RRHS athletic director Sal Gonzales to resign; search for replacement to begin immediately 

RIO RANCHO — Rio Rancho High School has announced Monday that Athletic Director Sal Gonzales has stepped down.

Gonzales, the longtime Rams coach and RRHS athletic director since 2022, will resign from the position to focus on his health.

“Mr. Gonzales shared that stepping away from the role was a difficult decision,” Rio Rancho Public Schools wrote in its statement. “Noting that it is unfortunate that his health can no longer keep up with the passion he has for sports and his service to the Rams Athletic Program, its athletes, and its coaches.”

Gonzales was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2024, handling both his health and the job over the past two years.

“Throughout his time as Athletic Director, Mr. Gonzales worked tirelessly to support the growth and success of the school’s athletic department,” RRPS wrote. “Helping create opportunities for students to excel both on and off the field. His efforts strengthened relationships across the school community and elevated the standard of excellence for Rio Rancho athletics.”

Before serving as athletic director, Gonzales led Rio Rancho cross-country to four state championships, winning in 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2020. Gonzales also won a 1999 state title with Pecos High School, making him a five-time champion.

Gonzales was hired by Rio Rancho Public Schools in 2008, teaching history and geography on top of his athletic resume.

“Sal Gonzales has demonstrated from Day 1 his exemplary commitment to the student-athletes, coaches, and the entire RRHS athletic community,” said RRHS principal Millan Baca. “His own successes as a head coach and a lifelong dedication to improving others has been vital to growing the athletic programs at RRHS. We wish him the best during this trying time.”

Rio Rancho Public Schools has stated that the search for RRHS’s next athletic director will begin immediately.