Former University of Redlands football player Imbriani named state athletic director of year, plans for retirement in 2026

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—Stepping into Richard Imbriani’s office at Cajon High School is like walking into a living scrapbook of athletic achievement. The walls are lined with newspaper articles chronicling championship wins, standout athletes and memorable seasons.

Trophies of all sizes are displayed on the wall, a testament to the countless hours of hard work put in by the student-athletes he has coached and mentored. It’s more than just an office -- it’s a tribute to a career spent shaping young lives through sports.

For more than three decades, Imbriani has been a fixture in Cajon athletics, leading with passion, dedication and an unwavering commitment to student success. Now, his contributions have been recognized on a grand scale, as the California State Athletic Directors Association has named him athletic director of the year, an honor that speaks to his tireless advocacy for student-athletes and the programs that shape them. For Imbriani, the recognition comes at a bittersweet moment — he has announced he will retire next year, closing out a 38-year career that has left an indelible mark on countless young athletes, coaches and the Cajon community.

“I’ve always believed that sports are about more than just competition,” said Imbriani, who graduated from Cajon High in the 1980s, where he lettered in multiple sports. “They teach discipline, teamwork and perseverance. Seeing students grow—not just as athletes but as people—has been the most rewarding part of this journey.”

Following high school, Imbriani played football at the University of Redlands.

As athletic director, Imbriani has been a guiding force in developing programs that emphasize both excellence and equity in high school sports. Under his leadership, Cajon expanded opportunities for student-athletes, improved facilities, and strengthened partnerships with local and regional sports organizations.

Colleagues and former athletes speak highly of his ability to inspire and mentor, whether through game-day preparation, advocacy for funding or simply a conversation in the hallway that turned into a life lesson. Imbriani didn’t just teach his players football, he taught them about life.

“He definitely was a father figure to the team,” said Cajon football coach Nick Rogers, who played for Imbriani while a Cowboy in the mid-1990s. “He instilled a lot of lifelong lessons in his players. He has always been tough but fair.”

The lifelong San Bernardino native still lives by his father’s rule to be a good citizen, and instills this principle in the student-athletes he mentors.

Superintendent Mauricio Arellano, who has known Imbriani since their teenage years growing up in the city, said Imbriani’s devotion to students makes him a worthy honoree.

“I’m immensely proud to congratulate my friend, Rich Imbriani, on being named athletic director of the year. Growing up together in San Bernardino, I’ve witnessed Rich’s unwavering dedication to athletics and our community. His passion and commitment have truly made a lasting impact on the lives of countless students.”

Imbriani has been fortunate to see some of his athletes reach the highest levels, including Heisman Trophy winner and Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels and basketball star Layshia Clarendon, who played 11 seasons in the WNBA. Their success is a testament to their talent, perseverance and character — qualities Imbriani has always stressed.

Most days his office is a hub of activity. Throughout the day, student-athletes filter in and out, some needing a signature for eligibility paperwork, others just stopping by for a quick snack or a word of advice. He greets each one with the same enthusiasm, seamlessly balancing conversations about game schedules with reminders about academics. For many students, his office is a safe space, a place where they know they’ll always find encouragement and support, even when it comes with a dose of tough love.

While Imbriani’s official retirement won’t take effect until 2026, he says his focus remains on ensuring a smooth transition and setting up his successor for success. He hopes to leave behind a strong foundation so that the programs he helped build will continue to thrive long after he steps away.

As for what’s next? Imbriani plans to spend more time with his wife, Saundra, who teaches PE at Paakuma’ K-8 School, travel, and — of course — catch a few more Cajon games as a fan.

“I may be retiring, but I’ll never stop being part of this community,” he said with a smile. “I’ll always be in the stands, cheering on the next generation.”