Football: Coach Dave White to begin his 38th and final season at Edison

Football practice begins on Monday at Huntington Beach Edison. It’s going to be a season unlike no other, because it’s the 31st and final season as head coach for Dave White, who has been at the school for 38 seasons.

Few coaches have earned greater respect from players, parents and opposing coaches than White, who has never forgotten where he came from and what his main task has been _ to prepare students for adulthood.

For the 10th time as head coach, White is taking his team to Hawaii. The Chargers open their season on Aug. 20 against Baldwin at War Memorial Stadium in Wailuku.

He has always placed his trust in his players to behave and not get into trouble. They’ve never let him down so far.

“We have a little close-the-door talk about life,” he said. “I think I scare them.”

It’s the first time in the last four years that White won’t be taking daily drives to school with his son, Garrett. He has left for Yale. So far, the father is not experiencing empty nest syndrome. They talk a couple times a week. Both will be very busy this fall.

Edison is in Division 3 this season and should be a title contender. Regardless what happens, the players are fortunate to spend one more season with White and his dedicated coaching staff.

“We got a good group of kids, and my coaching staff has been together a long time,” he said. “It will be a fun year.”

It starts in Hawaii, otherwise known as paradise. There’s even surfing for players. And who’s the best surfer?

“It’s up for grabs,” White said. “We have to find out.”

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