Salerno (center) is surrounded by former players. James Baker, Bill Hobbs, Junior Pena, Joe Martinez, Billy Crawford, David McGeary, Art Duim, Jody Moore, Jeff Noelte
Former Arroyo Baseball Coach Nick Salerno was inducted into the San Gabriel Valley’s Hall of Honor this past Monday prior to the East-West High School All-Star Game at Mt.Sac’s Mazmanian Field.
After graduating from Arroyo in 1971, Salerno went on to teach, coach, and become the Superintendant of the El Monte Union High School District. He is the only former student to rise through ranks to head the EMUHSD.
Players from Arroyo teams during the 1980’s came out to support their former coach.
“I can say as my baseball coach from 80-82, he taught us baseball principles from legendary coach John Scolinos, and drilled into his the value of practice practice practice….repetition again and again so that practice did make perfect come game time. Many of us shared his favorite quotes such as “Runner on second, ground ball right side”, or “Turn two, ham and eggs”—James Baker, Class of 1982
“Best coach at Arroyo.”—-Rick Sanders, (EMPD) Class of 1980
“Very deserving to a coach that taught so much more then just football or baseball and I feel the better man because of him.”—Bryan Bud Miller, Class of 1981
“I knew Coach was a Hall of Famer when I played for him. We were very fortunate.”—Rick Zubiate, Class of 1986
“One of the greatest coaches I ever played for! Loved getting the reward Payday candy bars after having a great game.”-–Richard Slominski, Class of 1982
“Coach Salerno provided a caring but stern approach to coaching. He had high expectations of all his players and asked us to work each and every day. He always coached with a sense of humor, with a practical joke mixed in to keep things fun and light atmosphere. He will forever hold a special place in my heart.”—Jody Moore, Class of 1985:
“On both baseball and football fields, Coach Salerno always made sure his players were well prepared for any opponent. He was genuinely concerned with us as individuals and pushed us to be the best, in and out of the classroom. His coaching style was serious, yet he also took the time to make the experience really fun. Thanks Coach for all the great life lessons.”—Junior Pena, Class of 1985:
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