South County native Joe Heinz remembered as CIF commissioner, mentor of young athletes

The South County sports community lost an icon and cherished friend with the untimely passing of Chula Vista High School alumnus Joe Heinz, who died Tuesday following complications related to a stroke.

He was 56.

Heinz served many roles during his career: student, athlete, teacher, coach, husband, father and lastly as San Diego Section Commissioner.

Heinz navigated the section through some difficult times, taking over the position during the 2020 coronavirus pandemic and building toward a period of sustained growth in participation numbers.

During his tenure as section commissioner, he saw numerous local teams win state championships and participate in postseason competition as the regional playoffs expanded.

Heinz played college football at San Diego State University where he blocked for Hall of Fame running back Marshall Faulk. He began his teaching career within the Sweetwater Union High School District at his alma mater before serving 15 years as athletics coordinator in the district.

Heinz touched many lives, especially within the Spartan family.

“Coach Joe Heinz was my JV offensive coordinator and later our varsity offensive line coach when I played at Chula Vista High School from 2001–04,” said current CVHS varsity head coach and athletic director Jimmy Clark III. “Simply put, he was the greatest mentor and leader I ever played for.

“Coach Heinz had a unique ability to connect with his players as individuals. He was truly a transformational leader. The relationships he built went far beyond football, and the impact he had on me as a young man continues to shape the coach and educator I am today. Because of my experience playing for Coach Heinz, I make it a priority to coach each player as an individual, build genuine relationships and make sure they know that I care about them beyond what they can do on the field.

 “As CIF Commissioner, Coach Heinz was firm, fair and always kept student-athletes first. At the end of the day, that was what mattered most to him: What is best for the kids?

“That is why so many of us loved and respected him. He wasn’t just a coach or commissioner. He was an educator, mentor and leader who genuinely cared about every kid he had the opportunity to serve.”

The San Diego Section issued a press release Wednesday afternoon in the wake of Heinz’s passing.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the attached message regarding the passing of our Commissioner, colleague, and dear friend, Joe Heinz,” the statement read.

“Joe’s leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to student-athletes and education-based athletics touched countless lives throughout San Diego and Imperial Counties. His impact on the CIF San Diego Section and the communities we serve is immeasurable, and his loss is deeply felt by all of us who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

“We know that many of you shared a personal and professional relationship with Joe, and we are grateful for the friendship, support, and respect you showed him throughout his years of service.”

Current Eastlake High School and former Sweetwater High School athletic director Ervin Hernandez also spoke highly of Heinz.

“Joe had a way of making you feel special, as he genuinely cared about you,” Hernandez said. “He was always our biggest supporter and did his best to hear concerns and provide solutions. He was always a phone call away and would ensure to pick up or call back immediately. I learned so much on how he led with intentionality and cared about prioritizing education-based athletics. This is a big loss in the CIFSDS community, and I will miss him dearly.”

Information on services from the family is pending.