11 athletics in action “ e lessons, relationships, and standards I learned here helped prepare me for success at Notre Dame and throughout my professional football career. Because Aquinas played such an important role in my own journey, returning to coach has been incredibly rewarding. Watching our student-athletes develop con dence, overcome challenges, and grow both on and o the eld reminds me why I came back. Knowing I can use my experiences to positively impact their lives and help them reach their goals is one of the most ful lling parts of coaching.” — JARRON JONES ‘12, VARSITY FOOTBALL & TRACK AND FIELD COACH Their presence creates a powerful connection between generations of Li’l Irish. Current students see firsthand what it means to remain connected to Aquinas long after receiving a diploma. They learn from individuals who once sat in the same classrooms, walked the same hallways, and proudly represented AQ in competition. The lessons shared by alumni coaches extend far beyond athletics. Through practices, competitions, and everyday conversations, they help students develop confidence, resilience, discipline, leadership, and teamwork – qualities that will serve them well long after their playing days are over. “I always said that when I stopped coaching college lacrosse, I would only coach again if it was at Aquinas. When I returned from Connecticut, the AQ position was open, and it truly felt meant to be. Aquinas has always felt like home, and I wanted to come back and coach where I loved playing. Coaching at AQ means passing along what I learned here while staying connected to a great alumni community. Most of all, I enjoy giving our student-athletes the same experience I had. It’s been incredibly rewarding to give back and help them grow.” — DEBRA DELFINO ‘11, GIRLS VARSITY LACROSSE HEAD COACH At the same time, alumni coaches help preserve and strengthen the traditions that have defined Aquinas for generations. They carry forward the values they learned as students while helping today’s athletes create memories and experiences of their own. Their commitment is a powerful reminder that the Aquinas connection does not end at graduation. It continues through relationships, service, mentorship, and a shared desire to give back. “I’ve always enjoyed coaching at Aquinas. Even a er stepping down as head baseball coach, I stayed involved by helping with the football team and continuing to support the baseball program. When the opportunity came to return, it just felt like the right time to give back even more.” — MARK MAGLIOCCO ‘79, P’02, ’03 & ’10, VARSITY BASEBALL HEAD COACH Whether they graduated five years ago or fifty years ago, alumni coaches demonstrate the lasting impact of an Aquinas education and the many ways our graduates continue to support the school they proudly call home. Once a Li’l Irish, always a Li’l Irish. Debra Delfino ’11 (middle row #25) Mark Magliocco ’79 (front row, middle) Jarron Jones ’12 (right) Jarron Jones ’12 (left) THEN NOW THEN NOW THEN NOW
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