Murrieta Valley Announces New Head Football Coach

The last time Vinny Fazio came to Murrieta, he brought a revitalized Eisenhower High School football team up from the ashes all the way to the Citrus Belt League championship and into the CIF playoffs.  

The 9-1 Nighthawks welcomed their future coach with a 35-27 defeat that eliminated the Eagles from contention after an amazing Cinderella season. Fazio had inherited a last-place team and rebuilt the football program and brought Eisenhower back to its rich winning tradition. 

Friday, it was announced that Fazio will serve as head football coach and teacher at Murrieta Valley High School. Fazio replaces Greg Ireland, who cited health reasons when he stepped down in May after heading up the program since 2008.

"This is the greatest day of my professional life and I am honored to be the Head Football Coach of the Nighthawks,” said Fazio. “Last year coaching against Murrieta Valley I learned first-hand the talent, toughness, and sportsmanship shown by their young men. I am extremely excited to get to work building on the awesome foundation that MVHS has already established."  

Fazio teaches world history and winning football.  

He has seven years of experience coaching football at the high school and collegiate level. He was San Bernardino County’s 2012 Newcomer Coach of the Year.  

Fazio has eight years of experience teaching history, science, AP government and physical education. He holds a bachelor's degree from Claremont McKenna College and a master's degree and teaching credential from National University.

A younger Fazio had his share of playing time on the field. At Claremont McKenna, he was 3rd team All-American, All West Region, three-time All SCIAC and broke the school record for tackles in a season.

Fazio was also a stand-out defensive back and wide receiver at Fontana High School. He was All-Region, All San Bernardino County, All Citrus Belt League, and team captain for the three-time CBL Champions.  

“Coach Fazio is dedicated and he genuinely believes in helping young men prepare themselves for the future. He is a tremendous role model and mentor and he develops positive relationships with the players, parents and the community,” said Alex Pierce, head coach at Carter High School where Fazio served as assistant head coach and defensive coordinator.   

Eisenhower Principal Arthur Sanchez said: “He is a dedicated enthusiastic teacher who motivates and inspires his students to achieve at a high level of excellence. Because of his style and compassion, he is well-respected and admired by his students.”  

MVHS Athletic Director Darin Mott said: “We are extremely excited to welcome Coach Fazio to the Nighthawk family. He brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to Murrieta Valley Football. I was extremely impressed with his plan and vision for our student athletes; he is an outstanding teacher and coach. I feel strongly that our students, staff and community will be pleased with the direction he takes our program."  

A new chapter in Nighthawk football has begun. Good luck Coach.