Donato Enjoying Apprenticeship Experience

Apprentice: Sarah Donato
Mentor: Luca Sirianni

Sarah Donato was a member of the Women’s Soccer team at Seneca for five seasons – the last two as co-captain. Now, she is ready for a new challenge and would like to inspire other student-athletes through her passion of sport, fitness and coaching.

“I am so enthusiastic about the college experience,” said Donato, who also served as a member of the Varsity Council during her final year at Seneca. “I would love to aid these young girls in having the same or even better experience I had in my college career.”

Donato played a vital role in the program’s success, leading the Sting to Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) gold in 2014. That fall, Seneca earned a bronze medal at the CCAA Women’s Soccer National Championship in Medicine Hat, AB.

“She has a natural ability to see the whole game and wishes to now develop her coaching skills,” said Linda Stapleton, Director of Sport and Recreation at Seneca College. “Her leadership skills, knowledge and passion for the game give her the tools to become a great coach.”

Donato previously coached a U5 boys soccer team in Newmarket which gave her the chance to work with the fundamental learning stage. She then volunteered to train the U16 girls team in East Gwillimbury which gave her the comfort and ability of working with females and teenagers.

A full-time physiotherapy assistant, Donato treats injured athletes; she aids them with in-clinic modalities and develops and teaches home exercise programs to help clients return to play.

Donato is anxious to learn and develop her skill set as a coach.

“I believe I have a lot to offer from experience and skills I have attained as a student, athlete and a physiotherapist assistant,” she said. “I had an incredible experience with Seneca College, which shaped me to be the person I am today.”

Donato will be mentored by Luca Sirianni, a Seneca graduate himself.

Sirianni, who was a member of the Men’s Soccer varsity team, enters his fifth season as head coach of the Sting.

“Luca is an excellent teacher and communicator, bringing out the best in everyone,” said Stapleton. “He has all of the tools, experience and energy to be a very positive mentor coach.”

Source: CCAA Communications