Parry McCluer High School has announced that on May 3, its baseball field will be officially named Charlie Manuel Field in honor of former Major League Baseball manager and Buena Vista native Charlie Manuel.
The naming ceremony will take place at the school’s baseball field at 1 p.m., with local dignitaries, community members, and former players in attendance.
Buena Vista Schools Superintendent Tony Francis confirmed at last week’s School Board meeting that Manuel plans to attend the ceremony.
The manager of the Philadelphia Phillies from 2005 to 2013, Manuel led the team to victory in the 2008 World Series, bringing the city of Philadelphia its first championship in 28 years.
The naming of the field represents a tribute to Manuel’s legacy and commitment to excellence, as well as his ties to the region, according to the press release from PMHS. He began his baseball career in the state and has always maintained a deep connection to his roots.
“This is a tremendous honor for Charlie Manuel and for our school community,” said Principal Todd Jones. “His accomplishments on the baseball field are well known, but his influence on the lives of so many young people, including those here at Parry McCluer, is something we will always cherish.”
“We are incredibly grateful for Charlie’s support and are thrilled to honor him in this way,” said Mike Cartolaro, Parry McCluer’s athletic director. “Charlie’s legacy is one of hard work, dedication, and passion. We are proud to have his name forever associated with our field.”
The public is invited to attend the ceremony.
