Paternostro Named Interim Cross Country and Track & Field Coach

Director of Athletics Jason Doviak has announced that Steven Paternostro will serve as the interim head coach for the cross country and track & field teams during the 2017-18 school year.

Paternostro is honored to take of the cross country and track & field programs. "I have always dreamed of being a college coach and now I can say my dream has come true. I wouldn't be the person I am today if it wasn't for the lessons I have learned in these sports and for the coaches I played for. It's finally my chance to pay it forward!" 

Paternostro is no stranger to the Alfred State athletic department. He joined the coaching staff last winter and assisted in all aspects of the track & field program.

Doviak is excited to have Steve take over the program. "Steve is a dynamic young professional and we are excited to promote him to head coach for cross country and track & field. He did an outstanding job as an assistant coach and many of our student-athletes attribute their success to his coaching style and training philosophy. Our student-athletes have been very supportive of his candidacy and enjoy competing for him. His energy and enthusiasm is contagious and we believe he will continue to build our program as we continue our journey of officially becoming a NCAA Division III member."

Previously, Paternostro has spent time coaching collegiately at Daemen College (Amherst, NY), and Edinboro University (Endiboro, PA). At Daemen (2014-2015) he was the sprints and jumps coach as well as the assistant cross country coach, and at Edinboro (2012-14) he was a volunteer assistant with the track & field program.

Paternostro was a two-time NJCAA National Champion in the decathlon and 4x400 m relay at Erie CC before transferring to Edinboro where he was All-NCAA Regional and All-PSAC in the decathlon.

He holds a associates degree in liberal arts from ECC and a bachelors degree in Individualized Studies with a focus on Human Performance from Edinboro.

Paternostro has also spent time coaching at Lake Shore High School (2012-15) and the Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart (2011).

What others are saying about Coach Paternostro:

Nick Stenuf - Nike Stotan Assistant Coach/USA Track and Field Championship Qualifier

"Steve is a very passionate and skilled track and field/cross country coach. He is always eager to learn new ways to enhance his knowledge and improve his athletes. His expertise is a great addition for the Alfred State program, athletic department, and community."