What's Happening in Cougar Country

The end of the school year marks the time for many different awards and honors to be bestowed upon students within clubs and teams, departments, and even the greater school at large.

At Tuesday’s Baccalaureate Mass and Senior Awards, Lake Catholic awarded senior Gianna Rubino the school’s highest honor – The Christian Life Award.

The Lake Catholic High School Christian Life Award is the most prestigious recognition presented by our school community.  With the inception of this award in 1972, a tradition was established to focus on the active expression of the Lake Catholic Mission Statement and Gospel values both within our school environment and in the greater community. Criteria for the Lake Catholic High School Christian Life Award are as follows:

• The student is an extraordinary witness to the Gospel message and the Spirit of Jesus.
• The student is a person of great integrity who dynamically lives his or her faith, both within the Lake Catholic Community and in the greater community at large. 
• The student lives an exemplary life consistent with the Lake Catholic Mission Statement and Core Values.
• The student actively expresses a willingness to serve within the Lake Catholic Campus Ministry and Spiritual Life areas, Lake Catholic Community, Church Community, and our greater community at large.

Congratulations to Gianna for such a deserving honor.

Other senior award winners were: 

• President’s Award for Educational Achievement - Kyan Harrold, Domonic Orlando, Anthony Reynoso, Taylor Scharf, Olivia Switalski, Daniel Tomic, and Charlie Trinetti
• President’s Award of Educational Excellence - Jonathan Bokausek, Caroline Brown, Haley Horen, Garrett Knisely, Stephen Parrish, Zoe Pesek, Joseph Powaski, Luke Richards, Kathryn Ridler, and Chloe Stossel
• Service Cord - Greg Bares, Mya Brannen, Kira Brennan, Makenna Bretz, Johnathan Bokausek, Caroline Brown, Kayla Calvey, Delaney Charlton, Juliana Conforte, Gianna Coreno, Parker DiCello, GiGi DiDomenico, Claire Duricky, Ryan Ginley, Kyan Harrold, Egypt Kamara, Tessa Koenig, Allison Komosa, Isabelle Langer, Theresa Lazanich, Joey Lonchar, Grace McCalligan, Katie Morgan, Cassie Nagy, Alexandra Newnes, Stephen Parrish, Andrew Pellecchia, Parker Pikor, Sutton Pikor, Meadow Pontius, Joseph Powaski, McKenzie Prosuch, Luke Richards, Kathryn Ridler, Gianna Rubino, Mia Schaefer, Taylor Scharf, Madeline Spies, Chloe Stossel, Josh Styles, Charlie Trinetti, Christopher Vanjo, Olivia Viskovic, and Kelly Ward
• Happy Moose / Monday’s With Malta Scholarship - Parker Pikor
• John Peyton Meritorious Award - Christina Lombardo
• OHSAA Scholar Athlete - Zoe Pesek and Greg Bares
• OHSAA Courageous Athlete Award - Mia Schaefer
• OHSAA Award of Excellence - Stephen Parrish
• OHSAA Archie Griffin Sportsmanship Award - Claire Duricky and Luke Snider
• Nick D’Angelo Award - Caroline Brown, Gianna Koenig, Josh Styles, Daniel Tomic, and Olivia Viskovic
• Willoughby Junior Women’s Club Award - Mia Schaefer and Charlie Trinetti
• Mentor Chamber of Commerce Foundation Scholarship - Mya Brannen and Madeline Spies
• Red Cross Scholarship - Emily Aliff and Davide Patriarca
• Cardinal Credit Union Scholarship - Joey Lonchar, Greg Bares, Charlie Trinetti, Chloe Stossel, Jonathan Bokausek, Meadow Pontius, Andrew Pellecchia, Parker Pikor, and Dominic Orlando
• P.E.O. Star Scholarship Award - Kayla Calvey
• Phi Beta Kappa Award - Zoe Pesek
• Academic Honors Diploma - Johnathan Bokausek, Caroline Brown, Kayla Calvey, Juliana Conforte, GiGi DiDomenico, Garrett Knisely, Tessa Koenig, Allison Komosa, Isabelle Langer, Theresa Lazanich, Grace McCalligan, Marko Odorcic, Domonic Orlando, Stephen Parrish, Zoe Pesek, Cooper Pikor, Parker Pikor, Joseph Powaski, Kate Powaski, Nicholas Powaski, Anthony Reynoso, Taylor Scharf, Chloe Stossel, Olivia Switalski, and Daniel Tomic
• Art Honors Diploma - Kathryn Ridler
• St. Thomas Aquinas Distinction - Ivan Blazevic, Caroline Brown, Juliana Conforte, Parker DiCello, Gigi DiDominico, Tyler Duricky, Ryan Ginley, Kyan Harrold, Tessa Koenig, Joey Lonchar, Dominic Orlando, Stephen Parrish, Hannah Pattie, Andrew Pellecchia, Zoe Pesek, Joe Powaski, Anthony Reynoso, Gianna Rubino, Jarred Smith, Josh Styles, Charlie Trinetti, Isaiah Tyree, Chloe Stossel, Oliva Switalski, Chris Vanjo, and Dani Villa
• Christian Leadership Recognition - Chloe Stossel and Dominic Orlando

More photos from the evening, including ones of all the winners, can be found on our Senior Awards page.

Many area boys grow up playing baseball in their local recreation leagues. But all boys grow up and eventually age out of those leagues.

Some continue on to high school baseball, but for most, their baseball careers end. 

Four recent Lake Catholic graduates weren’t satisfied with their baseball days being over, so they decided to do something about it. Now, three years later, what they’ve started has become larger than they ever could have imagined.

On Saturday, July 27, Nick Regano, Nick Pellecchia, Andrew Zalar, and Jacob Minich, all from the class of 2023, will host The Third Annual Regano Wiffle Ball Tournament at Mentor Ridge Elementary School. 

