Coach Candaele came to CMS in 1993 and has been head coach since 1995. Prior to coaching in Claremont, Rick was the head coach at UC Santa Barbara for four years. He compiled a record of 22-8, giving him the highest winning percentage in Gaucho history. Before he became the head coach, Rick also served as defensive coordinator for UCSB and his defense ranked fifth in the nation among Division II teams. He has also served as head football coach/teacher at Armijo High School in Fairfield, CA and Nampa High School in Nampa, ID.

Candaele attended the College of Idaho and earned twelve varsity letters playing football, baseball, and basketball. He received All-American honors in football and baseball his senior year. Rick enjoys all types of movies, travel, and attending athletic events to watch his five grandchildern (Peyton, Emery, Devyn, Bobby and Olivia). His son Coley is currently the Head Football Coach at Vista Murrieta High School and has been both California Athlete of the Year and California Coach of the Year. Daughter Kirsten teaches 5th grade and coaches basketball in Oxnard, CA. Kirsten earned 12 varsity letters at Carpinteria High School and has been honored as teacher of the year in the Oxnard School District.

Wife of 40 years, Maren, resides in Claremont and spends many hours watching her grandchildren, going to games, and dealing in her favorite hobby,antiques.

Thanks to family, coaches, parents and players for making CMS a great place to coach.