On Tuesday night, the West Haven High School football team gathered for a special Thanksgiving Eve team dinner made possible by two familiar faces with deep Westie roots. Kristin Varunes and her sister Jessica, granddaughters of the late Billy Irons, continued their grandfather’s legacy by treating the players and coaches to a generous meal of fried chicken, fries, mac and cheese, pizza and cookies ahead of their matchup against North Haven.
For the Irons family, giving back to the football program was more than a kind gesture. The scoreboard at Ken Strong Stadium was named in Billy Irons’s honor around 2006 or 2007, a tribute to a man who devoted more than 30 years to West Haven Public Schools as a physical education teacher and over 20 years as a football coach at WHHS. To generations of Westies, he was a mentor, leader and role model. Kristin explained that she and her sister wanted to donate and keep his memory alive because “not many people are fortunate enough to have such a memorable person in their lives,” and she shared that when the scoreboard was named after him, “it was one of his greatest accomplishments.” She said that when they learned no one was sponsoring the Thanksgiving game dinner, “it felt like a great idea and tradition to be part of.”
Those who knew Billy Irons often describe him as a true gentleman. Kristin reflected that he “always believed in doing what was right and just” and that “he had great respect for colleagues, players and students.” She added that “he was a gentleman of gentlemen,” a reputation earned through decades of service both on and off the field.
Kristin and Jessica were overwhelmed by the gratitude shown by the players and coaches. Kristin shared that at a time when things are not always easy, they wanted to show their appreciation to the Westie community for everything they did for him. She said that honoring him with the scoreboard “meant the world to him” and that “he was Westie through and through, born and bred.”
For the sisters, the evening was about continuing a legacy rooted in community, kindness and devotion. Billy Irons was not only a respected teacher and coach but also a longtime volunteer firefighter for the West Shore Fire District for more than 40 years, an Army veteran and a dedicated family man. Kristin also expressed their admiration for the WHHS football program, noting that “enough can’t be said about this program,” and describing it as an elite program with some of the best coaches and players in the state. She said the young men they are shaping “into not just premier athletes, but respectful young men” is clearly evident. She added that talking with the players, shaking hands and seeing their gratitude “can never be matched.”
The dinner became even more meaningful when West Haven went on to defeat rival North Haven the next evening by a score of 21 to 14, closing out their season with a hard-fought home victory. Kristin and Jessica’s generosity helped fuel a memorable finish and ensured that the name Billy Irons, a name associated with integrity, leadership and pride, continues to live on at Ken Strong Stadium and throughout the West Haven community.
