After nearly five decades of unwavering dedication to high school football and student mentorship, legendary Central New York coach Carl Sanfilippo ’77 has announced his retirement. His legacy—both on and off the field—is one that has shaped generations of athletes, families, and communities. We believe there is no more fitting tribute than to name the Baldwinsville High School football field at Pelcher-Arcaro Stadium in his honor.

Coach Sanfilippo’s career is nothing short of extraordinary. A proud 1977 Syracuse University alumnus and former Orange football letterwinner, Carl brought passion, discipline, and heart to every program he touched. For the past 40 years, he has served as the head coach of the Baldwinsville Bees, following eight seasons at Syracuse’s Christian Brothers Academy. Over those decades, he became far more than a coach—he became a mentor, a father figure, and a guiding light for thousands of student-athletes.

Carl’s impact extends far beyond the scoreboard. He led the Bees to four Section III titles, but his greatest victories have always been the relationships he built. “You always want what’s best for the kids,” he often says. And he means it. Former players—many of whom now coach themselves—credit him with instilling integrity, accountability, and the power of perseverance.

Raised in a football family, Sanfilippo grew up under the watchful eye of his father, Joe Sanfilippo, a coaching legend in Western New York. Carl’s own coaching philosophy was influenced by some of the game’s greats, including SU Coach Ben Schwartzwalder and Frank Maloney. But he also made room to evolve. “If you think you know it all, you’re dead in the water. You have to learn every day,” he says—a belief that kept him grounded and adaptive through changing times and challenges.

Known for his no-nonsense style tempered by deep compassion, Carl always expected his athletes to “do the right thing.” But he also guided them through life's tougher moments: mental health challenges, family issues, and hard life decisions. His kitchen table has served as the setting for countless heartfelt conversations with students and their parents alike.

In retirement, Carl remains devoted to service. As president of the Baldwinsville Football Alumni Association, he continues to lead community efforts like coat drives for local students. He hopes to work with future educators to better prepare them for the realities of teaching and coaching today’s youth—both on and off the field.

From Manley Field House to Pelcher-Arcaro Stadium, Carl Sanfilippo’s story is woven into the fabric of New York’s football tradition. His leadership, humility, and heart have left an enduring mark on Baldwinsville and beyond.

As Superintendent Dr. Joseph DeBarbieri noted, “Coach Sanfilippo leaves a lasting legacy... He has done so much for our students, not just our football players, over the years. We are so grateful for his service to the district, his commitment to our community, and his dedication to our students.”

Naming the Baldwinsville High School football field in his honor is more than a tribute—it is a lasting symbol of excellence, leadership, and love for the game. It ensures that every time the Bees take the field, they do so on the very ground shaped by a man who gave them everything he had.

We respectfully urge the Baldwinsville Central School District and community leaders to recognize Carl Sanfilippo’s contributions by naming the football field at Pelcher-Arcaro Stadium in his honor.

Let’s give Coach the legacy he deserves.