With the departure of longtime Director of Athletics Steve Beerman last June, the Poly community found itself uncertain about the athletic year ahead. However, while Beerman’s absence has and will continue to be felt, new director Scott Bello’s arrival has allowed for a smooth and productive transition between administrations, making the start of this year feel like any other. Judging by the glowing reviews of Poly coaches, athletes and community members as well as the numerous positive changes that Bello has already made, the future of Poly athletics seems to be in excellent hands.
Bello joins the Poly Athletic Department from Harvard Westlake, where he spent 18 years as a football coach and athletic director of the middle school. Bello believes that his experience at Harvard Westlake will help him greatly as he transitions into his new leadership role at Poly.
Bello commented, “The things that make a successful academic are the same things that make a successful athlete. Commitment, desire to succeed and integrity.”
As a former student athlete himself, Bello hopes to support all Poly student athletes as they work to find the rewarding balance between academics and athletics.
When asked what drew him to Poly, Bello stated, “Both the smaller student body, and the ability to ‘know’ everyone was a real draw for me. It seemed to me like a community that works hard and strives to get better every day. From the very beginning, everyone has been very open and accommodating, making it feel like I have been a part of this community for years.”
In his first few months as Director of Athletics, Bello has seen each program’s hard work pay off as Poly’s fall sports teams continue to excel in preseason and early league play. When asked about his favorite sports moment this season, he had difficulty deciding on just one. Instead, he highlighted the fact that every fall sports program currently has a winning record and a signature victory. He ended his answer by noting, “the future is really bright.”
Bello and his administrative staff have already begun work to make that future a reality.
Whether providing practice uniforms to each Poly athlete or working with Associate Athletic Director for Communications Jason Mitchell to revamp Poly Athletics’ presence on social media, Bello’s impact has been constructive and tangible.
In terms of his long term plans, Coach Bello stated, “My true long-range goal is to create an environment where everyone has the freedom to be the best version of themselves that they can be, and to create a transformative mindset that will guide all of our future successes.”
