While the academic year is at an end for students in the Diocese of Brooklyn, the best and the brightest were offered one more round of applause for their success Wednesday, June 28, during Catholic Schools Night at Maimonides Park, home of the Brooklyn Cyclones.
The 62 valedictorians and salutatorians, clad in red T-shirts, were recognized at the annual event, having their names announced as they received medals prior to the Cyclones matchup against the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.
They also got the opportunity to see their school administrators and priests take to the diamond for the “Collars vs. Scholars” softball game. Dressed in black jerseys, the priestly Collars fell early to their counterparts, dressed in white, and eventually invoked the “mercy rule,” losing 11-1.
“It doesn’t matter. None of this matters,” Deacon Kevin McCormack, superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Brooklyn, said on the field. He served as head coach for the Scholars. “It’s only about the kids — and the hot dogs.”
The celebration was sponsored by DeSales Media, the ministry that produces The Tablet. Students were also recognized for their contributions to Tablet Jr., a monthly insert in The Tablet newspaper, as well.
The first pitch of the Cyclones game was delivered by Deacon McCormack. While he has taken to the diamond for Catholic Schools Night in games before, this was his first year serving as superintendent of schools for the diocese.
Among those in attendance was Bishop Robert Brennan, grinning as he shook hands with each student after they received their medal.