Medfield's Curt Schilling to Miss Fenway Park's 100th Anniversary

Curt Schilling helped the Boston Red Sox win two World Series in 2004 and 2007 and end an 86-year championship drought, but he won't be joining his former team Friday to celebrate Fenway Park's 100th anniversary.

The Medfield resident issued a statement Thursday explaining his video game business, 3_8 Studios_, will prevent him from attending the Fenway Park ceremonies before Friday's game vs. the New York Yankees.

Schilling's four-year run with the Sox created plenty of _. And while he will not be standing in America's Most Beloved Ballpark Friday alongside others of Red Sox past, the memories he helped create will be ever present throughout Yawkey Way.

Below is Schilling's statement to Red Sox Nation in wake of Fenway Park's 100th Anniversary:

To Red Sox Nation,

I apologize that business at 38 Studios has made my participation in the 100th anniversary of Fenway Park impossible. Please understand that should in no way indicate my love and passion for Red Sox Nation. There was no greater feeling than standing on that mound, in that park, in front of you fans. The memories I was honored to be a part of, from David’s walk off HR in the 2004 ALDS, to going 4-0 in World Series games in that park, to the true honor of wearing that uniform every single day is something I am blessed to have, and will never forget.

I was and always have been opinionated, and unafraid to share my opinion, and for that I accept whatever it is you think of me. But please know that when I had the ball in my hand I gave the team, and you, every ounce of everything I had to get a “W”. It was an honor to wear the uniform, and compete with the incredible team and teammates I was allowed to.

Every great memory I have in that uniform is because of the people that paid to watch us play, and I will be forever grateful to you for that.

Thank you and God Bless,
Curt Schilling

The _Boston Globe released the following details_ of Friday's 100th anniversary at Fenway Park before the Red Sox host the rival New York Yankees at 3:05 p.m.:

• Gates open at 12:30 p.m. and ceremonies begin "shortly after 2 p.m."
• The Red Sox and Yankees will be wearing jerseys from 1912 to commemorate Fenway Park's first game, 100 years ago today.
• All living Red Sox "uniformed personnel" were invited to participate in the ceremonies, according to the Globe report.
• The Boston Pops will be performing during the ceremony.
• The Air Force's Heritage Flight team will perform a fly over Fenway in a "four-ship formation," according to the Globe. "The fly-over will include two F-16s and two World War II era P-51 Mustangs," the Globe said.
• There will also be a toast to Fenway Park in honor of its 100th year. According to _Evan Drellich of MLB.com_, fans will find grape juice and cups underneath their seats or in their cup holders. At the conclusion of the ceremonies, the Red Sox, with the help of their fans, "will attempt to set a world record for the largest toast in a single venue," according to MLB.com.

Share Your Fenway Park Memories

In recognition of Fenway Park's 100th anniversary, Medfield Patch wants to hear all about your Fenway Park memories! Post your memories of America's Most Beloved Ballpark in the comments section below!