In honor of "Mick" Ackerman

The Smithtown East and West varsity baseball teams took a moment Thursday afternoon to honor a true local hero, Michael “Mick” Ackerman, the late husband of SCSD Board of Education member Bernadette Ackerman.

Before the game held at Smithtown East, flowers were given to Bernadette and her daughter, Delaney.

Bernadette’s son James then threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

“Grateful doesn’t begin to cover it,” Bernadette said. “Our community, friends, teachers, and so many in Smithtown continue to lift my family up in so many ways I can’t put into words. We are reminded once again how lucky we are to be surrounded by so many wonderful people.”

A retired NYPD Sergeant, Mick exemplified courage, service, and selflessness—both in his career and in the community he loved. He was also among the many who responded in the aftermath of September 11th, a service that ultimately came at a great personal cost. In August 2025, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer related to his time at Ground Zero. Ackerman passed away last month.

Closer to home, Mick was a familiar and beloved figure on local fields, dedicating countless hours coaching youth football with the Smithtown Bulls, baseball with the Nesconset Panthers and Smithtown/St. James Little League, and supporting his daughter Delaney’s travel softball teams.

Today, the baseball teams proudly played in his memory, honoring a legacy built on strength, dedication, and unwavering community spirit.