Karl Fredrickson, the Carpinteria High School boys basketball and water polo coach, announced he would be stepping away from both roles due to what he said was a “very positive shift in his professional responsibilities” that made it impossible for him to dedicate the time needed to coach both programs going forward.
Fredrickson took over as the head coach of the boys water polo program in 2023, leading the Warriors to back-to-back Citrus Coast League championships in his two seasons in charge. Last year, he became head coach for boys basketball, helping the team finish second in league and giving the team a memorable first-round playoff win over its longtime rival, Bishop Diego.
Coach Fredrickson called the decision “bittersweet,” and gave a statement of gratitude to the players, parents, coaches and Warrior community that poured in support over the past two years. “Your unwavering support has meant the world to me, and I am grateful for the trust you placed in me as your coach,” he said.
“Although I’m sad to be stepping away, I’m excited about the future of the programs and the success that lies ahead,” Fredrickson said. “I will always be cheering for Carpinteria’s continued success.”
Carpinteria High School Athletic Director Pat Cooney said Fredrickson was a “fantastic addition to the athletics department” and a “wonderful representative of Carpinteria High School.”
“He is a great advocate for students and a champion for education-based athletics,” Cooney added. “He leaves some big shoes to fill.”
Carpinteria is currently seeking Fredrickson’s replacement, though boys water polo will not begin play until after the summer break, while boys basketball does not begin its next season until winter 2025. Applications are open at edjoin.com.