Belmont honors Mary for decades of dedication to youth soccer and community sports

This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Link to Full Meeting

During the recent City Council meeting on December 17, 2024, the Decatur community came together to honor Mary, a dedicated figure in the Parks and Recreation Department, for her remarkable contributions over the years. Mary began her journey with the department as a part-time employee in June 1999 and transitioned to a full-time role in August 2000, where she served as a maintenance worker and youth sports coordinator until her retirement.

Mary's impact on youth soccer in Adams County has been profound. As the youth soccer coordinator, she devoted countless hours to ensuring that thousands of children had the opportunity to learn and enjoy the game. Her responsibilities included recruiting volunteer coaches and referees, preparing fields for games, and managing team schedules each fall season. Her commitment to creating a positive experience for young players has left a lasting legacy in the community.

In addition to her administrative work, Mary also served as the announcer for Belmont Soccer, where she took pride in accurately pronouncing player names and engaging with visiting team coaches. This role allowed her to witness the growth of young athletes, many of whom later became referees in the Parks and Recreation soccer program.

Mary's dedication extended beyond soccer; she worked in maintenance for over 20 years, often starting her day as early as 5 a.m. to ensure the fitness center was open and ready for the community. During inclement weather, she was frequently one of the first responders to clear snow and ice, demonstrating her commitment to the safety and well-being of Decatur residents.

Furthermore, Mary has been a long-standing supporter of the Decatur Wrestling Club, helping to nurture young wrestlers from a very early age, fostering their aspirations to join the high school wrestling team.

The City Council's recognition of Mary highlights the importance of community service and the significant role individuals play in shaping the lives of young athletes. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to engage in sports and community activities, reinforcing the values of dedication and service in Decatur.

Converted from 12/17/24 City Council Meeting meeting on December 20, 2024
Link to Full Meeting