John Roemer

John Roemer is an accomplished coach, athlete, and leader with a distinguished career spanning decades in coaching and public service. He has dedicated much of his life to developing young athletes—particularly in water polo—making significant contributions to the sport at the collegiate, high school, and club levels.

Since 1987, John has served as the Coordinator for the Alameda County Special Olympics, providing opportunities for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities to excel in sports and engage with their communities. In addition to his work with Special Olympics, John has been the Head Coach of the Miramonte High School Girls Water Polo team since 2021, leading the team to significant success.

John’s coaching résumé includes notable leadership roles with several clubs and schools. From 2008 to 2015, he served as the Head Coach for the Diablo Valley College Men’s Water Polo program, winning conference titles each year and earning Coach of the Year honors seven times. He was also the Head Coach of the Diablo Valley College Women’s Water Polo team from 2013 to 2015, leading them to three consecutive conference titles. From 2016 to 2021, he was the Head Coach of the 680 Girls Club Water Polo 18U team, and from 2014 to 2016, he served as Co-Head Coach for the 805 Girls Club Water Polo 12U and 14U teams.

Throughout his career, John has earned numerous accolades for his success in water polo coaching. Under his leadership, his teams have won three North Coast Section Championship titles in the Open Division (2021–2024) and three NorCal State Championships in Division 1. In 2022, he was honored as the California High School Coach of the Year. His teams have also claimed multiple Junior Olympic gold medals, including a gold at the US Club Championships and silver and bronze finishes at Junior Olympics.

In addition to his coaching achievements, John had a distinguished 27-year career with the Oakland Fire Department, retiring as a Captain in 2010. His background in public service complements his coaching philosophy, emphasizing discipline, teamwork, and leadership.

John holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from California State University, East Bay (formerly Hayward State University), a teaching credential from Mills College, and a Bachelor of Science from the University of California, Berkeley, where he lettered in both swimming and water polo.

John’s career in water polo has been defined by his dedication to developing athletes both in and out of the pool. His contributions to the sport have earned him multiple Coach of the Year honors and induction into the Diablo Valley College Hall of Fame in 2005.

With his extensive experience as both a coach and public servant, John Roemer is a respected figure in the water polo community and a mentor to many young athletes striving for excellence.