“We all played rec baseball together and we didn’t want it to end,” said Regano, a finance major at Kent State. “So, we got a bunch of kids together one day to play wiffle ball. More and more kids wanted to play, and we ended up turning it into a tournament. That was the first year. We really didn’t know what we were doing. It was a mess. And here we are now, about to start our third tournament.”

The tournament is no joke. Gone are the days of just getting a group of kids to play wiffle ball in an open field. This tournament takes nine months of planning, has a five-page rulebook, has a concession stand, draws in family and friends who come to watch, awards prize money to the winners and runners-up, and now, most importantly to the guys who run it, a charity component. 

The first year they had 19 teams compete. Last year it grew to 32. They liked that number, so this year’s tournament is again capped at 32 teams. There are eight four-team divisions, with each team guaranteed to play three games. The top two teams in each division then advance to a single-elimination bracket to determine the champion. 
The championship team wins $1,000. The runners-up get their money back (there is a $15 per person entry fee).

Last year, all the proceeds from the concession stand were donated to JBS Strong, a childhood cancer foundation in honor of the late Jack Sawyer, a student at Mentor High School. 

“All the food and stuff are donated, so everything we make goes to the charity,” Regano said. “This year we reached out to Jack’s family to see if there was someone else, we could donate to. This year all our concession proceeds are going to Addie Strong.” 

Addie is a young girl from Mentor who has been diagnosed with medulloblastoma.

“We’re really trying to make the charity an integral part of this,” said Zalar, a finance major at Ohio State. “We hopefully will have more than $1,000 to give to them this year. We know it’s not a good look if we’re giving $1,000 to the winning team, but not that much to the charity. So we’re going to really push our concessions this year and try to raise as much money as we can.”

They already have a $500 commitment from the tournament sponsor, Regano Financial Services Inc.

To this point, the tournament has only brought in male competitors, but the organizers said that’s just a coincidence, and they aren’t opposed to having females compete. The ages range from 12/13-year-olds to guys in their 50s and 60s. Although most of the teams are comprised of high school and college-aged kids from all over the area, including players from Mentor High School, Kirtland, and NDCL. Pellecchia, a criminal justice major at Dayton, said that about 50-60% of the players are either current Lake Catholic students or alumni.

To put it on, the four talk at least once a week the entire year just about wiffle ball, before ramping up in June and July. They have to build and repair their strike zones. They also have to work with Ridge Elementary School to reserve the field for three days – one to set up, one to play, and one to clean up.

“The fields take a long time to get set up,” Pellecchia said. 

“We’ve learned a lot in two years,” Zalar said. “We have to turn our fields in a different direction. We were losing too many home run balls in the woods.”

“It’s to the point where I only ask for wiffle balls and other stuff for Christmas,” Regano said. “I’ll also go to Dick’s (Sporting Goods) in the winter to buy stuff because no one is playing wiffle ball then. So I know they’ll have a lot in stock.”

All the fences are just orange snow fences. Everyone must use the plain yellow bats provided. They use plenty of spray paint to draw the field and basepaths. They use real rubber bases and pitching rubber.

On game day, games are self-umpired, although they do look for volunteers to help ump the playoff games, especially since prize money is on the line.

“It’s a lot of fun, and it does get competitive, but nothing more than some trash-talking,” Pellecchia said. “We did think about last year being our last year doing it since we were all going off to college. We kind of used it as a last hurrah before we went off to college, but now it will serve as a reunion for a lot of us. So I’m glad that we decided to keep it going.”

Anyone looking for more information check out the tournament Instagram page at @reganowiffleballclassic. If you’re interested in signing up for this year’s tournament, you can do so by filling out this Google Form.

Earlier today, the Diocese of Cleveland named John Morabeto as the next President of Lake Catholic High School.

An accomplished leader and strong proponent of Catholic education, John has extensive experience in institutional advancement, having served as the Vice President of Institutional Advancement at St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland for 11 years, securing more than $150 million for endowment growth, facility improvements, and faculty
formation. 

A product of the Diocese of Steubenville’s Catholic Central High School, John holds a master's degree in higher education administration from the University of Akron and a bachelor's degree in management and marketing from Kent State University.

John expressed his excitement about the opportunity to serve as the President of Lake Catholic stating, “Education rooted in our Catholic faith has been a lifelong commitment for me as a student, a professional, and as a parent. Its mission and outreach are critical as we look to form the young men and women of the next generation in this challenging world. I have experienced the grace Catholic education has provided my family and I am impassioned to help others experience it as well. I look forward to joining the Lake Catholic community and advancing this important work in Lake County and across the entire greater Cleveland area.”

Associate Superintendent for Secondary Schools, Michael Zelenka, shares in the excitement surrounding Mr. Morabeto’s appointment, “The Diocese of Cleveland’s Office for Catholic Education believes that John’s strong Catholic faith, proven track record in advancement efforts, commitment to Catholic education, and leadership acumen signals an incredibly bright future for Lake Catholic.”

Lake Catholic Principal Tom McKrill added: "I am very excited to work with John Morabeto as we look to maximize the opportunities for Lake Catholic. Mark Crowley has done great things for our school. I look forward to continuing his work, and the mission of Lake Catholic, into a bright future with John."

Morabeto replaces Mark Crowley, who announced his retirement early in 2023. Crowley's last day with Lake Catholic will be June 30.

“Mark has provided steadfast leadership to Lake Catholic through an important time in its history by focusing on mission and the unique charisms of the Lake Catholic experience. “Today the school enjoys steady enrollment and growing community support to ensure financial stability and position Lake Catholic for future growth,” Frank O'Linn, Ed.D., Superintendent of Catholic schools said back in January. ”Mark as also assembled a talented team to lead and sustain Lake Catholic for the future."

Now, Morabeto will take over the reins of that team and lead Lake Catholic into a promising future.

