Rick Garretson is returning to Servite to be the school’s new head coach for the football team.
Garretson, 71, was an All-CIF receiver at Servite in the 1970s and later was the Friars’ receivers coach and then offensive coordinator for 16 years. Garretson also was the dean of students at Servite.
He moved to Arizona and was an assistant coach at Chandler High School before becoming its head coach. Garretson coached Chandler to two state championships during his six seasons (2019-24) as the school’s head coach.
At Servite he replaces Chris Reinert who resigned last week after three seasons. Servite went 6-5 overall in 2025. The Friars finished fourth in the six-team Trinity League with a 2-3 league record.
Garretson said in the press release announcing his selection as Servite coach: “I’d like to thank the Servite Administration for giving me the opportunity to represent and lead the Servite Football program. I’m looking forward to attacking the challenges and making the most of the opportunities that exist in the Trinity League and continuing the tradition that makes Servite Football and Servite High School so special.”
An early priority for Garretson could be retaining the team’s players. Allen “Cinco” Kennett, an All-Trinity League linebacker this past season at Servite, recently enrolled at Santa Margarita.
Servite athletic director Matt Marrujo said in the press release: “We are thrilled to welcome Coach Garretson back to Servite. As an experienced head coach, he brings the leadership, vision, and commitment necessary to build upon our strong foundation and guide our student-athletes to continued success. As an alumnus, former teacher, and coach, he deeply understands our mission and the vital role coaches play in forming faith-filled leaders. The combination of his professional experience and deep-rooted connection to Servite makes him the perfect fit to lead our young men moving forward.”
Garretson’s brother Ron and father Darrell were NBA referees.
Garretson played football at San Diego State.