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Legendary SCHS Teacher, Coach, Mentor, Friend

Recently, on March 30th, former San Clemente High School teacher and legendary Surf Team Head Coach, Bill Hartman passed away while doing what he loved, surfing.  Coach Hartman launched the famed Triton Surf Team back in 1977 while serving as Athletic Director.  He assisted then Head Coach, Sam Conroy, before taking over the program in 1991 until his retirement in 2005.  During his run, the Triton Surf Team won multiple NSSA National Championships and he was named NSSA Coach-of-the-Year on a number of occasions as well.  During his career at SCHS, spanning from 1974 until 2005, Bill was Teacher-of-the-Year in 1983 and 1993; coached water polo, swimming, football, cross country, track (1990 CIF 4A Runner-Up), and of course, surfing.  Bill was able to balance his dedication and success as an educator and coach, with the priority of putting his family first – something we all can learn from.  He was a mentor and friend to so many current and former SCHS teachers and coaches, as well as the multitudes of former athletes that he coached; his impact on Triton Athletics and San Clemente High School will be forever remembered.  Bill Hartman was a great educator, coach, friend, mentor, father and husband – Bill was a great human being.  The Triton family mourns his passing but celebrates his lasting impact on San Clemente High School.  Bill Hartman will be missed.