Ralph and Ralphie Blundo joined Colin Dunlap on his show last week ahead of the WPIAL playoffs, sharing some insights into the unique dynamics of coaching and being coached by a family member. “You really hope to handle it the right way,” said Ralph, “You don’t really get to be the guy to tell everyone how good he is or isn’t.” Ralphie said the dynamic has been overwhelmingly positive though that he works hard to make a statement for himself.
Ralph–the winningest basketball coach in the team’s history–likened the responsibility that comes with being a head coach in New Castle to being closer to that of a college coach. Blundo works to alleviate some of the pressure that comes from a community that cares so deeply about the game.
“We get to be the face of New Castle as a varsity basketball team, but you also get the criticism that comes with it.”
Ralphie, now a senior, has been with the team since his freshman year, worked to become a starter as a sophomore and has worked diligently to advance his play since then.
“I understood that when I got into a leadership position that I had to turn all the negatives into positives.”
The father and son duo seemed confident yet humble, even as the playoffs loomed large. The elder Blundo was thankful for New Castle’s pedigree.
“We’re fortunate that we’ve been down this road for so many years… they’re comfortable there.”
New Castle’s next Boys Basketball game will be on Thursday 2/20 against the winner of North Hills v. Butler.