BOSTON, MA – As Red Sox players warmed up at Fenway Park on Tuesday night, a crowd gathered for something more than baseball. Greek flags were raised, dancers readied their
steps, and thousands of fans made their way to Fenway Park wearing jerseys printed with a single word in bold blue letters: HELLAS.

Greek Heritage Night welcomed over 3,000 Greek-Americans and is now an annual celebration hosted by the Boston Red Sox and the non-profit Alpha Omega Council. This year marked its
eighth anniversary. Greek Heritage Night is part of the Red Sox’s Cultural and Identity Series, highlighting Greek culture and contributions through music, dance, language, and ceremony, while also raising money for charitable causes within the Greek-American community.

“Greek Heritage Night with the Boston Red Sox has grown into a beloved tradition for the Alpha Omega Council,” said Chairperson of Alpha Omega Council, Christos Chrisafides, in a press
release. “It’s an incredible opportunity to celebrate Hellenism and bring together thousands of Greek Americans from across New England for a night of community, pride, and America’s
favorite pastime.”

Honoring “The Golden Greek” Harry Agganis

At the center of the night’s ceremonies was a tribute to Harry Agganis, the Red Sox first baseman and U.S. Marine known as “The Golden Greek,” who passed away in 1955 at the age
of 26. During the pregame ceremony, he was honored by the United States Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame, becoming the first Greek-American and only the second Red Sox player
after Ted Williams to receive the distinction. The award was presented to his nephew, Mike Agganis, and grand-nephew Greg Agganis.

Harry Agganis in Red Sox uniform/ Public domain.

Agganis, from Lynn, Massachusetts, remains a towering figure in the Greek-American sports world. “From an athletic perspective, a lot of people thought he was one of the best athletes
they’d ever seen,” said John Mokas, Co-Chair of the Alpha Omega Council. Beyond his talent, Agganis’s legacy as a local icon made the moment especially meaningful for
many in attendance. “He left this earth way too early,” Mokas added. “He will always be a legend, a role model for Greek-Americans. There are trophies named after him. He was and is
that important.”

Community Leaders and Charitable Impact

The evening also recognized Greek Consul General Symeon Tegos, Dr. Anthony Limberakis, National Commander of the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and the Metropolis of
Boston Camp, which was the night’s charitable beneficiary. Proceeds from the event supported the Camp’s new Gym & Field House Project at the St. Methodios Faith & Heritage Center in Contoocook, New Hampshire. “It’s not just about putting on a show,” Mokas said. “Every year, we raise funds that go straight back to our community, whether it’s for education, culture, or
youth programs.”

Traditional Dance, Anthem, and First Pitch

Before the first pitch, Greek dance groups, including the Metropolis of Boston Dance Group, the Sons & Daughters of Alexander the Great, and the Paradosi Dancers of Brockton, performed
traditional dances outside the stadium. The National Anthem was performed by award-winning singer Paige Davis before the first pitch was thrown by Saint John’s Prep senior Alex Sideridis.
Afterwards, the “Play Ball!” call was made by Erietta Tegos, daughter of the Consul General.

National Anthem by Paige Davis. Photo by: Panos Eleftheriou Photography

Every year, the committee of Alpha Omega Council prepares a limited edition Greek jersey and hats. The fans who purchased special Cultural & Identity tickets picked up their jerseys. VIP
guests also received a limited-edition hat and access to a pregame reception. People love the shirts,” Mokas said. “Even non-Greeks want them. They ask, ‘What does it say?’ and when we
tell them it says Hellas, they think it’s the coolest thing.”
Mokas has been involved with the Council for five years and said the event has steadily grown, in large part thanks to coordinated outreach through Greek churches, the Greek Federation, and
local consulates. “In the early years, a lot of people didn’t even know it was happening,” he said. “Now we send announcements through the Metropolis, the churches, the Federation, we’ve
gotten much better at reaching our community.”

Authentic HELLAS Jersey. Photo by: Panos Eleftheriou Photography

Next year, Mokas will serve as Chair of Greek Heritage Night and says he’s already thinking about possible updates. “Maybe a new look for the shirts, maybe supporting another charity
alongside the camp,” he said. “We always want to keep it fresh. It’s not just about baseball, it’s about community, identity, and giving back.”

About the Alpha Omega Council

Founded in Boston, the Alpha Omega Council is a non-profit organization that promotes Hellenic values through philanthropy, cultural programming, and education. The 2025 event planning committee includes Chairperson Christos Chrisafides, Co-Chair John Mokas, President Harry Vlachos, Immediate Past President Paul Tsitsopoulos, and members Costa Sideridis, Teddy Demetriades, Nick Rizos, George Karalis, Tom Gatzunis, John Pappas, and Kosta Alexis.

The game eventually got underway, but for the thousands who came for Greek Heritage Night, the night’s purpose had already been fulfilled, honoring history, celebrating community, and reminding Fenway who else calls it home.