On Campus
(above) Marc and Stephanie Barta, Henry Ploegstra, and Arnie Holtberg. (above right) Nick Sberna comments on Jerry Lacey’s retirement. (right) Recently retired faculty member Paul Weadon with Henry Ploegstra. (far right) Jerry Lacey and Senior Master Emeritus Tom Adams.
The wise scholar in sandals hardly focused solely on the academic affairs of St. Mark’s. Henry was a devout fan at nearly all St. Mark’s sporting events. His presence in the hallways
This year, Jerry was the recipient of the Ralph
never went unnoticed, as there was, without fail,
B. Rogers Alumni Award for his excellence in
some miscreant whose shirt tails needed tucking
teaching and coaching: he has also served as the
in or one who needed to be “de – cap – itated,”
coach of the St. Mark’s Tennis Team for 23 years.
as he would say with a beret perched on his
In 2002, he was recognized as the High School
own head.
Boys Tennis Coach of the Year by the National
Dr. Ploegstra held the Malcolm K. and Minda
High School Coaches Association and featured
Brachman Master Teaching Chair and retired
in an issue of Sports Illustrated. That year,
leaving a rich legacy filled with Shakespearean
his team posted a stellar record that included
study, scholarly pursuit, and genuine school pride.
105 straight match victories. Known best for his gentle, guiding nature,
Jerry Lacey ~ 25 Years A man of soft words and strong convictions,
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On Campus | THE PRIDE
Jerry made an effort to get to know as many Marksmen as he could while roaming and
Jerry Lacey arrived at St. Mark’s in 1987 as a member
teaching at St. Mark’s, whether he was located
of the history department. As a teacher, Jerry has
in Davis Hall or Centennial Hall. While one
been a mainstay of the Middle School Humanities
might assume his coaching career might end
Program. “Through him the boys see an example
with his retirement from teaching, Coach Lacey
of pure dedication and passion,” says Mr. Holtberg.
will stay on to coach St. Mark’s tennis for at least
“They know that the St. Mark’s community is his
one more year to guide even more young Lions
family, and this campus is his home.”
along the path to manhood.
St. Mark’s School of Texas