Last spring, the Wheatley School-community was devastated by the untimely death of Craig Grumet, a junior at The Wheatley School. Craig, who was a unique and extraordinary young man, was killed in a tragic automobile accident on May 7, 2004. At Wheatley, Craig embraced, with a passion, many of the wonderful educational opportunities the school offered and he assumed a leadership role in a variety of programs. From the first day of soccer practice during his freshman year, Craig's inspired play and high level of skill earned him a starting position as a defender on the varsity soccer team. He was the recipient of the Tournament Sportsmanship Award during the New York State Soccer Championships during his freshman year, and as a sophomore and junior, Craig received All-Conference honors.

A memorial fund was established to honor the memory of Craig, and thanks to the generosity of the Wheatley School community, major improvements have been made to the Wheatley soccer facility. The field has been completely reconstructed with sod, a scoreboard has been installed, and new bleachers, team benches and goals have been purchased. On Saturday, Sept. 18, a dedication ceremony, in which the facility will be named the Craig J. Grumet Memorial Field, will be held prior to the start of a varsity boys soccer game against Great Neck North. The ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. at The Wheatley School on Bacon Road in Old Westbury, and the game is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.

A committee of family and friends has been established to plan for the creation of additional memorial projects. Contributions to the memorial fund can be made for those who would like to honor Craig's memory. Checks should be made payable to The Wheatley School Craig Grumet Memorial Fund and sent to The Wheatley School, 11 Bacon Road, Old Westbury, 11568.