On Friday, January 3rd, SCH held an event before the Varsity boys basketball game to honor the career and legacy of Coach Ed Aversa, who has been a vital part of the community at our school for over twenty years. Aversa spent the game surrounded by friends, colleagues, students, and family. At halftime, he spoke about the importance of SCH and why it’s such a special place.

 “I’m so incredibly blessed that I was given a shot here,” Coach Ed said. “I’m so thankful I had a place to call home other than my house. This school was always home to me.” Through his work as both a coach and a friendly face around campus, Coach Aversa has been able to make a great number of students, including myself, feel welcomed and at home at SCH. 

SCH alum Chuck Norton ’22 commented on Aversa’s positive energy and ability to make every single student feel unique and special. His brother, Owen Norton ‘20 agreed, saying “[He was] energetic for sure. Also, he was very welcoming, open, and honest with everyone.” Eigth Grade Dean Ed Malandro, who coached middle school football alongside Aversa for six seasons also felt his welcoming attitude, and was able to quickly connect with him because of this openness the Nortons talked about. “We both share a desire to teach, to have fun, and to be competitive. That’s really why we clicked,” Malandro said. 

Whether you know Coach Aversa as a mentor, peer, coach, or just a friend, you know the real, authentic and unapologetically himself Ed Aversa. Over the last 27 years, he has become an integral part of our community, helping countless students grow as athletes and as people. To honor his legacy, the renovated basement in the cafeteria building will feature the brand new Ed Aversa Team Room, where athletes can relax and spend time with their teammates and friends.

It’s only fitting that a room meant for bonding would be named after Coach Aversa, who always emphasized teamwork and togetherness.