From Student to Coach: Paul Lyons' Full-Circle Journey at Manteca High

BY JAHLEI-AH SMITH 

The Tower 

Paul Lyons is more than just a familiar face around Manteca High — he’s a full-circle story of growth, mentorship, and hometown pride.  

As a former Buffalo, Lyons once shared the same classrooms as the students he now teaches and coaches. A graduate of Manteca High, Lyons carried a 3.0 or better GPA, a solid academic performance that reflected both determination and balance that continue to shape his role today. 

Now a dedicated teacher and coach, Lyons heads the cross-country and track & field team, where he’s known not just for his training methods but also for the strong personal connections he builds with students. Whether it’s pushing athletes to break their personal records or encouraging them in the classroom, Lyons is passionate about helping young people unlock their full potential. 

“I think the fact that I graduated here and ran track here and was able to run in college was a big motivator,” Lyons said. “The timing also worked out. I really wanted to get into teaching high school and with coach (Brian) Rohles looking for a replacement he could trust the program with; it just lined up in my favor. 

What makes Lyons especially compelling is how deeply rooted he is in the Manteca community he attended Manteca high from 2008-2011 as a student and started coaching here 5 years ago. He’s not just teaching at a school; he’s giving back to the place that helped shape him. His journey from student to staff is not only inspiring but also a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and staying connected to one’s roots.  

His student athletes often speak highly of his coaching style firm but fair, focused but fun. He leads by example, emphasizing not only physical strength but also mental toughness and resilience. For many students, he’s more than just a coach, he’s a role model, someone who understands their challenges because he’s been in their shoes. 

“When I don’t feel like doing something he’s always pushed me just to do it and at the end of the day it’s going to make me better,” said Quinn Martinez, a senior sprinter at Manteca. 

Lyons' story resonates because it's relatable. Not everyone graduates at the top of their class, but hard work, consistency, and heart can take you far. His achievements prove that success doesn’t always come from being perfect, but from showing up, staying committed, and being willing to grow. 

In a time when students are looking for guidance and real-life role models, Lyons offers both. His story reminds us of that impact often starts right in our own backyard and that sometimes, the best leaders are the ones who never really left. 

The Tower caught up with Paul Lyons to discuss his role as a teacher and track and field coach at Manteca High School. As a former student-athlete who once walked the same halls and ran on the same track, Lyons brings a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to his work. In this interview, he shares what led him back to campus, his proudest moments as a coach, and the advice he gives his athletes—both on and off the field. 

The Tower: What inspired you to become a teacher and track and field coach here at Manteca? 

Paul Lyons: I think the fact that I graduated here and ran track here and was able to run in college was a big motivator. The timing also worked out. I really wanted to get into teaching high school, and with Coach Rohles looking for a replacement he could trust the program with, it just lined up in my favor. 

TT: Who inspired you to get into track and field? 

PL: My dad was the big one. He hurdled in school, and he said, “You’re going to be tall,” and I was fast, so he told me I really had the potential to be solid if I dedicated my time to it. My dad was a big factor in a lot of sports I tried, but with track, I stuck with it—and I put a lot of weight on him to motivate me. He was basically my coach 24/7. 

TT: How did it feel to bring home the Division 3 Sections banner for the first time in Manteca High School history? 

PL: It was awesome. That was one of my big goals when I took over the program. I knew that wasn’t something we had accomplished, even when I was here, and I know that’s something every school wants for their sports teams. So, my goal was to see how long it would take us to get there, to learn what coaching would be like, and to see what kind of program we’d have after achieving that goal. So, it felt good. 

TT: What’s one piece of advice you give your athletes to help them succeed both in track and in life? 

PL: Never lack a sport. Never give half of your energy to anything. Practice is an hour and a half—I just need an hour and a half of your full focus. School? Every class is an hour and a half, so each one should get your full attention. One of my favorite quotes is, “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.” I even have it on my letterman jacket. That’s been my mindset since high school, through college, and now as a coach.