Braves' Ozzie Albies Surprises Elementary Class with Fish Tank Gift

The Atlanta second baseman brought his passion for fish to a classroom in Marietta, Georgia.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Atlanta Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies visited an elementary school class in Marietta, Georgia, after the students wrote to him asking for a fish recommendation. Instead of just providing a suggestion, Albies went above and beyond, setting up a full SpongeBob-themed fish tank with the students and gifting them a goldfish named Sandy to care for.

Why it matters

Albies' gesture not only delighted the students but also allowed him to share his lifelong passion for fish with the next generation. By taking the time to personally engage with the class, Albies created a memorable experience that could inspire some of the students to develop their own interests in marine life.

The details

Albies, who has a 10,000-gallon fish tank at his own home, walked the students through the process of setting up the new aquarium, which included decorations like pineapples, a Spongebob figurine, and cartoonish coral. The class now has a new pet goldfish named Sandy to care for, continuing the SpongeBob theme.

  • Albies visited the Lockheed Elementary class in Marietta, Georgia, in February 2026.

The players

Ozzie Albies

An All-Star second baseman for the Atlanta Braves who is passionate about fish and aquariums.

Andreia Albies

Ozzie Albies' wife, who shared the story of his visit to the elementary school class on Instagram.

Lockheed Elementary

An elementary school in Marietta, Georgia, where Ozzie Albies surprised a class with a new fish tank and pet.

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What they’re saying

“Sometimes, you have the chance to create long-lasting, happy memories for the next generation.”

— Ozzie Albies

What’s next

The students at Lockheed Elementary will continue to care for their new pet goldfish, Sandy, and maintain the SpongeBob-themed fish tank that Ozzie Albies helped set up.

The takeaway

Ozzie Albies' visit to the elementary school class demonstrates the positive impact professional athletes can have by engaging directly with young fans and sharing their personal passions. This experience is likely to inspire some of the students to develop their own interests in marine life and aquariums.