Sal Gonzales, the athletic director and former cross country coach at Rio Rancho High School, passed away Monday afternoon at age 51 after a lengthy battle with colorectal cancer. Gonzales had been fighting the disease for approximately two and a half years, undergoing multiple treatments including radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. His declining health prompted him to resign from his position last month to focus on his care.

Gonzales was widely respected and admired within the Rio Rancho school community and New Mexico’s running circles. He was known not only for his coaching success but also for his deep commitment to the students, coaches, and athletic programs he served. Before becoming the school’s athletic director four years ago, he led Rio Rancho’s cross country team to four state championships in 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2020. His philosophy emphasized building a strong program culture and fostering development among athletes and coaches alike.

According to Rio Rancho Principal Millan Baca, Gonzales was also a dynamic classroom teacher earlier in his career and later focused on cultivating coaching talent, recognizing the broader impact it would have on the community. Colleagues described him as passionate about athletics and education, someone who rarely spoke about his illness publicly but maintained a steadfast dedication to his responsibilities despite physical challenges.

“He was really the heart of Rio Rancho High School,” Baca said. Athletic Director Todd Resch echoed those sentiments, recalling Gonzales as a dear friend who cared deeply for both coaches and student-athletes and consistently went above and beyond in his role.

Peers from across the coaching community paid tribute to Gonzales’s impact. Hall of Fame coach Adam Kedge of Albuquerque Academy remembered him as a “premier coach and person” who fought his illness with strength and never complained. Longtime volleyball coach Toby Manzanares, a close friend of Gonzales, highlighted his honesty, passion, and unwavering dedication to youth and sports. Rivals also acknowledged his influence, with Cleveland High’s coach Kenny Henry crediting Gonzales for pushing athletes and coaches alike to excel.

Gonzales is survived by his wife, Hope Alcon Gonzales, and their two children, Natalie and Gabriel. His family described him as a devoted father and husband. His legacy includes not only the state titles and athletic programs he helped build but also the personal connections and mentorship that left a lasting impression throughout the Rio Rancho community and beyond.