Before its first home game on Friday, Sept. 12, Mainland Regional High School (MRHS) held a dedication ceremony on the football field, officially naming it “The Mustang Corral at Jack Thomas Memorial Field.”
The new name honors the late Jack Thomas, who has supported the school for over three decades. The Mainland Board of Education unanimously approved the renaming of the field at its Aug. 18 meeting.
“Our school is forever grateful to Jack Thomas and the entire Thomas Family, whose generosity has touched every corner of Mainland Regional,” Dr. Dave Jacobs, MRHS principal, said in a press release. “Naming our football field after Mr. Thomas is more than an honor, it is a testament to his continuous support for our students on and off the field.”
Thomas, who passed in 2017 at the age of 65, was well-known for his generosity, especially toward the high school’s athletics and extracurricular programs. He contributed financial support for the renovation of the school’s athletic facilities, regularly sponsored team equipment and uniforms, and established scholarships for student athletes.
In 1995, he donated $75,000 to install the lights on the field so the school could have Friday night games.
“It energized the whole Mainland community, bringing everybody together under the lights,” Jim Thomas, Jack’s youngest son, said. “He created something pretty special.”
The community gathered under the Friday night lights, joined by Thomas’ sons and grandchildren, for the unveiling of a sign bearing the field’s new name and an announcement honoring Thomas’ legacy.
“Jack Thomas has always put students first, a selfless supporter, always asking how he could help,” Billy Kern, the school’s athletic director, said in a press release. “His belief in our teams, programs, clubs, and activities, has transformed the experience for thousands of young people in the Mainland community and beyond. We are privileged to celebrate his legacy in such a meaningful way.”
Thomas, the third-generation owner of Charlie’s Bar and Restaurant in Somers Point, attended MRHS and played football as a student. His children and grandchildren have all gone to the school as well.
According to Atlantic City Weekly, the Thomas Family has owned and operated Charlie’s Bar in Somers Point since 1944, when the restaurant’s namesake, Charlie Thomas, founded it.
The business was originally located on New Jersey Avenue and moved to its current location at 800 Shore Road in 1953.
Thomas went right into running Charlie’s — then owned by his grandfather — out of high school. Once his sons were old enough, he handed over the reins to them, according to the Atlantic City Press.
“Jack touched the lives of countless young people who have walked the halls of our building and played on this very field. When our fundraisers needed support, Jack was there with a gift certificate, swing night, or simply a place to gather. When prom night needed that special touch, Jack was there to provide the grand prize that made the evening unforgettable,” the announcer said at the dedication.
Julia is a recent Rider University graduate, where she studied multiplatform journalism and social media strategies. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, trying new coffee shops, photography and the beach. She can be reached at juliatrainmedia@gmail.com or connect with her on Instagram @juliatrain
