In Buena Vista, Virginia, Mike Cartolaro is recognized for his exceptional basketball skills and community involvement, which is supported by his wife, Leigh Cartolaro.
Their story, which began in 1987, is one of love, support, and shared dreams that have shaped a remarkable 34-year coaching career and a beautiful family life.
Mike and Leigh’s journey together began in 1987 when Mike accepted his first varsity head coaching position at Orange County High School.
Leigh, a Tusculum University graduate, quickly became his biggest cheerleader.
From those early days, she stood by his side, offering continuous support as he built a legacy in high school basketball.
Whether it was late-night practices, long bus rides to games, or the emotional highs and lows of coaching, Leigh was there, cheering him on through every moment.
Together, they raised two children, Ashleigh and A.J., who have grown into accomplished adults.
Ashleigh, a Clinical Coordinator and Resident in Counseling at Strategic Therapy Associates since 2023, lives nearby in Lynchburg.
A.J., married to Emma since June 9, 2018, is a proud father of two and resides in Evington.
Mike and Leigh’s love for their family grows to their grandchildren, whom they now plan to spend more time with in retirement.
Mike Cartolaro’s story is deeply rooted in Buena Vista, where he was born to parents Polly and Tony.
Growing up in the 1960s and 1970s, Mike was an active kid, playing football, basketball, and baseball with his childhood friends.
Those early days on the local courts and fields sparked a lifelong passion for sports.
After graduating from Parry McCluer High School in 1978, Mike enrolled at Roanoke College, where the Maroons were an NCAA Division II powerhouse.
But it was at Emory & Henry College, under the mentorship of Coach Bob Johnson, that Mike found his calling.
Bob, who won 370 games with the Wasps, saw something special in Mike and encouraged him to try his hand at coaching.
Mike took the advice to heart, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree from Emory & Henry and spending a season on Johnson’s staff.
It was clear, though, that high school basketball was where Mike’s heart lay.
A Coaching Career Built On Passion
Mike’s coaching journey began in 1987 at Orange County High School, where he quickly made his mark, leading the team to two district titles in three years.
From there, he coached at Monacan High School near Richmond for a season before heading to Virginia High School in Bristol from 1991 to 1994.
As head coach and athletic director, he guided the Bearcats to the Virginia High School League state tournament quarterfinals in 1992 and 1993.
In 1994, Mike took the helm at Altavista High School, where he would spend an incredible 21 years.
His tenure with the Colonels was nothing short of legendary, marked by consistent success and deep community ties.
However, as his father, Tony, grew older, Mike felt a strong pull to return home to Buena Vista in 2015.
He stepped away from coaching briefly, taking on roles as assistant athletic director and alternative education teacher at Parry McCluer High School.
The break didn’t last long. By the 2016-17 season, Mike was back on the sidelines, coaching the Parry McCluer boys’ basketball team.
In 2021, Mike led the Blues to one of the program’s greatest moments, a testament to his skill and dedication.
His final victory came in 2022 against Grayson County in the Region 1C tournament, marking his 600th career win—an extraordinary record of 600 wins to 237 losses.
With that milestone, Mike retired from coaching, leaving the team in the capable hands of Tyler Kerr, a fellow Parry McCluer alumnus who coached under him.
Through Every Move, Every Game, And Every Accomplishment, Leigh Was Mike’s Rock
Leigh wasn’t just a supportive spouse; she was an essential part of his journey, celebrating the wins and weathering the challenges.
Mike often credits Leigh for keeping him grounded, reminding him of what matters most—family, community, and love.
Their partnership is a testament to the power of shared values and mutual respect.
As Mike moved into his role as athletic director at Parry McCluer, Leigh remained his constant source of strength.
When he retired from that position after six years, the couple looked forward to a new chapter in their lives together.
Now, they plan to cherish time with their grandchildren, tackle the ever-present to-do list at home, and stay active in the community.
Mike continues to serve on the Parry McCluer Athletic Hall of Fame committee, where he was inducted in 2022, and the ’70s reunion committee, organizing events for alumni from 1970 to 1979.
Mike Cartolaro’s career is a story of dedication, not just to basketball but to the people around him.
From his childhood in Buena Vista to his 600 career wins, he’s always shared the spotlight with those who matter most—especially Leigh.
Their love, developed in the excitement of a young coach’s early days, has only grown stronger over the years.
Together, they’ve built a family, a legacy, and a life filled with purpose.
As Mike shows on 42 years as an educator, coach, and administrator, he does so with humility, always quick to share the credit.
With Leigh by his side, he’s ready for the next adventure—whether it’s cheering on the Blues from the stands, spoiling his grandchildren, or simply enjoying the quiet moments at home
For Mike and Leigh Cartolaro, the game of life is far from over, and they’re playing it together, as always.
