NORTH SALEM, N.Y. - North Salem's boys lacrosse team looks to turn the page and begin a new era this spring. Previously, the Tigers had seen five different coaches over the past seven seasons.
Now, Coach Vin Savastano will be tasked with guiding the team and the program into the future.
“We really need continuity here,” says Savastano. “They need someone that cares and shows dedication, and I am up for the challenge of building something special.”
That mantra will guide the team this season, and they have already adopted the motto “the start of something special.”
Meet Coach Sav
Savastano brings 35 years of coaching experience and a winning pedigree as he prepares to lead the Tigers into battle this season.
A physical education teacher in the neighboring Brewster school district, he spent nine years building the lacrosse program at Hendrick Hudson followed by three years as an assistant coach for Brewster where he helped guide the Bears to a state semifinal appearance.
He would then coach alongside his brother at John Jay High School where the team would reach six straight section championship games, claiming victory in four. The span would also see the program's first appearance in a state championship game.
Following those successes, Savastano would take his coaching talents to Kennedy Catholic, where the Gaels would capture eight straight CHSAA championships during his tenure.
Coming to North Salem
Savastano's decision to come to North Salem was influenced by one of the Tigers' standout players, junior Max Cotrone.
“I was trying to recruit Max from North Salem to Kennedy,” recalls Savastano. “He told me how much he loved North Salem and how much of a tight knit group they were. He said he loved his teammates and that he would never leave North Salem.”
Rather than head for Kennedy Catholic, Cotrone instead suggested that “Coach Sav” come to North Salem.
The rest is history.
Savastano also credits Athletic Director Denise Kiernan and Principal Vince DiGrandi for helping to influence his decision.
“Denise Kiernan played a major role in my decision to take the job due to her vision, hard work, and dedication,” explains Savastano. “Principal Vince DiGrandi is well respected, and another reason I took the job. To have great leadership with both the athletic director and the principal is a great asset to have in your corner.”
Family Affair
In his 35-year coaching career, Savastano has amassed a record of 390 – 234.
To him, those numbers come secondary to the experience of helping to guide young players.
“Wins and losses take care of themselves. What I'm most proud of throughout my coaching career is helping young men become successful in life and making connections that last a lifetime,” Savastano explains. “When someone plays for me, we become family.”
Supporting Savastano on the home front are sons Vinny and CC, and his wife of 20 years, Monique.
“My wife has always been so supportive,” he explains. “She's so excited for me.”
Vinny and CC both play lacrosse for Lakeland High School, and Savastano runs the Westchester Warriors Lacrosse Club alongside his brother, Nick.
For the Savastanos, the family support even transcends generations.
“My parents still come to watch my teams play,” he adds.
New Era
Savastano will lead the Tigers alongside assistant coaches Scott Berniker and Michael Perlett.
After accepting the job at the helm of the Tigers, Savastano immediately set his eyes on the future.
“I met with the team and held a few practices, and they seem like a great group of players,” he concludes. “I am very excited about the program’s potential.”
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