EVERETT – Rob DiLoreto is going back to the future.

The Class of ’84 alum accepted an offer this past February to return as the Everett High football coach, a post he left after three seasons in April 2023. And after the first day of practice, DiLoreto felt right at home.

“I love this city,” said DiLoreto, speaking on the sideline of Glendale Park. “I grew up here and it’s in my heart. I am honored to be the leader of this historic program.”

Despite posting a stellar 21-3 regular season record three conference titles during his previous tenure as head coach, DiLoreto is not looking to start where he left off. Instead, he is eager to rebuild a culture that has long defined Everett football.

“Every decision we make will be in the best interests of the student-athletes,” said DiLoreto, who was also hired as a vice principal. “We are teaching life skills on the football field. That is why we expect everyone to be on time, give their best effort – which is a non-negotiable in Everett football – and treat people with respect. That’s our foundation.”

Everett finished 4-6 last season, struggling to defeat top-tier opponents former coach Justin Flores had lined up to help the Crimson Tide with their MIAA power ranking. The result was the same for a second straight year, with Everett failing to qualify for the postseason.

Head coach Rob DiLoreto runs a drill during Everett High School football practice Friday, the opening day for high school football teams in the state. (Photo by Reba Saldanha/Boston Herald)

DiLoreto cut his proverbial coaching teeth learning under longtime Everett coach John DiBiaso, who is now leading Catholic Memorial to unforeseen heights. In addition to coaching together, DiBiaso has known DiLoreto for over four decades – and he championed the coaching hire.

“I know the whole family – his dad was the photographer for over 40 years, and I knew Rob when he was a student at Everett High,” said DiBiaso. “Rob’s always been very passionate about Everett. He’s a wonderful guy, a great parent, and he is the perfect role model.”

DiBiaso believes DiLoreto will restore Everett’s winning ways. He was also adamant that DiLoreto’s impact will be far more significant than the final score of each game.

“Rob’s been a success wherever he’s been, and that goes beyond winning football games,” said DiBiaso. “He really cares about the kids. That is reflected in the way he raised his own children. He’s the type of man you want coaching your son.”

DiLoreto values DiBiaso’s support. Though the men are coaching competing programs, there is a familial bond that exists within the Everett football community.

Tommy Ramos runs a drill as special teams coach John Romboli looks on during Everett High School’s football practice Friday. (Photo by Reba Saldanha/Boston Herald)

“Coach DiBiaso was a close friend of my father and a true mentor to me,” said DiLoreto. “I’ll always be thinking of him and everything he did for the program.”

At the end of the first day, DiLoreto succeeded in making his objective clear. He made it known that he expects constant improvement, which was visible from the beginning to the end of a very detailed practice.

Everett’s John Barreiros runs a drill during Friday’s season-opening practice. (Photo by Reba Saldanha/Boston Herald)

“We prepared for this all summer,” said DiLoreto. “We are going to practice hard, compete, and represent the legacy of Everett football with pride and integrity.”