If everything goes according to plan, the completion of Zach Perry Field is projected for the end of the 2023. This field holds significance far beyond being a mere soccer pitch for the Cristo Rey Community; it will also serve as a tribute to the late Zach Perry and as a hub for community collaboration.
‘Zach Perry Field’ was chosen as a heartfelt memorial to Zach Perry, the cherished nephew and godson of Chris and Kathy Perry, and the son of Marty and Barbara Perry. Over an extended period, Chris has lent unwavering support to CRSM, even serving on the board of the original Cristo Rey School. An instrumental figure in the establishment of the new CRSM school, Chris Perry’s contributions as a leading benefactor have been substantial. His affection for the Cristo Rey Community is profound, paralleled by his deep fondness for his nephew, Zach.
Regrettably, Zach Perry passed away in 2020 after his long battle with Leukemia. An enthusiastic soccer fan, Zach’s passion led him to traverse the globe to watch soccer matches, even waking up at all hours of the night to catch European games on American television. Wishing to honor Zach’s memory and remember his passion for futbol, Chris & Kathy Perry and their family generously donated the funding needed to construct the soccer field, knowing that CRSM always dreamed of having a home field.
The field itself is intended to honor Zach’s love of soccer with a state-of-the-art playing surface and charming surrounding features. Boasting professional-grade artificial turf, a patio area for future events, and bleachers with a capacity for 200 spectators, the field promises to dazzle. The pad, turf, and fill in particular, are a highlight as they are identical to the products utilized in the Chicago Fire Major League Soccer Stadium.
The environment surrounding the field will come from the collective endeavors of the adjacent Chicago-land and Waukegan community, alongside CRSM. The Morton Arboretum has pledged to contribute trees to plant in the green space near the field. When not under CRSM Athletics’ purview, the field will be available for lease by community non-profit organizations like “Heart of the City” for soccer camps and play. CRSM hopes to host external soccer tournaments as well as exhibition games.
The Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep community extends its profound gratitude to the Perry family for their invaluable backing and magnanimity, which allowed CRSM to begin construction of the field several years ahead of schedule. A celebration of Zach’s life with his family and friends is anticipated during halftime of CRSM’s first exhibition match on the field, pitting our boys and girls varsity teams against CRSM alumni.