Catholic Memorial to dedicate stadium in honor of first football coach

(Courtesy: Catholic Memorial)

The school's athletic facilities and stadium were rebuilt in one decade ago and resurfaced with new field turf this summer.

By Matt Rocheleau, Town Correspondent

Catholic Memorial School will dedicate is athletic stadium in honor of the Knights' first varsity football coach, James "Jim" R. O'Connor, during a ceremony scheduled for Thanksgiving Day when the school's pigskin squad meets rival Boston College High School for the 50th time.

O'Connor became the West Roxbury all-boys school's varsity football coach in 1961, four years after the school was founded. He led CM to its first state football championship in his second of 19 seasons during which he captured two more state titles, the school said. O'Connor, who served as the school's athletic director for 20 years through 1992, told his teams to play with "poise and class,” an approach the school says continues to guide its athletes.

"His service extended beyond the field, to the classroom and office as a teacher and athletic director, too," the school says on its website. "When Jim learned that he would be honored in this way this fall, he said, 'I’m shocked and humbled.' It’s just what you would expect from Coach."

The school's athletic facilities and stadium were rebuilt in one decade ago and resurfaced with new field turf this summer.

Kickoff of the 50th "Turkey Bowl" is scheduled for 10:15 a.m. on Nov. 24. Tickets are available for advance purchase from the school’s athletics office or by calling 617-469-8061. Tickets are $5 in advance or $8 at the gate.

Alumni are also invited to attend a complimentary pre-game reception with Coach O’Connor and his family, which will start at 8:30 a.m. in the school’s seminar room adjacent to the Perry Gym. Alumni and their families are encouraged to register in advance for the reception by visiting CatholicMemorial.org or by contacting Dave Erwin at 617-469-8052.

E-mail Matt Rocheleau at mjrochele@gmail.com.