The legacy of Arnie Allen: A family's tribute

 Arnie Allen's legacy lives on through the passion of his sisters, Roxie and Lorie, who have made sure to preserve the memory of their brother's contributions to the Falmouth Commodores and the Cape Cod Baseball League.

Arnie Allen devoted 46 years with the Commodores, beginning his journey as a batboy at the young age of seven and eventually serving as the team's equipment manager. His dedication was so impactful, no Commodore player will ever wear the number 30 again. The playing field at Guv Fuller Field was named "Arnie Allen Diamond" as a testament to his neverending influence.

"Baseball was his whole life," said Roxie, recalling her brother's unmatched commitment to the team. "His whole life revolved around the Commodores.”

Lorie emphasized Arnie's remarkable ability to impact everyone he met. 

"It’s very warm and heartfelt knowing what Arnie means to this organization," she said. "He had such a special relationship with every single person who was a part of the Commodores."

Arnie's impact extended beyond the local community. His dedication was recognized with multiple awards, including the Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Association's Lifetime Achievement Award in 1995 and the Cape League's inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award in 2002. His influence was felt by many Major League Baseball players, including Darin Erstad. Erstad visited Arnie in the nursing home, and later honored Arnie's memory by sending memorabilia from the 2002 World Series-winning Anaheim Angels team to be buried alongside him.

Roxie and Lorie continue to share Arnie's story, hoping that new members of the Commodore family can take away something from Arnie’s legacy. 

"Dedication holds amazing value,” said Roxie. "He was very kind and very serious when it came to baseball, which are important qualities for other Commodores to have when they carry on the team’s legacy."

As each new season begins, Arnie Allen's memory is kept alive not only by the field named in his honor but also by the countless stories and tributes shared by those who knew him best. His jersey, displayed in the players' locker room, serves as a constant reminder of the man who gave so much to the game he loved. Through the efforts of his sisters and the community that cherished him, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Commodores.