Bleeding Blue

The City of Attleboro was beaming with pride Friday night - Blue Pride.

After nearly a years-worth of preparation and a summers-worth of construction, community members joined city, state and school officials to officially open the new $4.15 million Tozier-Cassidy field prior to the Blue Bombardier's first home game against Dartmouth.

"I defy anybody to show me a more precious gem than this revised version of Tozier-Cassidy Field," Attleboro High Principal Bill Runey told the packed bleachers 45-minutes before kickoff.

Runey said the construction project was a "lesson of teamwork," commending city hall, the school committee, the school building commission, Attleboro Athletic Director Mark Houle and contractors. He also thanked donors who raised $600,000 for the stadium's concession stand.

The biggest donors included LG Balfour of Attleboro and the New England Patriots. Balfour donated $300,000 and the Patriots donated $200,000.

The city dedicated $3.55 million to the project.

Attleboro Mayor Kevin Dumas was presented with citations from State Senator Richard Ross, State Rep. Paul Heroux and State Rep. Betty Poirier.

An Attleboro High graduate of 1994, Dumas said he was at the site every day during construction.

"Attleboro - This is your facility," he said. "Treat her with the respect that she deserves. Take good care of her. This is our great symbol of Blue Pride."

Jim Cassidy Jr. spoke on behalf of his father, Jim Cassidy Sr., for whom the field was originally named after in 1975 (along with Howard Tozier.)

After the Blue Bombardiers defeated Dartmouth 41-12, quarterback and captain Tim Walsh presented Cassidy with the game ball.

"We are honored and proud to accept this tonight and to tell you we thank you from the bottom of our hearts," Cassidy said.