They call him “DiGi.” His full name is Michael DiGiovancarlo, Jr., and he’s a senior on the Sacred Heart indoor track and field team.
“DiGi for short, it’s a lot easier,” quipped coach Tom Festa during the first day of the Hillhouse Invitational on Friday in New Haven.
DiGiovancarlo took part in the 55-meter dash on Friday, the first of the two-day invite. He began his career as a hurdler, and he has improved each and every year.
“Last year, he was named captain, and Mikey did everything,” Festa said. “When EJ Williams went down [during the outdoor season], Mikey would come to me, I’d say ‘Mikey you’re going to do this’ and he’d know on Monday. On Tuesday, we’d get to the meet, and I’d be like ‘Mikey, you’re changed again.’ He did everything I ever asked him to do. Just an all-around good kid, and a leader on the team.”
DiGiovancarlo has been an all-everything kind of competitor.
“He’d do events that he had never done before. He’s a team guy, he’s the ultimate team guy,” Festa said. “He’s one of my three that’s been with me for four years. EJ, Mikey and Jenna French. They’ve been with me for four years, and the three of them are what Sacred Heart track is about.”
What has impressed Festa is DiGiovancarlo’s maturity. As a matter of fact, Festa has been astounded by the maturity of “DiGi.”
“I love the kid,” Festa said. “I love all the kids, but Mikey’s got a special place because he came so far, he matured so much.”
DiGiovancarlo, the son of Waterbury police officer Michael DiGiovancarlo and Tracy, will follow his dad in public service. “DiGi” is headed to the National Guard after he graduates from Sacred Heart.
“I’m proud as hell. That’s about the only way I can describe it,” Festa said. “I’m just proud as hell. He’s a great kid.”
The man they call “DiGi” will be looking to help a talented Sacred Heart boys track team excel indoors and outdoors.
