Mark Graceffo

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At my core, I am a football enthusiast. 

I’ve been around the game of football for a long time. My father was a local football coach who started taking me to Saskatoon Hilltop games when I was 4, and Roughrider games at 5. When we relocated to Winnipeg, I registered to play at the age of 8. I was hooked from my very first tackle. But my passion grew past the physical aspect — I loved the mental aspect. The strategy of the game enthralled me. 

I played for multiple teams and multiple positions on both sides of the ball throughout my playing career, starting with the Greendell Falcons, before moving on to the St. Vital Mustangs, MB provincial teams, Calgary Colts, and the Winnipeg Rifles. I was fortunate throughout my playing career to have great coaches. It was their passion and knowledge that helped lead me into coaching.

After I stopped playing, I got into coaching, first helping as a guest coach with provincial teams, which led to the opportunity to help start the Steinbach Sabres program with Jamie Peters. I was hired as defensive coordinator and assistant head coach. 

Starting a program from the ground up isn’t without its challenges. We had our philosophy, and we were consistent in our approach. We were continuously evolving to better ourselves as coaches to ensure we were getting the best out of our athletes and program. After 3 years, we finally won our first championship. A decade later, the Sabres program became a force in the WHSFL. I am so proud of what that program has become.

After my third year with the Sabres, I coached in the Canadian Junior Football League with the Winnipeg Rifles as an assistant head coach, special teams coordinator, and DL coach. The opportunity to compete at that level was amazing. Getting to learn from all the other great coaches in the program is an experience I am very grateful for.

During my time with both the Sabres and the Rifles, I was also asked to coach on both U16 and the U18 teams as the defensive coordinator. It was an honour. Being able to compete on the national stage with our best athletes was an amazing experience.

Currently, I have been working as a consultant for the Sabres helping where I can as I have a young family that I adore. This role allows me to be involved with the game and athletes.

I’ve been fortunate to coach at some of the highest levels of football in this province. I’ve had the privilege to play for and coach with some of the most well-regarded coaches in this province. I’ve learned from them while staying true to myself and my philosophies. My goal is to share that knowledge and help football grow in Manitoba. I look forward to working with you.