Catanese, Joan

Joan Catanese

 Joan Catanese has joined the Millikin football coaching staff serving as the Tight Ends coach and Co-Special Teams Coordinator.
 
She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Education and Minor in English from Louisiana Tech University in 2001 and commenced her teaching journey in her hometown of Shreveport. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Joan actively participated in sports, notably playing women’s professional football for three different franchises in the IWFL, where she served as her teams’ starting Center and member of all Special Team Units.

During her time at Huntington High School, Joan achieved remarkable success with her track and field team, securing various championships and ultimately winning the 4-A Louisiana State Championship Title in 2023. Her exceptional coaching abilities were recognized when she was named State Coach of the Year in Track and Field for the 2021-2022 season and Louisiana State Track Coach of the Year for 2022-2023.

Focusing on her passion for football, Joan has been involved at all levels of the sport, from middle school to the NFL. She made significant contributions to her school by serving as an Assistant Offensive Varsity Football Coach, Assistant Varsity Soccer Coach, and Varsity Women's Head Coach of Track and Field, coaching year-round. Joan's dedication and expertise were acknowledged through numerous accolades, including being named Teacher of the Year three times and becoming a Parish Finalist within the state of Louisiana. She played a pivotal role in the transformation of the Huntington Varsity Football program, helping them to their first playoff win in 15 years in 2020, followed by successful seasons. 

Joan's outstanding achievements were acknowledged with her induction into the NFL Women's Forum in 2022, as well as her selection as a Bill Walsh Diversity Fellow. This prestigious honor granted her the chance to intern at the NFL Training Camp of the Atlanta Falcons, where she served as a valuable member of the Special Teams Coaching Staff.