Coast Conference Commissioner Dale Murray Passes Away at 81

Dale Murray
December 5, 1944 - February 25, 2026

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our longtime Commissioner, Dale Murray. Dale passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the age of 81.

Dale served as Commissioner of the Coast Conference from 1989 until his passing. For 37 years, he devoted himself to our conference with extraordinary dedication, integrity, and care. Four decades of service is more than a career, it is a lifetime of commitment. Through seasons of growth, change, challenge, and celebration, Dale was the steady presence who guided our conference forward with passion and purpose.

Prior to becoming the commissioner, Dale served at Cabrillo College for 49 years. First as the athletic trainer from 1973-2001; as the athletic director from 1979-2016; and from 2016-2019, he served as the athletic program specialist.

He believed deeply in the mission of intercollegiate athletics and in the power of sport to shape character, build community, and open doors for young people. Generations of student-athletes benefited from his leadership, often without ever knowing the countless hours he invested behind the scenes to ensure they had the opportunity to compete, learn, and thrive.

Beyond his inductions into the 3C2A, CCCADA, and Cabrillo College Halls of Fame, Dale will be remembered most for his kindness, his quiet strength, and his unwavering commitment to doing what was right. He held an unshakable conviction that our students must always come first.

On behalf of our 17 member institutions, including our college presidents, coaches, staff, and student-athletes, past and present, we extend our deepest condolences to Dale's family, friends, and loved ones. To Jenelle and Ashley, Dale's daughters, thank you for sharing your father with us for so many years. We are profoundly grateful for his service and for the legacy he leaves behind.

Dale, thank you for being our colleague, our mentor, and our friend. We will miss you. Rest in peace.

(Release by the Coast Conference)