Beginning his 12th year at Santa Margarita High School and tenth as the Varsity head coach, Jim Hartigan has established himself as on of the winningest coaches in Orange County. Under Hartigan the Eagles have never had a losing season and have reached the CIF playoffs in eight of those nine years.

The 1996 team finished its campaign with a 13-1 record, while defeating Newport Harbor, 38-0, in the CIF-SS Division V title game. The 1997 team finished 14-0 defeating Tustin in the Division V finals.   The Eagles finished ranked number 1 in Division II in the State.

On the way, Santa Margarita also captured it's Second league title and Hartigan was named CIF Division V coach of the Year for the second year in a row.

He has been instrumental off the field as well. The weight room, team room, and coaching complex are a reflection of his dedication to building the finest program in the county.

His guidance, leadership and commitment to academics are evident as seven of his former players have moved on to play at the Ivy League schools.

Personal

James Michael Hartigan, 37 was born on August 9, 1960 in Philadelphia. he is a member of the American Football Coaches Association.

Hartigan is a graduate of University High School in Irvine and Cal State Fullerton whre he played defensive back under Gene Murphy. He came to Santa Margarita after coaching stints at Mater Dei and his alma mater, University.

Married in February of 1992, Hartigan, his wife Gina and daughter Gemma reside in Wagon Wheel Canyon.

Hartigan Finished his Master's degree in education at Azusa Pacific University in 1993. He is also chairperson of the physical education department.