Wayland Dugouts Honoring Girl, 10, Near Completion

WAYLAND, MA — Wayland recently held a ceremony to recognize the donation of new dugouts at Cochituate Field, paid for by a foundation honoring the memory of a local girl who died at age 10 in 2022.

The Eliza J. Norton Foundation kicked off a fundraising campaign in 2023 for the dugout project. The foundation is focusing on sports and play — activities that Norton enjoyed.

The four new dugouts are about 65 percent complete, but the May 4 ceremony recognizing the construction was held in conjunction with Wayland Little League's annual season-opening parade.

"As we gather here, we're privileged to shine a light on Eliza and the incredible legacy she's created through the Eliza J. Norton foundation," Wayland Little League President Greg Deranian said during the event. "Just a few days ago, we celebrated her birthday, and what better way to honor her than by celebrating the beautiful and generous gift she has given our community. The dugouts are nearly complete, and you can already glean how amazing, classy, and professional they will look."

For more information about the Eliza J. Norton Foundation, visit its website here.