Victor Gamboa Named New MIHS Football Head Coach

Victor Gamboa on the sidelines during a Islanders football game.

Mercer Island, WA, May 22, 2025 – Mercer Island High School athletic director Lindsey Blaine is pleased to announce Victor Gamboa has been named the new head football coach at MIHS.

Gamboa has been the defensive backs coach and defensive analyst for the Islanders for the previous three seasons. He was the head coach of the MIHS girls flag football team this season. He replaces DJ Mims who has accepted the head coach position at Puyallup High School.

“It is a true privilege to step into this new role, and I want to sincerely thank Athletic Director Lindsey Blaine and Principal Nick Wold for this opportunity and their belief in me,” said Gamboa.

“Having spent the past three years on the coaching staff, I have developed a deep appreciation for what makes Mercer Island such a unique and special place. Mercer Island is built on strong values, dedication, and a deep sense of community—qualities I am proud to embrace in my new role. I am passionate about the game, committed to the growth of our student-athletes both on and off the field, and ready to lead with integrity, energy, and purpose.

“My vision is to build on the foundation we have already established and continue to grow our program in a way that reflects the pride and spirit of Mercer Island,” continued Gamboa.

Gamboa played 42 games as defensive back for Eastern Washington University over four seasons from 2014 to 2017. He had 159 total tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, seven interceptions, and 23 passes defensed in those four seasons.

Gamboa graduated from Eastern Washington University in 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts in Business.

Gamboa played 12 games for the British Columbia Lions in the Canadian Football League from 2019 to 2021.

"Victor has demonstrated incredible leadership, passion, and commitment over the past three years,” said Blaine.

“He understands the heart of this community and the values of our program. We are confident in his ability to lead with integrity and inspire our student athletes on and off the field. We are thrilled to have him step into this role,” continued Blaine.