More Testimonials
Here are more testimonials highlighting my impact as an educator and coach.
“Coach Lopes believed in me from day one and created an environment where I could push myself, grow stronger, and gain confidence.”
— Anonymous, Former Student-Athlete Coach Lopes was more than just a strength coach; he was a mentor, motivator, and an incredible influence on my life. As one of the few soccer girls training with the football team, we could’ve easily felt out of place, but Coach always made us feel welcome and supported. He believed in me from day one and created an environment where I could push myself, grow stronger, and gain confidence. His passion for fitness and commitment to every athlete helped shape not only my high school experience but also my future. He inspired my lifelong love for health, wellness, and strength training. I’m truly grateful for everything he taught me about discipline, resilience, and believing in myself. Coach Lopes will always have a lasting impact on my journey.
“Coach Lopes pushed our student-athletes to 'better their best,' and supported our wrestling program every step of the way.”
— Ryan Pingitore, Wrestling Coach/Colleague Coach Michael Lopes is a passionate, knowledgeable, and selfless coach who dedicated countless hours to the student-athletes of Bethpage High School. He consistently urged them to “better their best” and push beyond any limits they thought they had. As a wrestling coach at Bethpage High School, I had the privilege of working alongside Coach Lopes, who supported our athletes multiple times a week in the weight room throughout the season. He introduced them to training techniques that will benefit them not only in wrestling, but in other sports and life as well. Coach Lopes was extremely supportive of our wrestling program and maintained excellent communication with our coaching staff. His commitment and collaboration made him a valuable part of Bethpage wrestling, and he will be an asset to any sports, physical education, or fitness program.
“Mr. Lopes’ enthusiasm is contagious to everyone he encounters.”
— John Franchi, Athletic Director Mr. Lopes is extremely knowledgeable and dedicated to all of his students and athletes. His enthusiasm is contagious to all he encounters.
“The heart and soul of our program.”
— Doug Bange, Head Football Coach/Colleague Mike did a fantastic job as part of my varsity football coaching staff for many years. He was the heart and soul of our weight room and conditioning programs, and a valuable asset on the field as our special teams coordinator and line coach. He consistently built strong relationships with our players to get the most out of every athlete. Mike has always gone above and beyond whatever was asked of him, and would do anything to benefit our team and our school.
“An amazing, caring soul and valuable asset to any community.”
— Victor D. Santiago, Equipment Manager/Parent I have known Mike Lopes for several years as a coach, teacher, and friend, and my experiences with him have always been positive. Whether we were discussing life outside of work, sharing personal stories, or collaborating on ideas to help improve students, athletes, or staff through positive reinforcement and advocacy, Mike’s character and leadership always shone through. He is an amazing, caring soul who will be missed tremendously, as will the district of Bethpage. I consider him one of my ‘sons,’ and I have two. Mike is a considerate, respectful young man and a valuable asset to any community he is part of.
“He pushed me to believe I was capable of more than I thought.”
— Paul Imperiale, Former Player Coach Lopes is largely a reason why I am who I am today. He helped instill work ethic, grit, and good character — both on the field, in the weight room, and in life. I always think back to the times where he pushed me to believe I was capable of more than I thought. Without those experiences, I’m not sure I’d have half the work ethic and discipline I carry with me now.
“A role model who taught lessons beyond the field.”
— Jason Staunton, Former Player Extremely impactful and a great role model for a growing athlete. He isn’t only a great coach who connects and motivates his athletes, but also gives valuable life lessons that stay with you and help you in the real world long after you graduate.
“He was there for us on and off the field.”
— Jake Geller, Former Player Looking back on my life, I’ve had tons of coaches — but Coach Lopes was by far one of the most impactful. He always wanted the best for us, and it always showed. He put in the effort on and off the field and was willing to give us everything, no matter what it took. He taught me to fight for everything, no matter what the challenge was. Not only was he a coach, but also a built-in friend. You could go to this man for anything, and he’d be there to help. There is nothing but positive things about this man.
“He pushed me to reach my goals.”
— Anonymous, Student-Athlete Coach Lopes has been extremely impactful, especially regarding my strength training. He was genuinely invested in helping me reach my goals on the field — always there when I had questions or needed an extra push. Not only did he help me, but he also shaped many of my peers into the athletes they are today.
“His passion and knowledge enhanced our love of the game.”
— William Ayers, Former Player Coach Lopes’ impact on me as a man cannot be overstated. His passion and deep knowledge of football enhanced both our skill and our love of the game. He is one of the best coaches I’ve ever had!
“A selfless coach who always gave 110%.”
— Gabi Severin, Student-Athlete Coach Lopes is a selfless and thoughtful person who made time to teach kids how to lift and move properly, even when he didn’t have to. He came to matches, gave positive advice to everyone, and always gave 110%.
“You were more than a coach — you were a mentor and a role model.”
— Mike Whalen, Coach/Colleague The impact you had on these kids goes far beyond the game. You didn’t just help them grow as athletes — you helped shape them into better people. Watching that transformation, both on and off the field, was truly something special.