Youth Sports In Belleville: New Track, Heavy Hearts For Late Resident

BELLEVILLE, NJ — Soaring spirits and heavy hearts were recently seen in Belleville on the same day as the town kicked off its spring youth sports season.

Last month, three sports-related events took place in the township. The first was a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new track at the Municipal Stadium Complex on Passaic Avenue. The new eight-lane competitive track has been in the works for years, and is part of a $5.5 million project to enhance and enlarge the athletic facilities in the township.

Nearly 150 people were present on April 18 to try out the track, which is colored blue with a distinctive gold lane stripping as a nod to the theme of Belleville High School.

“This new track will not only allow the high school track teams to host major meets, but it will serve as a valuable resource for Belleville residents who want to get out and get their exercise on a professional-grade track,” Mayor Michael Melham said.

Later that day, the town marked a beloved annual rite of spring when the Belleville Recreation Baseball and Softball programs celebrated their opening days. The young players were announced, and coaches, managers and parents who volunteer to help run the program were recognized for their help.

The day also had a sad note, however, with the absence of a familiar face in Belleville youth sports: Danny Rafferty.

A small road that divides the sports complex was named in honor of Rafferty, who passed away in January. Read More: Belleville Mourns Daniel Rafferty, Beloved Athletic Advocate

“Danny epitomized civic pride through his dedication to the young athletes of this town,” Melham said. “His legacy lives on, especially on days like this when we cut the ribbon on a track facility and launch the new baseball and softball seasons.”

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site. Don’t forget to visit the Patch Belleville-Nutley Facebook page.