Matt Dunn Leaves Damien, Accepts Position at St John Bosco

It’s Official. Matt Dunn is taking his talents to Bellflower as the new head coach at St John Bosco.

After weeks of speculation, the 38 year old Dunn confirmed the move, resigning from his post as the head coach of the Damien Spartans Tuesday. Dunn leaves Damien after 12 years, where he compiled a 252-108 record at the school and is 279-131 all-time as a head coach, and led his team to a CIF Division 3AA title in 2013 and the state Division 3 title this year.

Damien finished 25-9 this season, and outlasted perennial powerhouses Chino and Etiwanda to win the tough Baseline League, and although they struggled in the Open division playoffs, bounced back to earn a state bid.

“It was a tough decision,” Dunn said. “I love Damien, our entire family has put our heart and soul into the school and there are some incredible memories. The coaches and players that I’ve been around me have incredible memories with. Anytime you have to make a decision to leave all that it’s hard.”

It is a big move, where a possible chance at a pay raise might have been the determining factor for Dunn, who was offered the position last week, and had him seriously contemplating all weekend before coming to his decision Tuesday.

“I like the challenge of building a program,” said Dunn, who lives in Glendora. “I won’t change how we do things, we’re going to build it from top to bottom and I’m excited to see if we can do that and still win at this level.

The Trinity League is one of the top leagues in California, boasting the likes of Mater Dei, Orange Lutheran, Servite and Santa Margarita, whom Damien defeated for the 2013 division crown.

“Ultimately for me, I’m excited for a new challenge. The Baseline league is incredible, but the Trinity is one of the best in the country and the opportunity to consistently compete at that level is an exciting thing.”

Dunn replaces outgoing coach Derrick Taylor who led the Braves to a CIF division 3A title in 2013 and Bosco’s first state Division II title last year.