A new chapter is underway for Mt. Lebanon athletics, as the district welcomes both a new head football coach and a new athletic director for the 2026 season.
(Photo by Sarah Core)
Bruce Fronk has been hired as the Blue Devils’ head football coach, returning to a district he called a “dream job” after previously leaving for South Fayette.
“When I left … my heart never left this place,” Fronk said. “It is a special district and community that has a strong and proud football tradition.”
Fronk takes over a program looking to bounce back from a challenging season, but he made clear his focus is on the future rather than past results.
“I am focused on who we are now and where we are going,” he said. “Our coaching staff is taking what we do well and developing plans to enhance those strengths.”
Fronk emphasized building a connected culture that supports all levels of football, from youth teams through varsity.
“Our goal is to develop every player … and ensure everyone knows their role,” he said. “These will be the key things to help us build a consistent contender.”
Describing himself as “a teacher at my core,” Fronk said his coaching philosophy centers on developing players beyond the field.
“When your focus is helping the whole person … winning on the field then happens,” he said. “Winning is a byproduct of doing all of the little things right.”
Fronk’s hiring is not the only major shift for the district, as the athletic director position also is changing hands.
Longtime athletic director John Grogan is retiring after 26 years of service, during which he said the relationships he built became one of the most meaningful parts of his career.
“Serving this district has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life,” Grogan said. “The relationships I’ve built have meant the world to me.”
Grogan emphasized that while winning has always mattered, his primary focus was creating meaningful experiences for student-athletes.
“Although we always strived to win,” he said, “teaching the many life lessons associated with sports is what I feel is the most important thing that we do.”
Grogan reflected on how high school athletics have evolved over time, particularly with the rise of technology and increased specialization in sports.
“I have seen the use of technology increase and the amount of specialization and private coaching increase,” he said. “But I believe our students’ passion for their sport and their school continues to be a source of pride.”
He added that athletics remain a critical part of the overall educational experience at Mt. Lebanon.
“I believe our athletic programs are a vital part of the education our students enjoy,” he said.
Taking his place is Daniel Bonaventura, who was approved by the school board in March and will begin his role in May 2026.
Bonaventura currently serves as associate athletic director for student-athlete development at Robert Morris University, where he oversees leadership development, career readiness and community engagement initiatives. He also works as an academic liaison and sport administrator for the university’s men’s basketball program.
