John Snyder, left, smiles as Warsaw Community High School principal Troy Akers, middle, shares kind words about Snyder with Wawasee High School principal Geoff Walmer, right. Snyder was presented with the Northern Lakes Conference Service Award prior to the basketball game between Wawasee and Warsaw on Friday, Dec. 19. Photo by Nathan Pace.

By Nathan Pace
InkFreeNews

WARSAW – Prior to the boys basketball game between Warsaw and Wawasee on Friday, Dec. 19, a special presentation was held for John Snyder at the Tiger Den. Snyder retired this year as assistant principal at Wawasee High School but the majority of his 37-year career in education was spent at Warsaw Community High School.

For his outstanding service to Warsaw Community High School, Wawasee Community High School and to the Northern Lakes Conference, Snyder was presented the NLC Service Award.

“I’m just humbled to stand before you tonight,” Snyder said. “I want to say if you cut me open, I still bleed orange and black, but the last six years have proven there is a big place in my heart for green and gold.”

Warsaw principal Troy Akers and Wawasee principal Geoff Walmer were on hand for the award ceremony and both thanked Snyder for his career in education. His wife, Reisa, a retired teacher and professor, was also recognized and applauded by both Warsaw and Wawasee fans.

“My greatest joys in life have been serving the people of Kosciusko County,” Snyder said.

Wawasee would go on to win the varsity game at Warsaw 42-33.