Jim Mentz, a fixture of Tucson high school sports for almost four decades, announced his move from Palo Verde to Cienega High School, where he will take over the baseball program.
Mentz spent 36 years at Palo Verde, guiding the baseball team to a state championship in 2014 and steering the girls soccer squad to three state finals and a semifinal.
A Record of Community Service
Beyond the fields, Mentz taught within the Tucson Unified School District for three decades, compiled more than 300 career wins, and organized the annual Palo Verde alumni baseball game, an event unique to Southern Arizona.
He also served as the public‑address announcer for Palo Verde football for over 30 years, reinforcing his deep connection to the school’s broader athletic community.
Mentz’s departure comes as Cienega seeks a new baseball coach, joining a rapid turnover that has seen three coaches in as many years, with Andres Hackman having led the program this season after Kelly Johnson stepped down to become the boys golf coach.
Known for emphasizing community involvement and player development, Mentz’s philosophy has shaped generations of athletes who credit him with both athletic and personal growth.
His move underscores the fluid nature of coaching in the region and promises continuity of the competitive spirit he cultivated at Palo Verde.