Jesse Padilla, Central Valley High School’s first-and-only varsity girls basketball head coach, has decided to step down.

He wants to spend more time with his family, including daughter Addisen (13) and son Caiden (9).

“It was time,” Padilla said. “Whatever they’re doing, I’m there. They were always there with me when I was coaching. Now, the roles have reversed. I get to watch them.”

Padilla’s coaching career with the Hawks spanned 15 seasons, including 14 at the varsity level.

The Hawks amassed a 131-208 overall record, claimed three league titles (2015-16, 2011-12, 2010-11) and secured five playoff berths (2016-17, 2015-16, 2014-15, 2011-12, 2010-11).

Central Valley’s inaugural varsity girls basketball team lost all of its league games and struggled to a 2-21 record in 2006-07.

“It’s a process,” Padilla said. “It (success) doesn’t happen quickly. You have to take your lumps.”

“Jesse was a solid coach,” Central Valley Athletic Director Greg Magni stated. “He was willing to put in extra energy and effort. Sometimes, not everybody does that. That was his recipe for success.”

“I enjoyed the summer workouts and going to the Chico State Camp,” Padilla added. “It was fun. I put a lot of stress on myself early on thinking about wins and losses. I remember winning our first league title during my sixth year. We had to beat Ceres High at their gym.”

Central Valley reached new heights during the 2010-11 season.

The Hawks posted a program-best 15-8 record, won their first league with an 8-2 mark against Western Athletic Conference competition and participated in the playoffs for the first time.

Central Valley set a program record for overall wins (19), claimed the WAC crown outright (10-2) and secured their second postseason berth in 2011-12.

The Hawks went 18-8, captured their third conference championship (11-1) and advanced to the playoffs in 2015-16. 

“I was fortunate,” Padilla said. “I had a good group of girls. Once they set the tone, the younger players saw that.”

Central Valley had a combined record of 5-60 during Padilla’s final three years as head coach.

The Hawks struggled due to a lack of depth.

Central Valley lost potential players to the school’s girls wrestling and girls soccer programs.

“He (Padilla) didn’t let that discourage him,” Magni said. “He was always trying to get the most out of his athletes regardless of ability. I’ve always appreciated that about him.”

“If the opportunity (to coach at Central Valley) is there later on, I’ll come back,” Padilla said. “I’m still going to help out with track I the spring.”