Ethan Kinney is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Veritas Prep High School for AZPreps365.com.

Veritas Prep football coach Mike Sanfrantello's love for the sport started way before scoring touchdowns and winning championships. 

It started with a football uniform malfunction. 

His football story started at the old Scottsdale boys club when he was playing tight end, and once caught a pass that he was sure would become a touchdown. 

“I got tackled at the 1-yard line because my pants fell down,” Sanfratello said. “My belt came undone and I was in my underwear at the goal line. That's when I knew this was the sport for me.”

This story is one that every one of his players has heard numerous times, and it’s one that encapsulates Sanfratello's energy. He’s never taking himself too seriously, and extremely passionate about the game. 

“He always keeps practices fun and upbeat, but in a way where we also remain focused and understand what we’re there to do,” senior captain Baylor Arnold said. 

When he was growing up, he idolized Buffalo Bills running back OJ Simpson. 

Unfortunately, his senior year of high school, he suffered a knee injury and missed the majority of the season, and every college but Northern Arizona University pulled their offer.

“My dad told me, ‘Guess where you’re going?’” Sanfratello said. “We didn’t have the money for college, so he basically signed my scholarship for me.”

During his career at NAU, Sanfratello would become a two-time All-American on the defensive line. During his time there, he got to soak up knowledge from some future NFL coaches such as Andy Reid, Brad Childress and Bill Callahan. 

“Being coached by Andy Reid was incredible,” Sanfratello said. “He didn’t only tell you what to do, but he told you why you needed to do it, and then he taught you how to do it, that really stuck with me.”

After going undrafted in 1991, Sanfratello signed as a free agent with the San Francisco 49ers. He played there for two years before injuries cut his career short. 

However, he said his experiences in the NFL have shaped the way he views football, especially from a coaching perspective. 

“I saw what a great culture looks like,” Sanfratello said. “I saw first-hand what it meant to submit yourself to the mission of the team and put a common goal above yourself.”

He has taken these lessons with him to where he is now, leading Veritas Prep to a 7-0 record this season. 

“We have the most kids in the program that we’ve ever had at 43,” Sanfratello said. “The kids want to be a part of the culture we’re building, something that matters.”

“When you get the right man to lead the team, the right people, and the right results will follow, and we’re glad Mike is the one leading this team,” Veritas Prep athletic director Chase Beebe said. 

Sanfratello has always viewed football more than a job. 

“It’s an extension of ministry for me,” Sanfratello said. “It teaches you how to serve, sacrifice and to put others first. That’s why I love it.”