Alumni Spotlight: Haeli Sterino B’20 

Her passion for football started as a young girl hearing stories of her dad playing sports at Bellarmine and grew while she cheered on her older brothers from the sidelines. These memories and desire to make a bigger impact within the Lions Football program helped inspire her to return in 2021 as an assistant coach. In this role, she assists Head Coach Brian Jensen with team logistics, player testing, roster building, securing program sponsorships, and various other responsibilities. 

We caught up with Haeli on the field to learn more about her time at Bellarmine and her contributions to the football program. 

 

Honestly, my favorite memories are Friday Nights – Friday night lights on Memorial Field watching the football games. Those were always the best, being with the team, your friends, cheering on my older brothers and the team. And since I was a manager, I got to be down on the field, which made those nights even more special. 

 

Mr. DeGroot, my Formation Teacher, was the best. He was such a big part of my time at Bellarmine, providing a space for our class to grow together over our four years together. Coach Jensen also played a big part in my time at Bellarmine. He and the team were so welcoming, and I learned so much from him about football. And of course, Fr. Jerry. He’s “home.” When you think of Bellarmine, you think of Fr. Jerry. 

 

I had initially wanted to go into Occupational Therapy, but my senior year when COVID hit and we had to go to online learning, things shifted for me because I didn’t do well with virtual learning. After talking with my grandma, she reminded me when I was younger that I loved styling hair. This led me to where I am now, getting my license in Cosmetology and being a hair stylist. What is also great about this is it allows me to continue to work with the Bellarmine Football program. 

What Inspired you to continue on as a coach with the football program?
Having grown up around football, watching my older brothers play from a young age, football has always played a big role in my life. Then getting to be a manager during high school, I found out how great the coaches are and also really came to appreciate the values of the program. The coaching staff can always turn a potentially bad day into a great day. I always have a smile on my face when I come out to Memorial Field. 

What would you say to a female that is interested in getting involved with football as a coach or team manager?
I would say don’t be scared. Ask questions. The coaches won’t judge you for not knowing. They will actually be really excited you want to learn about the game. And I welcome all questions and inquiries as well.  

What makes Bellarmine special?
The community. It is just so unique. As soon as you come back, it’s like you never left, and you will always have that bond with the school. Whether it’s a teacher, a coach or a younger sibling, there will always be something for you to connect with.