For the Plainview-Old Bethpage Varsity Baseball team, the 2025 season was about more than just wins and losses,it was about compassion, community, and creating meaningful change. Under the leadership of Coach John Givy, the Hawks showed what it truly means to lead both on and off the field.
On April 27, Coach Givargidze and several team members dedicated their Sunday morning to local community service efforts, an act of generosity that set the tone for a season defined by purpose beyond the game.
Their spirit of service continued on May 3 during the annual Autism Awareness Game against MacArthur High School. This meaningful tradition was started by Coach Vin Causeman of MacArthur, who does extensive work with Autism Speaks. The event holds personal significance for Coach Givargidze, who emphasized the importance of inclusion and education through sports.
“I remembered what it felt like to be part of something bigger than the game,” he shared. “I wanted my players to learn about autism, understand the importance of inclusion, and see how sports can be a platform for positive change.”
The Hawks embraced that message, selling T-shirts to raise funds for a local autism organization and spreading awareness throughout National Autism Awareness Month in April. Their efforts reflected a sincere desire to uplift and support those affected by autism.
On May 10, the team hosted the Corey’s Promise Game against St. Anthony’s at Allen Park. The event honors the memory of Corey Phelan and supports the Corey’s Promise Foundation, which helps families impacted by pediatric cancer. Coach Givy, a close friend of Corey’s father, emphasized the importance of using the game to raise awareness and funds for this important cause. Fans were encouraged to learn more and donate by visiting coreyspromise.org.
In recent seasons, the team has also honored the legacy of local hero Jonathan Diller and expressed gratitude to law enforcement through special tributes—demonstrating a long-standing commitment to service and respect.
Through each initiative, the Plainview-Old Bethpage Varsity Baseball team has proven that their impact reaches far beyond the field. These student-athletes are not only developing as competitors but also as compassionate leaders shaping a stronger, more connected community.