Graham Stadium

[EH31]

15 hours ago, CPF said:

We are paying 60 plus playoff games 

“Dr. Stacy advised Board members that the Mitchell Stadium agreement was for two years beginning August 1, 2023 and concluding on July 31, 2025 at a cost of $60,000 per year. According to the agreement, the school division would not be charged the extra $5,000 per playoff games, and Graham High School would not have to turn over 25% of the concession revenue, as in past years.” 

[Ryan4VT]

21 hours ago, EH31 said:

“Dr. Stacy advised Board members that the Mitchell Stadium agreement was for two years beginning August 1, 2023 and concluding on July 31, 2025 at a cost of $60,000 per year. According to the agreement, the school division would not be charged the extra $5,000 per playoff games, and Graham High School would not have to turn over 25% of the concession revenue, as in past years.” 

Gotta love it when facts get in the way of delusional thoughts and assumptions. 

[EH31]

“BLUEFIELD, Va. — Town officials in Bluefield, Va. are seeking a resolution to the ongoing stadium usage impasse that could effect where the home games of the Graham G-Men are played.

 

However, officials with the town of Bluefield, Va., are concerned about the loss of revenue to area businesses if the Graham High School fan base would have to travel to Tazewell. They also have concerns for the safety of those parents and fans who would have to travel a longer distance to watch a home game, according to Bluefield, Va. Town Manager Andrew Hanson.

“Yes the town does have a concern that there would be an economic loss to the town should the games not be played in one of the two Bluefields,” Hanson said. “And we have voiced that concern to the school superintendent. And voiced the concern to the county administrator and to our county representative. So from the economic and business side of the house, the town does have an interest and is concerned about that, and for the safety of the parents and children that would be driving away from the area for the home games.”

While the town hasn’t received a response yet from the school system, the issue is expected to be discussed in a closed-door executive session of the Bluefield, Va. Town Council on June 24. Hanson said Chuck Presley, the Eastern District representative on the Tazewell County Board of Supervisors, has been asked to attend that meeting.“

 

Town officials seek resolution to stadium impasse. - BDTONLINE.com

[Real Sasquatch]

https://www.yahoo.com/news/town-officials-seek-resolution-stadium-115100075.html?fr=sycsrp_catchall

Full article.

Same article with a yahoo link for those who can't access it through bdt site.

 

[CPF]

Bold strategy not inviting the superintendent or school board. Let's see how it works out.

[Fairlawncat]

12 hours ago, CPF said:

Bold strategy not inviting the superintendent or school board. Let's see how it works out.

Not a smart choice.  By reading this article, they are still fighting for a way to play at Mitchell Stadium. Suffer, travel, have some pain, going to be a struggle for 12 months for Graham and Bluefield, VA, but you benefit for the next 50 years by doing that.  I read that article and I don't get the feeling the town guy is fighting to play at Graham High this year.  I get the feeling he's trying to play at Mitchell Stadium and negotiating without the School Board.  That type of thinking is what cost Graham at stadium around 8 years ago.  Even if you want to play some games at Mitchell, pretend for the moment you don't want to if you are Bluefield, VA, officials.  They should focus on doing anything possible to get the stadium built at Graham High, then when the money is there, start back up with the Mitchell Stadium stuff again.  Doing that stuff before the stadium is built is going to cost Graham from having a stadium at Graham High.  

[RichlandsAlum]

14 hours ago, CPF said:

Bold strategy not inviting the superintendent or school board. Let's see how it works out.

Unless they are prepared to participate financially in offering or building a facility, the Town of Bluefield really has no standing in this issue. 

[CPF]

2 minutes ago, RichlandsAlum said:

Unless they are prepared to participate financially in offering or building a facility, the Town of Bluefield really has no standing in this issue. 

Bingo

[CPF]

Executive session regarding stadium lease has been cancelled.

