Family is where we as individuals learn to understand how to be human, treat others, love, and reflect on  the lessons they’ve taught us. Coach Brian Lockart has shown his team how to be a family, but earlier this year he received heartbreaking news. His mother, Deana McLaughlin, is battling small cell lung cancer.

 Players from the PCN baseball team came to the decision to show their support for Lockart and his mother, “Lockhart has been an amazing coach for as long as I’ve been here at PCN. I wanted to support him through a tough time” senior Geoffrey Schmidt said.  There was no doubt in their minds about showing their support, but one student had an idea that would move many to tears, “I asked the baseball guys how they felt about shaving their heads. Nine out of ten ended up doing it. I was proud of them for stepping up like that. It goes to show what type of guys we have at the school and on the team,”senior Cayden Swart said. 

Without a doubt, players on the team would do it again,  “I would definitely do it again. Plus, it’s a lot easier to deal with than my long hair,” Caratinni said. Although they came to this team decision, their fearless coach knew nothing about the surprise later to come. “I held it together when they came down with hoodies one morning to my class and did the reveal. I was proud at that moment of some truly selfless kids that took it upon themselves to be there and to support others. My mom cried when she saw the pictures of the boys. It gave her an additional layer of support, there is no doubt about it. Once I was away from them, I just let it out and took some time to appreciate their selflessness,” Coach Brain Lockart said.  

You pick up traits from those you call family and Coach Lockart’s selflessness moved throughout his team, “Lockhart has always been there for me and my team. He is a very compassionate person,” junior Rocco Caratinni said. As Coach Lockart walks throughout the halls, you would never know he is dealing with something many could not handle, “Honestly, my faith, first and foremost. The boys on the team definitely keep me focused and engaged, and on top of that, I really love coaching them. They have carried me on their young shoulders ever since I told them I may be in and out sometimes due to my mom’s needs. They have rallied around me and made a huge difference with my emotions. I will forever be grateful for them. My coaching brothers have been instrumental also. Coach Johnson has been a loyal and good friend to me during all of this. I cannot thank him enough either for his grace,” Lockhart said.

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“Hair can always grow back, but getting the opportunity to show your support for someone like THAT doesn’t happen everyday,” Swart said. 

— Cayden Swart