When the doors to Lake Catholic High School opened in 1970, 221 ninth graders walked through. It was the beginning of something new and exciting.

A few years ago, the school celebrated its 50th anniversary of those school doors opening. The celebration, however, was muted because of the global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus. 

Those 221 students, back then, eventually became the first graduating class of Lake Catholic. That was in 1974. One by one, year by year, students continued their march through high school and eventually across the stage to receive their diplomas, adding to the number graduating classes. So now, not slowed by the pandemic, we are able to countdown the months until we can celebrate Lake Catholic High School’s 50th graduating class – the Class of 2023.

As we move toward May 20, 2023, when this year’s seniors will turn their tassels and become alumni, we will look back at the decades of classes that came before them. 
We took a look at the 1970s (’74-’79) in January, along with 1980-1984 and 1985-1989 in February, 1990-1994 and 1995-1999 in March and the early (’00-’04) and late (’05-’09) 2000s a few weeks ago.

Today we highlight the first half of the 2010s (’10-‘14). Images from all these memories can be found on the school’s Communications page.

2010

The Class of 2010 was Lake Catholic’s 37th Lake Catholic graduating class. Its highlights included introducing the new Student Government Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to the student body. The class worked hard to be outstanding LC Ambassadors throughout the year at Open Houses, during Shadow Days and whenever needed to be Lake Catholic’s best representatives. It shared memorable moments with the Homecoming Court and at the Dance. Service was an important part of student life shared through meaningful religious experiences including school liturgies, retreats, and service projects. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing at school pep rallies to get ready for outstanding seasons from their athletic teams. The boys soccer team was regional champs; the football team made it to the State Final Four; the volleyball team was State Runner-ups; the Cross Country Team made it to regionals; the softball team won the North Coast League for the first time; the track team’s JeRica Sanders (’11) won her second consecutive state title in the hurdles; the baseball team made it to regionals; and the boys lacrosse team had its first official season at Lake Catholic.  The Fine and Performing Arts Department gave us wonderful memories including the production of “Oklahoma.” The Class enjoyed a memorable Prom and topped off their high school careers with wonderful Senior Farewell Activities including the Passing-of-the-Torch Ceremony and impressive Graduation Ceremony.

2011

Highlights from the 38th Lake Catholic graduating class included many of the early school year traditions - introducing the new Student Government Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives, working hard as LC Ambassadors throughout the year at Open Houses, during Shadow Days and whenever needed to be Lake Catholic’s best representatives, and sharing memorable moments with the Homecoming Court and at the dance. Service was an important part of student life shared through meaningful religious experiences including school liturgies, retreats and service projects, including the Broadmoor Christmas Party. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing at school pep rallies to get ready for outstanding seasons from their athletic teams. The volleyball team was State Champions; the football team made it to the State Final Four again; the cross-country team made it to regionals once again; and JeRica Sanders (’11) won her third straight state title in the hurdles. The Fine and Performing Arts Department gave us wonderful memories, including the production of “A Christmas Carol” and “Once Upon This Island.” The Class finished off it’s time at Lake Catholic by enjoying Prom and topping off its high school years with Senior Farewell Activities, including the Passing-of-the-Torch Ceremony and its Graduation Ceremony.

2012

The Class of 2012 followed its predecessors and started its school year off by introducing the new Student Government & Class Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to the student body. The LC Ambassadors were again called upon throughout the year to help at Open Houses, during Shadow Days and whenever needed to be Lake Catholic’s best representatives. The student body, especially the seniors, enjoyed a great time at the Homecoming dance with its Homecoming Court. Service remained an important pillar of student life and included many meaningful religious experiences as Peer Ministers, and through school liturgies, retreats, and service projects such as the annual Blood Drive, Meal Ministry and a senior class favorite – the Broadmoor Christmas Party. Cougar spirit was on display at all the school pep rallies to get ready for outstanding seasons from the athletic teams. The Class of 2012 enjoyed outstanding seasons from Cougar teams including the football team making it to the playoffs again, as well as impressive seasons for the boys and girls golf teams and the girls tennis team. The Fine and Performing Arts Department gave us wonderful memories, including the LC Singers and the production of “Cinderella.” The Class enjoyed a memorable Prom and topped off its high school careers with wonderful Senior Farewell Activities including the Passing-of-the-Torch Ceremony and impressive Graduation Ceremony. Lake Catholic faculty and staff member retirees were celebrated, while class members honored classmates through the annual Senior Poll.

2013

The Class of 2013 was the 40th graduating class from Lake Catholic. It started its senior year off in typical fashion by introducing the new Student Government & Class Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to the student body. The LC Ambassadors shined once again throughout the year at Open Houses and during Shadow. The Homecoming Dance was once again a hit. The class’s “Willingness to Serve” was apparent at our school liturgies, retreats, and service projects. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing at Halloween and through school pep rallies to get ready for outstanding seasons from their athletic teams. The Class of 2013 enjoyed outstanding seasons from Cougar teams including the cheerleaders, the swim team, the boys basketball team making it to the State Final Four, as well as Joanna Hallisy making it to the state meet in shot put. The year also saw the debut of the Lake Catholic rugby team. The Fine and Performing Arts Department gave us wonderful memories including an outstanding production of “Anything Goes.” The Class enjoyed the Student/Teacher Games, the Cinderella Prince Charming Ball and Kick-It Fundraiser. A memorable Prom was had by all, and the Seniors topped off their high school careers with wonderful Senior Farewell Activities including the Passing-of-the-Torch Ceremony and impressive Graduation Ceremony.

