Pete Pontacq, the former men’s basketball head coach and current teacher of various physical education classes at Skyline, is set to retire on Dec.19.

Pontacq first came to Skyline in 1981 as the head coach of the Men’s Basketball team. He ended up leading that very team to the state championship where they earned runner-up honors. The team got back to the state championship the following year, but that time, they won. Though that was the only team to win a state championship throughout Pontacq’s 21-year coaching career, he insists he does not have a favorite.

“I can’t say I have a favorite team because we have had some really good years, and I have enjoyed every one of them as much as the first one,” Pontacq said.

Pontacq led the team to 16 conference championships and reached the state championship eight times.

“I am proud to say that I helped some really talented guys take their game to new heights,” Pontacq said.

Last March, Pontacq was inducted into the California Community College Coaches Hall of Fame.

He ended up stepping down as head coach of the team after the 2001 season, making current Skyline head coach Tony Raffetto his successor.

After giving up his coaching duties, Pontacq still remained a part of the college staff, teaching physical education classes. These courses include beginning basketball, badminton, and weight training.

“I figured by teaching these courses, it gives me an opportunity to stay active as well as still be affiliated with the school because I really enjoyed every year here,” Pontacq said.

He now plans to move to Palm Springs and enjoy his retirement while residing with his family.