In a heartfelt press conference held on Tuesday afternoon at Cardinal Mooney High School, Frank Colaprete officially reintroduced himself as the new coach and future athletic director. The event marked his return to the South Side of Youngstown after being appointed to the position in January. Colaprete emphasized the significance of academics and community involvement while highlighting the rich tradition of the football program. His vision includes fostering growth through dedication and hard work both on and off the field.

Colaprete's speech underscored the importance of academic excellence and the storied legacy of Cardinal Mooney's football team. He stressed that achieving success at a high level requires unwavering commitment. During his remarks, he outlined plans to reconnect with the community and ensure that everyone feels welcome at Cardinal Mooney. This approach is essential for rebuilding the football program, which has struggled in recent years, failing to secure a winning season since 2022 and losing to rival Ursuline since 2018.

Colaprete brings extensive experience from his 12-year tenure as head coach at Wooster College, where he led the Fighting Scots to a respectable record. Prior to this, he served as an assistant coach at several institutions, including Division III Allegheny College and John Carroll University. Despite the challenges of transitioning from college to high school coaching, Colaprete was drawn back by his deep connection to Cardinal Mooney, his alma mater, which he graduated from in 1992.

The decision to accept the position came swiftly after he was approached about returning to his roots. For Colaprete, this opportunity was not just a career move but also a personal one. He expressed gratitude for the chance to raise his family in a place that holds special meaning for him and his wife. "This is home," he said, emphasizing his long-term commitment to the school and community.

Cardinal Mooney President and Principal Nick Byers heralded this appointment as the beginning of a new chapter for the institution. Bringing back a former student to lead the next generation of athletes symbolizes a fresh start. Colaprete's passion and dedication promise to inspire the entire Cardinal Mooney community, setting the stage for a bright future filled with academic and athletic achievements.