What's Happening in Cougar Country

On a memorable evening this past weekend, Lake Catholic High School proudly hosted its inaugural Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony, honoring seven extraordinary individuals whose contributions and achievements have left an indelible mark on our school's athletic legacy.

Mark Sullivan ('78), a standout defensive lineman and wrestler, was recognized for his exceptional athletic prowess. As a First Team All-Ohio defensive lineman and an All-Ohio wrestler, Sullivan's high school career set a standard of excellence and determination.

Rich Severino was celebrated for his remarkable 28-year tenure as the Cougar Volleyball program's head coach. Under his leadership, the team achieved 548 career wins, made six state trips, and secured the school’s first girls' team state title in 2010, following a runner-up finish in 2009.

Jess Sabath ('03) was honored for her stellar volleyball career, where she earned first-team all-district honors four times. A force on the court, Sabath was a second-team All-Ohio selection as a sophomore and a first-team All-Ohio pick in her junior and senior years, leading the Cougars to their first State Final Four appearances.

Sean Kelly ('98) was recognized for his exceptional cross country and track career, culminating in a state championship in both sports. Notably, Kelly remained undefeated in cross country during his senior year, recording the best time at the state meet across all divisions.

Meghan Gaydos ('98), the girls basketball program’s all-time leading scorer with 1,175 points, was honored for her remarkable career. Despite missing half of her freshman season due to a torn ACL, Gaydos led the Cougars to the regional finals during her senior year, demonstrating resilience and skill.

Dan Welly ('81) was remembered as the first-ever three-sport captain in football, basketball, and baseball at Lake Catholic. Welly’s legacy extends beyond his athletic achievements; his character and impact on his teammates and community continue to resonate long after his passing in 2011.

Sam Colacarro, the longtime Athletic Director whose name is synonymous with Lake Catholic’s athletic department, was celebrated for his 50 years of dedicated service. Though semi-retired, Colacarro remains a familiar and cherished presence at Cougar home games.

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With the more than 300 attendees in their seats, the evening kicked off with each inductee being escorted to their seats by our current student-athletes, who were dressed in their team’s uniform, as The Script’s Hall of Fame played over the sound system.

Principal Tom McKrill ('07) opened the ceremony by reflecting on the integral role athletics play in shaping character and community. 

"Athletics have always been the heartbeat of Lake Catholic," McKrill said. “Today, we honor those who have set the bar high and inspired future generations with their extraordinary achievements.”

After the benediction from Fr. Dave Woost, President John Morabeto also welcomed everyone and announced that the school will create an Honor Wall as a place to celebrate our Hall of Excellence and Athletic Hall of Fame members, with this class serving as the first to be highlighted on the Wall.

Next to the stage was the emcee for the evening, Tim Armelli. He announced that “the five distinguished members previously inducted into the Hall of Excellence for their athletic achievements have been welcomed into our new Athletic Hall of Fame.”

Those five members are Coach John Gibbons, Dave Youdath (’80), Linda Oster (’83), Dave Rastoka (’83), and Joe Jurevicious (’93).

As we celebrate this historic occasion, Lake Catholic High School proudly acknowledges the enduring impact of all these distinguished individuals. Their achievements and dedication continue to inspire and elevate our athletic programs, reminding us all of the power of perseverance, leadership, and community spirit.

The ceremony concluded with the Cougar Pride Marching Band’s rendition of the Lake Catholic Alma Mater, and it led everyone out of the auditorium with the playing of the Fight Song.

Congratulations to our inaugural Athletic Hall of Fame class—your legacy will forever be a part of Lake Catholic’s storied history.

The Hall of Fame induction videos and photos from the event can be found on our Athletics Hall of Fame page.