February 19, 2022

By Fred Liggett
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Passionate is the best word to describe Sean Donovan who is retiring after 27 years being an assistant with the Lee’s Summit North girls basketball program. LS North Athletic Director Mike McGurk says of Donovan “brings passion and energy at any game, what he brings to the table.” McGurk adds “been a cornerstone of the program and part of the school for a long time.”

A former member of the LS North Broncos girls basketball team also used the word passion to describe coach Donovan. Tracey Grant, class of 2014, says, “He is very passionate about the players and the game.” Grant who was a manager for the team while at LS North continues to be involved in the program today keeping the book at home games and a few away games.

Before the LS North game against Liberty on Wednesday night Coach Donovan went to mid court and received a plaque from head coach Tricia Lillygren. On the plaque is a list of the many accomplishments the Broncos program had while Donovan was part of the coaching staff. Some of those successes included 400+ wins, eight conference titles, four final four berths and a state championship in 2002. The most recent accolade for the program was in 2017 when the team finished the regular season undefeated. Following the game there was a reception held for Donovan in the commons area. Many friends, family members and former players were on hand for the celebration.

There is still time for more memories to be made for Coach Donovan while at LS North as the Broncos enter post-season play starting on Saturday, Feb. 26. The Broncos will be part of an eight team district tournament being played at Belton High School.