Anyone who plays a high school sport understands the demanding schedule — late practices, weekend tournaments and waking up early or going to bed late to finish assignments, just to do it all again next week. For the Lakewood Rangers baseball team, getting through the spring season requires more than just effort on the field; it takes support from teachers in the classroom. To recognize that support, the program recently hosted its annual Teacher Appreciation Night.
Before a recent home game against Westlake on Tuesday, April 28, the team took some time to honor their educators. Eight graduating seniors lined up by the pitcher’s mound to meet the educators they chose to honor. As parents, students and fans watched from the stands, the announcer shared short messages about each pairing, highlighting the impact these educators have had on student-athletes during their time at Lakewood High School.
Setting Up a Special Evening
Organizing an event like this takes preparation well before game day. Audrey McNulty, the student organizer of Teacher Appreciation Night, handled the behind-the-scenes work to ensure the ceremony ran smoothly. While collecting nominations and coordinating details required time, she said the outcome made it worthwhile.
“The most rewarding part is to see the teachers excited about who nominated them, and just them listening to what the student has to say,” McNulty shared.
Recognizing the Roster of Educators
Seniors Nick Hart and Lewis Frantz both honored Practical Communications teacher Gray Cooper. Communication is essential in baseball, whether calling for a fly ball or coordinating plays, and the skills learned in Cooper’s class translate directly onto the field.
For Mr. Cooper, the recognition was deeply meaningful. “I’m humbled and appreciative. I think that teacher appreciation night is a really special event,” Cooper noted. “It means a lot to have kids that you’ve taught decide they want to recognize you.”
Frantz said the experience strengthened their connection. “I think teacher appreciation changes our relationship, now that he knows how much I appreciate having him as a teacher.”
Jack Dowell recognized Ron Lewis, his AP Government and longtime homeroom teacher. For many student-athletes, homeroom offers a brief break from a busy schedule and a chance to reset during the school day.
Drew Jones and Kenny Laidley also honored influential teachers. Jones selected CCP Psychology teacher Charles Greanoff while Laidley recognized AP Statistics teacher Karen Lovrinoff
Broadening Horizons and Building Bonds
The ceremony also highlighted teachers from the history and world language departments. Tyler Laidley honored his AP African American Studies teacher, Austin Sparks, while Cooper Russell recognized AP US History teacher Joe Lobozzo. Freddie Showers selected Chinese teacher Piwen Ku, representing the world language department. Together, these recognitions reflected the wide range of academic interests student-athletes pursue beyond the field.
Greyson Walter honored Aimee Guzowski, a teacher he has had for multiple classes throughout high school. His choice emphasized the impact of long-term relationships between students and educators. Over the course of his high school career, Greyson has taken multiple classes with Mrs. Guzowski, showing just how impactful a long-term teacher can be on a student’s journey.
A Different Kind of First Pitch
Instead of a traditional ceremonial first pitch, the event concluded with a more personal moment. Each honored teacher stepped onto the mound and threw directly to the senior who nominated them.
Whether the pitches landed perfectly or bounced short, the moment itself was what mattered. The ceremony ended with handshakes, photos and shared memories before the team returned its focus to the game.
As the Rangers prepared for the first inning, the presence of their teachers in the stands served as a reminder that their support system extends far beyond the classroom.
