By Nicholas Brown
Staff Writer

Hooksett Banner/Nicholas Brown Eddows’ children Zachary, 10, and Lindsey, 8, helped unveil a sign marking the change from the Sandy Acres Recreation Area to the Wayne R. Eddows Memorial Fields.

Wayne Eddows coached football, basketball, baseball and led Scouts. The Auburn man was known as a passionate and inspirational leader who preached fairness, safety and hard work on the field.

But, as evidenced by the outpouring of emotions on Auburn Little League’s opening day, Eddows will be remembered most as a friend and family member.

Eddows died of cancer last year at age 46.

On Saturday, April 23, more than 200 people turned out to welcome the new season and pay tribute to Eddows, for whom the Sandy Acres Recreation Area has been renamed.

“Wayne touched not only everybody here, but people who are going to come here for years to come,” said friend Chris Trickett.

Auburn voters passed a warrant article at this year’s Town Meeting approving the name change. At the recent dedication, a large sign bearing the new name – “Wayne R. Eddows Memorial Fields” – was unveiled by Eddows’ children, 10-year-old Zachary and 8-year-old Lindsey.

Eddows’ widow, Nancy, described her husband’s love for coaching.

“When he set out to do something, he put his heart and his soul into it,” said Nancy, as read by her sister, Mary. “He ate, slept and drank this field.”

Current Auburn Little League President, and Eddows’ friend, Yves Pariseau, remembered Eddows as a spirited leader.

“Everything he did was for the children of Auburn,” said Pariseau. “He was all about the children and keeping them safe.”

National television personality “The Mad Fisherman” Charlie Moore said he knew he had a rival in enthusiasm when he first met Eddows on the football field.

“I got along with Wayne because we were both crazy and nuts,” said Moore, who flew in from Texas for the dedication. “Wayne, we love you,” he said.

After the tearful dedication, Nancy said, “This is quite an honor. (Wayne) would have been proud.”