Former University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo men’s soccer head coach Garrett Estrin, 48, died on April 17, in California after a two-year battle with esophageal cancer.
Estrin was named the program’s eighth head coach in May 2022 and helped the Vulcans soccer programs begin a new era by leading the men’s team to a season-opening 2-1 victory over Cal Poly Humboldt on the brand-new turf Vulcan Soccer Field.
Estrin coached soccer at various levels for nearly 20 years. He spent his collegiate playing days at Cal State Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) where he was a three-time team captain as goalkeeper, helping the Toros claim the 2000 NCAA Division II National Championship with five saves in a four-overtime victory. He received the 2000–01 Dr. Richard Butwell Senior Award, given in recognition for dedication to CSUDH, community service and academic commitment.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Garrett, who I have known for more than 25 years,” said UH Hilo Director of Athletics Patrick Guillen, who served as CSUDH director of sports information during the Toros’ national championship run. “My heart goes out to his beautiful wife Helen and his two children. G was truly an amazing person, first and foremost, a great husband and a wonderful father. He lived and loved life and was admired by all those who came in contact with him. While only here at Hawaiʻi Hilo for one year, he made a tremendous impact on the lives of his players and is greatly missed. May he rest in love and aloha.”
Funeral services are scheduled for April 17, at the Forest Lawn Memorial in Glendale, California.
For more on Estrin, go to HiloAthletics.com
