Twelve senior varsity football players surprised the teachers and staff members who made a lasting difference in their lives with heartfelt thank-yous and special “Made an Impact” footballs on Oct. 29.

The tradition, now in its third year, gives players an opportunity to recognize the people who helped shape their school experiences, from early elementary memories to meaningful moments during their high school years. Each player selected an educator or staff member whose encouragement, guidance or support left a lasting impression.

Accompanied by a coach, the student-athletes made surprise visits to their honorees’ classrooms or offices, presenting each with a commemorative Minisink Valley football. Each visit also gave the players an opportunity to explain personally why they chose that individual, making the recognition about far more than the presentation of a football.

High School:

• Jenna Conklin, teacher, selected by Tristan Valentine and Dylan Vidal

• Kim Jordan, teacher, selected by Chris Thorpe, Jeremiah Alexis and Bobby Munday

• Andrew Covais, teacher, selected by Derek Patzelt and Jacob Thibodeau

• Karen Weilacher, teacher, selected by Michael Moran

• Lynn Villa, teacher, selected by Jason Wackowski-Hernandez

• Jodi Vandervoort, aide, selected by Grant Katenkamp

Intermediate School:

• Eileen Connors, teacher, selected by Jeffrey Jackson

• Kim Marasco, teacher, selected by Anthony Marasco

Varsity Head Coach Kevin Gallagher said the program has become a particularly meaningful team tradition because it gives players and the people who have supported them an opportunity to reflect on the relationships that make a difference throughout a student's school career.

“We started the ‘Made an Impact’ tradition a few years ago, and we quickly saw just how meaningful it was, not only for the teachers and staff members being recognized, but also for our players,” he said. “We ask each player to take the time to write down what he wants to say to the person he has chosen, and the words and emotions that come out are incredibly powerful. When our guys explain face-to-face why someone has made a difference in their lives, you see how much those relationships truly mean to them. It's a very genuine moment, and I know both the players and the recipients get a great deal out of it.”

For Coach Gallagher, the experience also reinforces lessons that extend well beyond football. The game teaches commitment, accountability and teamwork, but it also helps young people understand the value of recognizing those who invest in their success.

“Every player has people behind him who have helped him grow, encouraged him and believed in him along the way,” he added. “Our teachers and staff members play such an important role in helping these young men develop, not just as students and athletes, but as people. This tradition gives our players a chance to stop and acknowledge that influence in a personal way. It takes thought and a little courage to stand in front of someone and tell them what they mean to you, and I think that's a valuable experience for our guys."