The last thing Hurricanes’ former football player, Hamlet "Nikko" Rodriguez-Pena, said to his math teacher was, “I’ll see you on the field when the Citadel plays Clemson in 2024!” And he kept his promise.
On Saturday, November 23rd, the 2023 Manatee High School graduate reunited with his beloved teacher, Karen Kaminski-Beyer, at Clemson.
Despite being a die-hard Tigers fan, Mrs. Beyer couldn’t contain her pride for #63 and cheered for the sophomore with all her heart throughout the game.
She felt compelled to share her joy on Facebook afterward.
"When any of your former students remember you, it tugs at your heart! I can not say enough great things about this OUTSTANDING young man! Great job Mom and Dad for raising such a fine young man! You make Manatee proud!"
Mrs. Beyer graduated from Clemson and grew up in a nearby town, so her classroom is covered in Tiger orange and items showing off her school spirit.
She doesn't stray from talking about college football with her Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 Honors students.
Mrs. Beyer remembers the day Nikko signed with The Citadel.
She said, "I'm not exaggerating when I say I would retire at 100 if I had more students like him."
Mrs. Beyer said her former student is such a kind, positive, uplifting human being with a solid work ethic.
Nikko recently reached out to his former teacher to remind her of their agreement.
"It felt like Christmas finding him in the sea of people on the field that day," Mrs. Beyer said. "He's just that kid who is pretty unforgettable and super easy to love!"
What a heartwarming and unforgettable memory.
Thanks to Karen Kaminski-Beyer and Manatee High School Alumni Association for sharing this Good News.