Longtime Westport community volunteer PJ Romano, who was associated with the Westport Police Athletic League (PAL)
for almost 50 years, was honored with the dedication of the football field behind Saugatuck Elementary School.

The football field was named in honor of Peter "PJ" Romano. Romano, who passed away in 2003 at the age of 71.
PJ spent lot's of his time there as a high school athlete and as an adult seeing to it the youth of Westport enjoyed their athletic experience through Westport P.A.L.
 

Romano, who was PAL Executive Director for more than 30 years. had a group of dedicated volunteers whose efforts continue today
in such events as the 4th of July Fireworks, the WPAL Christmas Party, the Special Olympics each April and
the WPAL Ice Rink at Longshore.

Among those who participated in the ceremony were Westport First Selectman Diane Farrell, who initiated the idea of
dedicating the field, along with Police Chief Al Fiore and Parks and Recreation Department Director Stuart McCarthy.
Friends,  PAL players of past, present and volunteers were on hand to honor the achievements and dedication of  PJ Romano.

Romano, an employee of the Home Oil  Co. for 40 years before retiring in 1995, directed the PAL fireworks annual fundraiser for 35 years, initiated and coordinated the building of Ice Rink at Longshore, oversaw the annual PAL Halloween Parade and Christmas Party community events.
 

In 1998 PJ Romano was among the YMCA’s Faces of Achievement honorees. 
PJ was a longtime member and past president of the Westport Sons of Italy. 
Romano was also honored as Westport’s Volunteer of the Year and, received a Citizenship award from the Sportsmen of Westport.