Welcome to Roth Field

A baseball diamond at  officially became Roth Field Thursday in honor of retiring Ward 3 Councilman Mark Roth.

"I am so thankful and humbled," Roth said in an emotional speech. "The perpetual nature of this is overwhelming."

Roth, 57, is not seeking re-election after six terms as Ward 3 representative. He also plans to retire from his career as an electrician in May so he and his wife, Lisa, can travel and spend time with their four children and five grandchildren.

"I don't know if you're going to enjoy retirement, but give it a shot and see what happens," Mayor Tom Perciak jokingly told Roth at the field dedication ceremony Thursday afternoon.

Council President Mike Daymut presented Roth with a proclamation from Strongsville City Council and another from the Cuyahoga County Council for his 24 years of service to the city and 12 years of volunteering as a youth baseball and softball coach.

"I tried to teach the kids about life and discipline and practice -- and accepting defeat and enjoying victory," Roth said. "I hope every child that goes on that field gives 100 percent and has fun."

Perciak said he and Roth often disagreed on political issues, but said he always respected Roth for leading his life with God at the center.

"Even though we had our moments," Perciak said, "I knew at the end of the day, we were on the same page there."