Pictured Above (left to right): Patterson Green (Long-time, Former Superintendent), Anthony M. DiPace, Jayden Kendle (Mr. DiPace’s Nephew), Abrianna Reynolds (Mr. DiPace’s Niece), Thomas Reynolds (Mr. DiPace’s Nephew), Richard Kendle (Mr. DiPace’s Nephew), & Thomas Yorke (Current Superintendent).
In a heartfelt tribute to one of its own, the Sharon Springs Central School District’s School-Community gathered on Friday, September 29th, during the district’s homecoming night, to officially dedicate the newly minted soccer complex to Mr. Anthony M. DiPace, an esteemed 1983 graduate of SSCS. The event, attended by community members, Mr. DiPace’s family members, alumni, and current students, marked a significant moment in the history of the district.
Mr. DiPace’s connection with SSCS runs deep. Before becoming the District’s Business Manager in 2001, he served on the board of education, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the district’s growth and success. During the dedication ceremony, Superintendent Tom Yorke highlighted Mr. DiPace’s remarkable contributions to the school community.
“With Mr. DiPace’s incredible vision and business sense, he has always had a passion for doing what it takes to help students succeed and to expand opportunities for students,” Superintendent Yorke remarked. “He has been the driving force and fiscal planner for countless projects, including the construction of the new gym, the auditorium, the new entrance, and the first-of-its-kind 1:1 iPad program. Paramount to these projects has been his knowledge and ability to harness various funding streams to complete these accomplishments with minimal impact on local property tax rates.”
Mr. DiPace’s dedication to education goes beyond his financial acumen. He is known for his heart of an educator and a love for sports. His contributions as a soccer coach have left an indelible mark on SSCS. Mr. DiPace played a vital role in founding the Sharon Springs AYSO youth soccer program, serving in various capacities over the years, both on and off the field.
Additionally, Mr. DiPace and his sister Kristy (Reynolds) were instrumental in founding the SSCS Futsal program, which continues to thrive under their guidance. His coaching career at SSCS spanned several decades, where he coached Boys’ Modified Soccer for several years (currently helping as an assistant). He also led Boys’ Varsity Soccer for over a decade, culminating in the 2007 Boys’ Varsity Team’s Section II Championship win. From 2014 to 2019, Mr. DiPace coached Girls’ Varsity Soccer, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to SSCS student-athletes of all backgrounds.
Superintendent Yorke concluded his remarks with an announcement that was met with an ovation. “Suffice to say, there is not a more deserving individual to be forever memorialized as ‘The Heart of It All.’ It is, therefore, my privilege and honor to announce that forevermore this field will be called the ‘Anthony M. DiPace Field.'”
The dedication ceremony served as a touching tribute to a man whose commitment to Sharon Springs Central School District and its students has left an enduring legacy. The Anthony M. DiPace Field will stand as a testament to his vision, dedication, and unwavering support for education and athletics within the community.
