In a heartfelt ceremony held on August 8, 2024, Loara High School dedicated its gymnasium and wrestling room to two of the school’s most iconic figures—Coach Ed Prange and Dr. John Dahlem. The dedication, attended by students, faculty, and alumni, highlighted the enduring impact both men have had on the school and the district’s athletic programs.
Paul Chylinski, a longtime district teacher, delivered a moving speech praising Dr. Dahlem’s unwavering dedication to both education and athletics. He also recognized Coach Prange’s immense contributions to the school’s basketball program. “We are honored to celebrate the legacies of both Ed Prange and John Dahlem,” Chylinski said. “Their commitment to academics, integrity, and sportsmanship has left a lasting mark on Loara High School and our community.”
Honoring Dr. John Dahlem: Loara’s Wrestling Room Dedication
Dr. John Dahlem, a beloved figure at Loara High School, was honored by having the wrestling room named after him. A teacher at Loara from 1969 to 1984, he served as the school’s wrestling coach for 13 years, amassing an astonishing record of 233 wins and only 36 losses. Under his leadership, the team won ten league championships and clinched the CIF Championship in 1983. Dr. Dahlem was recognized as League Coach of the Year ten times
and Orange County Coach of the Year four times. His remarkable contributions to wrestling were further cemented when he became the first inductee into the Orange County Wrestling Hall of Fame.
Beyond his coaching achievements, Dr. Dahlem also served as Loara High School’s principal from 1997 to 2004, shaping not just athletes but the entire student body. The naming of the wrestling room is a testament to his influential leadership on and off the mat.
Ed Prange: Loara’s Gymnasium Dedicated to a Coaching Legend
The Loara High School gymnasium was named in honor of Ed Prange, who served as the school’s head basketball coach for 34 years. His teams secured nearly 450 victories, six league titles, and qualified for CIF playoffs in an incredible 30 out of the 34 seasons he coached. Coach Prange was named Orange County Coach of the Year in 1998, and his legacy extended beyond wins and titles—he embodied sportsmanship and integrity. These values have inspired generations of Loara students.
Cork Snider, a longtime friend of Prange, spoke during the ceremony, emphasizing the deeper meaning of the gym’s new name. “The naming of this facility symbolizes Ed’s lifelong dedication to academics, athletics, and character. His influence stretched far beyond the basketball court.”
UPDATE: on October 16, 2024, the CIF Southern Section honored Coach Prange with the Distinguished Service Award for contributing to High School athletics and Loara High School. Mr. Prange’s wife and friend Cork Snider accepted the award on his behalf, with Mr. Rick Burns / Teacher & Friend, Mr. Paul Chylinski / Activities Director & Friend, and Mr. Mohammad Abuhadwan / Assistant Basketball Coach & former Player under Coach Prange also in attendance.
Board of Trustees Approval
The decision to name both the gymnasium and the wrestling room followed a thorough review process by the Anaheim Union High School District’s ad hoc committee. Following Board Policy 5201, established in 2011 to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the district, the Board of Trustees reviewed and approved the naming proposals. Trustee Hoshi led the motion to name the wrestling room after Dr. Dahlem, while Trustee O’Neal initiated the motion to name the gym after Coach Prange. Both motions were unanimously approved by the Board, marking a fitting tribute to two men who have been pillars of Loara High School’s athletic history.
A Legacy of Excellence
The newly named Ed Prange Gymnasium and Dr. John Dahlem Wrestling Room are enduring reminders of the dedication, hard work, and passion these two men brought to Loara High School. As future generations of students step into these spaces, they will follow two remarkable leaders whose legacies continue to inspire.
