We recently caught up with new Salem High School Head Coach Brett Segala to discuss the upcoming season. Segala took over the program this off-season after a lengthy coaching career, including a recent stint as the offensive coordinator at Malden Catholic.

Here are Segala’s thoughts on the upcoming season and taking over the Salem program and his philosophy.

NEFJ: Congratulations on your appointment as head coach of Salem High School. How has the move gone so far?

Segala: “It’s been a great transition so far. Our kids have committed to our new mission and standard of what we want Salem Football to look like on and off the field. Everyone at Salem has welcomed me with open arms and I appreciate this opportunity and look forward to finishing the summer strong and getting the 2026 season kicked off next month!”

NEFJ: What are the three core beliefs of your coaching philosophy?

Segala: “The main three core beliefs that I believe in are developing the whole person, relationships come first and creating a culture of excellence through accountability. Everyday we will focus on developing our athletes on the field, in the classroom and in the community. It’s deeper than just football here at Salem.”

NEFJ: Salem is a program with a rich history and tradition, how do you plan on getting the program to a consistently competitive place?

Segala: “I believe that leaning into that rich history and tradition will be important to our success going forward. We don’t want to shy away from the history this program has, the Super Bowl appearance in 2023, the rivalries in the NEC, we plan to develop student-athletes on and off the field and have them be proud of being from Salem. We’ve got a great group of kids and coaches who are excited to compete day in and day out and commit to our standard.”

NEFJ: What is your coaching philosophy when it comes to offense and defense? How do you want to play?

Segala: “Offensively, we are going to be an up tempo, multiple style spread offense. Trying to stretch the field vertically and horizontally. Get our best players the ball in space and let them make plays. Defensively, I expect to be tough and relentless in our pursuit of the football and create havoc and chaos. Both sides of the ball work hand in hand together along with special teams to win games.”

NEFJ: People often talk about the fact that kids have changed. Have kids changed in your opinion or it is a byproduct of the times?

Segala: “I really don’t think kids have changed. Times have changed and it creates a different environment but kids still want to be supported, coached and led to achieve great things.”

NEFJ: Finally. What do you want Salem alumni, parents, supporters and your players to know about you?

Segala: “I just want everyone at Salem to know how thankful and excited I am to be the Head Football Coach at Salem HS. We’re going to play smart, fast and physical football and we hope to see everyone at Bertram Field this fall! Go Witch!”