Poland Seminary graduate Nick Sebastian really never thought of being a football coach until he was told he'd be one.

"Coach (Paul) Hulea introduced me to coaching and told me I'm going to be a coach one day," said Sebastian via zoom.

Sebastian is in his third year as a defensive assistant at Notre Dame after having a similar role with Ohio State from 2019-2021.

"Their really awesome places to be at and obviously top notch places," said Sebastian when asked to compare the schools adding there's no comparison and, "I'm lucky to be part of both schools."

Besides the Irish & Buckeyes, "Sebas" as he's known, was also  a grad assistant at Youngstown State in 2016 when they played for the FCS National Championship.

"I've been very fortunate to be part of three staffs and I'm blessed to be with the people I work with daily."

Nick grew up a Buckeye fan and after being on staff and now playing against them has been surreal.

"When you mention it, we've played the last two years (regular season) and its been pretty cool."

A 2011 graduate of Poland,  Sebastian credits those early days in high school for his coaching career. 

"I have to go back to my roots at Poland , Coach Hulea and Coach (Mark) Brungard for giving me full exposure what coaching is and to Coach Carm (Bricillo) for inviting me to YSU."

Sebastian says each practice is important as the Irish focus on Ohio State and the task at hand.

"You can never make the moment too big," he concluded.

Ohio State and Notre Dame play Monday at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

NOTES: 

-Sebastian would like to become a college head football coach.

 -He gave a shout out to all his friends & family in the area and especially to Avalon Downtown Pizzeria, Joey & all the guys who helped him get where he his today

- He credits Hulea for giving him the nickname, Sebas.