By Rob Forleo
Special to the Voice
Following the sudden resignation of Rich Boshea as head coach, the West Haven High School athletic department has announced that Tom Unger will serve as the interim head football coach for the Blue Devils for the upcoming 2025 season. Unger, a familiar face both in the classroom and on the field, steps into the role ready to lead one of Connecticut’s storied football programs.
Superintendent Neil Cavallaro praised the selection.
“Tom Unger is a long-time member of our coaching staff and a well-respected teacher at West Haven High School. He also has experience as a head coach, which is critically important given the timing of Coach Boshea’s resignation. I have no doubt that he will do an outstanding job leading our football team this year,” he said.
Unger has been a math teacher at West Haven High School since 2015, where he also serves as head of strength and conditioning for all sports programs. He has played a central role in preparing student-athletes to compete at their highest level.
When asked what he is most excited about for the upcoming 2025 season, Unger was optimistic
“I’m excited to work with a group of young, hungry players who are ready to step up and build on the success of their teammates over the past two years,” he said.
Unger brings more than two decades of football coaching experience to the job. He served as defensive line coach at Fairfield University in 2002, assistant coach at Guilford High School from 2003 to 2007, and head coach at Guilford High School from 2008 to 2014 before joining the West Haven coaching staff in 2015. When asked about his top priorities for the season, Unger said, “We want our players to be great students first and athletes second, by embracing discipline and committing to hard work.”
Principal Rob Bohan added his support for the new coach.
“Tom is an experienced educator and coach, and I have full confidence he will lead our student-athletes on and off the field this season,” he said.
The West Haven Athletic Department praised Unger’s credentials in making the announcement.
“We are excited for Coach Unger to take the helm. His knowledge of the game and years with our program make him the right choice to guide the team and put his own mark on the season,” a statement read.
When asked what he hopes people understand about his approach to leading the team, Unger was brief.
“I can assure everyone that my staff and I will work tirelessly to prepare this team for the season ahead,” he said.
The Blue Devils will open their 2025 season on the road against Manchester High School on Sept. 12, marking the start of a new chapter under Unger’s leadership.