In the realm of high school athletics, few individuals possess the level of dedication and passion exhibited by Coach Ricardo (Rich) Medellin, the leader of the track and field program at Esperanza High School. For over four decades, Medellin has been a guiding force, shaping the lives of countless Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District (PYLUSD) student-athletes through his coaching prowess and unwavering commitment to the sport. However, it is his longtime role as the Meet Director of the Asics Orange County Track & Field Championships that truly shines a spotlight on his remarkable contributions to the greater athletic community.
The Asics Orange County Track & Field Championships, an annual gathering of the county’s finest track and field talent, serves as a platform to crown the best team in the region. This year’s event took place on April 13, 2024, and included teams from all four PYLUSD comprehensive high school—El Dorado, Esperanza, Valencia, and Yorba Linda. All under Coach Medellin’s leadership, the event has flourished this year, attracting approximately 65 schools and over 1,200 athletes vying for supremacy on the track and field at Mission Viejo High School.
Tasked with the monumental responsibility of organizing the championships, Coach Medellin, alongside two fellow coaches from Mission Viejo High School, orchestrates every aspect of the event with meticulous attention to detail. From coordinating logistics to ensuring the smooth execution of competitions, Medellin’s expertise and dedication are the driving forces behind the championships’ success.
Reflecting on his tenure as Meet Director, Coach Medellin’s passion for the sport and commitment to fostering a spirit of camaraderie among participants and spectators alike are evident. For the past 15 years, he has poured his heart and soul into elevating the championships to new heights, leaving a positive mark on the Orange County athletic landscape.
Beyond his role as Meet Director, Coach Medellin’s influence extends far and wide within PYLUSD and the broader community. As the head coach of Esperanza High School’s track and field program for over 40 years, and a mathematics teacher, he has mentored and taught generations of student-athletes, instilling in them values of discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
One such student-athlete who embodies these values is Ty Meyer, an Esperanza High School student who clinched second place in the Varsity Shot Put at this year’s championships. Meyer’s achievement, alongside the impressive performances of his peers from El Dorado, Esperanza, Valencia, and Yorba Linda high schools, underscores the depth of athletic talent within the PYLUSD.
Although the perennial trophy found its rightful place in the hands of Mater Dei High School and Jserra Catholic High School this year, it is clear that the Asics Orange County Track & Field Championships are more than just a competition—they are a testament to the tireless dedication and unwavering passion of individuals like Rich Medellin, whose contributions continue to shape the landscape of high school athletics in Orange County and beyond. Way to go, Coach!
Way to go Coach Medellin! Thank you for your tireless work!