Dr. Jose Elgorriaga was born in the small village of Endarlaza, Spain, and was raised through his high school years in Hendaye, France. He entered the United States on a student visa and enrolled at Fresno State in 1949. After earning a master’s degree and doctorate at UCLA, Dr. Elgorriaga returned to Fresno State to teach and coach soccer. For 30 years, he taught foreign languages and was celebrated with numerous awards of distinction, including being the chair of the department on a rotating basis. He developed a stellar reputation as the first Fresno State athletic coach to have a team ranked No. 1 in the nation in the sport of soccer. Today, Dr. Elgorriaga is credited with Fresno County’s abundant youth soccer programs.