Saints have coach in mind
By Stacy Kaneshiro
Advertiser Staff Writer
St. Louis School athletic director Cal Lee said he has asked defensive coordinator Delbert Tengan to consider succeeding him as varsity football coach at the Interscholastic League of Honolulu's most successful football program.
"Ideally, a lot of guys (on the St. Louis coaching staff) could take it," Lee said. "But he's in the system on staff and that's a big plus.
Delbert Tengan has been on Cal Lee's coaching staff for 19 seasons.
"You get to see kids (daily) and know what's happening in school. "You're around them and that's vital. Most coaches (at other schools) are on staff anyway."
Tengan, who teaches physical education at St. Louis, has been on Lee's staff for 19 seasons, primarily coaching the secondary. Lee slowly delegated more responsibility on Tengan, eventually naming him defensive coordinator four years ago. Lee had been defensive coordinator, as well as head coach.
Because Tengan is coaching basketball now at St. Louis, Lee said he is giving him all the time he needs to make a decision. A decision is not expected soon, as Lee will go on vacation next week.
The position comes with added pressure because of Lee's success in his 21 seasons: 18 ILH championships, including the last 16 in a row; 14 O'ahu Prep Bowl titles; one state crown; and the winningest prep coach in Hawai'i all-time.
St. Louis lost to Kahuku in the state championship last month.
Still, as athletic director, Lee said he can only recommend his successor to the school's administration.
