Introduction by Gabby Jones ’18

My name is Gabby Jones, class of ‘18, 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 Williston 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 school’s 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 program’s coaches. Additionally, Mr. Grant coached boys’ ice hockey, leading the team to Williston’s 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 Williston at the forefront of this important return-to-play initiative. Upon his retirement, in recognition of their commitment to Williston, Mr. Grant and his wife, Betsy, received the school’s Distinguished Service Award. Without question, Jay Grant’s contributions to Williston athletics epitomized an “exceptional measure of devotion” to everything he touched during his 38 years at Williston.

I would like to invite Mr. Grant to the stage to accept his award.