Jalazo Leaves CCC Football Program

Posted Dec 12, 2009 by Lee Diekemper

Updated Dec 12, 2009 at 03:11 PM

CLEARWATER -  Michael Jalazo, who guided Clearwater Central Catholic’s football program for the past eight seasons, left the program late Friday calling the move “a mutual parting” when reached Saturday.

“I can’t say this was a shock,” Jalazo said. “I’d like to coach next year. We’ll see what opportunities are out there. I plan on coaching whether it is as a head coach or an assistant.

“We just decided to go in different directions I don’t have any bitterness towards anyone. I will continue to help the players until they fill the position. I won’t let the players fall through the cracks.”

Jalazo cited mounting conflicts with the school administration, specifically with first-year athletic director Keith Galley for the move. Jalazo noted the conflict had been brewing for some time, which came to a head Friday.

Jalazo led the Marauders through some of the school’s best success in football when CCC advanced to consecutive Class 2B state semifinals in 2005 and 2006.

Jalazo never had a losing season with CCC. His worst season came in 2008 when the Marauders finished 5-5. CCC advanced to the playoffs in Jalazo’s first six seasons.