Palo Alto hires new football coach, who inherits team that went 0-10 last year

Palo Alto has hired from within to find its new head football coach. 

The school announced Friday that Ed Tonga, formerly the Vikings’ defensive coordinator, will take the top job.

Tonga has been a part of the Vikings’ varsity staff for the past three seasons, most recently as defensive coordinator, and has held a variety of leadership and mentoring roles within the program, according to a release from the school.

Tonga works for the Palo Alto Unified School District and serves as a Student and Family Engagement Specialist (SaFE) for Palo Alto High School and Greene Middle School.

“Ed understands that success in football begins with character, accountability, and relationships,” Paly principal Brent Kline said in the release. “He knows our students, our community and what it takes to build a program grounded in pride, discipline, and long-term growth. His work as a SaFE specialist further reflects his commitment to being present, accessible, and supportive of our students.”

Tonga takes over the program at a challenging time for Paly football. The Vikings went 0-10 last year, leading to the dismissal of coach Dave DeGeronimo, who had been in charge of the team for four seasons. 

Paly’s season was also marred by an altercation in which assistant coach Jason Fung tried to tackle a Sacred Heart Prep player during the two teams’ game in Atherton. 

“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity,” Tonga said in the release. “I want to thank Principal Kline, Assistant Principal LaDonna Butler, and Palo Alto High School for their trust and support. It is an honor to lead this program, and I am excited about the future of Paly football. Great teams are built on chemistry, accountability, and shared goals.”

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