Anyone who has gotten to know Fred DiCarlo over the years recognizes that the last thing the longtime coach wants is to be the center of attention. But on Saturday night, all eyes were on DiCarlo, as his Eagles topped Pleasantville 45-30 to secure the 300th career victory for the Eastchester stalwart.
After the final whistle sounded, DiCarlo’s historic win was celebrated by players, fans and family, as he was presented with a ceremonial basketball to commemorate his achievement. DiCarlo has been coaching in the school district for over 30 years—currently serving as both the head varsity basketball and football coach—and said he has welcomed the opportunity to give back to the high school from which he graduated in 1985.
He began his coaching journey with the district 34 years ago and took over as the head basketball and football coach in the late 1990s. Over the last two decades, he has guided both Eagle teams to great heights, winning his 100th career football game back in 2018.
“I’m so appreciative that the community and the school district have allowed me to coach for this long,” said DiCarlo. “I was really happy to get this win here at home, I’m happy for my seniors, who have been with me for the last couple of years, so it really was a great day.”
One of those seniors, Aidan Schultz, was effusive in his praise of DiCarlo, noting that he was honored to be a part of the group that secured the milestone win for the coach. Schultz plays both basketball and football for DiCarlo and said the coach has had an immeasurable impact on the lives of he and his teammates.
“After we beat Pelham on Thursday, coach mentioned that he was at 299 and you could tell all the guys wanted to get it for him,” said Schultz. “I’ve known him since I was five years old, and honestly, he’s been the most influential person I’ve met in my middle and high school career; between sports and life in general, he’s trying to make us better players and better people.”
DiCarlo also noted that getting the win against Pleasantville was especially meaningful, given his connection to both towns.
“I live in Pleasantville, so to get it here with the players I’ve coached in CYO and Dad’s Club baseball on the court, that’s really amazing,” he said. “It’s like the gods were looking down and made this one extra special.”
