Ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony for new Phillip Reavis, Sr. Field at SHS, Oct. 26

On October 20, 2023, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

Phil Reavis, Sr. receives a tour of the new SHS gym from SHS staff.

All are invited to celebrate the completion of Somerville High School’s new athletic field, the Philip Reavis, Sr. Field. The High School has long operated without a practice field onsite making this a momentous occasion. Join Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Somerville Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Rubén Carmona, City Council President and Ward Three Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen, and more for a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony. Events will take place on Thursday, October 26 at 12:00 p.m.

The new 45,000 square foot practice field consists of an artificial turf with a natural wood infill. It is an engineering feat built in the area of a former steep slope behind the high school and adjacent to the new Gilman Square MBTA stop. For the first time in modern history, it will offer Somerville High School students onsite field space for physical education and athletics drills and practices. As with all Somerville fields, it will also increase field space accessible to the community.

At the ribbon cutting, the field will be formally dedicated. It is named in honor of Somerville High School athlete, class of 1954, and U.S. Olympian, Phillip Reavis Sr. In addition to his many achievements on the track as a high jumper, Phillip Reavis Sr. was a dedicated member of the Somerville community and a determined advocate for youth – working as a teacher at Western Junior High School, mentoring local students, and running programming through the city’s Recreation Commission.

“It is so exciting to welcome the community to Somerville High School’s new Reavis Field. Philip Reavis Sr. dedicated his life to helping students grow and learn through both academic and athletic achievements, and I believe this groundbreaking new space honors his vision and legacy,” said Mayor Ballantyne. “I want to thank School and City staff who have worked tirelessly to create a world class home for generations of Highlander athletics.”

The event will commence at 12:00 p.m. with welcoming remarks from Mayor Ballantyne, and a short speaking program and dedication. Following remarks, the ribbon cutting will take place and attendees will have the opportunity to explore the new field and enjoy coffee, hot chocolate, and other refreshments.

The ribbon cutting will also be recorded and made available for later viewing by the city’s GovTV team. Watch on-demand with optional closed-captioning (select the CC icon) on YouTube.com/SomervilleCityTV. Or watch on cable TV at GovTV Comcast Ch. 22 and GovTV Astound (RCN) Ch. 13 and 613. Videos generally post within one to two business days of recording.