[Fairlawncat]

On 6/22/2025 at 1:31 PM, RichlandsAlum said:

Unless they are prepared to participate financially in offering or building a facility, the Town of Bluefield really has no standing in this issue. 

Yep, but could be worse than that.  They are going to piss Tazewell County off to the point to where they wash their hands with it if not careful. You never want to piss off the people funding you, even if the people funding you have kind of screwed you over for 50 years. Piss them off if you want after you get your stadium built. 

1 hour ago, CPF said:

Executive session regarding stadium lease has been cancelled.

That's good news for Graham fans.  Don't need any sessions or talks or discussions or meetings with Bluefield, WV.  Let it go. The only talks Bluefield, VA, needs to be doing is with TCSB to build Graham a stadium and where they will play their home games in 2025.  After the peeps in Bluefield, VA, get their stadium funded and the construction is in the works, then the folks in Bluefield, VA-Graham High should bring up playing and negotiating the Big Rivalry game at Mitchell Stadium each year.  I can't imagine the politics of a new stadium.  My wife is on the School Board at Radford and you wouldn't believe the craziness just trying to get the visiting bleachers redone from 2 years ago with the foundation issues.  

[RichlandsAlum]

2 hours ago, CPF said:

Executive session regarding stadium lease has been cancelled.

Since it's highly unlikely that the Town is party to the lease agreement, they probably didn't have legal standing to go into closed session.  Virginia law is pretty specific and limiting about that sort of thing.

[VHSLhelper]

Okay... maybe I've missed this.... but...what's being said about those Nov. playoff games? How do ppl. feel about multiple trips to Tazewell for, say, 3 years?

 

[Cane4lf]

I don’t think all parties have been forthcoming with the public.  To say “We are coming home”.  Is a complete lie.  For three games.   And to play a “home” game at Richlands against Tazewell.  What a joke.  You can’t make this stuff up.  Wow .   If you are going to take this approach, then why not play all the games away. We can just call them “home” games.   At least we  could play on Fridays and not affect all other youth,middle school, and JV football schedules.   

[Real Sasquatch]

40 minutes ago, Cane4lf said:

I don’t think all parties have been forthcoming with the public.  To say “We are coming home”.  Is a complete lie.  For three games.   And to play a “home” game at Richlands against Tazewell.  What a joke.  You can’t make this stuff up.  Wow .   If you are going to take this approach, then why not play all the games away. We can just call them “home” games.   At least we  could play on Fridays and not affect all other youth,middle school, and JV football schedules.   

There have been teams in the past that have had to play all of their "home" games at other stadiums for various reasons, wouldn't be the first time a team had to play all of their games on the road.  The # 1 priority right now, should be to get Lights at Graham's field.  That would solve a lot of conflicts with youth, middle school and JV football.  If somebody steps up and forks over some money for lights, they could definitely be up before the season starts...

[Cane4lf]

I’m fine with playing all games away.  Makes more sense.   Then to play a Tazewell vs Graham game at Richlands so Graham can call it a “home” game.  Ridiculous.   Play the game at Tazewell at get over it.  Big deal. 

[Real Sasquatch]

15 minutes ago, Cane4lf said:

I’m fine with playing all games away.  Makes more sense.   Then to play a Tazewell vs Graham game at Richlands so Graham can call it a “home” game.  Ridiculous.   Play the game at Tazewell at get over it.  Big deal. 

I hear ya.

 

Well, here's the released schedule... just came out.  Had you already seen this?

https://www.tcpsva.org/o/ghs/article/2285575?fbclid=IwY2xjawLJjTVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFoM3JJNWNZS2dsaTBUaERSAR6Qrt9DaoIHBnlAL24WywSuW8T6ykZaI8YwxgHIV4iO7deaztGpp13lW5LD1g_aem_tumKkP-tT4CWATXhaLjgkw

[Cane4lf]

6 minutes ago, Real Sasquatch said:

I hear ya.

