13 When you walk the halls of Aquinas, you quickly learn that being part of this community is about more than just academics or athletics — it’s about spirit, faith, and family. Few people embody that more than Girls Varsity Basketball Head Coach, Mark Loria. For the past eight years, Coach Loria has poured his heart into Aquinas — building not just a successful program, but a culture rooted in trust, faith, and authentic relationships. “I was drawn to Aquinas for the chance to share my faith in Jesus Christ while competing at the highest level,” Loria says. “But I stayed because of the people. I love the kids I get to coach — this is a very special place.” A former coach at his alma mater, East Rochester, Loria brought 14 years of coaching experience into the Aquinas gym. His philosophy has always been simple: believe in your players, give them freedom, and build a structure around their strengths. “I never tried to make the girls into something they weren’t,” he says. “When a coach gives players freedom, they’re giving up some control — and that’s the beauty of it. You get to watch them grow, not just as athletes, but as people.” Under his leadership, the Aquinas Girls Basketball Program achieved something truly rare: three Section V titles, including back-to-back championships in two different classes (2024 & 2025) — a feat few teams can claim. They added two regional titles to that list and earned the opportunity to represent Aquinas in the state tournament, putting the program on a historic run. This season, Loria was honored as both the Channel 8 Primetime Sports Coach of the Year and the All-Greater Rochester Girls Basketball Coach of the Year. Behind the scenes, this season tested Loria in ways no scoreboard could reflect. In May 2024, just months before the start of the season, he suffered a massive heart attack. Two arteries were 100% blocked. He went into cardiac arrest three times and endured respiratory failure. “I am a miracle,” he says plainly. “What kept me going was God’s grace. He was faithful to have me start and finish His work this season.” His recovery — physically grueling and spiritually affirming — and yet, “I didn’t want to let the girls down,” he says. “I love and care about them deeply. I wanted to get them back to the state tournament.” He did — and more. Along the way, he reminded his players that success isn’t measured only in wins, but in resilience, unity, and faith. “I want them to remember that they can do all things through Christ who strengthens them. God has a plan for their lives.” Loria’s influence will echo for years. His advice to the next generation of Aquinas athletes and coaches? Keep it all in perspective. “High school sports are supposed to be fun. Don’t lose sight of what matters most: relationships. Be present. You’re not guaranteed tomorrow.” In reflecting on his time at Aquinas, Coach Loria offers a sentiment that perfectly captures both the trials and triumphs of his journey: “Faith isn’t proven like gold until you’ve been through the fire. Aquinas played a role in my faith and did that for me. I’m full of gratitude.” We are, too. Faith Through the Fire: Coach Mark Loria athletics in action TEAM AQ TO TEAM USA This summer, Aquinas sophomore Sienna Fallone ’27 achieved what many young athletes only dream of — she was named to the U.S. Girls’ National U-16 Soccer Team, representing her country at the highest level of youth soccer. But while her talent on the field is undeniable, it’s Sienna’s humility, work ethic, and sense of gratitude that truly make her stand out and make us AQ Proud in every way. When asked how she felt upon receiving the news, Sienna shared, “I was beyond excited and honestly couldn’t believe it — it was a dream come true. To me, there is no greater honor than to represent my country.” The training camp experience, she said, was “unlike anything I had ever done before.” Surrounded by top-tier athletes and coaches, Sienna soaked up every moment, describing it as a time of personal and athletic growth she’ll carry with her forever. “Honestly, one of the best parts of my soccer journey has been the people I’ve met along the way,” she reflected. This achievement marks just one chapter in Sienna’s already remarkable journey. From competing in the prestigious Generation Adidas Cup in Florida, to training with Celtic coaches in Scotland, to helping lead Aquinas to a sectional title as a freshman, Sienna has consistently thrived at the highest levels of the game. A two-time All-Greater Rochester selection with over 100 career points, she continued her standout performance in the 2024 season— scoring 16 goals and helping drive the AQ team to a strong 9-4-3 regular season record. But Sienna’s impact goes well beyond the soccer field. She’s a standout student, a committed teammate, and someone who represents the very best of what it means to be AQ Proud. “Being part of the Aquinas community means everything to me,” she said. “Whether it be the guidance and support from my teachers and fellow students, or the motivation from my coaches and teammates, every aspect of the Aquinas community has shaped me into the person I am today.” As she looks to the future, Sienna remains focused on her goals — growing academically and athletically, becoming the best version of herself, and helping lift others around her. And, of course, “winning another brick… and also a ring!” with her Aquinas girls soccer teammates. Sienna continues to impress—not just with her talent, but with the way she leads, stays humble, and supports those around her. Thank you, Sienna, for representing Aquinas and your country with such incredible spirit.
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