Woodington Dedicates Field to Coach Lychak
In a heartfelt tribute, Woodington Middle School has named its baseball field after Perry M. Lychak, honoring his enduring legacy as both a celebrated coach and beloved educator. The dedication ceremony, originally planned for the field but moved indoors due to weather, took place on April 11, celebrating a man whose impact transcended the boundaries of the baseball diamond.
Perry Lychak, who hailed from Edmonton, Canada, was not only a notable figure in local sports but also a pivotal player on an international scale. His athletic prowess was on full display when he pitched a three-hitter that led the Canadian national team to a landmark victory over Cuba at the 1981 International Cup—an achievement that marked Canada's most significant baseball victory at the time.
Following his international success, Lychak joined the professional ranks, signing with the Toronto Blue Jays. After graduating from Indiana State University, he played for the Class A Kinston Blue Jays in the Carolina League from 1982 until 1985. Over his four seasons with the team, Lychak was a versatile pitcher, taking on roles as a starter, reliever, and closer. His best season came in 1985 when he maintained a stellar 1.75 ERA and a 4-2 win-loss record.
After retiring from professional baseball, Lychak dedicated himself to coaching, profoundly impacting Woodington Middle School from 1986 to 2010. Under his guidance, the school's baseball teams clinched four conference championships and one co-championship, while his football teams added three conference titles to their accolades.
The dedication ceremony brought together Lychak’s sister Val and nephew Tyler, along with representatives from Lenoir County Public Schools, former players, and current members of the Woodington baseball team. Principal Patrick Phillippe, who coached alongside Lychak, remembered him as a coach who gave "100 percent" to whatever he was asked to do, whether in baseball or football.
During the ceremony, Val Lychak expressed her family's deep gratitude to the school and community for recognizing her brother’s contributions and ensuring his legacy will live on. A plaque in the shape of home plate, soon to be installed on a pedestal at the field, will permanently mark the Perry M. Lychak Field, a fitting tribute to a man who was much more than a coach and teacher—he was a pivotal part of his community.
The dedication of the baseball field at Woodington Middle School serves not only as a testament to Perry Lychak's substantial contributions to sports but also highlights the significant role he played in shaping the lives of countless young athletes through his passionate commitment to coaching and teaching. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations at Woodington.
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