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Aurimas Petrikas

When Aurimas Petrikas reflects on his time at Christian Central Academy, he sees it as a pivotal moment in his life—an experience filled with new challenges, opportunities, and lasting memories. Originally from Lithuania, Aurimas spent 11 years in school there before transferring to CCA for his senior year. Moving to Buffalo, New York, for his final year of high school was a significant transition, but one that helped shape his future.

"I played for CCA’s basketball team as a legionnaire, and with the greatest pleasure, I contributed to the victories of Coach Tom Staebel’s team," he recalls. As a standout athlete, Aurimas embraced the challenge of competing in a new country and culture. While adjusting to life at CCA, he found support and hospitality in two host families—first with the Cesar family and later with the Murphy family.

After graduating in 2000, Aurimas continued his academic and athletic journey at Roberts Wesleyan University on a full scholarship. There, he played varsity basketball and ran track and field, setting a 4x400m relay record that still stands 25 years later. He also became a memorable competitor in the university’s Slam Dunk Contest, leaving a lasting impression on fans and fellow athletes alike.

"In 2002, I suffered a severe back injury followed by spinal surgery," he shares. Despite this major setback, Aurimas remained determined, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management with a minor in Banking. At graduation, he was honored with the prestigious "Hope and Courage" award for his perseverance.

Following college, Aurimas returned to Lithuania and established a career in the commercial banking sector. Today, he serves as the Regional Manager for Western Lithuania at a real estate company, leading a team of 26 people. His leadership role reflects the discipline, resilience, and teamwork cultivated over the years—from his early education in Lithuania to his experience as an international student at CCA and his collegiate athletic career. Though his time at CCA was brief, it left a lasting impression, shaping his outlook on leadership, perseverance, and faith as he navigated his career and personal life.

Even though Aurimas was only at CCA for one year, the impact on him was profound. His classmates recognized how special he was, leaving him a heartfelt message in their senior yearbook:
"It has been our greatest pleasure getting to know you this year. You are a wonderful addition to our class, and we are so proud of all you've accomplished. Stay close to the Lord; keep Him as your Guiding Light. He will never leave your side. You will always be in our prayers. May God bless you richly in all you do."

Aurimas vividly remembers his days at CCA—especially the unique challenges of training as a basketball player. "As a professional athlete, I was invited to represent the Academy, which trained backstage in the auditorium. I was very surprised that the flooring was carpeted and the basketball court had no standards, no lines, just 2 hoops on the walls. At the beginning it all seemed very frivolous, but as the years went by, I saw that CCA had built its own gym, but unfortunately I was no longer able to test the rims with my slam dunks, because I was in University."

Beyond athletics, one of his most cherished memories is meeting and shaking hands with former U.S. President George H.W. Bush with his classmate Erin Murphy. "It was an exceptional moment that I still remember to this day," he says, proudly sharing a photo from the historic meeting.

Aurimas also reflects on the impact of the CCA teachers who shaped his academic and personal growth. "Mrs. Christine Hill, my English teacher, left an incredible impact on me. I looked forward to her classes the most. I was always coming prepared and ready to learn something new and interesting. Her lessons were full of enthusiasm, good humor and the most wonderful positive emotions. The biggest THANK YOU to you Mrs. Hill."
Another teacher who made a lasting impression was Mrs. Deborah Lyszewski. "She helped me to adapt to the American culture, introduced me to CCA's life and contributed a lot to my participation in educational activities. Her sarcastic jokes, sweet sense of humor and support in every area of education were just what I needed in Grade 12. THANK YOU Mrs. Lyszewski. I still remember and I am sincerely grateful to these teachers for an impact they had to my life."

Aurimas also holds a special appreciation for Coach Tom Staebel, who guided and encouraged him throughout his time at CCA. "I know what you have tried to do, I always appreciated your personal help, your motivation, your encouragements and you always did your best to keep me at my highest high. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and I really hope you will read this."

Now, 25 years later, Aurimas shares a heartfelt message with today’s students: "I can confidently say—do not just listen to what your teachers are saying, but try to truly hear them. The lessons I learned at CCA are the same ones I now teach my own children. Everything I was taught in those classrooms was true, and it continues to shape my life today."

Aurimas, you will always be a part of the CCA family! Your story is a testament to the impact of Christian education, the bonds of friendship, and the power of perseverance and faith.

Christian Central Academy