History of the Sac-Joaquin Section
The Sac-Joaquin Section came into being as a result of the division of the old Northern Section of the CIF into two Sections; the Northern Section and the Sac-Joaquin Section. Agitation for the formation of the new Section was started by the principals of the old Central High School Athletic League in 1941. The principals felt that the Northern Section, as then constituted, was too large for efficient operation.
By agreement with the State Federated Council of the CIF and the Board of Managers of the Northern Section, the Section was organized in March 1942 and started to function in September 1942. Coach Joe Debely of Turlock High School suggested the name Sac-Joaquin for the new Section. This suggestion was approved.
A committee comprised of Mr. Shull, principal of Modesto High School; Mr. Ellis, principal of Stockton High School; and Mr. Murphy, principal of Sacramento High School, worked on the organization of the Section and this group was asked to continue its service and write a constitution. This committee did. It recommended a constitution that was adopted in September 1944.
The Section represents nearly 200 high schools, having a total enrollment of approximately 230,000 students. Two commissioners of officials control the assignment of all athletic officials. The Section is a member of the California Interscholastic Federation, which is a member of the National Federation of State High School Associations, organized in May 1920.
The CIF Sac-Joaquin Section has only had 4 commissioners.
- James Cave – 1942-1968
- Clarke C. Coover – 1968-1993
- Peter J. Saco – 1993-2014
- Michael S. Garrison – 2014-present