The Official Site of the Fighting Saints

After a banner high school football career at Gonzaga Prep, Spokane, John McDonell started at offensive tackle for 3½ seasons for Carroll, culminating in a berth on two 1980 All-American units. As a sophomore, John helped the Saints to an undefeated regular season (9-0) and their initial appearance in the NAIA post season. In 1979, the 6’3”, 240-lb. McDonell garnered the first of his two first team All-Conference selections. 

He served as team co-captain his senior season, before being named honorable mention as both A.P. Little All-American, and NAIA Division II All-American. McDonell went on to spend over 35 years coaching D-I college football – making 10 Bowl game appearances – at places like Washington State, Notre Dame, Stanford, Bowling Green and Purdue.