News Summary
The sports community in Huntington Beach mourns the passing of Mike Dodd, a dedicated baseball and football coach, who influenced many young athletes. He is remembered for his commitment to coaching and community engagement. Dodd’s career spanned decades, with significant contributions to local sports programs and mentorship of players who went on to excel in their respective sports. As tributes flow in, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Huntington Beach
Mike Dodd, a former baseball coach at Huntington Beach High School and football coach at Marina High School, passed away on June 17, 2023, at the age of 72. His death was attributed to mesothelioma, a type of cancer often linked to asbestos exposure. Dodd’s brother, Daniel Dodd, confirmed the news of his passing.
Coaching Career
Dodd’s tenure as a baseball coach at Huntington Beach spanned from 1982 to 2000, where he built a solid reputation for his coaching abilities and dedication to the sport. He briefly stepped into the role of interim football coach at Huntington Beach, leading the team for one season in 1996. Following this, Dodd took on the position of head football coach at Marina High School from 2001 to 2006. Additionally, he served as an assistant football coach at Orange Coast College during the 2000 season, while also coaching baseball and fulfilling assistant coaching duties at Huntington Beach.
Background and Early Life
Mike Dodd was not only a skilled coach but also had a notable athletic background. He played college baseball at Golden West College, showcasing his talent on the field. Dodd’s baseball career continued when he was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the 16th round of the 1973 MLB Draft. His experience as a player contributed to his coaching philosophy and approach, which emphasized skill development and teamwork among young athletes.
Legacy and Family
Mike Dodd is survived by three children and five grandchildren, marking a legacy that extends beyond the athletic field. His impact on the local sports community in Huntington Beach and Marina will be remembered by many who benefited from his guidance and mentorship. A celebration of life for Mike Dodd is anticipated to take place later in the summer of 2025, honoring his contributions to the sports community and the lives he touched throughout his career.
Contributions to Community and Sports
As a respected figure in Huntington Beach and Marina, Dodd played an instrumental role in the development of sports programs and the nurturing of young athletes. His commitment to fostering talent went beyond just coaching; he also engaged with the community, encouraging participation and support for local sporting events. Dodd’s influence is evident in the many players he coached who have gone on to achieve success in high school and college sports, embodying the values he instilled in them.
In recognizing Mike Dodd’s life and career, the community mourns not only the loss of a dedicated coach but also a mentor and friend who left a significant mark on those he encountered. As tributes pour in from former players and colleagues, Dodd’s legacy is sure to endure, reflecting a life dedicated to sports, mentorship, and family.
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Additional Resources
- OC Register: Mike Dodd Passes Away
- Cal Hi Sports: Ryder Dodd Named State Athlete of the Year
- AVP: Mike Dodd and Chaim Schalk
- UCLA Bruins: Ryder Dodd Profile
- Daily Breeze: Hermosa Beach Open Returns
- Wikipedia: Mike Dodd
- Google Search: Mike Dodd coaching
- Google Scholar: Mike Dodd football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mike Dodd
- Google News: Mike Dodd obituary
