Tony Wright
Pioneer Academy Welcomes Tony Wright as Athletic Director for 2025–2026 Pioneer Academy is proud to announce the appointment of Tony Wright as Athletic Director for the 2025–2026 school year. Mr. Wright brings a wealth of experience in coaching, program development, and athletic leadership, and is poised to expand and strengthen the school’s Athletics Department.
A graduate of Iona University in New Rochelle, New York, Mr. Wright earned his degree in Speech Communications while competing as a member of the Men’s Basketball Team. His collegiate athletic background, combined with years of coaching and youth development, uniquely positions him to lead Pioneer’s growing sports programs.
Mr. Wright’s vision for Pioneer Academy includes: * Expanding athletic opportunities across all grade levels
* Building new middle and high school teams
* Creating inclusive programs that foster student growth and involvement
* Cultivating a vibrant, competitive, and supportive athletic culture
In addition to his new role at Pioneer, Mr. Wright serves as Program Director for the NYC Wizards Basketball Program. Under his leadership, the Wizards have helped more than 50 student-athletes earn scholarships and compete at NCAA Division I, II, and III schools.
Viviana Baez
I was born and raised in Argentina, where I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education. After graduation, I moved to the United States to continue my studies in Health Education at Montclair State University. Sports have always been a big part of my life, and I still enjoy playing soccer and volleyball with friends and family whenever I can.
My teaching career began in 2006, and I’ve had the privilege of working with students from elementary through high school in Hoboken, Teaneck, Montague, and Haskell. During this time, I coached cross country, track and field, and soccer, while developing Health and Physical Education programs that supported students' physical and personal growth.
I’m passionate about teaching young people the many benefits of exercise—from building strong bodies to fostering teamwork and having fun. In my classes, I emphasize sportsmanship, personal growth, and helping students make thoughtful decisions for their health and well-being.
Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Daniel, and our two children, Christina and Gabriel. We love to travel and experience new cultures together. In my free time, I also enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, soccer, swimming, hiking, and mountain biking.
I’m proud to be part of the school community. During my time here, I’ve worked to make the PE program more engaging by introducing new sports like Kickball, badminton, soccer, volleyball, hockey, and pickleball tournaments. Additionally, I’ve created a health program for students from Kindergarten through 8th grade, which has been incredibly rewarding.
James Hohnau
James was a four year member of the Princeton University Men’s Soccer Team and graduated in 2007 with a BA in Economics. After college, he played three seasons with the Morris County Colonials in the NPSL.
He began coaching youth soccer for West Essex in 2014 and enjoyed success at the club and middle school levels. Most notably, his West Essex Middle School Boy’s Team won the 2016 Essex County Tournament. Since then, he has held coaching positions at Paramus Catholic High School and Elmwood Park High School.
Most recently, his Elmwood Park JV Boys advanced to the second round of the 2022 Bergen Cup Tournament, a feat of which he is very proud. James is excited to join Pioneer Academy and continue sharing his knowledge and passion for the game. He will also be teaching business classes in the upcoming school year.
Malcolm Pope
In addition to his assistant coaching position at Our Saviour, Coach Pope also serves as the Head Coach of the New York Lighting AAU team, where he has achieved significant success. He has won multiple team championships and has helped numerous students secure college scholarship offers.
Prior to pursuing a coaching career, Coach Pope enjoyed a successful playing career that culminated in his graduation from the University of Texas-Permian Basin. As a member of the university's Division 2 men's basketball program, he made significant contributions. Alongside his collegiate basketball endeavors, Coach Pope obtained a degree in communications.
