Sep 19, 2016 By Bill Hughes for The 2 min read

The Belle Vernon Area soccer family will honor former coach Paul Sasko, who passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in April, tonight when his family is presented with a plaque honoring him on the field.

The plaque will be matted at the entrance of James Weir Stadium.

Paul’s son Matt spoke on behalf of his sisters, Leah and Marla, as well as their mother, Shelly.

“We couldn’t be more thankful for this plaque dedication,” he said. “Our family is extremely grateful for all of the support we have and continue to receive.

“We could not be more proud of our dad and this plaque ensures that his legacy in the Belle Vernon soccer community will live on forever.”

BVA senior soccer player Rachel Weight spearheaded a t-shirt fundraiser to come up with the funds for the plaque, and she worked a day at Le Beaute Hair Salon to sell shirts with all profits from that day going to the fund raiser.

Weight spoke of her relationship with Sasko.

“I knew Paul since birth and loved him like a second dad,” she said. “He always treated every one of his players like daughters and would do anything for us.”

BVA athletic director Matt Humbert shared his thoughts on Sasko.

“Paul was one of the guys who was always committed and loyal to his players,” said Humbert, who also serves as the BVA football coach. “We would talk about different aspects of coaching and was a great person.”

Dan Weight, Rachel’s dad, Sasko’s assistant and according to Matt, his dad’s best friend, reflected on his closest friend.

“Paul was an extraordinary coach and a special person who touched the lives of so many, so we thought it was important to honor his legacy,” Dan Weight said. “He was taken from us too soon and he is sorely missed.”

Sasko coached from 2005-2015 and the team went 172-42-10 under him, winning eight section titles including five straight from 2005-09.

The dedication will take place on the field at approximately 7 p.m. in between the JV and Varsity games between BVA and Elizabeth Forward.