2014

Highlights from the Class of 2014 started off with introducing the new Student Government & Class Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to the student body. The class worked hard to be outstanding LC Ambassadors throughout the year at Open Houses, during Shadow Days and whenever needed to be Lake Catholic’s best representatives. They shared memorable moments with the Homecoming Court and at the Dance. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing at Halloween. Service was an important part of student life shared through meaningful religious experiences through school liturgies, retreats and service projects including the Broadmoor Christmas Party. and through school pep rallies to get ready for outstanding seasons from their athletic teams. The Class of 2014 enjoyed outstanding seasons from Cougar teams including the boys basketball team winning the North Coast League; and the hockey team making it to the State Final Four. The Fine and Performing Arts Department gave us wonderful memories including an outstanding production of “Urinetown.” The Class enjoyed the Cinderella Prince Charming Ball, and a memorable Prom was had by all and the Seniors.  Seniors topped off their high school careers with wonderful Senior Farewell Activities including the Passing-of-the-Torch Ceremony and impressive Graduation Ceremony. Many memories were also captured through the Senior Poll.

Be sure to check back later as we continue our Countdown to the 50th Graduating Class with the second half of the classes from the 2010s (’15-'19).

 

When the doors to Lake Catholic High School opened in 1970, 221 ninth graders walked through. It was the beginning of something new and exciting.

A few years ago, the school celebrated its 50th anniversary of those school doors opening. The celebration, however, was muted because of the global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus. 

Those 221 students, back then, eventually became the first graduating class of Lake Catholic. That was in 1974. One by one, year by year, students continued their march through high school and eventually across the stage to receive their diplomas, adding to the number graduating classes. So now, not slowed by the pandemic, we are able to countdown the months until we can celebrate Lake Catholic High School’s 50th graduating class – the Class of 2023.

As we move toward May 20, 2023, when this year’s seniors will turn their tassels and become alumni, we will look back at the decades of classes that came before them. 
We took a look at the 1970s (’74-’79) in January, along with 1980-1984 and 1985-1989 in February, 1990-1994 and 1995-1999 in March and the early 2000s a few weeks ago. Today we highlight the second half of the 2000s (’05-‘09). 

Images from all these memories can be found on the school’s Communications page.

2005

Highlights from Lake Catholic’s 32nd graduating class include introducing the new Student Government Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to the student body. The class shared memorable moments on Halloween and with the Homecoming Court and at the Dance. Service was an important part of student life through the Broadmoor Christmas Party and meaningful religious experiences through school liturgies, retreats, and service projects. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing at school pep rallies to get ready for impressive seasons from the athletics. The football team went to the playoffs; the girls soccer team were regional qualifiers; the girls basketball team made it to the State Final Four; the hockey team had one of its most impressive seasons; and lone gymnast Brittany Willis represented Lake Catholic in fine fashion. The Seniors enjoyed many fun extracurriculars throughout the year including outstanding performances by the Fine Arts Department, and the Spring Musical was a showstopper with an outstanding performance of “Les Misérables.”  The seniors exceled as proud members of the National Honor Society and on multiple committees representing many organizations. The senior poll highlighted some of LC’s memorable classmates and the Class enjoyed an unforgettable Prom. The Class of 2005 gathered to say goodbye to long-time faculty/staff members Mr. Tom Ward and Mr. Bob Turoczy.

2006

Highlights from the Class of 2006 include introducing the new Student Government Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to the student body. The class shared memorable moments on Halloween and with the Homecoming Court and at the Dance. Service was an important part of student life through the Broadmoor Christmas Party and meaningful religious experiences through school liturgies, retreats, and service projects. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing at school pep rallies to get ready for impressive seasons from the athletic teams. The football team with standout quarterback Ricky Stanzi, football cheerleaders, girls soccer, boys golf and hockey had seasons to remember. The girls basketball team made it to the State Finals; and girls lacrosse was added as a new team. The Seniors enjoyed many fun extracurriculars throughout the year including outstanding performances by the Peforming Arts Department, including the LC Singers, and the productions of “Lend Me A Tenor” and “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” were outstanding! The students excelled as proud members of the National Honor Society and LC Ambassadors. The senior poll highlighted some of LC’s memorable classmates and the Class enjoyed an unforgettable Prom. The Class of 2006 topped off its high school careers with a wonderful Passing of the Torch Ceremony and impressive Graduation Ceremony. They gathered to say goodbye to long time LC faculty/staff members Principal Sr. St. Ann Waldron, OSU and Assistant Principal Sr. Patricia Kukwa, OSU.

2007

Highlights from the 34th Lake Catholic graduating class include introducing the new Student Government Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to the student body. The class worked hard to be outstanding LC Ambassadors throughout the year at Open Houses, during Shadow Days and whenever needed to be Lake Catholic’s best representatives. They shared memorable moments on Halloween, with the Homecoming Court and at the Dance. Service was an important part of student life through the Broadmoor Christmas Party and meaningful religious experiences through school liturgies, retreats, and service projects. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing at school pep rallies to get ready for impressive seasons from the athletic teams. The football team made it to the regional playoffs, as well as the volleyball team and the girls soccer team. The track team had three members represent Lake Catholic as State Qualifiers – Tom McKrill (current Lake Catholic principal!!), Korrey Willis and Randy Greenwood. The Marching Band and the Performing Arts Department gave us wonderful memories including the productions of “All In The Timing” and “Into The Woods.” The senior poll highlighted some of Lake Catholic’s memorable classmates and the Class enjoyed an unforgettable Prom. The Class of 2007 topped off their high school careers with a wonderful Senior Farewell Activities including the Passing of the Torch Ceremony and impressive Graduation Ceremony.

