Things changed drastically for the better in the win-loss column in Thorossian’s two seasons at Glendale.
Taking over a squad that went 0-10 in 2006, Thorossian coached the 2007 Nitros to a 1-8-1 mark. But more than what could be seen just in the win-loss column, Glendale scored nearly 100 points more and gave up nearly 100 points less that it had the season prior, as it was outscored 417-83 in ’06 in comparison to 314-163 in ’07.
Glendale now begins its search for a new coach, who will be the school’s fifth in six years.
“I respect the job that Rafik has done in building the Glendale High School program ... and support his efforts in other interests,” Glendale Principal Deb Rinder said. “Glendale High has an opportunity to carry forth the momentum that the team has made this [past] year.
“I think that the Glendale High football position would be a dream position for a coach to put us back on the map.”
Some might say that’s exactly what Thorossian did.
A monumental turnaround was seen this past season. The Nitros began the year at 3-0 and went 3-4 in the Pacific League, missing out on the playoffs by a mere flip of the coin.
“The guys played great,” said Thorossian, who had seven All-Pacific League selections and seven All-Area picks and was second to Crescenta Valley Coach Tony Zarrillo in All-Area Coach of the Year voting. “They played their heart out for me. They did everything I asked of them. It showed on the field.”
Thorossian stepping down was official on Dec. 19. It was a decision that came as a surprise to the Nitros.
