Face to Face With Coach Delcalzo

For any organized team, it is both beneficial and insightful at the end of the season to reflect upon the shortcomings that were experienced, while simultaneously being optimistic for the following year.

This level of confidence must resonate not just with the players, but to the fans as well. Indeed, this is one of the many challenges that a coach regularly tackles (no pun intended), regardless of where the team finished, for any season that falls short of a state championship is, ultimately, a disappointment.

The Aviators last won the state championship in 2007, but for this school, this very city, the collective perception is that they are long overdue for another one.

For a team such as the Hasbrouck Heights Aviators, however, success is also measured by the effort and dedication which players and staff have exhibited on a daily basis, and Head Coach Mike Delcalzo is quick to acknowledge what has worked so well with his team.

"I've been to the finals a number of times...1985-1986, and 1994-1995," commented Coach Delcalzo. "I think part of the success we've had is in keeping the kids involved."

"We started 1-4 and finished 6-4 (this season); we lost 42-3 to the team (Wallington) that's in the finals. We're very blessed that the coaches I have are dedicated to the program. They're the key to our success. Our defensive coordinator, Rocky Minichiello, and Frankie D'amico know how to psyche the kids up," he added.

"Our kids did a great job to cap the season, and they're going to build off of their successes."

If this team's guidance under Coach Delcalzo and their spirit is any indication, it's a sure thing that next season will be a special one.