2008

Highlights from the Class of 2008 include introducing the new Student Government Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to the student body. The class worked hard to be outstanding LC Ambassadors throughout the year at Open Houses, during Shadow Days and whenever needed to be Lake Catholic’s best representatives. They shared memorable moments with the Homecoming Court and at the Dance. Service was an important part of student life through the Broadmoor Christmas Party, Blood Drives and meaningful religious experiences through school liturgies, retreats, and service projects. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing at school pep rallies to get ready for impressive seasons from the athletic teams. The football team was Regional Champs, and impressive seasons were enjoyed by the swim team, dance team, softball team and the track team. The Fine and Performing Arts Department gave us wonderful memories including the production of “Kiss Me Kate.” The Class of 2008 enjoyed an unforgettable Prom and topped off their high school careers with wonderful senior farewell activities including the Passing of the Torch Ceremony and impressive Graduation Ceremony.

2009

Highlights from the last class of the decade include introducing the new Student Government Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to the student body. The class worked hard to be outstanding LC Ambassadors throughout the year at Open Houses, during Shadow Days and whenever needed to be Lake Catholic’s best representatives. They shared memorable moments with the Homecoming Court and at the Dance. Service was an important part of student life through the Broadmoor Christmas Party and meaningful religious experiences through school liturgies, retreats, and service projects. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing at school pep rallies to get ready for impressive seasons from the athletic teams. The cross-country team made it to the regionals; the hockey team has the most winningest record to date; the girls lacrosse team had an impressive season, followed by the JeRica Sanders (’11) winning the state championship in hurdles; the wrestling team’s Mike Fee placing second in the state tournament; and the boys lacrosse team made it to the playoffs. The Fine and Performing Arts Department gave us wonderful memories including the production of “Jekyll & Hyde.” The senior poll highlighted LC’s memorable classmates and the Class enjoyed a memorable Prom. The Class of 2009 topped off its high school careers with wonderful Senior Farewell Activities including the Passing of the Torch Ceremony and impressive Graduation Ceremony.

Be sure to check back later as we continue our Countdown to the 50th Graduating Class with the first half of the classes from the 2010s (’10-'14).
 

When the doors to Lake Catholic High School opened in 1970, 221 ninth graders walked through. It was the beginning of something new and exciting.
A few years ago, the school celebrated its 50th anniversary of those school doors opening. The celebration, however, was muted because of the global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus. 

Those 221 students, back then, eventually became the first graduating class of Lake Catholic. That was in 1974. One by one, year by year, students continued their march through high school and eventually across the stage to receive their diplomas, adding to the number graduating classes. So now, not slowed by the pandemic, we are able to countdown the months until we can celebrate Lake Catholic High School’s 50th graduating class – the Class of 2023.

As we move toward May 20, 2023, when this year’s seniors will turn their tassels and become alumni, we will look back at the decades of classes that came before them. 
We took a look at the 1970s (’74-’79) in January, along with 1980-1984 and 1985-1989 in February and 1990-1994 and 1995-1999 in March.

Today we highlight the first half of the 2000s (’00-‘04). Images from all these memories can be found on the school’s Communications page.

2000

The Class of 2000 was the 27th graduating class from Lake Catholic. Some of the highlights from the year include honoring the school’s 30th Anniversary with Mass celebrated by Bishop Pevec as a community, as well as introducing the Student Government, senior class officers and senior homeroom representatives to the new school year. The Cougar Band was in full swing, and the LC Singers performed to perfection. The year also included memorable moments from Homecoming of the Court and dance attendees and the Broadmoor Christmas Party. Cougar athletics were strong and produced impressive seasons for the girls soccer team; the football cheerleaders; the volleyball team that made it to the regionals; the swim team who added boys to the team; and the football and baseball teams welcomed new head coaches in Tom Lombardo and Dennis Woods. Lake Catholic also showcased its performance perfection with the Spring Musical, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”, and a new event was introduced to Lake Catholic – Field Day! The senior poll continued to be a time-honored tradition. The Class enjoyed a memorable Prom, Passing of the Touch Ceremony and topped off its high school careers by participating in a special Graduation Ceremony.

2001

Highlights from the Class of 2001 include introducing the Student Government Officers, Senior Class Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to their new school year. The class also shared memorable moments from Homecoming, MORP and provided meaningful service through the annual Broadmoor Christmas Party and Bloodmobile. Cougar athletics were strong and produced impressive seasons for the boys soccer team; boys golf; the volleyball team who made it to the regionals once again; as well as the boys and girls basketball teams. The Performing Arts Department showcased its talents with the Spring Musical, “Brigadoon”, and the senior poll highlighted memorable classmates in unique ways. The Class enjoyed a memorable Prom, Passing of the Touch Ceremony and announcing the special Christian Life Awards. They topped off their high school careers with an impressive Graduation Ceremony including the senior members of the Symphonic Choir’s special song. 

2002

The Class of 2022 was the 29th graduating class, and its school year started by introducing the new school government, including the Student Government Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to the student body. The class also worked hard to be outstanding LC Ambassadors throughout the year at Open Houses, during Shadow Days and whenever needed to be Lake Catholic’s best representatives. The Class of 2002 shared memorable moments from Halloween, Homecoming, and provided meaningful service through the annual Broadmoor Christmas Party. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing as the football team won a state championship, Anthony Constantino won an individual state title in wrestling and the volleyball team qualified for its first state tournament. The gymnastics team was also strong and had an impressive season to remember. The Spring Musical was a showstopper with an amazing performance of “West Side Story” (and a certain School Chaplain made his acting debut as well). The Class shared many memorable moments at school masses and prayer services, in Christian Leadership Class and at Kairos Retreats. The senior poll highlighted memorable classmates, including the class couple who took their relationship to the altar! The Class enjoyed a memorable Prom and Passing of the Touch Ceremony. 

