~ South Boston Mourns the Loss of Beloved Community Leader and Youth Soccer Pioneer, Billy Baker

The South Boston community is grieving the loss of a beloved native and dedicated community leader, Billy Baker. Born and raised in South Boston, Baker was a well-known figure in the neighborhood for his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for bringing soccer to the youth.

In 1984, Baker saw a need for organized sports in the community and took action. He gathered a group of parents and worked with the Parks and Recreation Department to establish a youth soccer league for South Boston. The following year, in 1985, the South Boston Youth Soccer League was born with a mission to provide an inclusive, safe, affordable, and fun environment for young soccer players.

For 35 years, Baker served as the President of the South Boston Youth Soccer League until his passing in 2020. During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to make sure that every child had access to the league regardless of their financial situation. He solicited funds from local businesses, merchants, and government officials to purchase jerseys, trophies, and year-end gifts. He also made sure that every player had a pair of shin guards and that no child was turned away due to late registration or inability to pay the $35 league fee.

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Under Baker's leadership, the South Boston Youth Soccer League flourished with nearly 1,300 players registered per season ranging from ages 3-18 years old. Each season kicked off with an Opening Day Parade of Athletes around Saunder Stadium's track and field led by an Honor Guard. This event became a beloved tradition in which players proudly marched alongside their teammates carrying signs representing their team mascots. Over the years, many dignitaries such as mayors, senators, elected officials, and professional athletes attended these events. However, Baker always kept his focus on the players of the South Boston Youth Soccer League.

Even after his own children had grown up, Baker remained a constant presence in the league, devoting his time and efforts to ensure that every child in the neighborhood had the opportunity to participate. His unwavering dedication to bringing soccer to the youth of South Boston and their families has been instrumental in the league's success today.

In recognition of his contributions, the Council has adopted a resolution supporting the renaming of the soccer field within Saunders Stadium to the Billy Baker Soccer Field. This serves as a lasting tribute to Baker's legacy and his impact on the South Boston community.

As South Boston mourns the loss of this remarkable leader, his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and inspired through his passion for youth soccer. Billy Baker will forever be remembered as a true pioneer and champion for the children of South Boston.

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