The city council of Boston has recently passed a resolution in support of renaming a local soccer field in honor of the late Billy Baker, a prominent figure in bringing soccer to the youth of South Boston. The field within Saunders Stadium is now to be known as the Billy Baker Soccer Field, celebrating Billy's 35-year commitment to cultivating the sport among children and teenagers in the community.

According to a press release from the City of Boston, Baker was instrumental in establishing the South Boston Youth Soccer League in 1985. Despite his own children had grown, Baker remained active in the league, working to keep it accessible and affordable for all families. This sometimes meant waiving the $35 registration fee for those who couldn't afford it or who registered late.

Under Baker's leadership, the soccer league achieved significant success, at one point featuring nearly 1,300 players aged 3 to 18 in a single season. Each season kicked off with an Opening Day Parade of Athletes, a tradition that brought the community together to celebrate the start of play. While the parades often drew city dignitaries, Baker always prioritized the youth participants of the South Boston Youth Soccer League.

Community members have shown their gratitude and support for the renaming. The official announcement by the City of Boston notes that, "the success of the league today is a testament to Billy’s unwavering dedication to bringing soccer to the youth of South Boston and their families."