Eagles on the Air

Kevin Punter wasn't accepted to Salesian High School the first time he applied. Fifteen years later, his jersey hangs in the gym. Steve Sallustio sits down with the Class of 2011 grad, now in his eleventh season of professional basketball and playing for FC Barcelona, days after his induction into the Salesian Athletics Hall of Fame. Kevin walks through the interview that got him in on the spot, the ninth grade math class where Steve was quietly asked to keep an eye on him, and the four city championships and state title he won with a group that had been playing together since JV. Then he gets honest about what came after: no grades, no offers, no Division I body, a year at prep school, two years at junior college in Sedalia, Missouri, and a senior season at Tennessee where he was averaging more than 20 a game with NBA scouts at practice until a navicular fracture ended it. He talks about the call from Kevin Durant, signing his first pro contract before he owned a passport, and why he chose Europe over sitting on a bench. His message to every athlete listening is that the road is almost never the one you drew up.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

Louis D'Esposito didn't know movies were something you could make for a living when he graduated from Salesian High School. 50 years later, he's the Co-President of Marvel Studios. In this virtual episode, Steve Sallustio sits down with the Class of 1974 grad who went from the Bronx to Iona College to $35-a-day freelance gigs to executive producing Iron Man alongside Jon Favreau, and who has been at Kevin Feige's side building the Marvel Cinematic Universe ever since. Louis talks about the teachers who shaped him (Mr. Flaherty and Mr. Martinelli), working with Marlon Brando on The Freshman, sneaking into theaters with the Russo Brothers to watch fans react to Endgame, and why it took him 35 years to become an overnight success. His message to every student watching: put in the work, love the journey, and don't listen to the voice that says you're not good enough.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

Sal Torre showed up to Salesian High School on day one without knowing a thing about it. What followed was a basketball career that landed him in the Athletics Hall of Fame, a successful run in commercial real estate finance, and a return to the school as a Board of Trustees member helping build the future. In this episode, Sal talks about playing on Coach Frank Conroy's first varsity team alongside future NBA draft pick Eric Mobley and 15-year pro Willie Latson, the mentors who shaped him, the teachers he's still friends with nearly 40 years later, and why he's helping launch Salesian's Alumni Association. His message to current and future Eagles: take every opportunity in front of you and find your lane.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

Dr. Michael Foti came to Salesian because his brother couldn't stop talking about it. What happened next was a complete transformation. From ranking #1 in his class all four years to becoming valedictorian, Mike went on to Iona College, NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine, and an internal medicine residency at Greenwich Hospital in the Yale system. Now a professor of medicine at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, Mike discovered that his real calling wasn't just being a doctor but being a mentor. In this episode, Steve Sallustio pulls out Mike's actual high school transcript, talks influential teachers like Jessica Cullen, Angelo Petrino, and Miss Caringi, and announces that Dr. Foti will be the 2026 commencement speaker.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

