Milton Academy’s head football coach for the past 17 years, Kevin MacDonald—or “Coach Mac”—says his work with his players off the field brings him the most joy.
“I love being involved with the players’ college process,” says Kevin. “Nothing makes me happier than the number of students we send on to play college football.”
During his tenure—with a record of 87–43–3—roughly 100 Milton players have gone on to play college football, 19 at the Division I level. Nick Bland ’13, a team captain in 2012, is playing for Cornell University this fall.
“Coach has a lot of respect from college coaches because of his honesty,” says Nick. “He makes sure that if players want to go on and play football, that it is an option for them. He does so much work behind the scenes, talking to coaches and making sure we have those opportunities.”
Prior to Milton, Kevin spent 14 years as head coach at Archbishop Williams High School in Braintree. In recognition of his long-term commitment to and success in the game he loves, Kevin was inducted into the Massachusetts High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in April. Many former and current players were in the audience to support and thank the coach who did so much for them.
“Coach loves teaching more than he loves winning, and that means something, because he really likes to win!” says Jeff Bortman ’13, a team captain from the 2012 season. “When we were sophomores, we weren’t expecting that much attention, but Coach takes the time to get to know each of his players from a young age.”
“He is very encouraging,” says Nick. “He rarely has negative comments. Overall, he gets respect from his players because he respects them. It’s hard to find a coach more dedicated to his players.”
Kevin clearly loves the day-to-day of football season. Besides Gordon Sewall, assistant head of school, and Paul Rebuck, dean of admission, the rest of the coaching staff is made up of former players who have played for Kevin over the years. “Working with these guys every day during the football season is so much fun,” says Kevin.
And now, “Coach Mac” is looking forward to the 2013 season. The Independent School League is one of the top leagues in Massachusetts, and Kevin relishes the challenge of facing tough opponents. Though football may be on his mind year-round, Kevin immensely enjoys his roles as advisor, teacher, house parent, and coach of the boys’ freshman baseball team.