Palo Alto’s David DeGeronimo will not be returning as the Vikings’ head football coach next season, he confirmed on Friday in a text message to the Bay Area News Group.
The move comes after Paly assistant Jason Fung was placed on administrative leave after attempting to tackle a Sacred Heart Prep player during a game on Nov. 1.
Five days later, Palo Alto completed an 0-10 season with a loss at Los Gatos.
“I was notified today that the Palo Alto administrators are seeking a ‘fresh start’ for the football program, which concludes my tenure as head football coach,” DeGeronimo wrote in a statement that he shared with this news organization. “I am disappointed in their decision but am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead our student-athletes. I wish them and their families success going forward.
“Thank you for four extraordinary seasons as head football coach at Palo Alto High School. It was a privilege to work with our exceptional players and coaches in pursuit of excellence on and off the field. I poured my heart and soul into Paly football, not only for the last four years, but sixteen overall.”
DeGeronimo succeeded Nelson Gifford at Palo Alto in 2022 after three seasons as the head coach at Los Altos. He had been a Paly assistant coach for more than a decade, over two stints, including the Vikings’ Central Coast Section championship seasons in 2007 and 2010. The 2010 team was the first from the CCS to win a state title and featured wide receiver Davante Adams, who went on to become an NFL All-Pro.
“I will always be proud of our accomplishments on the field,” DeGeronimo said. “Paly football will forever remain a fundamental part of who I am. The 2025 season was defined by our ability to stick together through great adversity, anchored by the consistent support and care for one another. I will continue to champion my community and coach at a high level, supporting athletics and high school sports for many years to come.”
In DeGeronimo’s four seasons, Paly went 21-29 overall. The Vikings finished 7-7 and won the CCS Division V championship in his first year, then went 8-6 and won the CCS Division IV title in 2023.
They were promoted from the Peninsula Athletic League’s De Anza Division to the Bay Division, the top league, starting in 2024. That season, Paly went 6-6 and advanced to the CCS Division III semifinals.
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