Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) and the LSSC Foundation celebrated the dedication of the Mike Matulia Fields at J. Carlisle Rogers Stadium on Wednesday, marking a new era for Lakehawk Athletics. The event also unveiled state-of-the-art digital scoreboards, a major upgrade for the baseball and softball complex.
The naming and enhancements were made possible through generous donations to the LSSC Foundation, including support from the Rogers Family Foundation, the Matulia Family, Rich & Vicki Billings, Rich & Betsy Billings, the Earl & Sophia Shaw Charitable Trust, Tim & Sharon Morris, and Robert & Valerie Thomas.
The ceremony honored Coach Mike Matulia, who re-launched LSSC Athletics 27 years ago with just a $25,000 budget, growing it into the thriving program it is today. Speakers including LSSC President John Temple, Executive Vice President Dr. Laura Byrd, and Lake County Commissioner Tim Morris praised Matulia’s student-centered vision and lasting legacy.
Former college president Dr. Robert Westrick, who hired Matulia in 1998, recalled his ambitious start, while Head Baseball Coach Rich Billings, a program alumnus, reflected on Matulia’s mentorship. A humbled Coach Matulia thanked his family and community for their unwavering support, calling the journey a “family affair.”
The dedication not only celebrates Matulia’s contributions but also highlights the enduring partnership between LSSC and the community in supporting student-athletes.
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