Olympic swimmer gold medalist, Jason Lezak made a visit to the kids’ school yesterday. The kids were excitedly anticipating his visit especially because of their participation in swim team. They went to school today wearing red, white and blue.
The school was abuzz with excitement even with visits from the local television stations (channels 4 and 7) and some newspapers. I found out Lezak's a local boy too. His elementary school alma mater is the same as the kids/Roger and his middle school alma mater is the same as mine even- though he’s a number of years younger.
I was impressed by his genuine and warm demeanor as he answered numerous questions from the students, teachers, and audience. He seemed so down-to-earth that he came across almost shy. And you’d think those medals would have been encased in velvet behind glass so strange hands wouldn’t get them dirty but for now, he said that he’s doing so many appearances that he just keeps them in his pocket. These are “heirlooms” that he’ll probably be showing his grandkids someday or will be donated to a museum but no, he easily handed them over to different teachers to walk them around the kids so they could get a closer look.
He also made a point to honor the important people in his life; his wife and parents (who also were there).
The organizers for this event invited his former teachers and even the founding principal of the school, Mr. Gene Bedley (now of course, retired). Mr. Bedley was a National Educator/pPrincipal of the Year recipient during his tenure at the school especially known for his value-driven initiatives. It was encouraging that even his question to Lezak was focused on the importance of family and values. All in all, a great local hero inspiring kids to persevere, do their best, and follow their dreams. The kids were blessed to have had the opportunity to meet him.
My pictures didn't come out very well. My camera battery died and so I was forced to use my cellphone camera.
For much better pics of the event check out
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/school-irvine-phelps-2150341-woodbury-staff
Comments (1)
T & A took swim lessons this summer at the same school that Jason Lezak did when he was a kid. They had a big scrap board with all these pictures of him ever since he was a kid (he took lessons there from age 3 to 12). They also told me he visits them a lot and comes out to all their special events. He seems like a great down-to-earth guy! How exciting that your kids got to meet him!