2003

The 30th graduating class from Lake Catholic started off with the introduction of the new school government, including the Student Government Officers and Senior Homeroom Representatives to the student body. The class also worked hard to be outstanding LC Ambassadors throughout the year at Open Houses, during Shadow Days and whenever needed to be Lake Catholic’s best representatives. The Class of 2003 shared memorable moments with the Homecoming Court and at the dance, and provided meaningful religious experiences through school liturgies, retreats and service projects. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing at school pep rallies to get ready for impressive seasons from athletics produced state championship appearances for the volleyball team again, as well as the swim team. There were impressive seasons for the football cheerleaders, girls tennis, as well as hockey (which had two players that would later become Cougar Hockey Coaches). The Seniors enjoyed many fun extracurriculars throughout the year including performances by the LC Scientists and a huge turnout of seniors for the Bowling Club.  The LC Singers were amazing, and the Spring Musical was a showstopper with an outstanding performance of “Jesus Christ Superstar.” The senior poll highlighted LC’s memorable classmates and the Class enjoyed a memorable Prom. They said goodbye to Lake Catholic’s Chaplain Fr. Dave Woost as well.

2004

The Class of 2004 shared memorable moments on Halloween and with the Homecoming Court and at the Dance. Service was an important part of student life through the Broadmoor Christmas Party and meaningful religious experiences through school liturgies, retreats and service projects. Cougar spirit was alive and flourishing at school pep rallies to get ready for impressive seasons from the athletics. The Varsity Girls Volleyball team were District Champs, and there were impressive seasons for the Boys Varsity Soccer Team (welcome back to Ohio and the Columbus Crew, Evan Bush), the Girls Competition Cheerleaders, the Varsity Football Team, and the Boys Varsity Baseball Team. The Seniors enjoyed many fun extracurriculars.

Be sure to check back in a few weeks as we continue our Countdown to the 50th Graduating Class with the second half of the classes from the 2000s (’05-’09).

When the doors to Lake Catholic High School opened in 1970, 221 ninth graders walked through. It was the beginning of something new and exciting.
A few years ago, the school celebrated its 50th anniversary of those school doors opening. The celebration, however, was muted because of the global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus. 

Those 221 students, back then, eventually became the first graduating class of Lake Catholic. That was in 1974. One by one, year by year, students continued their march through high school and eventually across the stage to receive their diplomas, adding to the number graduating classes. So now, not slowed by the pandemic, we are able to countdown the months until we can celebrate Lake Catholic High School’s 50th graduating class – the Class of 2023.

As we move toward May 20, 2023, when this year’s seniors will turn their tassels and become alumni, we will look back at the decades of classes that came before them. 
We took a look at the 1970s (’74-’79) in January, along with 1980-1984 and 1985-1989 in February and 1990-1994 just a few weeks ago.

Today we highlight the second half of the 1990s (’95-‘99). Images from all these memories can be found on the school’s Communications page.

1995

The highlights from the Class of 1995 start with a special Homecoming celebration, followed by the traditional Turkey Day and Broadmoor Christmas Party. The Marching Band, Flag Corps and Majorettes kept the Cougar fans entertained with their talents; the girls cross country team won the North Coast League for the first time since 1985; and the wrestling team had a great season, with Brandon Steinmetz winning an individual state championship! The dance team joined the ranks of outstanding Cougars teams, and the baseball team made it to the regionals. But wait…who could forget the Spike-A-Delix volleyball cheerleaders?! The year was filled with many well represented groups in the academic arena including the Honors Government Classes’ participation in the Constitution Competition, the Mock Trial Team and senior Carla Janz winning the grand prize in the physical science category at the Northeast Ohio Science and Engineering Fair. The LC Ambassadors made sure all prospective students and visitors were shown true Cougar hospitality and the Performing Arts Department gave us a wonderful production of  the musical, “Little Shop of Horrors.” The Class of ‘95 participated in the traditional Passing-of-the-Torch Ceremony and topped off its high school career with a special Graduation Ceremony and the chance to leave its mark (numerically!) at Lake Catholic.

1996

The Class of 1996 honored the 25th Anniversary of Lake Catholic and took a look at alums with children in the class– including Mona Cambeiro Gazella (’76) & daughter Melissa, Maureen Jorz Roesch (’76) & daughter Emily, Kirk Stonebrook (’75) & daughter Shanna and Therese Laffey Hasul (’75) & daughter Sarah. There was a special 25th Anniversary Mass. The year continued with Homecoming and its Court, followed by the Broadmoor Christmas Party. The Lake Catholic staff even took time to celebrate Cleveland Indians fever (they were the Indians back then)! The year was filled with many well represented clubs and organizations including the Senior Class Officers and Reps, Teen Institute/SADD and National Honors Society. Seniors made the Gala one of the most exciting, and the Performing Arts Department gave us a wonderful production of the musical, “Starmites.” The year was filled with great seasons for the girls tennis team, the football and basketball cheerleaders, and gymnastics. It was also the inaugural season for the hockey team. 1996 saw the departure of long time Chaplain, Fr. Marty Polito. The class of participated in the traditional Passing-of-the-Torch Ceremony and topped off its high school careers with a special Graduation Ceremony and the chance to leave its mark (numerically!) at Lake Catholic.

1997

The Class of 1997 welcomed Fr. Dave Woost to Lake Catholic as the school chaplain and former chaplain Fr. Marty Polito for the school year’s opening mass and introducing the Senior Class Officers and the NHS Executive Officers to their new school year. The year included wonderful performances by the flag corps and majorettes, LC Singers, the Symphonic Choir and the Spring Musical, “Gold Dust”. School athletics produced impressive seasons for the boys golf team; Jeannette Kirchner in gymnastics; The boys and girls cross country teams; the boys basketball team (regional semifinalists); wresting team; and the baseball team. The seniors enjoyed a memorable Prom and awarded the traditional Senior Poll winners their accolades (including the Class Couple who confirmed their love at the altar!). They topped off their high school careers by awarding the Christian Life Awards and participating in a special Graduation Ceremony.

