Joe Gizoni -1962-2003 Beloved Foothiller Staff

Joe Gizoni’s journey at Grossmont HS began in 1962 when he became the Boys’ P.E. Attendant in charge of equipment and assisting coaches.  The 1969 yearbook’s full page dedication to him began, “Joe Gizoni, We Salute You!” It continued “Joe’s relationship with the kids and the coaches has been a contributing factor to our great morale within the athletic department…he has been the trainer for all athletic teams, a rallying force at athletic event and a great friend.”

When twelve years later, Joe left GHS to be in charge of the GUHSD pool maintenance,  the 1974 yearbook applauded Joe stating, “With a pleasing personality, coaches and students alike share a mutual respect for him.  Joe wasn’t just an employee, but a pleasant friend who when needed could be fair and firm.  Joe has left Grossmont with a splash!”  Joe later returned to GHS in as Supervisor of Plant Operation and retired in 1987 after 21 total years of serving its Foothillers.

Even after retiring, Joe went every day to tidy the baseball field.  He managed the snack bar at home games.  He did all the odd jobs that were often left undone.  One coach recalls that Joe came to the field twice a day: “He did the work of five people…everything except drive the school bus.” In 1996, Grossmont’s baseball field was fittingly named in his honor. 

For nearly 40 years, Joe and Grossmont High School were nearly inseparable.  As his son Charles said, “He bled blue and gold.”