Anthony "Tony" Tango was born and raised in Valisburg New Jersey where he played high school JV/Varsity football. He lettered as a sophomore and led the team in hitting. During his junior year, he was the team's scoring leader and 2nd Team All-County, and 2nd Parochial 'B' All-State. That same year he batted .406 and made 1st Team All-County and 1st Parochial 'B' All-State.
During his senior year, Tango lead the county in scoring with 86 points, 983 yards rushing, and 14 touchdowns. He was rewarded with 1st Team All-County, 1st Team Parochial 'B' All-State, and shared the Essex Catholic Youth Organization "Best Back of the Year Awar". The Newark Chapter of Unico National gave him an award in memory of Brian Piccolo.
His senior year baseball season had him batting .393 with 39 hits, and 16 stolen bases. He was named 1st Team All-County, 1st Team Parochial 'B' All-State, and 2nd Team Star-Ledger All-State.
In 1977 Tony enrolled at Rutgers University where his stint was cut short due to injuries - but not before he scored a touchdown and rushed for three yards per carry. He transferred to Upsala College in 1979 and joined the football team where he was named MVP in a win over Trenton State.
