THE OFFICIAL SITE OF
Los Gatos High School Athletics

Coach Mike Minkel brings a wealth of experience and passion to the Los Gatos High School baseball program. Currently serving as the Head Coach for LGHS Baseball since 2023, Minkel has a diverse coaching background that spans over a decade.

His coaching journey began as a Graduate Assistant Coach at Cumberland University in the 2008-09 season. He then transitioned to Mission College in 2010 as an Assistant Coach, followed by a successful stint at Saratoga High School from 2011 to 2015. Minkel returned to Cumberland University as a Volunteer Assistant Coach for the 2016-17 season, further honing his skills and knowledge of the game. He joined Los Gatos High School as an Assistant Coach from 2019 to 2020 before moving to Valley Christian High School for the 2021-22 season. His return to Los Gatos as Head Coach has reinvigorated the program with his commitment to excellence.

Minkel's coaching philosophy resonates with the belief that "the best teams are made up of a bunch of nobodies who love everybody, serve anybody, and don't care about becoming a somebody," as famously stated by Phil Dooley. Under his leadership, LGHS Baseball is dedicated to competing for De Anza League Championships and aims to secure its first CCS championship since 2009.

An active member of the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA), Coach Minkel emphasizes the importance of maintaining the highest standards both on and off the field, encouraging academic excellence and community involvement among his players.

His playing credentials are impressive as well, having been named to the All-Conference Team at Mission College in 2002-03 and contributing to Cumberland University’s NAIA National Championship team in 2004-05, where he was also recognized as an All-Tournament Team member.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport, Coach Minkel was honored as the 2023 De Anza League Coach of the Year. He holds an MBA and a Master of Arts in Teaching with a focus on Special Education.

Outside of baseball, Coach Minkel enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, reflecting his belief in the value of community and relationships. His dedication to the game and his players continues to inspire the Los Gatos baseball community.