A Bridgeport physical education teacher got a big surprise Sunday when he showed up for basketball practice at Curiale School.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal showed up to honor Larry Menta for all the mentoring work he does with students, outside of his normal duties as a coach and teacher.

The 60-year-old has been a physical education teacher in the Bridgeport Public School system for 34 years. For the past several years he has been a basketball coach at Curiale School, for kids in grades six through eight.

Menta has led the team to three local championships, but says he puts a greater stress on the importance of academics.

He says it was the honor of his lifetime to be singled out for his efforts.