SANTA YNEZ, Calif. — Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District announces that Josh McClurg has decided to retire from his role as Head Football Coach at Santa Ynez High School, concluding an outstanding chapter of leadership, mentorship, and service to generations of Pirate student-athletes.

Throughout his tenure, Coach McClurg’s impact has extended far beyond wins and losses. He has helped guide thousands of boys as they grew into young men, emphasizing character, accountability, perseverance, teamwork, and pride in representing Santa Ynez High School and the Santa Ynez Valley.

Coach McClurg concludes his time leading the Pirate football program on an especially memorable note, with the team finishing the 2026 league season undefeated and as league champions, a fitting accomplishment for a coach who has invested so much in the success of Santa Ynez students and athletics.

“Josh’s legacy cannot simply be measured by a win-loss record or the championships his teams have earned,” said Superintendent Dr. Kimberly Sheehan. “His greatest impact can be seen in the young men he has mentored over the years. He has taught generations of Pirates what it means to work hard, be accountable to one another, represent their school with pride, and become men of character.

“To conclude this chapter as undefeated league champions is a wonderful reflection of the commitment he has given to this program.”

While Coach McClurg is stepping away from his head coaching responsibilities, he will remain an important part of the Santa Ynez High School community as a teacher, assistant coach, and Athletic Director, continuing to serve students, staff, coaches, and Pirate athletics.

The District is grateful to Coach McClurg and his family for the countless hours, evenings, weekends, and seasons they have dedicated to Santa Ynez football and to the students who have worn the Pirate uniform.

During the transition, Mike Hartman will serve as Interim Head Football Coach. The District will follow its established hiring process, beginning with an internal search for the permanent Head Football Coach position. If the position is not filled through the internal process, the search will then be opened externally.

“We are fortunate that Josh will continue to be part of our campus and our athletic program,” Sheehan added. “His knowledge, leadership, and commitment to Santa Ynez High School remain tremendous assets. We are incredibly thankful for all he has given to Pirate football and look forward to his continued impact on our students and school community.”

Santa Ynez High School congratulates Coach McClurg on an extraordinary tenure as Head Football Coach and celebrates the lasting legacy he has created, one built not only through successful football teams, but through the generations of young men whose lives he has helped shape.