A veteran of prep, club and USA Water Polo Central California Zone coaching, Gabrielle "Gaby" Hawkins joined the St. Francis Catholic High School family as its new head water polo coach in the summer of 2023.

"I am thrilled to welcome Gaby to St. Francis, and I know our Troubie families share my excitement," said Chisolm. "She has a proven track record in growing the sport in the Sacramento area, and her experience and philosophy in guiding young women makes her a perfect fit for our student-athletes."

Hawkins, an alumna of Rio Americano High and Sacramento State, has been a fixture in the area water polo community since her own playing career, mostly at American River Water Polo Club. Hawkins first worked with ARWPC's youngest athletes in 2007, eventually coaching the 10U team in 2009. Then after a two-year stint with Huntington Beach WPC, she returned to the club. Hawkins also served as the club's youth league program director from 2014-18, and continues to helm the 16U girls' squad.

"I am excited to join the Troubie family," Hawkins said. "I want to continue to build upon this program's success and I am eager to bring my experience to continue to grow this program for many years to come."

In 2017, Hawkins earned the privilege of coaching USAWP's Central Cadets ODP team, where she worked with the top area athletes as they vied for spots in the National Team Selection Camp. On the high school scene, Hawkins has lent her expertise to El Dorado (2015-16), El Camino (2016-18) and most recently, Bella Vista (2018-2022).

Hawkins graduated from Rio in 2008, earning the opportunity to play collegiate ball at Cal State Monterey Bay. She opted not to play for the Otters, instead returning to Sacramento. Hawkins graduated with a degree in anthropology. In addition to her work at ARWPC and St. Francis, she serves as a project manager for the real estate appraisal firm Bender Rosenthal, Inc. 

Hawkins replaces Alex Hoang, who took over the SF varsity helm on an interim basis last fall. The Troubies went 11-11 in 2022, advancing a round into the Sac-Joaquin Section Division II playoffs.