When it comes to coaching excellence and mentorship, few embody these qualities as strongly as Alic Ho, known affectionately by players and peers as “Coach Ho.” With 10 years of coaching experience under his belt, Coach Ho has become a transformative figure in Bay Area youth and high school football, building a reputation for competitive success, innovative strategies, and a genuine commitment to athlete development.
Coaching Journey
Coach Ho currently serves as the Varsity Head Coach for Lincoln High School’s women’s flag football team and is also the Head Coach for High Intensity Bay Area’s high school 7v7 team. His coaching journey began when his son’s flag football team needed a coach. What started as a way to bond with his young son quickly grew into a lifelong passion. Over the years, Coach Ho expanded his horizons, branching off from High Intensity San Diego to establish High Intensity Bay Area, a competitive travel program for both 7v7 and flag football.
Having coached at every level from youth leagues to the highly competitive WCAL, Coach Ho has traveled the country with his teams, earning numerous tournament victories. However, his proudest accomplishment is a personal one: helping his son achieve his dream of starting as a varsity quarterback as a freshman. “To have a 14-year-old play at the highest level in high school at the toughest position was one of his dreams, and I’m grateful I could help,” Ho reflects.
Coaching Philosophy and Goals
For Coach Ho, coaching is about more than just winning games. “I coach because I like developing and helping young athletes in this area,” he explains. His unique approach blends old-school fundamentals with new-school techniques, ensuring that his players are both technically sound and adaptable. He aims to teach his athletes not only the skills needed to succeed on the field but also the values and mindset that lead to success off it.
While his ultimate goal is to coach until his son’s flag football journey takes him to college, Coach Ho’s immediate focus is on imparting as much knowledge as possible to his current athletes. “Right now, I’m trying to soak up as much knowledge and teach these young athletes until then,” he says.
Advice for All-Star Players
Coach Ho’s advice to the GSF 5-Star Senior All-Star team is simple but powerful: “Enjoy it! You were selected because you are good! Be a student of the game and enjoy meeting new teammates. You never know when you’ll play with or against them again!”
Gratitude and Acknowledgments
Coach Ho’s journey has been marked by the support of others, and he’s quick to express his gratitude. He thanks the coaches and trainers at High Intensity San Diego, his assistant coaches, and the Athletic Directors who gave him opportunities, such as Eagleson at Archbishop Mitty and Collins at Lincoln High School. He also extends his gratitude to the parents and players who have trusted him to coach their children.
Finally, he acknowledges his family as the cornerstone of his coaching career. “My wife has given me the support I never knew I needed through the years,” Ho shares. “My kids have always picked me up after a tough game or season.”
A Legacy in the Making
With a decade of experience, numerous accolades, and an unwavering commitment to his athletes, Coach Ho’s legacy as a leader and mentor continues to grow. As he takes the helm of the GSF 5-Star Girls Flag Football Senior All-Star team, his players can expect not just to compete but to grow as athletes and individuals under his guidance. Coach Ho’s passion, knowledge, and dedication make him a perfect choice to lead this talented group of athletes.
