Jay is the lifeline of what Lakeland Athletics is to this day. He has, and continues to make a positive impact on the school, athletic department, and the community of LaGrange!
Jay taught at Lakeland for at total of 37 years. Within that time-frame he served in many capacities that shaped Lakeland and Lakeland Atheltics as we know it.
In 1964, Jay Smith, became the first head football coach at Lakeland. He served in that role until 1973. After his 10 year tenure as our head coach, he then became the assistant for an additional 4 seasons.
Jay was also a Lakeland Baseball coach for 6 years. 1 as the Head Coach, and 5 as the assistant! His overall record stands at 46-37.
Many wonder where the interlocking L’s logo originated from. Look no further than the man at center court! Jay created the Interlocking L’s logo that our school and athletics department uses. In 1964 he taped the interlocking L’s on all of our players football helmets. One red, and one blue, to show our school colors. Jay created and built the original brand of Lakeland and Lakeland athletics!
Jay has also served the Boys’ Basketball program for over 56 years as the official scorebook keeper. To this day, we are still so thankful to have jay being the scorer’s table keeping book for our boys’ basketball team.
Along with being the boys basketball bookkeeper, Jay has worked at the Lakeland Boys Track & Field invitational for more than 45 years as a meet worker and/or timer. He has also served as a ticket taker at home Varsity football games for more than 35 years!
Other things that Jay was an integral part in, include:
? Being one of the 4 “Original” teachers that started at Lakeland High School.
? Organizing and implementing the first Lakeland High School Intramural program in 1964.
? Served as president of the Lakeland Education Association. ? Served as president of the Indiana Vocational Association. ? Service to Habitat for Humanity.
? Methodist Church Youth Leader
? Elected and served on the Lakeland School Corporation Board of Trustees.
When you ask the question, what is a Laker? It’s a simple answer… Jay Smith is a Laker. He has exemplified everything that it means to be a Laker and give back to the place that gave so much to him! Many will say that Jay Smith is the nucleus of what Lakeland is to day. We agree with that, and are so thankful for Jay and everything that he has done to contribute to Lakeland and Lakeland Athletics!