The tragic events in Surfside have affected many and have reached across numerous communities. From families and friends, neighbors and visitors, parents, sons and daughters and even coaches. Our own Miami Beach baseball community lost a great friend and coach in Manny LaFont.
Manny was a fixture at the park, always ready with a heartfelt hello, and generously giving of his time and knowledge to anyone who asked or needed a little help or encouragement. Myself, and many others, coached with Manny as our boys and girls developed and grew through the years. We shared many a laugh, tear and moments of pride as the kids played, all the while with a smile on his face and a gleam in his eye.
On more occasions than I can remember, Manny would bring Santi for some father and son practice only to be inundated with questions and pleas for help from other parents. He never waivered and always gave freely of his time, even if it meant having to stay longer with Santi for their own time. He touched so many lives, created a joy and love for our sport, and selflessly gave all whenever ask.
Although Manny has thrown his last baseball, there could be no better way to help preserve our memories of him and his legacy by dedicating North Shore park baseball fields in his memory. In loving memory of Manny Lafont, please help make this happen.
