head coach

MALCHIA OLSHAN

KITTY JOHNSON

Ojai-Santa Barbara

Masters Swim Team