Tarik Hyman didn't choose Salesian High School. Salesian chose him. In this episode, Steve Sallustio sits down with the Class of 1996 Silver Eagle recipient who turned a career in Catholic education into a lifelong mission of paying it forward. From his grandmother bringing him to that first interview with Mr. Flaherty, to running schools across the Archdiocese, to sending countless students back to Salesian, Tariq's story is proof that the Salesian family never lets go. Now the Assistant Principal at St. Raymond's Elementary, Tariq is set to receive the Bishop Ernest Coppola Award for Alumni Achievement at the 2026 President's Dinner.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, Steve Sallustio sits down with Gio Lopes, Class of 2015.Gio shares how his connection to the Salesian Order began through his mother’s work as an educator and how that relationship in Westchester led him to Salesian High School. Entering as a shy young student, Gio reflects on how Salesian helped him grow into a confident young man: drawn in by the basketball program and shaped by meaningful experiences both on and off the court.The conversation also explores Gio’s passion for service, from a powerful service trip to Haiti and his involvement in Gospel Roads, to his current role as Brand & Social Marketing Manager at Feeding Westchester, one of the largest food banks in the county. Gio speaks about how Salesian prepared him to continue a life of purpose, helping others and giving back to his community.🎧 Listen now to hear how faith, service, and leadership come together in a true Salesian story.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, Steve Sallustio welcomes Spencer Boateng, Class of 2011.Spencer reflects on how his Salesian journey began at an Open House and how stepping onto the New Rochelle campus from the Bronx immediately made an impression. He shares the moment that truly won him over: when Fr. Patrick Angelucci explained that at Salesian, he would never be just a number, but always treated as a person.A self-described late start to basketball, Spencer talks about learning the game for the first time at Salesian and how sports became the gateway for him to discover his confidence and voice. With the support of teachers and coaches, he felt prepared for what came next—leading him into college sports recruitment at Iona University, becoming part of the Iona basketball program, and eventually stepping into leadership roles as head coach at CCNY and now as a Player Development Specialist with NY Renaissance.🎧 Listen now to hear how Salesian prepares students to find their voice, on and off the court.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, Steve Sallustio welcomes Mr. Michael Marasco, Chair of the Theology Department at Salesian High School.With a long and meaningful history within the Salesian order, Mr. Marasco shares his philosophy of relational education—a teaching approach centered on listening to and connecting with students first, so that learning can truly take root.Together, Steve and Mr. Marasco discuss the role of faith in the classroom and the importance of making the Blessed Sacrament available to students who have not yet completed all their sacraments, ensuring that Salesian remains a place of both academic and spiritual growth.🎧 Tune in to hear how relational teaching and faith come together to prepare young men for life—mind, body, and soul.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this special episode of Eagles on the Air, Steve Sallustio sits down with Mike Breen, Salesian Class of 1979, and the legendary voice of the New York Knicks and the NBA.Mike reflects on his Salesian journey, following in his brother’s footsteps to play basketball and discovering lifelong lessons through mentors like Brother Jim Wiegand, his former coach and an enduring influence.From his days on the Salesian court to calling games at Madison Square Garden, Mike shares how his experiences at Salesian helped shape his work ethic, values, and career: ultimately preparing him for his dream job as one of the most recognized voices in professional sports.We’re proud to welcome Mike Breen back home to Salesian High School.🎧 Listen now to hear how Salesian prepares you for life—on and off the court.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, Steve Sallustio welcomes Major Jonathan Brooks, proud parent of a Salesian freshman.Major Brooks shares how his family’s journey with Salesian began through the basketball summer camp program—the moment his son fell in love with the school. What started on the court became the window for the Brooks family to experience the Salesian community firsthand.He reflects on the well-rounded character and values Salesian instills in its students, emphasizing how faith, discipline, and community prepare his son—and every Salesian student—for a successful future.🎧 Tune in to hear how Salesian prepares students for life, both on and off the court.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this special episode of Eagles on the Air, Steve Sallustio sits down with Jorge Bello, Class of 2026 - one of the first current students to join the podcast.Jorge shares what brought him to Salesian and reflects on his experiences as a student in the Honors Program and a pitcher on the baseball team. He also talks about his role in student government during his senior year, what it means to represent his peers, and how Salesian has helped him grow as both a leader and a student-athlete.As he looks toward the next step in his life journey, Jorge shows how Salesian prepares students to excel in the classroom, on the field, and in leadership.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

