The Hanlon family joined the festivities Oct. 24, taking their place on the 50-yard line to begin the rededication ceremony for Hanlon Field. (Photo Courtesy Medway Public Schools)
(Contributed by: Medway High School) — On Friday, Oct. 24, Hanlon Field was reopened after a complete renovation and rededicated to its namesake, Joseph P. Hanlon — a Medway High graduate, teacher, coach, assistant principal and community member.
Many town committee members, alumni and members of the Medway community of all ages witnessed the ceremony. The Hanlon family was present and participated. They also joined the captains at midfield to serve as honorary captains for the coin toss.
“At this time, we turn to the heart of tonight’s program — a very special moment,” Medway High School Principal Dr. John Murray told the crowd. “I invite the Hanlon family to join me at the ‘M’ on the 50-yard line as we begin the rededication ceremony for Hanlon Field.”
Sadly, the guest of honor was missing from the celebration. Joe Hanlon passed away over the summer.
“Tonight, we gather not only to open a new track and field, but also to rededicate this space in memory of Joseph Hanlon,” Principal Murray said. “Joe was a proud member of the Medway High School Class of 1955. He came back here and dedicated his career to this community. For 41 years, he served as a teacher, football coach and Assistant Principal before retiring in 2002.”
“Even after retirement, Joe never left. He was a steady and familiar presence at Medway High — at Friday night football games, Scholarship and Awards Night, and so many other events,” Principal Murray continued. “He was a supportive colleague, a mentor, and someone who believed deeply in the potential of every student.”
The Medway High School girls soccer team had played the first game in the newly renovated stadium the day before, on Oct. 23.
“Joe’s life reminds us that schools are at the heart of a community,” Principal Murray told the crowd. “His commitment, presence, and example connected generations of Medway students and families, and his work helped shape the culture of belonging that defines our town. This field is not only a place for competition, but a gathering space for the entire community — a reflection of Joe’s own belief in the power of athletics, teamwork, and connection.”
A true team effort rallied to complete the field restoration work in time for gameplay this season. The field was first dedicated in Hanlon’s honor years ago. And just last year, he was inducted into the Medway High School Hall of Excellence by the Alumni Association.
“Joe’s legacy is woven into the fabric of this school,” Principal Murray said.
Hanlon’s surviving family members attended the rededication: his wife Phyllis, his son Brendan, and his daughter Tara, along with her husband Kevin.
“Before we begin tonight’s dedication, I want to take a moment to recognize and thank the many town leaders and committees whose collective work made the Hanlon Track and Field replacement project possible,” Principal Murray said to begin his remarks. “This project was born of true need, and the Town of Medway responded with energy and vision.”
Members of the youth football and cheer programs — including Hanlon’s grandson Patrick, a Medway Youth Football player — stormed the field. They created a gauntlet along with the varsity cheerleaders, for the varsity football team to run through as they entered the stadium.
“Together, you organized a strong public information campaign, engaged the community at Town Meeting, and earned broad support for this investment in our schools and students,” said Principal Murray. “From planning to execution, the town carried out this work with great care and professionalism. The result is a facility that will serve generations of Medway athletes, students, and families.”
The MHS band performed throughout the evening. In addition to the rededication ceremony and youth football and cheer night, 18 seniors from Medway’s football and cheer teams were celebrated, as they made their way to midfield with their families for a photo opp.
Ultimately, the Mustangs shut out Dover-Sherborn 15-0.
“What a way to reopen the stadium!” said Superintendent Armand Pires. “Joe Hanlon was an ever-present part of the Medway Schools and broader community. I am pleased that we were able to take this moment and re-dedicate the track and field complex in his name, with his family present.”
On Friday, Oct. 24, Hanlon Field was reopened after a complete renovation and rededicated to its namesake, Joseph P. Hanlon — a Medway High graduate, teacher, coach, Assistant Principal and community member. The Hanlon family attended the celebration. (Photo Courtesy Medway Public Schools)
Many town committee members, alumni and members of the Medway community of all ages attended the ceremony. (Photo Courtesy Medway Public Schools)
