~ Letter-to-the-Editor ~ Congratulations Coach Cicatelli

To Lou Cicatelli,

Congratulations on your 100th victory! Your accomplishment is extraordinary and deserves far more recognition than it has received. Without a doubt, you are the greatest football coach in the history of Revere High School. You are the Vince Lombardi of high school football in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This is not hyperbole—it is reality.

You have done more for this community than you could ever truly know. While your dedication to teaching the art of football is remarkable, it pales in comparison to the profound impact you have on the lives of your players. A young athlete enters your program as a potential candidate and leaves as a better football player and a better human being.

I have had the privilege of watching you coach through good times and bad, and I am consistently amazed by your unwavering composure and calm demeanor. Your interactions with your players remain steady, no matter the circumstances. You have a rare gift for inspiring pride and competitiveness in them, even under the most challenging conditions. Coaching seems to come so naturally to you—you were clearly born for this role.

Someday, you will undoubtedly be inducted into the Massachusetts Hall of Fame. When that day comes, I will proudly attend the ceremony, listening as speaker after speaker recounts the many accomplishments of your illustrious career. My only regret is that such recognition hasn’t come sooner. That is why I must say, here and now, that you are not receiving the level of appreciation you so richly deserve.

The School Department, administration, and community have yet to fully grasp how unique and special you are—not just as a coach but also as a mentor and a “big brother” to every one of your players. I understand your remarkable contributions and want to thank you for the incredible work you have done for this city over the years as an unparalleled football coach.

I wish you continued success in the years to come. Let’s go Patriots!

Sincerely,

Gerald Cifuni

Former AP Calculus teacher in Revere Public Schools for 25 years