PJSD field named in honor of two history-making PJHS softball coaches

By Sharon E. Siegel

PORT JERVIS -- It was an honor to attend a PJSD field dedication for two beloved past teachers of Port Jervis School District this week. These teachers/coaches were saluted in a special ceremony held on May 20, 2025!

The two made history many decades ago by becoming the first and second coaches to help launch PJSD Varsity softball teams of the past, teams that continue to re-form annually through present! Taken from Port Jervis School District's website, the district's salute to Mr. Hugh Spangenberg and Mr. George Rollman says it all!

Great job, coaches and PJSD! This field-naming is so special and deserved! Congrats!

Many of the past players on these coaches' teams were present for the May 20 field dedication, as well as family, friends, colleagues, local officials and members of the community. See photos of this week's dedication, as well as video clips featuring the honored coaches, former players, school administrators, staff and others -- including this year's Girl's Varsity Softball Team with their own salute to the two.

The field is located at Port Jervis High School, across from Chase Field and the student parking lot.

Oh, and note: George Rollman wasn't able to be videotaped following the dedication because ... he's still coaching, and there was a game about to get underway. But he did say -- as likely all great coaches, might -- that the memories of his years, like Hugh Spangenberg's, were all about the kids!

PHOTO CREDIT (this photo) Port Jervis School District website

VIDEO OF CEREMONY

INTERVIEW WITH COACH SPANGENBERG AND SOME OF HIS FORMER PLAYERS