This national competition proved pivotal. It introduced him to key figures in Iranian football, including the late Mohammad Ranjbar and Parviz Dehdari, both of whom would later be influential in his career. It was also here that he earned the attention of Azad, the head of the Daneshsara team, whose recommendation secured Salehnia a place in the teacher-training institute (Daneshsara). This blend of football and academic pursuit shaped the dual path Salehnia would follow throughout his life: as both an educator and a coach.
From Classroom to Coaching Grounds
After graduating, Salehnia returned to Bandar Anzali as a teacher. Notably, many of his students were his former teammates or schoolmates. He quickly resumed his engagement with football by becoming both a player and an assistant coach for the Anzali city team. He brought a fresh and youthful approach to coaching, emphasizing discipline, teamwork, and fitness. These were the foundational values he would instill in generations of young athletes.
During this period, the city of Bandar Anzali was beginning to awaken to its football potential. Intercity matches, especially those against rival city Rasht, were passionately followed by fans and served as proving grounds for local talents.