russell.oka@creanlutheran.org

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

Coach Russell Oka returns to Crean Lutheran with over ten years of coaching experience at the youth, high school, and collegiate level. His credentials include his alma mater Loyola High School, Palos Verdes Pop Warner, California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo, California Lutheran University, and JSerra Catholic High School. Coach Oka comes with a diverse coaching background, coaching defensive backs, wide receivers, and running backs. He has coached elite players, who received accolades such as All-League, All-CIF, and All-Orange County. Additionally, Coach Oka had a brief stint with Seattle Seahawks Head Coach Pete Carroll.

Most recently, Coach Oka served as the Head JV Coach / Offensive Coordinator and Varsity Running Backs Coach for JSerra Catholic High School. In addition to coaching, Oka was the Associate Athletic Director for Academics and Student Educational Resource Program Testing Center Supervisor Coach Oka is grateful to God for providing him with an opportunity to be coaching at a Christ-centered institution. He is honored to assist Coach Rick Curtis, a well-respected high school coach in Orange County. As a graduate of Loyola High School, he was part of the 2005 CIF Division 1 Championship team. Coach Oka received his bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Pitzer College, where he also played running back for the Sagehens. He continued his education at California Lutheran University, where he received his Master’s in Education Leadership. Currently, Coach Oka resides in Mission Viejo with his wife Kimi. Coach Oka and his wife welcomed baby Austin to the family last March.