‘Devastated and heartbroken:’ Running community shocked by allegations against ex-Santa Rosa High coach

During his 27-year run as head coach of track and cross-county at Santa Rosa High School, Doug Courtemarche often urged his athletes to check their troubles at the gate.

“You walk through that ‘Panther Territory’ sign and leave everything behind,” he told The Press Democrat in 2022, explaining his approach. “This is your safe place.”

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Courtemarche, 78, now faces shocking allegations which, if proven, will upend and...