James "Jim" Moore- Coach

                                                            

Without a question, Jim Moore has had as much to do with the development of coaches and players as any other coach in Ventura County history.  Jim's priority was to have them become quality people first and then good athletes.

Jim's early coaching experience included a brief stint as head football coach and athletic director at Yuma High School, Yuma, Arizona in the early 1950's. Jim took over a losing football program and eventually won the Arizona State High School Championship with them.

Coach Moore arrived at Ventura College in 1957.  In addition to his coaching duties, Jim taught courses in physical education and health, and years later coached the golf team.  Jim also assisted with other athletic programs at VC.

The highlight of Jim's coaching experience was leading the Pirates football squad to a Western State Conference Championship in 1965.  This was its first football championship eve enjoyed by Ventura College in the modern era. On the way to the championship, the Pirates were able to defeat many programs that were considered "powerhouses" such as LA Harbor, LA Pierce, and LA City College.  The Pirate team was rewarded with a high ranking in the National JC football poll, and played in 1965 Camellia Bowl against Riverside JC.  Coach Moore was proud to recruit and develop players from throughout the county, and was successful in placing many players in major universities so they could continue their education and football careers.

In 1966, Jim ended his athletic association with Ventura College when he was hired by the newly opened Moorpark College.  At Moorpark, Jim served as Director of Athletics for many years, and later as Dean of Admission and Records.  Jim also served as Assistant Superintendent and was promoted to Superintendent/Chancellor of the Ventura Community College District.

Jim has been very active in retirement.  He has been instrumental in fund raising efforts for the American Heart Association, plays a lot of golf, and enjoys being with his family.

Jim is experiencingthe good life in Arroyo Grande, California.  Last year, he was given a suprise BBQ in which many of his former coaches and players from the 1965 WSC Championship football team attended.