The happy sounds children playing and basketballs bouncing stifled the quiet sniffles of heavy-hearted adults Saturday as a Charlottetown elementary school paid tribute to a beloved principal.
A new outdoor basketball court at West Kent Elementary was one of Tracy Ellsworth’s goals before she died of cancer last June at the age of 58. On Sunday, that dream became a reality when the court was officially dedicated in her honour.
“She always loved kids,” said Paul Ellsworth, her husband of 35 years. “Her whole life, that’s what it was, kids. So this is great.”
Ellsworth was well-known in sports circles as a decorated athlete and women’s basketball coach at the University of Prince Edward Island, and volunteered much of her time with children’s teams.
Photos of Tracy Ellsworth, who left a lasting impression with the UPEI community, were displayed at the ceremony on Saturday. (Stacey Janzer/CBC)
Before West Kent, she was the principal of St. Jean Elementary in Charlottetown.
“She said her dream in life was to be a mother, an educator and a part-time coach and that’s what she did,” Paul Ellsworth said.
Students at West Kent stood quietly on the court in Ellsworth’s honour before playing a game of basketball. (Stacey Janzer/CBC)
Their daughter, Jenna Mae, also went on to become a standout basketball player at UPEI. Their two sons, Alex and Jordan, performed a ceremonial tip off at the West Kent court on Sunday.
It was part of a celebration that included confetti, music, choreography, words of praise and, of course, a pickup basketball game.
Friends and former teammates pose for a photo beside benches constructed in Ellsworth’s memory. (Stacey Janzer/CBC)
People signed benches in her honour that will be placed at UPEI.
Emily Waye, the current principal of West Kent, said her predecessor was strong, loving and a friend to all.
“We miss Tracy deeply but we’re trying to carry her legacy on.”
The benches, which will be displayed at UPEI, were signed by many in attendance. (Stacey Janzer/CBC)
The community and sponsors raised money for the basketball court. Waye said Tracy Ellsworth knew before she died that it would be built and named in her honour.
Alex Ellsworth said his mother would be proud.
“That’s all she wanted, was something for the community to play basketball and for a place for kids to come together, and that’s what it is, so enjoy it.”