Long Beach, California – The high school football scene in Southern California is heating up as a significant coaching change has been announced at one of its most prominent programs. Stephen Barbee, head coach of the Long Beach Poly Jackrabbits, has decided to step down after six seasons. During his tenure, Barbee recorded an impressive overall record of 57 wins and 20 losses, leading the team to numerous successes, including a CIF Southern Section championship in 2021.
News of Barbee’s resignation broke during the Jackrabbits’ end-of-year banquet held on Monday evening. This past season, the team concluded with a record of 6-6, a change from their prior successes, which raised questions about the program’s future direction. Under Barbee’s leadership, the Jackrabbits became a force in California high school football, with a rich history that boasts 20 CIF championships and a legacy of producing talented NFL players.
Long Beach Poly is now the most notable coaching vacancy in California, attracting interest due to its storied past and successful football program. The Jackrabbits have had only five head coaches since 1980, highlighting the stability that Barbee provided over his six years at the helm. Alongside this vacancy, several other schools across the region, including Rancho Cucamonga, Santa Margarita, and Alemany, are also looking for new coaches, making this offseason a particularly eventful season for high school football.
As the search for Long Beach Poly’s next head coach begins, fans and players alike are eager to see who will take the reins of this prestigious program and continue its tradition of excellence in high school football.
