MARBLEHEAD — When it comes to sports, it’s often about strength in numbers.
In Friday’s case, it was 22 grandchildren, four great grandchildren, an approximate 150 people, and countless adjectives spoken about one impactful person.
The Alexander W. Kulevich Jr. Athletic Complex was dedicated on the Piper Field turf.
The legendary Kulevich, who turns 90 in September, arrived at Marblehead High in 1970 as a history teacher and head football coach (54-52 record, five winning seasons). He then became athletic director for more than 20 years.
“I want to thank all of the teachers, athletes, and coaches for allowing me to work with you,” Kulevich said. “You made my job easy. Thank you for being who you were.”
The event was emceed by two of Kulevich’s children, Tom Kulevich and Jo-Mary Koopman, who met with Marblehead High’s assistant AD Mark Tarmey a year-and-a-half ago to discuss the dedication.
“We are so grateful for the support we received,” Koopman said. “He dedicated his career to helping Marblehead students in sports, in the classroom, and in life.”
Tom Kulevich, who played for his father from 1978-1980 as a middle linebacker and tight end, spoke about accolades, accomplishments, and big moments.
“But what stands out most about him is his character,” Tom Kulevich said.
Along with character, family was at the center of the dedication.
Grandson Jackson Kulevich – who flew from California to attend – said his grandfather is one of the biggest role models in his life.
“Since day one,” said Jackson Kulevich, who plays golf and football, “he’s always supported me and given me advice. He also made me want to follow God more because he goes to church pretty much every day.”
Adjectives poured in for the star grandfather.
“This just shows who he is and that he leaves a mark,” Georgia Kulevich said.
“While I didn’t have a chance to watch him coach, it’s the way he holds himself that I admire,” Meg Downey said.
“He’s who you should really strive to be,” J.J. Downey said.
Alex Kulevich was a three-sport star at Maynard High and Worcester Academy, as well as a starting end at Boston College. He received his Master of Education from Salem State and coached, taught, and served as AD at Bishop Fenwick.
He’s also a member of the Massachusetts High School Football Coaches Association, Bishop Fenwick, and Marblehead Gridiron halls of fame.
The baseball team won two state championships during his AD tenure. As football coach, his group took down traditional archrival Swampscott, 34-6, on Thanksgiving Day in 1977.
“I’m just happy I’ve gotten to be a part of the student-athletes’ lives,” Alex Kulevich said. “I think we have a really good athletic program and now, my wife (Barbara) and I are still a part of it. I’m looking forward to seeing Marblehead do well – that won’t change.”
The school committee voted unanimously in favor of the naming in March.
There has been a foundation created to help enhance the complex, to which friends Steve and Joan Rosenthal have already donated $100,000.
