Good morning, and Happy Holidays. My name is Hatim Jean-Louis, also known as Coach H, and I’m here on behalf of Boston Public Schools Cross Country to highlight the transformative impact of investing in modernized track and field facilities.
First and foremost, improving safety and access is at the heart of this initiative. Upgraded facilities are more than just an aesthetic improvement—they directly prevent injuries and allow student-athletes to train and compete at a higher level. These enhancements ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to safely pursue excellence in athletics.
But the impact goes beyond the physical improvements. The renovated stadium fosters community connection, creating a sense of belonging and pride among student-athletes and their families. White Stadium and the Playstead area have become a home for me over the past decade, and I’ve seen firsthand how these spaces bring people together. They’re not just fields or tracks—they’re arenas where dreams are built, resilience is forged, and memories are created.
I want to take a moment to thank Mayor Michelle Wu and her incredible staff for their dedication to making these projects a reality. Their vision and commitment to the youth of Boston are truly inspiring. I also want to express my gratitude to the individuals who will be maintaining this facility and ensuring its daily operations run smoothly. Your hard work behind the scenes is what allows these spaces to thrive, and I look forward to building a positive and collaborative relationship with you. Together, we can ensure that White Stadium remains a vibrant and welcoming hub for generations to come.
This past fall, the BPS Cross Country program—made up of students from Charlestown, Boston Latin Academy, Dearborn, Snowden, John D. O’Bryant, and Boston Arts Academy—made history. Under the leadership of BPS alumni Coach Nasir Rivera and Coach Michael Ward, the team began the season unranked and achieved remarkable success: the girls’ team finished 3rd, and the boys’ team finished 6th at the state meet. These achievements are proof of what’s possible when we invest in our students and their environments.
To the student-athletes and their families, let’s continue building on this momentum. My motto has always been: Dreams Are Tangible Goals. Together, we can ensure that these dreams become a reality. Thank you.
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