Upgraded New Bedford Baseball Field to Honor Late Teen

Scott DaSilva lost his son, Arsene “AJ” DaSilva, on June 12, 2016. The Dartmouth teen was only 16 years old when he lost his battle with cancer, but he was wise beyond his years. He loved his family, friends, and teammates. Scott has been working tirelessly to honor his late son and allow his legacy to live on in the community.

One of Scott’s greatest dreams will be realized. On Monday, July 15, the New Bedford School Committee took a vote and decided to approve the upgrade for a new modernized baseball field at Carlos Pacheco Elementary School, formerly Mt. Pleasant School. This is where Scott taught AJ how to play baseball and developed his love for the game.

“This is one of the visions that I had wanted to have come true since the last few weeks of AJ's fight and battle with cancer. I had discussed certain things with my baby boy. I told him that I would not stop working for him by helping other children and their families. That I would not let him be forgotten. He was just a giving soul. He just wanted to help those who needed it," DaSilva said.

No details have been given on the renovations at this time.

“My hopes and dreams, and of course AJ’s, is that this new field will give children and their families a place to bond and make everlasting memories. This field has not been touched in 40 years since it was created," he said. "But I will now take it upon myself to take care of it until my last breath. As I promised my son that I would keep doing all that I do in his name and memory. So please help to take care of this field as well as supporting TEAM AJ.”

Scott would also like to invite the community to a benefit to fund scholarships in memory of AJ DaSilva. The fundraiser will take place at The Last Round and Grille located at 908 Purchase Street in New Bedford on Saturday, July 27 from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Come for an evening with pizza, wings, appetizers, music, and dancing. Tickets are $20 per person.

Team AJ has a lot to be proud of today.