1998

The Class of 1998, and the 25th graduating class at Lake Catholic, started its senior year with Bishop Pevec celebrating mass with Fr. Dave Woost and introducing the new Liturgical Dancers to the liturgy; and introducing the Senior Class Officers, Student Government Officers, and the NHS Executive Officers to their new school year. The year also included memorable experiments from your very own Lake Catholic Scientists. The Homecoming King and Court were introduced and followed by a dance to remember. School athletics produced impressive seasons for the basketball cheerleaders, the girls basketball team who made it to the regional finals, the wrestling team boasted two state champions in Mark Becks and Ryan Simmons, the girls and boys track teams who celebrated Sean Kelly’s state championship, and the softball team that made it to the state tournament. Lake Catholic also showcased its performance perfection with the Spring Musical, “Anything Goes.” The seniors enjoyed a memorable Prom and awarded the Christian Life Awards to Sean Kelly and Meghan Gaydos. They topped off their high school careers by participating in a special Graduation Ceremony.

1999

The Class of 1999 started its year off celebrating Mass as a community as well as introducing the Student Government Officers, and the NHS Executive Officers to their new school year. The year also included memorable moments from Homecoming of the Court dance attendees, school rallies, and the Broadmoor Christmas Party. Cougar athletics were strong and produced impressive seasons for the girls tennis team that took first place in the North Coast League Tournament; the dance team; and the softball team that was North Coast League and Northeast Ohio Tournament Champions. The Child Development Class completed a successful graduation of future Cougars; the Mock Trial Team took third place out of 24 teams; and the Science Fair participants represented Lake Catholic in fine fashion. The Performing Arts Department showcased its Spring Musical, “Guys and Dolls.” The seniors enjoyed a memorable Prom and topped off their high school careers by participating in a special Graduation Ceremony.

Be sure to check back in a few weeks as we continue our Countdown to the 50th Graduating Class with the first half of the classes from the 2000s (’00-’04).
 

When the doors to Lake Catholic High School opened in 1970, 221 ninth graders walked through. It was the beginning of something new and exciting.
A few years ago, the school celebrated its 50th anniversary of those school doors opening. The celebration, however, was muted because of the global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus. 
Those 221 students, back then, eventually became the first graduating class of Lake Catholic. That was in 1974. One by one, year by year, students continued their march through high school and eventually across the stage to receive their diplomas, adding to the number graduating classes. So now, not slowed by the pandemic, we are able to countdown the months until we can celebrate Lake Catholic High School’s 50th graduating class – the Class of 2023.
As we move toward May 20, 2023, when this year’s seniors will turn their tassels and become alumni, we will look back at the decades of classes that came before them. 
We took a look at the 1970s (’74-’79) in January, along with 1980-1984 and 1985-1989 last month.
Today we highlight the first half of the 1990s (’90-‘94). Images from all these memories can be found on the school’s Communications page.

1990

The Class of 1990 was the 17th graduating class from Lake Catholic. The class is remembered for outstanding performances by the volleyball team and football team, who were North Coast League Champs, setting the stage for great things to come. The marching band was led by Gary Boylan in his best ‘Funky Winkerbean’ costume; and the Performing Arts Department knocked it out of the ballpark with a wonderful performance of “My Fair Lady.” Students excelled as members of the National Honor Society and were involved in service projects as Bellflower Tutors and conducted Bloodmobiles. The class also enjoyed special Homecoming and Prom events and capped it all off with Commencement activities and a trip down memory lane that made 1990 a year to remember.

1991

The highlights from the Class of 1991 included spirit rallies that really showed true Cougar spirit, as well as the infamous and spirited Powder Puff Football Game. The cheerleaders were honored for their outstanding performance and Cougars showed their calling to service through Turkey Day visits and the presentation of Christian Life Awards. The Symphonic Choir showcased the amazing talent of Lake Catholic singers and through another outstanding musical, “Anything Goes.” Clubs such as Big Brother and Big Sister were supportive of Lake Catholic students, and the LC Scientists were formed to speak to students’ love of performing experiments. The Class of ‘91 capped it off with a special Graduation ceremony and their four years was captured in a special poem by classmate Mary Lukas.

1992

The 19th graduating class sure did have its highlights. Thy started with the addition of the Broadmoor Christmas Party and Young Authors Program at Bellflower School. It was quite a year for the Cougar athletes too – with the football team winning a State Championship (backed by the best student cheering section), the track team sending two athletes to the states meet; the softball team making it to the Final Four, as well as the wrestling team having state qualifiers as well! Ground broke for the current wrestling room; and there was excitement everywhere for the Homecoming Dance and decorating for the big Spirit Rally before the game. (Remember when there was a tree and an overhang in front of the school before the atrium came to be?) LC showcased the amazing talent of its actors, actresses, musicians, technicians and crew through another outstanding musical, “Once Upon A Mattress.” The prestigious Christian Life Awards were given to deserving Cougars and the Class of ‘92 bonded together during their Commencement Ceremony in the Lake Catholic gymnasium to cap off their four years at Lake Catholic.

1993

Lake Catholic’s 20th graduating class! Memories include another outstanding year of athletics. The football team once again won the State Championship! The wrestling team was State Runner-Up, as was the softball team. The Homecoming Dance and Court was impressive and providing service in the community was at the forefront, as evidenced by the annual Turkey Day tradition, the Broadmoor Christmas Party and Bloodmobile. Students had the unique opportunity to create curriculum and lesson plans for the Child Development Preschool, which gave students real-world experience with little ones. The Performing Arts Department once again showcased the amazing talent of its actors, actresses, musicians, technicians and crew through the musical, “Babes In Arms.”  Do you remember having German Exchange Students in the building? What a great way to share cultures and learn together as Cougars! The Class of ‘93 topped off its high school career with a memorable Commencement Ceremony with the Senior Symphonic Choir and LC Singers performing and the chance to leave their mark (numerically!) at Lake Catholic.

