Palo Alto High School’s varsity football program is facing significant changes after a 0-10 season. 

Edward Tonga is replacing Dave DeGeronimo as the head coach. Tonga, a former Paly football defense coordinator and linebacker coach, and a Paly special education teacher, has decades of experience in coaching and playing football.

These changes come after a turbulent season that included controversy surrounding assistant coach Jason Fung, who was placed on administrative leave after an altercation with a Sacred Heart Preparatory player during an away game. The team also struggled on the field, prompting a focus on bonds between players and coaches.

Tonga emphasized that the lessons from last season extend beyond wins and losses.

“We need to build from the top down,” Tonga said. “It’s important that we as coaches are being something that they can emulate as far as student-athletes. That means good connection and communication between the coaches. If we do that right at the top, I think it will help the players.”

Tonga noted that he is optimistic about the upcoming season, praising his coaching staff and expressing confidence in player potential.

“Some of these players have been just waiting to show their ability. Under this coaching staff, we have the right set of men to get them where they need to be,” Tonga said.

Dave DeGeronimo, a physical education teacher at Greene Middle School and the Paly football head coach for three years, was released by the school administration on January 16, 2026.

The Palo Alto Vikings will start their 2026 season in a home game against Leigh High School on Aug. 28.