Van Latham honored as So Cal boys track coach of year

Longtime Carpinteria High coach Van Latham is being honored by the California Coaches Association as the Southern California boys track and field coach of the year.

Latham will be presented the award at the CCA’s 58th annual Hall of Fame and Coaches of the Year Awards banquet on Saturday night in San Diego.

Latham has run Carpinteria’s track and field program for more than 30 years. He’s introduced numerous students to the sport. He’s also recognized for his outstanding organizational skills. He directs four major meets during the season: the Russell Cup, Santa Barbara County Championships, Tri-Valley League Championships and the CIF Division 4 Prelims.