News Summary

Elmira High School rededicated its softball stadium to honor Bee Stephens, a beloved physical education teacher and advocate for women’s sports. The ceremony was filled with nostalgia and community spirit, taking place before a varsity game. Stephens dedicated over three decades to teaching and coaching, significantly impacting female athletes. The event also featured emotional tributes from family and former students, highlighting her legacy in sports. With this rededication, Elmira ensures that her spirit continues to inspire future generations of athletes.

Elmira Remembers a Legend with Bee Stephens Softball Field Rededication

In a heartwarming ceremony brimming with nostalgia and gratitude, Elmira High School officially rededicated its softball stadium, now bearing the name Bee Stephens Softball Field, in honor of the beloved physical education teacher and sports advocate. The celebration took place right before the much-anticipated varsity game against Owego Free Academy, making for an emotional evening filled with community spirit.

A Legacy of Dedication and Achievement

Across Elmira, many are familiar with the story of Beatrice “Bee” Stephens—a true trailblazer in women’s sports who dedicated over three decades to teaching physical education at Southside High School. Her commitment to coaching basketball and softball helped to pave the way for future generations of female athletes. With her tireless efforts, she became an influential figure in promoting equality in girls’ sports, famously advocating for Title IX.

The old field at Southside High School was previously named in her honor in 1994, a testament to her impact long before her recent recognition. Following the merger of Southside and Elmira Free Academy into a united Elmira High School in 2014, the newly rebuilt field now celebrates her legacy once again as thousands of athletes continue to play and compete where she once nurtured talent.

A Family’s Emotional Tribute

Participating in the rededication were school officials, players from the Elmira Express softball team, and family members. Among them was Mike Stephens, Bee’s son, who spoke about the significance of the moment for their family. He shared insights about his mother’s philosophy, emphasizing her consistent drive to enrich the lives of others around her.

Bee passed away in 2021 at the age of 98, but her spirit was vividly present during the ceremony. Although it was a bittersweet occasion, the crowd celebrated not just her life, but the deep connections she had nurtured with students and the community alike. Former students frequently express their gratitude, recounting how Bee’s influence remains a cornerstone of their athletic experiences.

Honoring True Sportsmanship

Stephens’ legacy doesn’t stop at teaching and coaching—she made significant strides in athletics, earning numerous medals at the New York Senior Games and serving on the New York State Public High School Athletic Association executive committee. Those who knew her attest to her competitive spirit, recalling her love for sports and sportsmanship.

Mike fondly reminisced about the time he played golf with her when she was 97 years old, during which she remarkably made par on the second hole. This episode wonderfully encapsulates her unyielding spirit and passion for sports—a lesson in competitiveness and joy that she passed onto her children and pupils.

A Bright Future for Elmira Softball

The rededication ceremony culminated in an exciting game where the Elmira Express softball team achieved a solid 12-6 victory against Owego. The players showcased their skills, with standout performances including home runs from Madelynn Cavalier and Addison Taft. As the crowd cheered for the team on this special day, it could not have felt more fitting, as they played on a field that echoed the spirit of their beloved coach and mentor.

To commemorate this memorable event, a permanent sign will be placed under the scoreboard in right field, officially recognizing the venue as Bee Stephens Softball Field. The community looks forward to future matches at a field that embodies the spirit of dedication, mentorship, and advocacy that Bee Stephens exemplified throughout her life. Elmira is not just honoring her legacy, but also ensuring it continues to inspire all the young athletes who walk the base paths today and in the years to come.

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