Portland Goalie Headed to ECSU

Zack Doncet, a star goalie for the boys’ soccer team at Portland High School, will be protecting the nets at a collegiate level this fall. 
           
“Excited to announce my commitment to Eastern Connecticut State University to further my academic and athletic career. I want to thank my family, friends and coaches for all their support,” Doncet announced in on Jan. 12.
           
Doncet joins Portland High soccer teammate Caiden Hettrick-Rivera, who also committed to play at ECSU earlier this winter.
           
The two Highlanders head to Willimantic to join a Warriors team that has 11 double-digit wins seasons and five conference titles in the 14 years under longtime coach Greg Devito.   
           
“From the second I walked onto campus, I knew I could see myself here,” Doncet said of his decision. “I loved how it had a small school feel to it and I loved what the school has to offer academically. I also liked what the soccer program has become.”
           
Doncet had five shutouts this past fall for the Highlanders, earning a Shoreline Athletic Conference honorable mention selection. 

​"Zack had a stellar four-year career for Portland High. He continuously improved his game and faced every challenge that was thrown at him. This past year, Zack proved he was not only a talented keeper, but a leader as well," said PHS head coach Michael Searson, "There is no doubt he is ready for the next level and I am excited to see what he accomplishes at Eastern."

Over the years, Doncet worked tirelessly to hone his goalie skills and even trained at the prestigious TOVO (‘total football’ in Dutch) Academy in Spain during April of 2019. There he studied under former Division I goalie Todd Beane, learning new techniques and styles of the position. 
           
Doncet said his time in Spain was “an incredible experience and it really opened my eyes to getting better and growing as an individual.”
           
Off the field, Doncet had been a member of the PHS band for four years, playing the trombone. He said when he is not at school, he enjoys going to the gym and spending time with his family.
           
At Eastern, Doncet is leaning towards a business-related major.   
           
Doncet added that he’s ready for his next step, saying, “I’m most excited about being able to push myself to become not only a better player but a person as well.”