WHO: Spencer Gilford, most recently Defensive Coordinator at Los Medanos College. Over a period of two years, Gilford helped the Mustangs improve their rank 20 positions in the state, and according to the Los Medanos website " reduced opponents yards per game by 55.8 yards, reduced opponents points per game by 15.8 points and doubled the sacks to 24." Before Los Medanos, Gilford seved as Outside Linebacker Coach at the College of San Mateo, and as  defensive assistant and recruiting assistant at Stanford University. He has had prior stints at Los Medanos as the Linebacker Coach and Kick Gamer Coordinator, and at St. Mary's College, Diablo Valley College and Fremont High School.

Ron Hannon, Gavilan College Dean of Kinesiology and Athletics, described Gilford as "patient and methodical" and believes he can add structure to the football program. "He's a winner," said Hannon, "he has set very high standards and has experience with programs being rebuilt."

Spencer Gilford spent the day on campus Monday, meeting the team and filling out paperwork.

"I let them know what expectations I have for them, that we're here to get better on a daily basis" said Gilford, and that each player should expect to improve "in all aspects of life. We're here for them -- not just athletically -- but personally and academically. We're a medium for them to matriculate to a four-year school and be successful.

In addition to his coaching background, Gilford has  relevant experience as an educator. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Political Science at CalPoly, then earned a teaching credential and Masters Degree in Education at Chapman University.

He has been teaching math and science to at-risk high school students for over a decade. He has taught Football Theory, Skills, and Conditioning classes at Los Medanos College.

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Photo attached: Coach Gilford addressing the Rams on his first day at Gavilan College.