Welcome Isabel Bello, proud parent of Jorge Bello '26, to this episode of Eagles on the Air.Isabel shares how the Salesian order shaped her own life growing up in Peru and why she knew that if she ever had a son, he would attend Salesian High School. In this conversation with Steve Sallustio, Isabel opens up about her son’s growth during his time at Salesian, her commitment to volunteering at school events, and even her personal game-day routines when cheering him on as a pitcher for the baseball team.Through her story, you’ll see how Salesian prepares not only students, but also families, for a life rooted in faith, community, and support.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, we welcome Jimmy Ascencio, Class of 2019, whose journey with Salesian High School is a powerful story of gratitude and growth.Jimmy shares how transferring into Salesian as a sophomore — during an uncertain time — became one of the most transformative experiences of his life. From the way the school embraced him and his family, to the lasting relationships he built, Jimmy reflects on how Salesian became more than just a school — it became home.Now a collegiate track and field coach and the director of Camp Echo Bay during the summers, Jimmy continues to give back to the place that shaped him. His younger brother followed in his footsteps, and even his mother found a warm and welcoming community at Salesian.Tune in to hear how one young man’s story captures the heart of what makes Salesian special. 🦅Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, current Dean of Students — and soon-to-be Director of Admissions — Chris Fraticelli joins Steve Sallustio for a conversation about purpose, passion, and leadership in education.Chris shares how his career at Salesian High School has allowed him to impact the lives of students every day and why working in education has become his true calling. He also looks ahead to his new role as Director of Admissions, where he’s excited to build relationships with local schools and help guide future Eagles to the Salesian community.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about finding fulfillment through service and shaping the next generation of Salesian students. 🦅🎙️Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, we sit down with longtime educator and administrator Steve Sallustio, who has dedicated the past 19 years to Salesian High School.Throughout his journey — from Mathematics teacher to Director of Admissions and soon his new role in Director of Alumni Relations and Events — Steve has seen firsthand how the Salesian mission and methodology shape the way young men grow, learn, and lead. He shares how every role he's held centers on more than just academics — it's about building relationships, guiding character, and preparing students for life beyond high school.Join us as we explore the heart of what makes Salesian unique through the eyes of someone who's spent nearly 2+ decades living its mission. 🦅🎙️Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, we sit down with John Miressi '80, Salesian High School’s Athletic Director and proud parent of the Class of 2012. John shares how Salesian’s athletic program has grown over the years and how it continues to create opportunities for students both on and off the field.From the beautiful, state-of-the-art Athletic Center to the baseball field overlooking the Long Island Sound, Salesian’s facilities offer a picturesque backdrop for students to grow as athletes and young men. John also highlights how athletics at Salesian isn’t just about the game — it’s about complementing academics, building character, and preparing students for life beyond high school.Tune in for a conversation about tradition, growth, and how Salesian shapes student-athletes into future leaders! 🦅⚾🏀🏐Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, we sit down with Ramon Reid ‘23 to talk about his incredible journey through Salesian High School. From starting as a freshman in student government to becoming senior class president, Ramon shares how leadership opportunities helped him grow both personally and academically.He also reflects on the mentorship and guidance he received from Salesian’s teachers, which made him more confident and outgoing. Plus, Ramon discusses how taking college courses at Salesian gave him a head start in college, allowing for a more flexible schedule and a smoother transition into higher education.Tune in to hear how Salesian shaped Ramon’s leadership, confidence, and college success! 🦅🎙️Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, we sit down with Christopher Healy '24 to discuss what makes Salesian a truly nurturing and supportive environment.From mission trips in Tampa that provide students with meaningful service opportunities to dedicated coaches on the baseball and bowling teams, Salesian offers a well-rounded experience that shapes young men into future leaders. Hear firsthand how the school’s commitment to faith, service, and brotherhood helps students grow both on and off the field.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the impact of Salesian’s community-driven approach! 🦅Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, we welcome Michael Capozzi '12 to discuss the lasting impact of his high school experience. Together with Steve Sallustio, they explore how Salesian continues to shape students into future leaders through its unique approach to education and personal development.The conversation also touches on how Salesian’s marketing has evolved over the last few years. Learn how the school’s story is now being told through innovative digital marketing efforts on social media, connecting with new generations of students and families.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, Beth Orecchio P'24 P'27 dives into what makes Salesian High School a unique and transformative environment for her sons. Beth and Steve Sallustio also discuss the school’s small, safe, supportive, and successful atmosphere.The conversation highlights the vital role of the Parent Teacher relationship in fostering a true partnership between families and educators, creating a full-circle approach to student growth. Learn how this collaborative effort helps students thrive academically, socially, and personally.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this episode of Eagles on the Air, we welcome Salesian High School alum and English Department Chair, Mr. Andrew Marinaccio '09! Mr. Marinaccio shares his journey of choosing Salesian High School and how it’s shaped his passion for education. He discusses his approach to leading the English department, focusing on empowering students to write authentically—for the culture, not just for the classroom. Join us as Andrew dives into his mission to inspire the next generation of writers!Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

