SUNY Oneonta Athletics

Firenze is arguably the greatest men’s tennis player in program history, leading the Red Dragons from 1995-2000.  At the time of his induction on June 7, 2025, he remains the all-time leader in combined wins on the men’s side with 123.  During his brilliant career he was a two-time ITA quarterfinalist helping the team win 80 percent of its dual matches against many of the top colleges in the northeast.  From 1996-2000, Firenze served as the team Captain and was honored by the athletics department with the G. Hal Chase Award for his total service within and outside of the department.

Firenze earned his undergraduate degree in Education/Secondary Science while minoring in Chemistry.  He continued his education earning a master’s degree in 2003 from Hofstra University in Physical Education.

Firenze has spent his entire professional career as a science teacher in the Longwood Central School District on Long Island.  During the same time period, he has also served as the boys and girls varsity tennis coach.

As a High School coach, Firenze has enjoyed much success including a combined six league titles.  He has been selected three times as the Suffolk County Coach of the Year while mentoring numerous All-League, All-County and All-State players.  On three occasions, he has had individuals win the County Championship and, in 2022, he had a player reach the state finals.

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Link to Podcast Interview

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Link to Personal Reflection