The Live Oak Acorns claimed their hometown as they defeated their crosstown rivals, the Sobrato Bulldogs. Last week's matchup did not come with an easy victory, though head varsity coach Mike Gemo's Acorns battled until the end sealing the win at 27-19. Senior running back Trevor Bearden paved the way in a successful performance with 341 yards on 31 carries and 3 touchdowns.
"People know our running back and know we are a running football team," said Coach Gemo, "Our offensive line allowed us to utilize those qualities and our sound-team defense continued to hold Sobrato back in the second half."
Sean Aitken, Billy Bennet, Anthony Ditta along with senior linebacker Kyle Quadros who had 6 tackles, helped prevent a Bulldogs' score in the second half. The 3-5 defense has been Gemo's approach his last four seasons as a coach at Live Oak, three of which have been as head coach. His dynamic defensive line expressed their versatility as they switched to offense and opened up the option for one final touchdown by the Acorns with under a minute remaining in the game.
Prior to taking over the Live Oak football program, Mike Gemo solidified his coaching experience at Santa Theresa High School. He came to the Acorns as the first off-campus coach in Live Oak history, and he came with a mission to play as "The Team". The Team would develop into a lifestyle motto implemented by Gemo's squad in how they apply themselves to academics, relationships with peers and interactions around the community.
Coach Gemo's positive morale also shines through the emphasis he paints on player safety. Each practice revolves around encouraging Heads Up Football, USA Football and the NFL's initiative to create concussion awareness and encourage player safety. Gemo limits the contact in any practice drill, while also preaching the importance of hydration to his players and providing them with the latest in helmets and equipment.
"We are developing young guys into great men," expressed Gemo, "What they do is a reflection of the team as a whole so we want to ensure they are safe, making the right decisions, and recognizing their full potential. I am proud of the performance we put on against Sobrato and am proud of the character they bring to the field every single day."
In addition to being named Coach of the Week, the Live Oak High School football program will receive $1,000 from the 49ers Foundation. Coach Gemo will also be featured in a KRON 4 interview with Gary Radnich, receive two tickets to a 49ers home game where he will be recognized on the field before the game, as well as an article on 49ers.com. In the weeks leading up to the on-field recognition, Gemo will be invited to visit the 49ers training facility in Santa Clara to watch a private practice and receive a certificate from 49ers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh.
