Marie Butera ~ Empowering Women Through Sports
Marie Butera
January 31st, 1934 - July 4th, 2021
“Winning tournaments and games is wonderful but, what it’s all about, really, is seeing the kids develop through school and athletics and live a good life.”
This statement, made by Marie in an interview with her then, 11-year old great nephew, defined her mission as a dedicated teacher and coach for many years. While many would go on to further achievement in the athletic realm, she hoped that her instruction and the experience she provided impacted all she met in a meaningful way. Her passionate lessons on the fundamentals, fitness, improvement, teamwork, sportsmanship and “winning attitude” continue to resonate among those she has touched. In this way, her many beloved student-athletes, friends, and family members will ensure that the “winning” never ends.
A graduate of Sargent College at Boston University, Marie was a dedicated physical education/wellness teacher and coach in Weston for 38 years. Over her tenure, she coached many sports, but was most revered for developing the highly competitive field hockey (402 wins, 54 losses) and lacrosse programs (237 wins, 70 losses). She started the girls’ lacrosse program in 1958 (before the boys even had one), making it the first public high school lacrosse program in the state of Massachusetts. Her 84% winning percentage in field hockey, including multiple undefeated seasons, ranks her within the top 15 in wins nationally to this day. While her list of honors as a coach is extraordinary, she sought to use her "outdoor" classroom to develop and inspire her players in ways that transcended sport.
Marie was a passionate, decorated sportswoman and coach who courageously forged her own path through a time when women did not have the same opportunities they have today. She was a pioneer, a fierce competitor, and a deeply loyal friend. And in her own humble, classy way, through the people she has touched, she was an inspiration...not just to break barriers, work hard, get outside, and exercise...but to be a kind soul and live a “good life.”
On Sunday, July 4th, 2021, Marie passed away peacefully following a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. To honor her memory and life's work, The Marie Butera - Empowering Women Through Sports - Scholarship Fund will be established with the hope of providing an annual award for a deserving Weston High School (MA) student-athlete.
