STATEMENT FROM THE SCHENECTADY CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT AND ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT ON THE PASSING OF LONGTIME COACH CARMEN DEPOALO
The Schenectady City School District and Athletic Department are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Coach Carmen “Carm” DePoalo. A lifelong Schenectady native, Coach Carm dedicated more than five decades of service to local youth, athletic programs, and the broader community, leaving an enduring mark on generations of student-athletes.
Coach DePoalo’s legacy extends far beyond wins and championships. His philosophy consistently centered on community, education, accountability, character, and providing young people with every opportunity to succeed. As a coach, mentor, program builder, advocate, and community leader, he always placed students and their families at the heart of his work.
Taking over as head varsity football coach at Schenectady High School in 2007, Coach DePoalo immediately transformed the trajectory of the program. The Patriots finished 5–4, marking their first winning season in nearly two decades, and advanced to the Section II playoffs, earning him recognition as Section II Class AA Coach of the Year. The following season, the Patriots maintained that momentum, finishing 8–2 and advancing to the Class AA Championship Game. He later guided the team to another stellar 6–3 season in 2019.
Equally impactful off the field, Coach DePoalo raised over $50,000 during his tenure to support his players' personal needs while steadfastly reinforcing the importance of academic achievement, citizenship, and personal responsibility.
Coach DePoalo knew that successful high school athletic programs begin at the grassroots level. In 2015, he served as head coach for the Schenectady/Belmont Pop Warner team, capturing a New York State Championship and finishing as the Eastern Regional runner-up. His involvement ensured local youth had access to organized sports, proper equipment, and the mentorship needed to build teamwork, discipline, and community pride.
His dedication to area athletics began long before his tenure at Schenectady High School. In 1976, he founded the Rotterdam Girls Softball League, collaborating with local officials to secure land for permanent playing fields. In 1983, Coach DePoalo spearheaded the revival and fundraising efforts for the Mohonasen High School football program after budget constraints eliminated it, leading to upgraded athletic facilities and new lighting. He also dedicated years to coaching girls softball as well as varsity track and field.
Beyond athletics, Coach DePoalo was a steadfast advocate for the labor community. From 2001 to 2011, he served as Business Agent for IUE-CWA Local 301, representing approximately 1,200 members and championing fair working conditions for families across the region.
In 2023, his lifelong contributions were formally recognized when he received the Schenectady City School District Educational Foundation Outstanding Graduate Award, an honor celebrating alumni who bring distinction to the district through extraordinary achievement and community service.
"Coach Carm was a true leader," said Jason McFall, Director of PE, Health, and Athletics for the Schenectady City School District. "His priority was never simply winning games. It was building young people, strengthening our community, and ensuring our kids had every opportunity to succeed. His impact on Schenectady athletics will endure for generations."
Coach Carm will be dearly missed by the Schenectady community. Together, the Schenectady City School District leadership, the Athletic Department, and Director Jason McFall remain profoundly grateful for his extraordinary commitment to our student-athletes and the Capital Region community. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, former players, and all who were impacted by his exceptional life.