Laila Morales is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Centennial High School for AZPreps365.com

PEORIA – When a student was in need, a security guard stepped up, creating the memory of a lifetime. 

Before joining Centennial and working their football games, campus security guard Michael Doncevic served in the military for 26 years, during which he relocated every four years. He recalled how it was a tough transition back to civilian life. 

“This place makes you feel welcome,” Doncevic said. “The staff is terrific here; they help you out wherever they need to.”

Despite struggles with the lifestyle transition, Doncevic received support from this valley campus, helping him realize this was his new home. Now, in his tenth year on the staff, he stated that he feels just as welcome as he did on day one. 

“They just accepted me for who I was, what I was going through, and what I could bring to the school,” Doncevic said. 

While Doncevic can be seen working sporting events, campus security is his main focus, and home to one of his favorite memories from Centennial. 

Over three years ago, Doncevic happened upon a student in tears after a teacher refused to accept her handwritten essay because it had not been printed out. 

“I walked up and asked her what was going on, and she told me,” Doncevic said. “I then said, ‘Have you come up to the front office to see if you can get a laptop?’ and she said she was too afraid.”

Doncevic spoke with the student and walked her to the front office to get her a laptop.

He proceeded to help her submit the assignment, and she went on to graduate. Just two years later, the student returned to the school to thank Doncevic for his help that day and the impact he had on her. 

Doncevic explained that the student was going through a tough time in high school. She was additionally dealing with emancipation from her parents. 

“I'll never forget that. For her to come back and say thank you and see that I had an impact,” Doncevic said through tears. “I helped her out; that was making a difference.”

The student went on to become a nurse. For Doncevic, he added that this memory serves as a reminder of what the job is all about. 

Alongside Doncevic, athletic secretary Renee Woolery loves being able to contribute to the school and make a difference. 

Woolery has been involved in the Coyote community since the start. Now, more than 30 years later, she still carries the same undying passion to serve that same group. 

“I've always looked at myself to be a supporter, I will push you, I will help you grow and do better,” Wollery said.

Fellow admin member Nancy Thiele emphasized that the support system within the school is felt by both staff and students. 

“From admin to our maintenance group, it is very much a team,” Thiele said. “Everybody's always willing to pitch in and help one another, and they are very friendly with each other.”

For more than a decade, collectively, athletics staff members have found a second home. Additionally, they are pillars of the culture that athletes and families of Centennial enjoy.

“I wouldn't be here if I didn't love this job,” Doncevic said. “I love the community. I love being part of it.”