Lin Hertberg has done so much for Newtown High School softball — from his dedication to coaching to donations to the program — representatives from the program and the school athletics department decided it was time to honor Hertberg in a big way.

After the June 5 state tournament game against Trumbull, Newtown High’s home softball venue became known as the Lindell Hertberg Softball Field.

Former longtime Newtown Head Coach Bob Guererra, who coached alongside Hertberg for more than a decade, surprised Hertberg — an assistant with the program, a role he has held for two decades — near the Newtown dugout after the game. Guerrera walked him out to the pitcher’s circle to be honored by a lineup of current and former players, player parents, and some family members.

Surprised by all of this, and clearly overwhelmed, Hertberg was very appreciative of the gesture and show of support. Newtown Athletic Director Matt Memoli presented Hertberg with a plaque and paper keepsake to commemorate the occasion.

Newtown Coach Joanna Closs played under the direction of Hertberg and noted that the dugouts, banners, outfield fences, and scoreboard are all courtesy of Hertberg.

“He is Newtown softball. Everything we have is because of him,” Closs said.

“This is something we as a department and the softball program thought was so fitting,” Memoli said.

Hertberg has coached in the program since 2000. He has helped lead the team along with only a few head coaches throughout the years, including Guerrera from 2006 to 2017.

Both Guerrera and Hertberg raised three girls and came from a baseball background, giving the coaches a nice connection right off the bat.

“It was a tremendous marriage. Two old baseball guys coaching girls — it was tremendous,” Guerrera said. “I now have a chance personally to express how much he meant to me.”

Hertberg is always encouraging and motivating players. He may work at making a positive impression on the players, but they also leave their mark with him.

“Looking at all of you girls, it brings back memories. I remember plays you made,” Hertberg said during the ceremony.

“He’s so much more than an assistant softball coach to so many people,” Memoli said.

Among the former players on hand was 2010 graduate Katie Bowen, now a coach at Springfield College.

“I think it’s so great to come back and see he hasn’t changed. He brings such a positive energy. He’s just an amazing person. He deserves this,” Bowen said.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.