St. Mary’s girls hoops coach Gonsalves resigns
STOCKTON — Tom Gonsalves cited a difference in philosophy with the St. Mary’s High School athletic department as the reason he is stepping down as the Rams’ varsity basketball coach after two decades.
Gonsalves confirmed his decision to resign Thursday night, saying that he informed the administration a few days ago. It ends his remarkable run at St. Mary’s, which included more than 500 wins, a record seven state championships and 13 consecutive Sac-Joaquin Section crowns, the last of which the Rams secured in February.
He said he had a difference of opinion with the current athletic administration on the future of the program. Adam Lichter became athletic director in 2017, succeeding
Jim Brusa, who was promoted to president of the school.
“I’ve done a lot at St. Mary’s, but I have a different mentality than the new administration at St. Mary’s as far as the fact that I shoot for the stars and I want a national program,” Gonsalves said. “And I think they are more of a small school mentality and after my discussions, they are satisfied with a less intense program. And that’s OK, but it’s not what I do.
“I did what I could do at St. Mary’s, and for me to move on to the next level, I have to go somewhere else.”
Gonsalves did not give specifics about the differences in philosophy, although he said it wasn’t financial. He also pointed to what he felt was an apathetic response to Rams’ success in recent years.
“The winning became expected, and I guess not appreciated,” Gonsalves said. “I think that would happen anywhere. When you start winning so much, people just kind of get bored with it. I want to go to a place where they are excited.”
Lichter responded to requests for comment with a written statement by email:
“The administration of St. Mary’s High School has agreed to accept the resignation of Tom Gonsalves, head coach of the girls basketball team. We are grateful to Mr. Gonsalves for his many years of service to the basketball program, our school and our community. In his time as coach, the girls’ program achieved tremendous success and recognition. Mr. Gonsalves has our best wishes for success in all future endeavors.”
Gonsalves led the Rams into the national rankings several times and compiled a record of 554-72. He was named the Naismith national coach of the year and the Pat Summit national coach of the year for the 2015-16, and was the Maxpreps.com national coach of the year 2014-15.
He also coached many players who went on to collegiate and professional success.
“I’ve coached some great girls there,” Gonsalves said. “Some have gone on to great success, but the fun thing is so many love the game and wanted to get better. That’s what makes it enjoyable.”
Currently, Chelsea Gray plays for the Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA and was on Team USA touring team this past year, and Jacki Gemelos, a longtime pro, recently signing a training camp contract with the Connecticut Sun. Ali Gibson is a member of the Puerto Rican national team.
“His legacy speaks for itself, he’s done amazing things,” said Gibson, who played at Oregon State. “If you look at those people on those state championship teams, and how they progressed in college and the pros, it shows what kind of coach he is. It could be hard, but he also made it fun.”
Gonsalves said he has not made any decisions about his coaching future but is considering offers.
“I’m in no rush,” he said. “I’m looking for the right fit.”