Dream Big, Coach Hard: Donovan Burgmaier’s Global Aspirations

Donovan Burgmaier isn’t one to dream small. Whether he’s coaching on the football field, mentoring youth, or planning for the future, Donovan believes in dreaming big—and working hard to make those dreams a reality. A native of Sherwood Park, Alberta, Donovan has already accomplished a great deal as a student-athlete, community volunteer, and aspiring educator. But his ambitions stretch far beyond the borders of his hometown or even his home country. With an eye on the world, Donovan is crafting a life rooted in purpose, driven by passion, and guided by a clear and ambitious vision for the future.

At the core of Donovan’s drive is a genuine curiosity about the world. Though his travel experiences have so far included Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, he has a long bucket list that spans the globe. He dreams of exploring Australia’s coasts, Thailand’s vibrant culture, the landscapes of Indonesia and Cambodia, and the history-rich countries of Europe. Travel, for Donovan, isn’t just a leisure activity—it’s a way to grow, expand his worldview, and bring fresh insights into his professional and personal life.

Donovan Burgmaier sees every journey as a chance to better understand people, cultures, and ideas. These experiences, he believes, will help him become a more compassionate teacher and leader. As a student at the University of Alberta studying Native Studies and Secondary Education, Donovan is preparing to teach with a culturally informed, globally aware perspective. His studies, combined with his international travel goals, are shaping him into the kind of educator who can relate to students from all walks of life.

But while his goals include faraway destinations, Donovan Burgmaier remains deeply rooted in his local community. He continues to coach and mentor youth through programs like the Golden Bears Football Academy, the Peak School of Football, and the Edmonton Eskimos Amateur Football Camp. These roles allow him to pass on the lessons he’s learned through years of football, emphasizing not just athletic skill, but personal growth, leadership, and discipline.

Donovan’s long-term aspirations also include business and entrepreneurship. He plans to open his own athletic gym—a space where young athletes can train, learn, and grow. This vision combines his passion for sport with his desire to build community and empower others. In addition to creating a facility for physical development, Donovan hopes the gym will become a hub for mentorship, character building, and goal setting.

Another part of his future plan is real estate. Donovan Burgmaier aims to own multiple properties, providing long-term financial stability and the opportunity to invest in the communities he serves. His vision isn’t driven by materialism but by a desire to create generational wealth and give back through local initiatives that uplift and empower others.

By the time he turns 30, Donovan Burgmaier hopes to have accomplished several major life goals: travel extensively, become a teacher and principal, own properties, and launch a gym. Each of these aspirations stems from the same motivation—to make a meaningful difference. Whether he’s training an athlete, inspiring a student, or contributing to a local charity, Donovan’s commitment to service remains at the heart of everything he does.

Through a blend of bold vision and relentless effort, Donovan Burgmaier is building a future that reflects both his global outlook and his local values. His motto could very well be: dream big, coach hard, give back—and never stop growing.

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Donovan Burgmaier