My name is Nicholas Kendall, and I am truly honored to serve as the Head Coach of the River Islands High School Football Program. I am a proud husband, father, and son who loves the game of football. Everything I do—from leading my family to leading young athletes—is grounded in love, purpose, and service to my community.

My football journey began in 1988 with the Oakland Warriors Pop Warner organization, where I first fell in love with the sport. Growing up in Oakland shaped my toughness, my resilience, and my understanding of how powerful football can be in the life of a young person. I continued playing through high school and graduated from Oakland Tech in 2007.

After high school, I attended Fresno State, where I met my wife and discovered my passion for coaching. That season of my life strengthened my sense of purpose and helped me realize that I was meant to mentor and develop young people through the game I love. I later graduated from Fresno Pacific University, which helped solidify the academic and leadership foundation I bring into coaching today.

I began coaching in 2010, and I’ve been blessed with opportunities to serve at a wide range of programs that have shaped the coach I am today. My high school coaching journey started at McLane High School, serving as the Defensive Coordinator and growing in my understanding of scheme, leadership, and defensive identity.

I later joined Clovis West High School, working as both a Varsity Assistant Coach and the JV Head Coach, which deepened my commitment to player development and program-building. My path then led me to Lincoln High School, where I served as the JV Offensive Coordinator before taking on the Varsity Defensive Coordinator role at Modesto Christian, helping athletes compete at a high level on both sides of the ball. Most recently, I had the opportunity to guide the offense as the Varsity Offensive Coordinator at Kimball High School, an experience that sharpened my play‑calling, preparation, and leadership.

Each stop along the way—each team, each student-athlete, each challenge—has shaped me both personally and professionally. These experiences reinforced my belief that football is bigger than wins and losses. It’s a platform to teach discipline, character, accountability, and brotherhood.

Stepping into the Head Coach role at River Islands High School is an opportunity I don’t take lightly. I’m committed to building a program that reflects the values of this community—tough, unified, and focused on growth. My mission is to empower our players to become leaders on the field, in the classroom, and in life. Together, we will continue to build something our entire community will be proud of. Go Riptide!

The Tide is rising.

#RollTide