The San Francisco 49ers Charlie Wedemeyer Coach of the Week award for Week 2 goes to coach Ako Poti from Jefferson High School.
Last Friday the Jefferson Indians defeated the Menlo-Atherton Bears17-0.
When coach Poti was approached to help rebuild the football program at Jefferson 3 years ago, he knew that the key was not to try and start with the varsity level. Like most things that stand the test of time, he would have to build a strong foundation.
This led coach Poti to head the Indian's Junior Varsity program in an effort to establish the work ethic and winning mindset that his players would need to succeed at the next level.
In his first season, the J.V. team went 4-6. The following year they were 8-2, and in his third season the team was a perfect 10-0. At that point Poti transitioned with his players to the varsity level, where you will find him today.
Coach Poti has a very simple philosophy when it comes to making his team better and being successful.
"We want to play against very good teams and compete," he said. "We want to keep it close and have a chance to win at the end."
By following these ideas, Poti wants to create "positive thinking about the program."
Against the heavily favored Menlo-Atherton Bears, the Jefferson Indians put their coach's words into action. With solid performances from quarterback Cheyenne Meafua and wide receiver Kyanni Harris, the offense was able to use its speed and tenacity to put together a balanced run/pass effort.
"Meafua did a good job of reading holes in their zone and taking what they were giving us," Poti explained.
Defensively, the Indians were able to hold the Bears scoreless with their hustle and attitude.
"We are a defense build on speed" Poti said. "We have one starter over 200 lbs and 10 linebacker-types."
Junior cornerback Miles Holmes was a constant run stopper on sweeps, and defensive end Sky Luavasa spent a lot of time in the Bears' backfield harassing the quarterback on rollout passes.
All together, this made for a big win that will help continue to build the Jefferson High football program.
For Jefferson's great win and an outstanding team effort, the San Francisco 49ers have selected Coach Ako Poti as the Charlie Wedemeyer High School Coach of the Week.
In addition to being named Coach of the Week, coach Poti and the Jefferson High School football program will receive $1,000 from the 49ers Foundation.
