Coach John Meyer and former Activities Director Shane Matzen wanted to find a subtle way to remember their good friend and colleague Carl Hudson, who passed away in December of last year.

They did just that when they reached out to Fischer Sports to make a custom decal as a tribute to Hudson who was an assistant princpal at MHS.

The inspiration for these stickers stemmed from Hudson’s love for sports and the St. Louis Cardinals and for former Cardinals player Bob Gibson who wore number 45.

The stickers, which feature the number 45, were distributed earlier this spring during the baseball season, and the softball players decided to continue to wear Hudson’s decal of tribute.

“A lot of kids felt compelled to wear these stickers on the field, and it’s just a nice gesture to honor him,” Meyer said. “I think it’s a really positive thing.”

Meyer said Hudson was a great asset to MHS.

“Everytime I see that sticker, I’m reminded of his character and you just never want to forget that,” Meyer said.

One of Meyer’s softball players, Lauren Bickel, senior, started applying the heartfelt sticker on her helmet as a tribute to Hudson. Bickel said the stickers provide a much greater reason for sports and her play.

“It’s a really good message to keep in mind why we play, rather than just focusing on the game and competition,” Bickel said.

Hudson’s impact on the community left a lasting impression on Bickel.

“He was a really good role model because of his personality and the way he loved and helped the community,” Bickel said. “I think he was a really big influence on everyone, just as someone who you want to strive to be like.”

For Rhonda Costa, secretary, Hudson was able to improve the mood and overall vibe of MHS. His charisma and love for the community made her days feel amazing and joyful, even through hard times.

“He made coming into work feel wonderful,” Costa said. “It’s very nice seeing the community remembering him, especially now that we’re around the time of his passing.”