 

Well, here's the released schedule... just came out.  Had you already seen this?

https://www.tcpsva.org/o/ghs/article/2285575?fbclid=IwY2xjawLJjTVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFoM3JJNWNZS2dsaTBUaERSAR6Qrt9DaoIHBnlAL24WywSuW8T6ykZaI8YwxgHIV4iO7deaztGpp13lW5LD1g_aem_tumKkP-tT4CWATXhaLjgkw

Yes sir

[Gridiron60]

What we have folks is a failure to communicate…

Nah, actually what we have is grown men with personal agendas that couldn’t care less about kids. The.End. 

[Gridiron60]

2 hours ago, Cane4lf said:

I’m fine with playing all games away.  Makes more sense.   Then to play a Tazewell vs Graham game at Richlands so Graham can call it a “home” game.  Ridiculous.   Play the game at Tazewell at get over it.  Big deal. 

I was told Graham wanted to play the Tazewell game at Graham on Saturday like others but were told no. I can’t vouch for the validity of that but I think it’s a pretty reliable source. 

[Real Sasquatch]

10 minutes ago, Gridiron60 said:

I was told Graham wanted to play the Tazewell game at Graham on Saturday like others but were told no. I can’t vouch for the validity of that but I think it’s a pretty reliable source. 

Tazewell would bring a big crowd.  I think that game would have to be at Tazewell or Richlands.  As a Tazewell fan, playing at Richlands works out just fine.  As a Graham fan, it sucks to travel that far for a home game, but it is what it is 

[CPF]

GRAHAM HIGH SCHOOL ANNOUNCES HOME FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Tazewell County Public Schools

June 25, 2025

 

Tazewell, VA– Graham High School is pleased to announce that it will host a series of home football games this season at the school’s on-campus field. Following extensive negotiations with the City of Bluefield regarding Mitchell Stadium, and strong input from students, booster clubs, and the public, the Tazewell County School Board unanimously voted to decline the proposed contract renewal.

Superintendent Dr. Christopher B. Stacy acknowledged the long-standing tradition at Mitchell Stadium and expressed gratitude to the city of Bluefield and its partners for maintaining the venue. “This was a difficult but forward-looking decision,” said Dr. Stacy. “We’re grateful to the city of Bluefield for allowing us to share Mitchell Stadium for so many years. Now, it’s time for the G-Men to have a home with their name on it — a place that truly reflects their identity and future.” said Stacy. School Board Vice Chair Erik Robinson added, “While we understand and respect the deep traditions tied to Mitchell, decisions like these are never easy and often reflect a broader vision for the future.  We’re disappointed a two-year agreement could not be reached, but our focus remains on creating opportunities that best serve our students, athletes, and community moving forward.”

Although the GHS field is still under development and lacks permanent infrastructure such as lighting, restrooms, concessions, and bleachers, the school board is actively working to address those needs. A request has been submitted to the Tazewell County Board of Supervisors to allocate a portion of sequestered school board funds—approximately 10%—for state-of-the-art lighting. That request remains pending, and lighting will not be installed this season.

For this year’s home games, temporary accommodations will include portable restrooms, a press box area atop the school building, and makeshift concessions. Bleachers are being acquired for smaller crowds, with all seating designated as general admission. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

According to Principal Joanne Young,  “Graham High School is proud to be beginning a new chapter in G-Men athletics. We look forward to hosting athletic events right here on campus in our beautiful new facility.  With great anticipation, we will continue our tradition of excellence in football, soccer, and track.”  While the long-term vision is to build a fully equipped stadium through future funding, including grants, officials clarified that the majority of the county’s sequestered school funds are earmarked for broader infrastructure projects, not stadium construction.

This season, Graham will play three games at its on-campus field, open the season at Tazewell High School, and close at Richlands High School.

