About

meet our board

The Gridiron Foundation is guided by a board of local, committed community members who believe deeply in our mission. Each board member brings their own experience as parents, educators, coaches, and leaders who have seen firsthand how access to structured athletics can change a young person’s life. They are not distant advisors — they are active participants who live in the communities we serve, understand the needs of local families, and are personally invested in helping every athlete succeed. Together, they ensure that our programs remain accountable, mission‑driven, and focused on leveling the playing field for all.

scott zellers

PRESIDENT

For more than 30 years, Scott has served the local community as a respected Physical Education teacher at a Marin middle school. His career has been defined by consistency, compassion, and a deep commitment to youth development. As both an educator and a longtime football coach in the community, he brings a rare blend of classroom leadership and on‑field experience.

He has taught thousands of students, mentored countless athletes, and built a reputation as someone families trust. His understanding of child development, school culture, and community needs makes him an invaluable leader for a youth‑sports nonprofit.

His decades of service, educational expertise, and community relationships give The Gridiron Foundation a steady, respected voice at the top — someone who understands kids, parents, and schools better than anyone.

DAVID FEDERIGHI

TREASURER

David has spent the last five years coaching high school football at Terra Linda, where he’s known for his detail‑oriented approach, strong communication, and ability to connect with athletes. He also brings experience from coaching middle school flag football, giving him a full-spectrum understanding of youth athletic development.

His coaching style emphasizes fundamentals, discipline, and character — values that align directly with the mission of The Gridiron Foundation. Off the field, he is organized, reliable, and financially disciplined, making him a natural fit for managing the foundation’s fiscal responsibilities.

His combination of coaching experience, trustworthiness, and operational discipline ensures the foundation’s resources are managed responsibly and strategically.

KAJ KIBAK

SECRATARY

For more than As the JV Head Coach at Terra Linda and a dedicated English teacher, Kaj brings a powerful dual perspective: he understands both the academic and athletic lives of student‑athletes. His experience inside the classroom gives him insight into school systems, communication structures, and the daily challenges students face. His coaching background adds leadership, mentorship, and program-building skills.

He is known for his clarity, organization, and ability to communicate effectively — qualities that make him an ideal secretary for a growing nonprofit.

He bridges the gap between academics and athletics, ensuring the foundation stays aligned with school expectations, student needs, and clear communication.

JOE AYOOB

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Joe brings elite-level football experience and deep community roots to The Gridiron Foundation. A former Division I quarterback at the University of California, Joe has spent the last seven years coaching high school football, currently serving as the Varsity Head Coach at Terra Linda. His background includes extensive connections with college programs, NFL athletes, and professional trainers, giving Gridiron athletes access to mentorship and opportunities rarely found at the youth level.

Joe has also operated successful camps, clinics, and training programs, helping hundreds of athletes develop skills, confidence, and character. His leadership style blends high-performance coaching with genuine care for young athletes.

He brings vision, credibility, and high-level football expertise — along with the relationships and experience needed to build a premier youth development organization.

PAUL SCHILLING

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Paul is a dedicated youth development coach with a strong football background. A former college football player, Paul has spent years coaching young athletes, including leading a local youth football team for ages 10–11. His coaching emphasizes fundamentals, discipline, and building a love for the game — values that align perfectly with Gridiron’s mission.

Paul’s ability to connect with kids, teach technique, and create a positive learning environment makes him a standout leader in youth sports. His experience across multiple age groups gives him the insight needed to design effective, age-appropriate programming.

He understands youth athletes, knows how to build strong developmental programs, and brings both passion and expertise to every camp, clinic, and training session.