Paul Guarino, a 2010 graduate of West Haven High School, has built a career around his interests in sports, business, and marketing. After graduating from WHHS, he continued his education and eventually turned those interests into a career of his own.
Guarino continued his education just down the road in Fairfield, where the Blue Devil became a Pioneer at Sacred Heart University. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Sport Management in 2014 before continuing on to earn his master’s degree in Sports Communications and Media in 2015, further building on his interest in the business and communications side of the sports industry.
Several of Guarino’s teachers at West Haven High School left a lasting impression on him. He remains in contact with Mr. Fraenza, and the two still talk about sports and Italy. He also credits Mrs. MacNeil with teaching him skills in her computer class that he continues to use today. Mr. Farrace’s class stands out as “one of the best classes ever,” while Mr. Morrell, known to Guarino as “Big Joe,” has continued to support him and his company.
Guarino also had the opportunity to return to West Haven High School after graduating, first as a substitute teacher. That experience eventually allowed him to get to know some of his former teachers in a different way. “It was also cool to come back and be a substitute teacher. I then became their ‘co-worker’ and got to know some of them on a different level,” Guarino said.
Today, Guarino runs PG Sports, where he serves as a sports business and marketing manager for professional athletes. His work helps athletes establish a strong presence through social media, branding, public relations, sponsorships, podcasting, and other areas. PG Sports has collaborated with athletes from the NFL to the WNBA and worked with major brands including AT&T, CHANEL, Gatorade, and NIKE.
His work in sports extends across several areas of the industry. In addition to managing athletes and helping them build their brands, he works as a boxing manager and agent, representing professional boxers and helping secure fights, sponsorships, and career opportunities. He is also the creator and host of Average to Savage, a podcast where he interviews athletes, entrepreneurs, and entertainers about their journeys.
Guarino’s work has also included helping launch other podcasts, developing social media strategies, consulting with athletes and businesses, and helping launch clothing brands. Through PG Sports, he has continued to find ways to work across different areas of sports, marketing, and business.
For current West Haven High School students thinking about what comes next, Guarino encourages them to find something they genuinely want to pursue and remain committed to it. “Do whatever you actually want to do and stick with it. Consistency is key!” Guarino said. That mindset has remained central to the way Guarino approaches his work across the sports and business industries.
Today, Guarino continues to grow PG Sports while working across different areas of the sports business world. His work has allowed him to collaborate with athletes, brands, and media projects throughout the industry. What started with an interest in sports has become a career that continues to evolve.