Ray Fenton Takes on New Role as Head Football Coach at Orange Lutheran After Leaving Los Alamitos
Ray Fenton Named New Football Coach at Orange Lutheran
Ray Fenton, recognized as The Times’ Coach of the Year in 2025 while leading Los Alamitos High, has been appointed the new head football coach at Orange Lutheran High School.
Fenton steps into this role at a time when the program has been in turmoil following the dismissal of Rod Sherman. Sherman, who guided the team to the Southern Section Division 1 semifinals last season with a notable upset over top-seeded St. John Bosco, concluded his five-season tenure with a record of 33-29. He has since taken on the position of the first flag football coach at Cal Poly.
“This is where I belong in my life,” Fenton remarked, expressing his enthusiasm for joining a private school community where he can share his faith.
The selection process for Sherman’s replacement was methodical, culminating in the hiring of new executive director Jack Preus. Among the candidates interviewed were former Orange Lutheran quarterback Aaron Corp, ex-Mater Dei coach Frank McManus, and former Servite coach Troy Thomas.
Fenton’s hiring marks a significant shift for Orange Lutheran, as Sherman’s coaching career was deeply intertwined with the program’s history. Sherman had served as an assistant under former coach Jim Kunau from 1995 to 2006 and was also the school’s athletic director.
While the program has managed to retain many key players during the coaching transition, defensive lineman Marcus Fakatou, the team’s top returning player, transferred to Sierra Canyon this week.
Reflecting on his successful tenure at Los Alamitos, Fenton highlighted the joy of coaching a mostly local team, emphasizing the importance of community ties. He now faces the challenges of competing in the competitive Trinity League, where maintaining strong player transfers is crucial to avoid rebuilding phases that could jeopardize coaching positions. Notably, Santa Margarita won the Division 1 title last year under first-year coach Carson Palmer, bolstered by key transfers.
