Auburn Chamber of Commerce Celebrate the Community Awards: Education – Randall Fee

Randall Fee is this year's honoree for the Education Award for his service and dedication to the students, staff and community of Placer High School as a coach, mentor and advocate. Coach Fee, a 1969 graduate of Placer High School, has inspired countless students with his unwavering dedication and passion for excellence. Beyond his coaching duties, he has been a mentor and role model, instilling values of perseverance and teamwork that resonate far beyond athletics. Throughout his coaching career across all levels of cross country and track at Placer, Fee distinguished himself as one of the school's most celebrated coaches. Under his leadership, both the boys and girls varsity cross country teams secured 27 league championships and 11 Sac-Joaquin Section titles. Additionally, eight of his individual runners achieved section champion status, while his 2004 girls varsity team clinched the state championship. Sixteen of his runners have gone on to compete at the collegiate level. Coach Fee's remarkable achievements have earned him multiple accolades, including being named Sacramento Bee Coach of the Year on two occasions, Sacramento Running Association Coach of the Year, and receiving the SFL and PVL Coach of the Year honors 11 times. His commitment to education and athletics has left an indelible mark on the school, fostering a sense of pride and unity among students and faculty alike. Coach Fee's heartfelt connections with students and colleagues have created a legacy that will be cherished for generations through his creation of, and ongoing service to, the Placer Athletic Hall of Fame Room located in the iconic Earl Crabbe Gym. His contributions encompass the installation of new trophy cases, as well as the collection and exhibition of memorabilia and trophies from the school's past. Coach Fee was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame by its board in 2023. He has also played a key role in the recent renovation of the gym, which now includes the Earl Crabbe Plaza, commemorative bricks, signage, lighting and historical markers with benches. His passion lies in giving back to Placer High School every day. Coach Fee's dedication extends beyond the physical improvements he has championed; it is deeply rooted in the relationships he nurtures and the wisdom he imparts. Whether offering guidance or celebrating victories, he exemplifies what it means to truly invest in the future while remembering and honoring the past. His infectious enthusiasm and genuine care have made Placer High School not just a place of learning but a home for many. In receiving the Education Award, the community gathers to honor a man whose impact is immeasurable. His legacy is not only seen in the trophies and accolades but in the lives he has touched and the dreams he has helped realize. The gratitude expressed by students, colleagues and alumni speaks volumes about the profound influence Coach Fee has had and continues to have on those around him. Tom O'Malley is superintendent of the Placer Union High School District.