2023 PFN Player Profile: Getting to know Slippery Rock LB/ATH Sal Mineo
Tagged under: District 10, News, Player Previews
Billy Splain | June 6, 2023
Sal Mineo
OLB/SS/MLB RB/Slot WR
Slippery Rock
Class Of 2024
Jersey #26
HT/WT 5’11 190
Other sports Baseball
1st team all region baseball 2nd team all region football
Twitter @SalMineo6_
Coach Larry Wendereusz says “Sal is an explosive and talented young man. Sal is a returning 3 year starter as a defensive back with time the last 2 years as a running back and wide receiver also. Sal’s continued work ethic in the weight room has made him on of the strongest players pound for pound on the football team. He continues to work on his craft as a defensive back, wide receiver and running back. His work this off-season should lead to a fun and exciting year for Sal. Sal is also receiving some college attention for both football and baseball”.
Why do you play football?
I play football for the brotherhood, friendships, and memories that will last a lifetime. Also, nothing beats friday night lights.
Do you have a favorite play you remember the most? Explain:
Yes, I had an interception my sophomore year in my first varsity start. I returned it for a touchdown, but it got called back. I remember this play the most because it was my first impact I made on the field. After being injured with a broken ankle my freshman year, it was one of my first times being on the field in what felt like forever. Also, it was my first time playing safety after switching over from CB. This play gave me some confidence and made me realize that no moment was too big.
What was last years season like for you?
Last years season was extremely fun. We had a great senior class and we all played well together.
What are your goals for this coming season?
My goal for this upcoming season is to get that gold medal after winning the D-10 championship. Not just for myself, and next years team, but for the seniors who have came up short 2 years in a row.
What stadium, HS/college/pro would you love to visit for a game?
Beaver Stadium in the Happy Valley (PSU)
What is your favorite Pro team, any sport?
Steelers
Describe what the perfect teammate is
The perfect teammate is one who embraces their role and buys in to the team’s vision.
Tell everyone why you think football is good for a community
Football, especially in Slippery Rock, brings the community together. The passion, grit, and love that the players have for the game is shared with every fan in the stands. For many alumni in the community, football games give them a chance to reflect on their days in high school and see old friends.
Name one thing that you’d love to do in football that may never happen?
Score on a kick return
Who is your mentor, the person you want to be like? WHY?
My mentor is my father. He is a very genuine, and honest person. We talk every game and he helps me to improve as an athlete.
Preseason Two a Days are:
not as bad as people think
Is there anyone in your family, besides your parents, you could consider your biggest fan? Who, Why?
I consider my little brother my biggest fan. He is always asking questions and trying to get better. Being the middle child, I know how it feels to have someone to look up to. I try my best to be a role model for him.
When you aren’t playing, practicing or training for sports, what is your go to activity and why?
I like to hangout with my friends. When I’m with my friends it’s like an escape from all the stress and hardship of life.
What is your favorite football memory to date?
Being welcomed with open arms by my coaches and teammates after quitting to pursue baseball. After seeing my team play without me being out there with them, I realized my love for the game of football. I was happy to be given a chance to put on a jersey I never thought I would wear again.
is a hot dog a sandwich?
Yes
Music of choice:
Country
Best thing you ever got from a teammate? Why?
The best thing I ever received from a teammate was a pair of cleats to play in the D-10 semi-finals against hickory my Sophomore year. I forgot my cleats at our school, and I wouldn’t have been able to play unless someone gave me their cleats. We ended up winning the game, but I left one of his cleats in the locker room. We never saw that other cleat again, and the one that is still in my possession hangs right above my bed in my room as a memory of that huge, improbable win.
Best Pizza topping?
Pepperoni
Which one? Sheetz or Wawa
Sheetz
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