One Heart, One Mind: Community Celebrates New Names at W.J. Mouat Fields
On September 26th, students, families, and community members gathered at W.J. Mouat Secondary to celebrate something truly special — the renaming of three sports fields that carry with them the stories of Abbotsford’s past, present, and future.
Together with the City of Abbotsford, Semá:th First Nation, and Máthxwi First Nation, the Abbotsford Board of Education unveiled new signage and names that honour remarkable people who left lasting marks on our community. Collectively, the fields are now known as Léts'e mó:t, Léts'e th'á:le—One Heart, One Mind. Guided by the District’s Indigenous Education Council, this name reflects the Halqʼeméylem teaching of unity and connection — a reminder that these spaces are more than just places to play. They are places where young people come together to make memories, build friendships, and discover who they are. As part of this celebration, beautiful new signage designed by Carlos Julian of the Máthxwi First Nation was unveiled on all four fields.
Meet the Fields
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John Davidson Field
Named in honour of the late APD Constable John Davidson, who devoted his life to service and fitness. His wife, Denise Davidson, shared:
“Thank you for honouring John in this way, it's the perfect tribute. He played soccer his whole life and he was serious about maintaining fitness for on and off the pitch. He would love the idea of people meeting at the John Davidson Field to be active, have fun, or battle it out in a hard-fought match.” -
Sophie Schmidt Field
Soccer legend Sophie Schmidt grew up playing here with her brothers. She reflected:
“I’m incredibly honoured. These fields are where my brothers I grew up and they helped forge who I am. I hope that this field can continue to be a place of joy, sweat, laughter, and discovery for the community. To get outside and play is one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself. Thank you for the honour, I am forever grateful.” -
Kekalum #15 Terry Felix Field
Recognizing trailblazer Terry Felix, the first Indigenous athlete to play professional soccer and represent Canada internationally. Felix shared:
“I would like to thank the City of Abbotsford for this acknowledgement. I am very honoured to have my name at this soccer field. I think if youth research my name, my story will hopefully give them some inspiration to carry on with their passion, whether it is in soccer or any other area of their choice.” -
Jim Latham Field (Previously Latham Field)
Honouring the late Jim Latham, who built the foundation of W.J. Mouat’s football program and believed deeply in belonging. His wife, Freddy Latham, spoke on behalf of the family:
“Jim believed in building strong relationships with all educational stakeholders. He did that through supporting, encouraging, and mentoring. He understood that for students to feel a part of school community, a sense of belonging was important. He is credited with starting the Football program at WJ Mouat that was built in collaboration with coaches, parents & students. The Latham family are grateful for this lasting legacy of Latham Field, named in his honour.”
The ceremony was a true reflection of community spirit. Tonight, the City of Abbotsford will host an event featuring live music, food trucks, games, and, of course, a spirited football game as the Mouat Hawks take to the new Jim Latham Field.
As Board Chair Shirley Wilson reflected: “In honouring the legacies of those who helped shape Abbotsford, we also celebrate the new stories and memories that students and families will create here—fields that carry the spirit of Léts'e mó:t, Léts'e th'á:le as new legacies are formed.”
