OKEECHOBEE- Before the Okeechobee Brahmans played their final home game of the 2026 season, the team's seniors paused to thank the people who helped get them there, teachers.

As part of the program's ongoing Teachers of Impact recognition, each Brahman senior was asked to select one teacher who had made the greatest difference in his life over the past four years. The educators chosen were honored for the positive influence they have had on the players, both in the classroom and beyond it.

Brahman senior Michael Lopez and his Teacher of Impact selection Mr. Suarez. [Photo courtesy Antwan Blatch]

"This week was unique because each Senior has selected one teacher each who has impacted them the most over the past four years." Okeechobee head coach Antwan Blatch said in announcing the selections.

Donovan Aguirre selected Ms. Albright, Noah Hazelief chose Mr. Caves and Armani Jenkins picked Ms. Smith. Michael Lopez honored Mr. Suarez, Ross Santos selected Ms. Cauley and Evan Tijierna chose Mr. Hays. Blake Woodham selected principal Amanda Carver.

Blatch asked the community to celebrate the honorees, calling them outstanding educators and thanking them for their work with his players.

"Congratulations to all of our Teachers of Impact for the 2026 Season!" Blatch said. "Thank you for inspiring our players and making a difference every single day!"

The coach also had a message for the many teachers whose names were not on this year's list. "To those who didn't this year, your time is coming," he said. "Please keep impacting our students; it doesn't go unnoticed!"