Arena played four seasons of varsity at Lakeland High School under Dennis Robinson and helped the team to four playoff appearances.  He was a two-time all-section and all-state.  He made an impact early on in his high school career, earning Rookie of the Year honors in 2008.  He kept the awards coming by winning Pitcher of the Year in 2009 and MVP in 2011.  He was a multi-sport athlete and also played two seasons of basketball.  He has one younger brother, Ryan.  He gets it done on the academic field as well and is majoring in physical education.