Saint Peter High School

Saint Peter High School’s varsity boys basketball program will have new leadership next winter, as head coach Sean Keating has announced he will be stepping down after 13 seasons leading the Saints.

Keating compiled 170 career wins during his tenure, highlighted by two state tournament appearances in 2014 and 2019, two Section 2AA championships, and a Section 2AAA runner-up finish this past season. His teams also captured a share of the Big South East Division title in 2015-16.

While the accomplishments on the court were significant, Keating said the decision to step away ultimately came down to family.

“My family has sacrificed so much over the years, and too often they’ve gotten what was left of me,” Keating said. “It’s time I give them the best version of who I am. This wasn’t an easy decision—coaching has been a huge part of my identity—but I know it’s the right one for where I am in life.”

Keating and his wife, Mindy, have three children—twin sons Paxton and Jaxson, who are in fourth grade, and a daughter, Willa, who is in kindergarten. In recent years, he has also been involved in coaching his sons’ youth teams and looks forward to being more present in those moments moving forward.

“Coaching demands your nights, your weekends, your energy,” he said. “I’m excited to be more present at home and fully invest in my family the way they’ve always invested in me.”

Beyond the wins and championships, Keating takes the most pride in the foundation built throughout the entire Saints basketball program.

“I’m incredibly proud of what we built—from youth all the way through varsity,” he said. “It became something bigger than just a varsity program; it was a true K-12 experience for our community. The wins were special, but the relationships and the growth of the players mean the most to me.”

During his tenure, the Saints created lasting memories both on and off the court. From state tournament runs to summer team camps in Duluth and Wisconsin, Breakdown tournaments, and regular-season trips to play at venues such as Perham, Alexandria, Esko, Moorhead, Oak Grove Lutheran, and Concordia-Moorhead, Keating emphasized the importance of shared experiences.

A particularly memorable moment came in 2023, when the Saints earned a win at Target Center against Oak Grove Lutheran—Keating’s alma mater.

He also coached during a key transition period for the program, as the team moved from the Saint Peter Middle School gym, known as “The Shack,” to the current high school facility—an upgrade that helped expand opportunities for players at all levels of the program.

Keating, who previously taught science at Saint Peter High School before transitioning into his role as a financial advisor with Edward Jones, has long viewed coaching as an extension of the classroom.

“I’ve always believed coaching is an extension of the classroom—a place to pursue excellence with enthusiasm while developing character, discipline, and accountability that lasts far beyond the game,” he said. “More than anything, I hope our players left the program as better teammates, stronger leaders, and better men.”

As he steps away, Keating expressed deep gratitude for the people who made his time as head coach so meaningful.

“To all of the players and coaches I’ve had the privilege to work with over the years, I am incredibly grateful,” he said. “The relationships built, the challenges faced, and the memories created will stay with me forever. Thank you to all of the parents, families, and supporters for their trust, commitment, and support throughout the years. It has meant more than I can fully express.”

While closing this chapter is emotional, Keating leaves with a deep sense of pride and appreciation.

“While this chapter is coming to a close, I leave with a full heart,” he said. “I’m proud of what we built, and even more proud of the young men who came through our program. St. Peter will always be home.”


Saints' coach Sean Keating at the 2018-19 team celebrates after winning the Section 2AA title at MSU to advance to state! (File photo from Mankato Free Press)


Coach Sean Keating (middle row, third from left) and his first Saints' boys basketball team in 2013-14 which advanced to the MN State Class AA Tournament.


Saints' head coach Sean Keating yells out instruction during the 2014 state tournament game at Williams Arena.


Coach Keating giving some last second advice to this year's Saints squad.