CHICAGO — It’s been a special season for Harvard coach Ted Donato and his team: a Beanpot title (first in 24 years), an ECAC Hockey championship (second in three years) and the Crimson’s first Frozen Four berth since 1994.
Sharing it with son Ryan, a sophomore forward who’s tied for the team lead in goals with 21, has made it even more special. But the elder Donato said there will be time to reflect on that once this weekend is over. In the meantime, as it has been all season, it’s team first.
“I don’t think I, quite honestly, spend a lot of time thinking about it,” he said. “It’s really been kind of team focused.
“You know, I am very happy for Ryan and proud of the way he’s playing. I’m also very proud of the way our team, most importantly, is playing.”
Ryan Donato has been a standout for his father, racking up multiple honors so far. The second-round pick by Boston in the 2014 NHL Draft was named the Ivy League player of the year, ECAC player of the month for February, and he earned spots on the ECAC all-tournament and NCAA all-East Regional squads.
There’s plenty for Ted Donato to be proud of, but that will have to wait.
“I think it may be something at the end of the season, you might sit back and really appreciate what a great life experience it’s been for both of us, to be able to be part of a great season to this point,” he said.
“But at this point, I really haven’t thought much about it or put it all in perspective. I think right now we’re just in the moment and worrying about how the team performs.”
