Defensive backs coach Ron Baldonieri is the longest tenured member of the Bearcat football staff, serving as an assistant coach since the program's relaunch in 2006.
During the 2021 fall season, the Bearcats secondary led the PAC with 21 interceptions under Baldonieri's leadership ... Saint Vincent allowed 197.1 passing yards for game, which was good for fifth in the President's Athletic Conference.
Dating back to the 2012 season, Baldonieri has seen 11 of his defensive back pupils earn All-Presidents' Athletic Conference accolades, including 2020 Honorable Mention All-PAC pick Kyle Coombe. In 2018, the Bearcats ranked third in the PAC in pass defense, surrending just 176.3 yards per game, while in 2016, the Bearcats' 15 interceptions were the third most in the PAC. The 2014 SVC defensive unit led the conference in pass defense, allowing 176 yards per game and picking off 14 passes, third-most in the PAC.Â
In 2011, Baldonieri's tutelage was integral in the development of Darius Brown, an All-PAC Second-Team selection as a freshman. Brown tied for the team lead with five interceptions, which set a modern-day, single-season program record. The freshman also lead the team with 13 passes defended and posted 35 tackles (31 solo).
A veteran of the local high school coaching ranks, Baldonieri served as head coach at Ligonier Valley High School from 1999-2003, earning District 6 playoff berths in 2000 and 2002. He has also served as head coach at Uniontown High School (1990-93), Greater Latrobe High School (1987-89), Derry Area High School (1985-86) and Greensburg Central Catholic High School (1981-84).
Coach Baldonieri can be emailed at
baldonie@wiu.k12.pa.us.
