DANIEL ISLAND The 1999 season opener for the Bishop England High School baseball team was a memorable one last Friday night. The Father Robert J. Kelly Field was dedicated under the lights before a game against Andrews.
The event featured Msgr. Kelly’s sister, Betty Keane, throwing out the ceremonial first pitch. Other special guests on hand in addition to members of Msgr. Kelly’s family were BE principal, David Held; former principal, Nick Theos; assistant principal, Bill Runey; and former football coach Jack Cantey. Msgr. Kelly, recovering from surgery, was not able to attend the festivities.
Following a prayer, dedication, and blessing of the field by Msgr. Lawrence McInerny, school rector, a scoreboard sign stating “Father Kelly Field” was unveiled.
Msgr. Kelly served the Bishop England school community from 1959-1990. He started at Bishop England High School as a teacher, assuming the rector’s role in 1964. He held this position for over 26 years, serving as only the fourth rector in the school’s history.
His personal interest in baseball goes back to his youth. His high school accomplishments and minor league play as a pitcher earned him a chance to play major league baseball. Drafted by the Red Sox organization, Msgr. Kelly opted for the priesthood.