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CIF Commissioner Heinz remembered
- Updated: September 23, 2026
Joe Heinz passed away on Tuesday at the age of 56.
2026 LOCAL COVERAGE
Joe Heinz went from Chula Vista to Aztecs, to top prep administrator
EastCountySports.com staff report
Joe Heinz, whose career in local athletics took him from the football field at Chula Vista High to leadership of the CIF San Diego Section, died Tuesday, Sept. 22, from complications following a stroke, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported. He was 56.
Heinz became the section’s sixth commissioner in 2020, succeeding Jerry Schniepp. His responsibilities extended across San Diego and Imperial counties, including the East County schools whose athletes competed in the championships his office oversaw.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Heinz helped guide the return of high school competition. His tenure continued through the rebuilding of athletic schedules and growth in student participation.
A 1988 Chula Vista High graduate, Heinz played on San Diego State’s offensive line from 1988 through 1992, including teams featuring future Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Marshall Faulk.
He returned to Chula Vista as a coach before moving into athletic administration in the Sweetwater Union High School District, where he served as coordinator of athletics.
His service also included the presidency of the San Diego High School Sports Association, six years on the San Diego Section Coordinating Council, work on an appeals panel and duties as a football playoff tournament director.
As commissioner, Heinz’s responsibilities ranged from championship oversight and playoff divisions to eligibility, transfers, gender equity and Unified Sports.
He remained connected to his alma mater, attending the dedication of Chula Vista High’s new football stadium shortly before his death. He also attended the Metro Conference Hall of Fame induction ceremony that weekend, according to the Union-Tribune.
Heinz is survived by his wife, Chula Vista High principal Jennifer Barker-Heinz, a son and two daughters.
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