Penn Hills grad Navari snags football coaching job

By: HSSN Staff
Thursday, June 21, 2018 | 9:55 AM

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When Joe Navari was playing high school football for the Penn Hills Indians, he knew he would pick up coaching when his playing days were over. That time has finally come.

Navari, a Saint Vincent graduate, accepted an assistant coach position for the Plum football team. Navari, who was the starting long snapper the last two seasons for the Bearcats, will be coaching the special teams and linemen for the Mustangs.

“I'm excited to help them out this season. When it came to picking it, it was the best option compared to the other schools I was considering. I will be student teaching in the high school this fall and spring,” Navari said.

“To me it seemed to be a good fit and good opportunity to start my coaching career.”

Navari, who will student teach social studies at Plum, was mulling opportunities at his alma mater, Penn Hills, and Fox Chapel. Last season, Plum finished 3-7 overall with a 3-5 record in Class 5A Big East Conference action.

“It was a tough decision. It was really down to Penn Hills and Plum. But when it came to Plum, it was a new location, new opportunity, new district,” Navari said.

“I'm trying to get my foot in the door somewhere else instead of Penn Hills, where I've known the coaches and the district. Plum will give me a new perspective. If I were to accept a job in a new district, it would make me more comfortable to go through the whole process again.”

Navari, who will join Matt Morgan's staff, hopes to stress the importance of special teams and how taking his long snapping duties seriously allowed him to play at the college level.

“For some players, it won't be their ideal role on the team. For the young guys, it can be a great opportunity for them to get on the field and show what they have and be a game changer,” Navari said.

“On special teams, one play can change an entire game. Hopefully, the players will realize that and hopefully every team we play will have to worry about our special teams.”

The former Indian will look to use his youth to his advantage as he tries to connect with the players, stressing the importance of the small details.

“I feel like I can connect with the players. I'm on the younger side, especially during school. If the players have concerns, I can talk to them. At college, I had great coaches that mentored me and gave me great advice,” Navari said.

At Saint Vincent, Navari looked up to the coaches who provided guidance on how to pursue a coaching career. Navari especially appreciated the insight provided by assistant coach Ron Baldonieri and strength and conditioning coach Jon Bell.

“I'm going to enjoy every second of this experience,” he said. “It might help me find a job somewhere and give me an opportunity to stay in the area.”

“When it comes to football, I'm focused on making sure the team has the best opportunity to win. When it comes to student teaching, I will take care of my opportunity to learn in the classroom with the teachers in the building.”

Andrew John is a freelance writer.

Tags: Penn Hills, Plum