The Wellesley High School vs. Needham High School football rivalry, the oldest among public schools, didn’t end so well for the WHS Raiders this past Thanksgiving day.
Wellesley still holds a 62-60-6 all-time edge over the Rockets, but perhaps the hometown team could use a little extra magic when the game returns here later this year. What might do just the trick is shining up that curious Washington Street boulder adorned with a football and commemorating the Needham-Wellesley rivalry.
Wellesley history stalwart Tory DeFazio is spearheading an effort to restore the rock, with the cost to be split between the Needham and Wellesley Rotary clubs.
The boulder, which is located not far from the Wellesley police station along Rte. 16, was dedicated in 1982 to mark the 100th anniversary of the football rivalry. Gov. Edward King attended the event.
In the intervening years, the boulder has darkened and the wording has become harder to read.
“Hopefully in the Fall we can have a photo of the schools’ team captains around the refurbished memorial,” says DeFazio, fresh off efforts to restore Memorial Grove to honor those residents who died in World War I.
Such an event could fit nicely as part of a larger recognition of Wellesley High School celebrating what’s believed to be its 150th anniversary this year.
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