2025 Graham Football Home Schedule:

Thursday, September 11 – vs Union | 7:00 PM | Tazewell High School

Saturday, October 4 – vs Marion | 1:00 PM | Graham High School

Saturday, October 18 – vs Virginia High | 1:00 PM | Graham High School

Saturday, October 25 – vs Lebanon | 1:00 PM | Graham High School

Friday, October 31 – vs Tazewell | 7:00 PM | Richlands High School

Graham High School looks forward to celebrating this new chapter in G-Men football with students, families, and the community.

   -TCPS-

 

Find Us

Tazewell County Public Schools506 Jeffersonville StreetTazewell, VA 24651Phone: (276) 988-5511

 

[Cane4lf]

3 hours ago, CPF said:

GRAHAM HIGH SCHOOL ANNOUNCES HOME FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Tazewell County Public Schools

June 25, 2025

 

Tazewell, VA– Graham High School is pleased to announce that it will host a series of home football games this season at the school’s on-campus field. Following extensive negotiations with the City of Bluefield regarding Mitchell Stadium, and strong input from students, booster clubs, and the public, the Tazewell County School Board unanimously voted to decline the proposed contract renewal.

Superintendent Dr. Christopher B. Stacy acknowledged the long-standing tradition at Mitchell Stadium and expressed gratitude to the city of Bluefield and its partners for maintaining the venue. “This was a difficult but forward-looking decision,” said Dr. Stacy. “We’re grateful to the city of Bluefield for allowing us to share Mitchell Stadium for so many years. Now, it’s time for the G-Men to have a home with their name on it — a place that truly reflects their identity and future.” said Stacy. School Board Vice Chair Erik Robinson added, “While we understand and respect the deep traditions tied to Mitchell, decisions like these are never easy and often reflect a broader vision for the future.  We’re disappointed a two-year agreement could not be reached, but our focus remains on creating opportunities that best serve our students, athletes, and community moving forward.”

Although the GHS field is still under development and lacks permanent infrastructure such as lighting, restrooms, concessions, and bleachers, the school board is actively working to address those needs. A request has been submitted to the Tazewell County Board of Supervisors to allocate a portion of sequestered school board funds—approximately 10%—for state-of-the-art lighting. That request remains pending, and lighting will not be installed this season.

For this year’s home games, temporary accommodations will include portable restrooms, a press box area atop the school building, and makeshift concessions. Bleachers are being acquired for smaller crowds, with all seating designated as general admission. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

According to Principal Joanne Young,  “Graham High School is proud to be beginning a new chapter in G-Men athletics. We look forward to hosting athletic events right here on campus in our beautiful new facility.  With great anticipation, we will continue our tradition of excellence in football, soccer, and track.”  While the long-term vision is to build a fully equipped stadium through future funding, including grants, officials clarified that the majority of the county’s sequestered school funds are earmarked for broader infrastructure projects, not stadium construction.

This season, Graham will play three games at its on-campus field, open the season at Tazewell High School, and close at Richlands High School.

2025 Graham Football Home Schedule:

Thursday, September 11 – vs Union | 7:00 PM | Tazewell High School

Saturday, October 4 – vs Marion | 1:00 PM | Graham High School

Saturday, October 18 – vs Virginia High | 1:00 PM | Graham High School

Saturday, October 25 – vs Lebanon | 1:00 PM | Graham High School

Friday, October 31 – vs Tazewell | 7:00 PM | Richlands High School

Graham High School looks forward to celebrating this new chapter in G-Men football with students, families, and the community.

   -TCPS-

 

Find Us

Tazewell County Public Schools506 Jeffersonville StreetTazewell, VA 24651Phone: (276) 

We’ve all seen the article—and it’s nothing short of a complete failure in planning and leadership. To frame this outcome as the result of “strong input from students and the public” is simply dishonest. At no point was there meaningful engagement or transparency with those most affected.

It’s clear that the boosters are on board, but that opens an entirely separate discussion as to why—and not one that reflects well on the process. The reality is this: both the hired and elected officials involved should be deeply disappointed in how this was handled. The community expected better, and they deserve better.

