MidValleySports.Com

Johnny Argo had numerous stops before finally realizing his dream of becoming a head coach. Argo, who was an assistant at Arroyo before being promoted, sat down with us recently for a Q &A.

MVS: Where did you play your high school football and what position.

JA: I played at Arcadia High School from 94’-‘98.

MVS: Did you play after high school?

JA: I did not play after HS. I began coaching at Arcadia in 98 right after graduating.

MVS: When did you decide that you wanted to coach?

JA: I knew I wanted to coach while playing youth for the Temple City Rams. Even at a young age I still had a huge appreciation for the guys that were out there every day coaching us up, and knew one day I wanted to return the deed.

MVS: What was your first coaching job?

JA: My 1st coaching position was at Arcadia HS. I coached the OL/DL for the freshmen team. I’ve also had stops at Hoover, South Hills, Baldwin Park, Gladstone, and now at Arroyo.

MVS: What factors led you to take the head coaching job at Arroyo?

JA: I grew up next to Arroyo HS, so El Monte has always been home to me. I was privileged to have Coach Chuck Leonardis bring me on board 3 years ago. And when the position of HC became available, I knew I wanted the opportunity of leading these young men and continuing the tradition, the Arroyo Way.

MVS: What is your coaching style? Would you consider yourself more of an offensive coach or a defensive coach?

JA: I’m definitely more of an offensive coach. Stylistically, we want to be aggressive, fast paced, and attack. But you also have to be willing and able to adapt to your personnel.

MVS: What coach had the biggest influence on you and why?

JA: That’s a tough one. But I’d say the most influential for me, was my OL coach at Arcadia, the late Jon Steevens. He was so technical, and fundamental. He held each of his players to the highest standard and so much of what I learned from him, I have carried over throughout these years. I kept in touch throughout the years, and I never met another coach that could talk the depth that he could about OL play.

MVS: You’ve been an assistant coach before but now you are taking on the role of head coach? What do you think is the biggest difference?

JA: The biggest difference for me from assistant to Head Coach has been the off-field responsibilities. Coaching is a full-time job, head coaching has expanded that, but I love it. I love the challenge. My personality and style is one that easily adapts. I have welcomed those challenges and have a great staff with me that has helped that transition daily.

MVS: 9. What do you think will be your biggest challenge at Arroyo?

JA: I think my biggest challenge at Arroyo, is to continue an amazing tradition that was set before me. Jim Singiser is an all-time great, and set the bar high for all. It was a pleasure to have coached with him, and I learned a lot from being around him, and continue to be in his ear for advice. Chuck Leonardis did an amazing job after him, and I look forward to continuing those ways, and keeping Arroyo’s program as one that rises to all challenges.

MVS: How does the Arroyo squad look so far this summer? Who are some of your key players going into the 2023 campaign?

JA: This year’s team has looked good this summer. It’s a good mix of some returning players along with some young men ready to make their mark. Some of our key players are

Adam Huizar Sr. RB/LB

Gabriel Sulaiman Jr. LB/WR

Kurt Dominguez Sr. WR/FS

Joe Reyes Sr. QB

Nicholas Romero Sr. OL/DL

Leland Garcia Jr. RB/LB

Joseph Rodriguez Jr. OL/DL

Randy Torres Jr. OL/DL

Daniel Aviles Jr. DE

Manny Vargas Jr. OL