On Friday, Nov. 4, legendary Alameda High School football coach Steve Yamasaki was honored at halftime during the Hornets' last home game of the year at Thompson Field. Earlier in the season the beloved and longtime coach announced his retirement after 47 years of Alameda Hornet football.

Many of Coach Yamasaki’s former players were on hand to honor their mentor and friend at the 50-yard line under the bright Friday night lights. The biggest contingent of alumni on hand was a large group of players from the undefeated 1978 North Coast Section championship team. Running back Mike Floyd, a ‘78 alum, honored Coach “Yam” with a stellar speech from the press box as the large group of former players gathered around coach at midfield on this, his last night assisting on the sideline, during what would be an Alameda High 44-24 victory over American High of Fremont.

Coach Yamasaki modestly accepted a huge trophy engraved with words such as “purpose”, “mentor”, and “inspiration.” As he stood proudly flanked by decades of former players, one could see a content smile creep across the coach’s face. Never one to seek the limelight, on this memorable night there was no escaping the fact that Yamasaki, an Alameda High alum, was the center of attention for good reason. Coach Yam has made an incredible difference in the lives of thousands of players, both former and current. Countless stories have been told about how coach helped to shape young men into productive and positive citizens in the Alameda community and beyond, in addition to improving athletic skills and sportsmanship.

Besides coaching football at Alameda High, Yamasaki also coached Pop Warner football in Alameda as well as coaching baseball at his alma mater for many years. For someone who was coached by Steve, as well as coached with him, I can state without hesitation that he is the most phenomenal teacher and mentor whom I have ever met. Thank you, Coach, enjoy your well-earned retirement; you’re the best!