Former Hawai’i Hilo Men’s Soccer head coach Garrett Estrin, 48, passed away last Thursday in California after a two-year battle with esophageal cancer.

Estrin was named the program’s eighth different 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.

The Palm Springs, California native spent nearly 20 years coaching various levels of soccer with head coaching stops at College of the Desert and Bristol University, as well as Rancho Mirage High School, Palm Springs High School and Junipero Sierra High School.

Estrin spent his collegiate playing days at Cal State Dominguez Hills (1996-2000) 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 was also the recipient of the 2000-01 Dr. Richard Butwell Senior Award, given in recognition for dedication to CSUDH, community service and academic commitment.

Over the last two seasons, Estrin was on the sidelines for a handful of the Vulcans Men’s Soccer road games in Southern California along with other Vulcans Golf and Vulcans Basketball events in the area. Hawai’i Hilo Men’s Soccer matched up twice against his alma mater: a one-goal defeat at Toro Stadium in 2023 and a 2-0 victory in Hilo last fall. The CSUDH 2000 National Championship team was recognized during halftime of the Sept. 2023 contest — with Estrin in full Vulcans gear.

After experiencing initial health effects in early 2023, Estrin returned to California and Marroquin later joined the Vulcans staff as acting head coach.

A funeral service is scheduled for Thursday, April 17 at the Forest Lawn in Cathedral City, California.

 

Photo credit: UH Hilo