GROTON, Conn. On Halloween night, the Fitch boys’ football team soared to victory as jersey #7 was retired in honor of former student and Groton Police officer, Raheem Carter.
It was a monumental night for the Carter family and the Fitch Falcons. Officer Raheem Ali Carter was a member of the Fitch family and wore #7 on the football field. He passed away in 2007, but his memory remains strong for many who played with him. With members of his family still attending Fitch, the team honored Officer Carter on Halloween with the retirement of his jersey, which was worn by his nephew, Porter Carter, during the Falcons’ game against Waterford.
Jennifer Carter, Porter’s mother and an English teacher at Fitch, was on hand to watch her son honor his late uncle, knowing what Officer Carter’s memory meant to him.
“It felt surreal to see [him wearing] his uncle’s jersey,” she said. “Porter plays like, even
stands like his uncle. It just felt fitting to see him in his uncle’s jersey.”
The night saw the Falcons earn a 26-7 victory over Waterford, but for the Carter family, it became both a memorial and a tribute, one which was accentuated by Porter Carter’s performance.
“I can’t express enough how proud I am of my son,” said Mrs. Carter. “Only family knows how hard Porter works on and off the field.”
For Porter, the night was never just about winning or just another game. It was about honor and legacy. He was offered the number during his freshman year, but turned it down.
“I’ve waited [to wear it] because I wanted it to mean more”, he said.
Wearing the jersey made everything feel bigger and more important for him during the game. “I felt like one with my uncle,” he said. “[It felt like] we were together.”
While the jersey number seven may never be seen on the field again, it has become part of Fitch lore for all generations, and a reminder to the Carter family of Officer Carter’s contributions to the team and school.
“The important thing now is there’s a #7 on the scoreboard for everyone to see forever,” said Mrs. Carter.