[Fairlawncat]

1 hour ago, Cane4lf said:

 

We’ve all seen the article—and it’s nothing short of a complete failure in planning and leadership. To frame this outcome as the result of “strong input from students and the public” is simply dishonest. At no point was there meaningful engagement or transparency with those most affected.

It’s clear that the boosters are on board, but that opens an entirely separate discussion as to why—and not one that reflects well on the process. The reality is this: both the hired and elected officials involved should be deeply disappointed in how this was handled. The community expected better, and they deserve better.

The guilty party here is the screw job by Bluefield, West Va. You have people in Bluefield, VA and Tazewell County, VA, trying to pick up the pieces and looking for lidocaine to rub on their tails because it begins to hurt after many years. 

From an outsiders perspective, I see the following from reading this board. You have a 6 time state champion that doesn't have its own football stadium, has been treated like dirt on occasion by Bluefield, WV over the years, and people in Bluefield, VA, want what most other HS's have. A home stadium and I think the TCSB wants the same. 

3 mistakes by Bluefield, VA in the past. Should have went through with it and named your town back to Graham when it came up years ago on this board. Should have followed through around 2016 with your stadium build. Should have never played at Mitchell Stadium again from the very first time you were the home team and had to set on the away side. 

If I were Graham, I would go full steam ahead with the stadium build and there will always be short sided thinking fans who want their "son" to be able to play his junior or senior year at Mitchell so the family video album can be complete. What these short sided thinkers aren't considering is all the students before them or to come after them for the next 50 years. One year of ugliness Graham fans, one year of debates and discussions with TCSB and local politics and Bluefield, WV and some travel, even for home playoff games, but then it's over. You get your stadium and the kids for the next 50 to 70 years benefit long after you are gone.

[Cane4lf]

12 minutes ago, Fairlawncat said:

The guilty party here is the screw job by Bluefield, West Va. You have people in Bluefield, VA and Tazewell County, VA, trying to pick up the pieces and looking for lidocaine to rub on their tails because it begins to hurt after many years. 

From an outsiders perspective, I see the following from reading this board. You have a 6 time state champion that doesn't have its own football stadium, has been treated like dirt on occasion by Bluefield, WV over the years, and people in Bluefield, VA, want what most other HS's have. A home stadium and I think the TCSB wants the same. 

3 mistakes by Bluefield, VA in the past. Should have went through with it and named your town back to Graham when it came up years ago on this board. Should have followed through around 2016 with your stadium build. Should have never played at Mitchell Stadium again from the very first time you were the home team and had to set on the away side. 

If I were Graham, I would go full steam ahead with the stadium build and there will always be short sided thinking fans who want their "son" to be able to play his junior or senior year at Mitchell so the family video album can be complete. What these short sided thinkers aren't considering is all the students before them or to come after them for the next 50 years. One year of ugliness Graham fans, one year of debates and discussions with TCSB and local politics and Bluefield, WV and some travel, even for home playoff games, but then it's over. You get your stadium and the kids for the next 50 to 70 years benefit long after you are 

As someone outside the situation, you may not be aware of all the details. This isn't about opposition to the stadium itself—most people support it. The real issue is the lack of planning. This situation will be longer than just one year. With proper foresight and coordination, not a single student would have had to bear the consequences. The impact on the kids could—and should—have been entirely avoided.

[Real Sasquatch]

21 minutes ago, Cane4lf said:

As someone outside the situation, you may not be aware of all the details. This isn't about opposition to the stadium itself—most people support it. The real issue is the lack of planning. This situation will be longer than just one year. With proper foresight and coordination, not a single student would have had to bear the consequences. The impact on the kids could—and should—have been entirely avoided.

If the city of Bluefield would have done a 2 year contract, like every other contract before, it would be avoided. They knew the plan was to have a stadium for Graham in the next 2 years.  They tried to strong arm them into a 5 year contract....  It's disappointing, but I'm not surprised at this whole situation.