Newport Harbor interim boys water polo coach Marco Palazzo, who took over for Robert Lynn just before the start of the season and guided the Sailors to the CIF Division 1 quarterfinals, will not apply for the school’s vacant permanent position, he confirmed Wednesday.
“I have decided not to apply for the job. I like to coach because it is fun and I did not have fun this (high school) season,” he wrote in an e-mail.
“I’m sure the high school program will find a good coach and I wish the best to the Sailors.”
The former U.S. Olympic men’s assistant coach emphasised positiveness during matches by posting a banner about sportsmanship and conduct on the pool deck.
The Sailors (10-17) finished below .500 and dropped out of the county Top 10 but upset Agoura in the first round of the Division 1 playoffs before falling to eventual runner-up Mater Dei, 11-4, in the quarterfinals.
The Monarchs haven’t lost to a county team since falling at El Toro in October of 2010.
Palazzo will remain a coach with the Newport Beach Water Polo Club.
More info come.