Recognizing Dean Lancaster

Floor Speech

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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Mr. Dean Lancaster has made as a volunteer with the Hernando County School System. Mr. Lancaster offered his services as an announcer for high school basketball games. Coach Kupcik decided to allow him to announce at an upcoming game and had no idea what to expect. When Mr. Lancaster arrived to announce his first game, he came early, brought all his fancy equipment, and got to work setting up. That night, he blew everyone away and bought a real, college-like feel to the game. He was prepared and professional, enthusiastic and exciting. He brought music, catchphrases, and announcing on the call-- the whole nine yards. All night long people were asking, ``where did this guy come from?'', ``he is amazing!'', ``Can he come to every game?''. Coach Kupcik told him, ``You're hired!'' That day, and every day moving forward, he refused payment for his services. Mr. Lancaster always says it's his way of giving back to the community. Since his ``tryout'', Mr. Lancaster has offered his talents, professionalism, and enthusiasm to every home Boys Basketball game at Springstead High School. Over the years, he has agreed to do the same for every home Varsity Football and Baseball game as well. Because he has been so popular and because he brings so much to the events he is announcing, Mr. Lancaster has also been requested to announce at other big events at Springstead, such as senior nights, their annual cheer competition and during the final matches of the historic Corey Hill Memorial Wrestling Tournament. As an Athletic Director, Coach Kupcik shares that having a consistent announcer locked in is always a plus. It's one less thing to worry about. But having a consistent, amazing, professional- level announcer that transforms a relatively meaningless Tuesday night baseball or basketball game into a must-go-to, college like event for fans and players alike is truly a blessing. Mr. Lancaster is one of a kind, and is now a true part of what Springstead Athletics is, and forever an Eagle.

It is clear Dean Lancaster has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

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