Hall of Fame
Mario Valentini was a standout quarterback and wide receiver for the Westchester Community College Vikings from 1969 - 1971. He led the Viking’s offense as the quarterback during his first two seasons. In his first collegiate game, he made an immediate impact, leading the team to a 53-0 victory over NY Tech. In his third year, Mario made the move to wide receiver, where he was an integral part of the Viking’s 1971 National Championship team. Mario led the team in touchdowns and ranked 2nd in receiving yards, leading him to be named Offensive MVP of the team.
After playing for the Vikings, Mario returned to Westchester Community College to serve as an Assistant Coach from 1973-1977, while also earning his degree from Lehman College in 1974.
After graduating from Lehman college, Mario embarked on his 47-year career in Physical Education and Athletics. He started at NY Archdiocese Elementary Schools from 1976 – 1979, and then moved on to Mount Saint Michael Academy from 1979 to present.
While at “The Mount” Mario has served as a Physical Education Teacher, Athletic Director, Football Coach, and Department Chairperson. Mario took over as the Head Football Coach in 1984 and would go on to become one of the most prominent football coaches in New York state. Mario led the program to 12 City Championships, 5 Division Championships, and 4 Titles, while accumulating over 220 wins, leading him to often be recognized as one of the most winning coaches in NY state. While his achievements on the gridiron have been stellar, his most incredible achievement may be in the broader sense, having positively impacted 10,000+ young men as an educator, and a coach.
In addition to being inducted into the Westchester Community College Athletics Hall of Fame, Mario has been recognized by several other organizations, including:
1. The Mount Saint Michael Academy Hall of Fame & Legends of the Mount,
2. Catholic High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame,
3. Catholic High School Board of Governors,
Catholic High School Football League, Mario Valentini, Coach of the Year Award
Mario currently resides in Brewster, NY with his wife Joanna to whom he has been married to for 48 years. Mario and Joanna have two children – Jenny & John. Jenny, and son-in-law, Bryan, have three children of their own, Juliana, Alexander, and Francesca. John, and daughter-in-law, Marisa, have two children, Joseph & Giana.
