Retired coach proposes reviving Athens Area SD athletics Hall of Fame; board pledges informal support

Jake Lizak, a retired soccer coach and continuing physical education teacher, told the Athens Area School District board he wants to resurrect a long-dormant athletics Hall of Fame and asked for the board’s blessing to form a selection committee.

Lizak said the last Hall of Fame induction was in 2002 and proposed a hybrid committee that would include two representatives from Slippery Rock University (SRU), two from Athens High School, two representing the consolidated Athens Area School District, two at-large community members, one board member and automatic seats for the sitting superintendent, the athletic director and the high school principal. "So basically, I'm kind of asking that we approve this," he said, laying out a plan that he said would keep costs low and rely on existing nomination records.

Board members and administrators responded positively. Dr. Stays (superintendent) and other board members praised the idea and volunteered to help identify committee members; board members asked about startup and ongoing costs. Lizak said he anticipated minimal district expense at launch, proposing plaques and modest recognition rather than an elaborate banquet, and said booster clubs or local businesses could sponsor initial costs. "I wouldn't look at it any more than that, really," he said when asked about price.

The board did not take formal action or vote on the item. Administrators said they would return with additional details and the board invited Lizak to provide follow-up materials and a proposed set of policies and procedures for formal consideration at a future meeting.

The presentation highlighted an interest in using the Hall of Fame to reconnect alumni and celebrate athletic accomplishments without imposing a significant budgetary burden on the district.