Xavier High School is proud to announce the return of Sean Marinan ’80 as Head Football Coach. Marinan, who led the Falcons to five State Championships during his fourteen-year tenure from 2002 to 2016, returns to the helm after spending the past seven seasons as an assistant coach at Southern Connecticut State University.
A proven leader and a fierce competitor, Marinan built a culture of excellence at Xavier that shaped young men both on and off the field. His teams compiled a record of 120 wins, 44 losses, and one tie, captured five State Championships in 2005, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2014, and earned national recognition. His 2011 squad was named the number one high school football team in Connecticut and one of the top programs in the country. Under his leadership, dozens of players went on to compete at the collegiate level, and several advanced to the National Football League and Canadian Football League.
During his tenure on Randolph Road, he was named the 2015 Connecticut High School Coaches Association Coach of the Year, a three-time Walter Camp Foundation Kelly Award winner, a two-time National Football Foundation Coach of the Year, and the New Haven Register Coach of the year in 2005.
“I am very happy to back at Xavier and working with the Xavier community in furthering the school’s mission,” Marinan said. “Hopefully we will win a few football games as well.”
Xavier President Nick Cerreta also expressed his excitement about Marinan’s return, emphasizing the impact he has had on the school both as a coach and as a mentor. "Sean Marinan is more than just a football coach. He is a leader, a teacher, and someone who embodies the values of Xavier High School. His passion for developing young men of character has always been evident, and we are thrilled to welcome him back home. His return is not just a win for our football program but for the entire Xavier family."
Marinan’s influence extended far beyond the scoreboard. He fostered a brotherhood within the program that was built on discipline, accountability, and relentless effort. That foundation is exactly what Director of Athletics Dan DeConti ’01 hopes to see restored.
"Sean Marinan represents what Xavier athletics is all about," DeConti said. "During his time here, he built a culture of toughness, preparation, and commitment that defined our teams. We are thrilled to welcome him back and know that he will instill that same mentality in our current players. His experience, leadership, and passion for Xavier football make him the perfect person to lead this program into the future."
Since stepping away from Xavier in 2016, Marinan has spent the past seven seasons at Southern Connecticut State University, working with the defensive line and helping develop all conference performers. His return marks a new chapter for the Falcons, one that is rooted in the traditions of the past while embracing the future.
Cerreta also highlighted Marinan’s deep connections in the football world and his commitment to helping student athletes continue their careers beyond Xavier. "Coach Marinan is well known and highly respected among college coaches at every level. He has always worked tirelessly to help his players find opportunities to continue their football journey, whether at the Division One, Two, or Three level. His dedication to their growth both on and off the field is what makes him such a special coach, and I know he will bring that same passion back to Xavier."
Marinan has already made his first addition to the coaching staff, announcing that Greg Jaskot ’00 will serve as Associate Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator. Jaskot, a former Xavier football player and 20-year coach for the Falcons, brings a deep understanding of the program and a commitment to continuing the legacy of success.
“I’m excited to be coaching with Greg Jaskot again,” Marinan added. “He was our offensive coordinator when we won our last state championship in 2014.”
With Marinan back on the sidelines, Xavier Football is ready to reignite the fire and build upon the championship tradition that has defined the program for decades.