The sports complex at Chittick Field will don the name of former Vice Mayor Dee Andrews after unanimous approval by Long Beach City Council on Tuesday, Aug. 10.
The move comes after the former Sixth District councilmember, affectionately referred to as “Son of the Sixth,” completed 13 years of service on the council in 2020.
“As a city council member who went on to greatness in high school, becoming a legend at Poly High School, a legend at Long Beach City College, a legend in the community, but also someone who was and has been instrumental in touching the lives of countless young people as a mentor [and] as an educator, he is worthy of our honor,” Councilmember Al Austin said.
Andrews was a top football and track and field athlete in Long Beach and beyond, having played for the National Football League (NFL) for a brief period.
The item was first presented in November 2020 by Austin and referred to the Parks and Recreation Commission.
According to a City document, the total cost of fabrication and installation of a standard park flag sign is estimated at $2,300.
Andrews’ involvement with the site goes back to the 1950s, once playing at the Hamilton Bowl, as it was known then.
The sign at the entrance of Chittick Field in Long Beach on August 10, 2021. (Richard H. Grant | Signal Tribune) 
A view of the running track and football field at Chittick Field in Long Beach on August 10, 2021. (Richard H. Grant | Signal Tribune)
Holding deep regard for the site, Andrews secured funding and oversaw the $9.9 million remodel of the 19-acre Chittick Field Sports Complex.
The site was reopened in 2014 and featured a new football field, three soccer fields and a 400-meter all-weather track.
With over 60 years of involvement with the Central Long Beach district, community members showed support via letters and public comments.
“This is a celebration of a pioneering athlete, turned teacher, turned political representative for a community that’s been underrepresented for so long,” Senay Kenfe said during public comment.
Community member Charles Brown noted in a letter of support that the field itself should continue to honor the Brian Chittick legacy by keeping its name. Chittick was the founder of the Kid Baseball Association and a proponent of using the basin for recreational purposes, according to the City.
Brown however was in support of naming the sports complex after Andrews.
“Dee’s association with this site as an athletic legend in Long Beach, as well as his overall contributions to the district and the city as a civic leader warrants the honor of this designation,” Brown said. “I believe we can now celebrate both the Chittick and Andrews legacies by this recognition.”
