Laurel Highlands Baseball gathered on August 13 at its historic field to honor Scott DeBerry, the longtime coach and teacher who passed away from Stage IV stomach cancer in July 2021.
The ceremony marked the inaugural alumni game, bringing together former players, colleagues and families to celebrate the man who shaped the program for nearly two decades.
Central to the event was the introduction of the DeBerry MVP Award, created to recognize outstanding performance and the spirit of mentorship that defined his coaching style.
Frank Kula, a standout among the alumni, captured the first award after going 4 for 4 at the plate, driving in four runs, doubling once and scoring a single run.
Kula’s performance underscored the competitive fire that DeBerry cultivated in his teams, a fire that still burns in the hearts of current and former Mustangs.
Remembering a mentor
Current head coach Mike Smith, who worked closely with DeBerry, recalled the coach’s kindness and his ability to inspire athletes both on the diamond and in the classroom.
Smith described DeBerry as a kind and talented athlete who, as a young boy, would often pass a football with him during the fall season, forging bonds that lasted well beyond high school.
Beyond wins and championships, DeBerry’s legacy includes fostering a culture of success that extended into academics, encouraging his players to excel in the classroom as well as on the field.
The impact of his mentorship rippled through the Laurel Highlands School District, where he taught for 17 years and served as head baseball coach for eight seasons.
His teams reached the WPIAL championship game in 2019, a milestone that highlighted his ability to guide a program to new heights.
Even as his health declined in 2021, DeBerry remained committed to his players, attending practices and games whenever his condition allowed.
His involvement also extended to the Uniontown American Legion Baseball program and to the Fayette County Baseball League, where he honed his skills as a standout quarterback in high school before moving to collegiate baseball at Kent State.
The community’s tribute reflects a deep appreciation for a man whose influence reached far beyond the baseball diamond, shaping lives and instilling values that endure.