Introduction by Gabby Jones ’18
My name is Gabby Jones, class of β18, and it is my privilege to present Mr. Jay Grant for induction into the Hall of Fame.
Little did anyone know the impact that a late summer hire in 1978 would have on the 91΄σΙρ community and its athletic history. A young Springfield College graduate by the name of Jay Grant was hired by the school to be its first ever full time athletic trainer. As an athletic trainer, Mr. Grant proved early on to be a leader in his profession. His calm demeanor, expertise, and ability to form a relationship with each and every student were just some of the qualities that made him exceptional.
Beyond his contribution to the school as an athletic trainer, Mr. Grant also contributed significantly to the school and the athletic program in numerous other ways. He was an invaluable assistant athletic director for 22 years to Rick Francis, and then for 16 years to Mark Conroy. In his administrative role, Mr. Grant took on many responsibilities, just a few of which included overseeing all the schoolβs athletic department record keeping and athletic program sign-up of all students each season, maintaining and overseeing all athletic department purchases of equipment and uniforms, and working closely to support the work of all of the programβs coaches. Additionally, Mr. Grant coached boysβ ice hockey, leading the team to 91΄σΙρβs first and only NEPSAC hockey championship. In the latter part of his career, ever mindful of the best interests of the health and well-being of our students, Mr. Grant was instrumental in introducing Impact Concussion testing to our community, putting 91΄σΙρ at the forefront of this important return-to-play initiative. Upon his retirement, in recognition of their commitment to 91΄σΙρ, Mr. Grant and his wife, Betsy, received the schoolβs Distinguished Service Award. Without question, Jay Grantβs contributions to 91΄σΙρ athletics epitomized an βexceptional measure of devotionβ to everything he touched during his 38 years at 91΄σΙρ.
I would like to invite Mr. Grant to the stage to accept his award.