Welcome Mr. Victor Acevedo P'24 to Eagles on the Air! In this episode, Vic brings us a fresh perspective we haven’t heard before: that of a Salesian parent. He shares insights on his son’s journey over four transformative years, reflecting on the personal growth and positive changes he’s witnessed. Vic talks about why he’s so glad he chose Salesian High School and the lasting impact it’s had on his family. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that sheds light on the Salesian experience from a parent’s point of view!Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

Welcome Mr. Steve Macias '86 to Eagles on the Air. Steve will be returning to Salesian as the head baseball coach and newly appointed Director of Facilities. Steve has a rich backstory with Salesian High School that has followed him from high school all the way to presenting his own son with his Salesian diploma at graduation.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

Welcome Mr. Stephen Bruno '05 to Eagles on the Air. Listen in as Steve delves into his history with Salesian High School and how he continues to give back as a proud alumni and serve as the Chair of our Board of Trustees. Dive deeper into how the leadership skills he honed at Salesian High School—fostered in a safe, small, and supportive environment— have shaped his success. Discover how Salesian’s commitment to nurturing future leaders made a lasting impact.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

In this exciting episode of "Eagles in the Air," we are honored to welcome Salesian High School’s interim principal, Mrs. Cynthia Chambers. Join us as Interim Principal Chambers shares her initial impressions of Salesian High School, both as a faculty member and parent of a '22 graduate, and discusses the pivotal role of Catholic education in shaping student lives. She also offers valuable insights and practical tips for parents considering Salesian High School for their children and how a single-sex learning environment empowers students. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that highlights the heart and soul of our Salesian community!Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

Join us on Episode 3 of Eagles on the Air as we welcome alumni and faculty member Mr. Nicholas Federico '09. Mr. Federico's Salesian journey began when he was an altar server at St. Benedict's in The Bronx. From participating in the drama club and passionately learning history from his teachers, Mr. Federico embodies the four pillars of Salesian High School: a Home, School, Parish, and Playground. Currently, Mr. Federico is the History Department Chair, coaches several of our athletic teams, and leads our Saturday Academy, a 6 week tuition-free program offered to young boys and girls in 6th through 8th grade.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

Join us in this episode of the Salesian High School podcast as we welcome alum Randy Taveras '15. Randy embodies the four pillars that define Salesian High School: Home, School, Parish, and Playground. Each pillar shaped his journey as a student-athlete from high schooler to Division 1 Baseball. Tune in to hear Randy’s inspiring story and learn about the lasting impact of the Salesian community.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

Join Steve Sallustio, Director of Admissions at Salesian High School, as he hosts the inaugural episode of Eagles on the Air. In this episode, he engages in a thoughtful conversation with Father James Heuser, SDB, President of Salesian High School, to explore the transformative journey of Salesian High School over the past three years. They delve into the challenges, triumphs, and impactful changes that have shaped this institution, offering behind-the-scenes insights and untold stories. Discover the vision that is propelling Salesian forward and learn about the spirit of growth, community, and empowerment within the Salesian family. This is an engaging conversation that encapsulates the essence of Salesian High School and its commitment to excellence.Salesian High School was founded in 1920 and is an independent school within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools serving the Westchester County and Bronx areas. Learn more about Salesian High School.Keep up to date with Salesian High School! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn