For A.J. Madrid

Centennial High School honored A.J. Madrid on Saturday, March 28, retiring his No. 4 jersey and unveiling a statue near the baseball field in front of students, teammates and family. 

Madrid, whose full name was Andrew Madrid, was a Centennial baseball player killed in last year’s mass shooting at Young Park. 

Rows of chairs faced the field as attendees gathered, while others stood along the fence line. Many remained close throughout the ceremony. Some were holding flowers and others with arms folded or hands in their pockets as they waited for the program to begin. 

Head coach Rusty Evans addressed the crowd, followed by players, including Gabriel Aviles, who spoke to Madrid’s family while teammates stood behind him. 

The focus of the ceremony sat just off to the side of the field, where a metal “4” statue marked the space. Madrid’s name was etched across it, surrounded by white stone. A framed Centennial jersey, photos, and a baseball helmet were placed alongside the display. 

The number has been retired within the program, set apart in Madrid’s name. 

Players stayed grouped together during the ceremony, several wearing team gear. Some looked toward the speakers, others down on the ground. A few embraced as the program continued, while others stood quietly with their hands at their sides. 

The event moved steadily, with attention fixed on the front as each speaker stepped forward. Conversations remained low, and much of the crowd stayed still throughout. 

The memorial created a permanent place for Madrid on campus, both through the retired number and the statue positioned near the field.