Donato was a three-sport athlete at Middleborough High School in Massachusetts and was inducted into their Hall of Fame. He went on to play baseball and basketball at the former Ricker College in Houlton.
However, it was in his role as basketball coach that John became a true legend of the game. His teams have won 11 Regional titles and 5 Gold Balls, his latest in 2015 at Lawrence High School. In addition, John is closing in on 550 career wins; an almost unfathomable number.
John started his coaching career at Houlton High School where his teams won 4 State Championships. John has coached at Mt. View, Messalonskee, Hall-Dale and Lawrence. He is currently coaching the Orono High School girls.