Lovington forces out head football coach

Jaime Quinones has a long history with the Lovington High School football team. It all started in fall of 1988 when Quinones was named an assistant coach for the Wildcats. Quinones remained in that role until 2006 when he became head coach, replacing the retiring Speedy Faith. After 10 years of guiding the Wildcats, Quinones was forced to step down after guiding the Wildcats to a 1-9 season. It was the second 1-9 season for the Wildcats in the last three seasons.

“I want the kids to know that I did not quit on them,” Quinones said. “I was not given a choice.”

Quinones’ career at Lovington ends with three state championships (2009-11) and a record of 65-57. The Wildcats have struggled the past three seasons though, winning a total of seven games. Lovington was 5-5 in 2014.

Under Quinones’ tutelage, Lovington won an average of 6.5 games per year, while dropping 5.7 losses per season.

Lovington last made the playoffs in 2012 when it fell one game short of the Class 3A championship game after wins against Pojoaque Valley and Bloomfield. The Wildcats lost to St. Michael’s that year, which ultimately would win the state championship.

Quinones spoke with his team one last time and briefly described the moment.

“I had an opportunity to talk to the kids,” Quinones said. “It was very hard to talk to a group of kids that you weren’t ready to say goodbye to.” When asked how he felt on the matter considering it wasn’t his choice, Quinones was succinct. “It was very emotional,” Quinones said. “Because I didn’t have a say-so in the matter.” While other coaches would begin their job search right away, Quinones is leaving his next step in the hands of a higher power. “I’m just waiting for God to guide me and help me out what I need to do next,” Quinones said. “And show me what my next step is going to be.” Lovington Athletic Director Robert Arreola directed comments to the Lovington superintendent.