After receiving a B.A. in Communication Arts from Seton Hall in 1968, Spina received his teaching certification in 1971 and later earned status as a highly qualified teacher of English, Language Arts, Writing and Journalism on both the high school and elementary level. From 1969 to 2001 Spina doubled as a sportswriter for the Hudson Dispatch and Jersey Journal covering the World Series and All-Star game. Spina has written for two mayors and has twice run for township council. He resides in Old Bridge, NJ, with his wife Mary.