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St. Mary’s High boys’ basketball head coach Jose Caraballo submitted his resignation to the school late last week, Athletic Director Jay Lawson confirmed this weekend. 

Caraballo’s resignation came as a surprise, as he led the Panthers to the school’s first state championship two years ago as well as a Northern California semifinal berth in Division I last season. Caraballo, 39, was also a teacher at the private school. 

“I’ve thought about it for a while,” Caraballo said. “I just didn’t feel supported by the administration as a teacher or coach.” 

“I’m glad they gave me the opportunity. Sometimes you just can’t stay in a certain situation when you don’t agree with certain things that are being done.”  

St. Mary’s qualified for North Coast Section play in each of Caraballo’s seven seasons, compiling a 147-67 record. The Panthers won the last two Bay Shore Athletic League titles, going undefeated in league play both years with a 59-8 overall record. 

“I’m most proud about my kids, the commitment they made to me, the school and the program. What I’m most proud of is their hard work and dedication. I had two goals when I started the job: to win and to go to Division I. I guess I accomplished both those goals.” 

Caraballo was an assistant under legendary coach Frank LaPorte at St. Joseph before taking the head job at St. Mary’s in 1995.  

Caraballo said he doesn’t have another job yet, although he interviewed with USC head coach Henry Bibby about an assistant position. 

St. Mary’s assistant coach Mark Olivier has reportedly accepted the head coach job at Hercules High. 

Lawson said he hopes to have the St. Mary’s vacancy filled within the next two weeks.