1994

The Class of 1994 kicked off its senior year the same way as many classes before it, with the annual Opening Mass. The year was filled with many clubs/groups to get involved with, including Big Sis, Big Brothers, and the LC Ambassadors. Academics were well represented in the National Honor Society, and the Student Government Officers made sure there were traditional events including the Calm Before the Storm which led to a wonderful Homecoming celebration. In athletics, the softball team finished third in the state, and the boys golf team was three strokes away from qualifying for the state tournament. Three new sports were introduced this school year – Indoor Track, Indoor Soccer and Swimming. The Performing Arts Department showed off their skills through the LC Singers and a fantastic production of, “Bye, Bye Birdie.” The Class of ‘94 participated in the traditional Passing of the Torch Ceremony, honored its Christian Life Award winner, and topped off its high school careers with a special Graduation Ceremony and the chance to leave their mark (numerically!) at Lake Catholic.

Be sure to check back later this month as we continue our Countdown to the 50th Graduating Class with the second half of the classes from the 1990s (’95-’99).
 

When the doors to Lake Catholic High School opened in 1970, 221 ninth graders walked through. It was the beginning of something new and exciting.

A few years ago, the school celebrated its 50th anniversary of those school doors opening. The celebration, however, was muted because of the global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus. 

Those 221 students, back then, eventually became the first graduating class of Lake Catholic. That was in 1974. One by one, year by year, students continued their march through high school and eventually across the stage to receive their diplomas, adding to the number graduating classes. So now, not slowed by the pandemic, we are able to countdown the months until we can celebrate Lake Catholic High School’s 50th graduating class – the Class of 2023.

As we move toward May 20, 2023, when this year’s seniors will turn their tassels and become alumni, we will look back at the decades of classes that came before them. 

We took a look at the 1970s (’74-’79) last month. And the early ‘80s earlier this month.

Today we highlight the second half of the 1980s (’85-’89). Images from all these memories can be found on the school’s Communications page.

1985

Who remembers the Big Brother/Big Sister Committee and the Child Development Class? No one played a better pilgrim than the English Department’s Mr. Tomba! Kudos to State Wrestling Champion Mike Sullivan, 3-time state wrestling qualifier John Sullivan and 3-time wrestling sectional district champion Steve Prelock; and we can’t forget the “masters of mayhem” on the football field – the Sullivan brothers! Lake Catholic produced another outstanding musical in “Oklahoma”; and yes, even the seniors couldn’t wait to tell Santa what they wanted for Christmas! And, the Class of ‘85 shared their Roses and Thorns – highlighting the good and the bad (as they saw it) during their four years at Lake Catholic.

1986

The Class of 1986 included the Riding Club; outstanding performances by the Girls Varsity Basketball Cheerleaders, LC Singers and the outstanding Cougar Marching Band. Congrats to the Softball team for being crowned North Coast League Champions as well as Northeast Ohio High School Slow Pitch Champions. Lake Catholic athletics could not be as successful as they were without the riveting pep rallies or the comical antics of Coach Miley’s football track team! The faculty always supported the students, including the Ursuline Sisters at Lake Catholic - Principal Sr. St. Ann (Catherine) Waldron, OSU and Sr. Mercia Madigan, OSU. The Class of ‘86’s student body leaders, along with the other classes’ leaders planned unique programs such as the Clown ministry and events that celebrated Peace Week as well as the school’s big 15th Anniversary. If you can’t remember the winners of the senior poll, we’ve shared them all.

1987

Highlights from the Class of 1987 included the outstanding performances by the Boys and Girls Track & Field and Cross Country Teams – sending team members to the State Championships; the Gymnastics Team enjoyed its second straight undefeated season, were crowned Sectional Champs and went to the State Championships; and the Boys Basketball Team was District Champions. Fr. Marty Polito joined Lake Catholic as its first Chaplain and the school produced another stellar musical in “Fiddler On The Roof”. The 1987 National Honor Society’s members represented the student body’s academic leaders, and the Prom Aide event proved to be a great success. Lake Catholic’s Homecoming Queen and her date kept the spark alive long after high school and sent their two daughters to their alma mater to continue the legacy! The senior poll’s Most Likely to Succeed pair really did just that – both becoming physicians in their own rights. The Class of ‘87 took a “Stroll Down Memory Lane” before they bid farewell to Cougar Country and topped it all off with one final group photo in the gym.

1988

The Class of '88 included outstanding performances by the Boys Varsity Basketball Team; the Varsity Wrestling Team and the Girls Varsity Softball Team. Lake Catholic started its Mock Trial Team and had three National Merit Scholarship Finalists. Ricky Osborne and Mr. Grebenc had frequent discussions on academic topics throughout the school year as well. Lake Catholic produced a wonderful production of the Broadway hit, “Guys and Dolls;” and celebrated its annual Homecoming Nominees, Queen and King; the annual Turkey Day service event and the Senior Girls vs Faculty Volleyball game. Students enjoyed Career Week and capped off the year with Commencement. Tom Gibbons had a message for all regarding his Cougar Class – “Imitate 88!"

1989

The Class of 1989 was the 16th graduating class, and was highlighted by the State Championship Wrestling Team, including individual state titles by Dave Kaprosy and Vic Voinovich; as well as the performing arts production of “The Pajama Game” and the LC Singers. Students were involved in service projects, participated in events and programs to help spread awareness for SADD and Teen Institute; and enjoyed a great Homecoming event. The Calm Before The Storm helped get the students and Spirit Rally committee excited to cheer the Cougars' athletic teams to success. Seniors excelled academically and received many awards, and students were also acknowledged for their performance skills in the Senior Poll. Who could have known then that the artistic talents of Thom Zahler would propel him into a renowned career as an artist/cartoonist/writer? And students capped off the year with Commencement activities that made 1989 a year to remember.

Be sure to check back next month as we continue our Countdown to the 50th Graduating Class with the first half of the classes from the 1990s (’90-’94).