Edward “Señor” Arciniega was one of those teachers that generations of Fallon students and parents will remember for a lifetime.
When someone of Señor’s stature passes away, the stories of admiration and respect become too numerous to mention. He was truly a man for all, but mostly, those who knew Señor have referred to him as a great teacher, a friend, a mentor.
Since he arrived in Fallon in the early 1950s, Señor quickly established himself in the community as a quality teacher and successful coach. Along with his good friend and fellow educator, Elmo Dericco, they set the bar for a quality athletic program admired around the state.
Even in 1957 for a small high school such as Fallon to win state championships was no small feat. The road to a state trophy and a place in Silver State lore usually had to go through Reno or Las Vegas, and Fallon did that.
Players on the 1957 basketball team admired Señor and his calm demeanor. Although Señor received many accolades for his coaching and later for his years as athletic director, the championship basketball team’s title was remembered most.
“Without a doubt, coaching the 1957 state champions in basketball was my greatest moment,” Señor said in an interview with the LVN more than 20 years ago on the eve of his induction into the Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association’s Hall of Fame. “That was the best team this town has ever seen. They use that 1957 team to judge all the other teams that have come along behind it. Some have come close but none can quite compare to that team.”
Yet, Señor’s accomplishments during his 37-year brought pride to Greenwave country, both in athletics and in the classroom. He was named Hispanic Educator of the Year, selected Churchill County Teacher of the Year, participated in the Churchill County Education Association and PTA. Señor was a family man who married his college sweetheart, Norine, in 1952. He earned the respect of colleagues both at home and away.
Not only did he leave a mark with those he coached but also Señor wanted to become closer to the young men and women who would be our future leaders and citizens. H wanted them to be part of their community and to contribute in whatever way they could.
The music did not stop when Señor retired in 1988. Although he was missing from the classroom, he wasn’t missing from Greenwave athletics. He attended numerous athletic events, rooting for the Greenwave teams and players.
“After 37 years, it’s time. We’re going to a new school, and it’s time to go. But I’ll be back to see sporting and cultural events,” he said at the time.
Teacher, coach, mentor and friend, Señor has left a lasting legacy.
LVN Editorials appear on Wednesdays.