Olson Out, Takahashi In for Lobos

Dave Olson, who coached the Los Amigos football team the last two seasons, was replaced by former Lobo Coach Roger Takahashi, Los Amigos Principal Connie Van Luit said Tuesday.

“I wanted to give Roger the opportunity to come back,� Van Luit said. “I have the luxury of having two good coaches on campus in Roger and Dave. Roger had taken a couple of years off, but has been coaching the freshman team and has been waiting to come back.�

Takahashi, 48, stepped down following the 1998 season so he could spend more time with his family. In five seasons, Takahashi led the Lobos to a 40-15-1 record and five playoff appearances.

“The door was always open [for Takahashi],� Van Luit said. “We just didn’t know when it would happen.�

After a year away from football, Takahashi returned to coach the freshman squad to a 10-0 record last season. Athletic Director Dave Auxier said he wanted to keep Takahashi with this group of freshmen, of which at least four are expected to start for the varsity next season.

Olson went 10-11-1 in his first job as a varsity coach. Auxier recommended to Van Luit at the end of the season that Takahashi resume his role as varsity coach and Olson return to his role of defensive coordinator, but the principal declined to make the switch.

Olson, who is still working toward his teaching credential, said he is disappointed by Van Luit’s reversal.