As usual, the Graham G-Men will open the high school football season against the Bluefield Beavers of West Virginia in the annual rivalry game that always draws a huge crowd to spacious Mitchell Stadium.
However, that will be Graham’s only game at the venerable venue that hosted its first game in 1934 and has served as the longtime home of both the G-Men and Beavers. Bluefield University and Bluefield State also play at the place.
Tazewell County Public Schools officially announced in a press release on Wednesday that Graham will play three games on its own campus and play two more scheduled home games at neighboring schools in 2025.
When negotiations with the City of Bluefield didn’t produce desired results, the Tazewell County school board unanimously voted to decline a proposal for a new contract to use Mitchell Stadium.
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“This was a difficult but forward-looking decision,” Tazewell County superintendent Chris Stacy said in a press release. “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.”
Graham’s on-campus practice field was covered in turf last year and will now host games despite lacking lighting, restrooms, concession stands and bleachers.
According to the release, a request has been submitted to the Tazewell County Board of Supervisors to allocate a portion of sequestered school board funds — approximately 10 percent — for state-of-the-art lighting. Even if that wish is granted, the lighting will not be installed for the coming season.
Some temporary bleachers, portable restrooms and makeshift concessions will be used this year. Spectators will be encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for the games against Marion (Saturday, Oct. 4, 1 p.m.), Virginia High (Saturday, Oct. 18, 1 p.m.) and Lebanon (Saturday, Oct. 25, 1 p.m.) at the school site located at 210 Valleydale Street in Bluefield, Virginia.
The G-Men will play the Union Bears on Thursday, Sept. 11, at 7 p.m. at Tazewell High School, while the Oct. 31 contest with Tazewell will be played at 7 p.m. at Ernie Hicks Stadium in Richlands.
The release did not say where potential playoff games would be contested.
Graham went 15-0 last season and won the VHSL Class 2 state championship for the second time in three years.