CNY football coach returns to sidelines after 5-year break ready to ‘do what I do best’

Syracuse, N.Y. — Matt DiCarlo has at least two strong reasons for an extra bounce in his step as he takes over the Marcellus football program this fall.

First, he is jumping right back into a hands-on involvement with the sport that he loves.

More importantly, DiCarlo’s ability to assume those new responsibilities is an indicator that the family health reasons that necessitated he resign as Central Square’s head coach in 2018 have been resolved.

DiCarlo said his son was facing a medical problem at that time. Without going into details, DiCarlo said that the son, one of six children in the family, is doing much better now.

“My son’s healthy and were in a good spot,” he said. “I missed (coaching) and it was never something that I didn’t want to be a part of. I just had to take care of my family. I missed it more than anything but I needed to be a dad.”

DiCarlo, 46, has been staying involved as a part-time football assistant at Henninger, where he teaches social studies. In eight seasons coaching at Central Square, DiCarlo compiled a 26-46 mark. He’s also worked as an assistant coach at Indian River and St. Lawrence.

Marcellus approved DiCarlo’s appointment at a school board meeting earlier this month.

“I’ve been looking at districts that I would venture to see my family be a part of. And Marcellus is a perfect fit,” he said.

DiCarlo said he most missed the game night excitement during his hiatus.

“The competition, football’s a unique sport. There’s no sport like it. You can’t replace it. I always planned on being back. Do what I best,” he said.

DiCarlo replaces Cole Blossey, who went 1-7 in one season with the Mustangs. Marcellus has typically a fielded a sectional contender but has slumped to a 7-17 mark overall the past three years.

“I know that we were very young last year and that they graduated four seniors. And they did a great job with the age group of kids that they had,” DiCarlo said. “They are all back and we’re excited, ready to roll. My expectation is that we’ll be fully prepared for Canastota on Sept. 6 (for the opener). I think that the program’s in a great spot and we’re only going to make it better.”

Contact Lindsay Kramer anytime: Email | Twitter