OCC’s Goldman named OEC Coach of the Year

COSTA MESA - Orange Coast College track and cross country coach

John Goldman has been named the 1998-99 Orange Empire Conference Coach of

the Year for women’s sports.

“I was very flattered just to be nominated,” Goldman said. “There are

lots of good coaches out there and to be given this honor was totally

unexpected.”

Goldman was selected for the award at a conference coaches meeting on

Tuesday and was told of the award by OCC’s Athletic Director, Jane

Hilgendorf.

“It’s a real thrill, especially when you’re chosen by other coaches

within your conference,” Goldman said. “They’re the ones who are the most

familiar with what you are doing.”

Last year, OCC’s women’s cross country team was a perfect 12-0, winning

the OEC, Southern California and State championships for the second year

in a row, led primarily by OCC’s Female Athlete of the Year, Zoila Gomez.

OCC had 27 track and cross country runners named to the all-conference

team and 10 on the all-state team.

Goldman is a three-time OEC Cross Country Coach of the Year, a two-time

California Coaches Association Coach of the Year.

“It’s a neat honor for our entire program,” Pirates golf coach and former

track and cross country Coach Gordie Fitzel said. “He’s really done a

great job with that program.”

Fitzel was one of the people, according to Goldman, who have contributed

to his success.

“Gordie, Jane, (men’s and women’s track coach) Fred Hokanson and my

assistant coach Dave Fier have all been a tremendous help to me,” Goldman

said. “I’ve learned a lot from all of these people and I’m very

appreciative of their support.”