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-