A sudden leadership change
San Marin High School announced this month that Bob Scheppler would assume the role of head baseball coach, replacing James Vattuone, who was dismissed in July after a decade of service. Vattuone’s departure came without a public rationale from the administration, leaving parents and alumni searching for answers.
Vattuone, 48, had guided the team to the North Coast Section playoffs twice and captured three Marin County Athletic League titles in the past four years, achievements that many view as the foundation of the program’s recent success. His removal sparked an online petition that has gathered roughly 160 signatures, with supporters emphasizing his emphasis on teamwork, integrity and perseverance.
Community response
Bob Scheppler, a former coach at Novato High School where he compiled a championship record and mentored numerous players, now brings his experience to San Marin. He serves as a battalion chief for the San Francisco Fire Department and sits on the board of Equip Sports, a nonprofit that provides youth health and athletic training. His annual stipend as head coach is set at $2,975, a modest figure that reflects the part‑time nature of the position.
Andy Boone, principal of San Marin, dismissed concerns about a possible conflict of interest, stating that the hiring committee selected the candidate who best fit the team’s needs. Tracy Smith, superintendent of Novato Unified School District, added that the district’s priority is to place the strongest possible coach in front of the players, though she declined to elaborate on the decision‑making process.
The lack of an official explanation has left the community uneasy, with some parents questioning whether Scheppler’s dual roles could influence school policies or resource allocation. As the district moves forward, the conversation about transparency and accountability in coaching appointments remains open.